Genesis 12:1-3
Rev. Corey Pelton
Did you know that a simple hand on the shoulder can be a blessing? Or even an engaged nod and empathetic ear. An “I’m so proud of you” can be God displaying His favor through you to someone else. People all around us are seeking approval in all of the wrong places. We can be the ambassadors God has called us to be to display that Jesus came, not to condemn, but to rescue so that they can be ushered into His favorable presence.
James 2:1-7
Rev. Charlie Phillips
Dan Doriani says, “If there’s one community in this world where all should get equal treatment, it’s the church”. But it’s clear from history and our own experience that favoritism continually plagues God’s people. If there’s equal footing at the cross (which Scripture teaches), why isn’t there equal footing in every day life amongst God’s people? Prepare your hearts by asking for the Spirit’s guidance and join us this Sunday as James challenges us all!
James 1:26-27
Rev. Charlie Phillips
The last few weeks James hasn’t pulled any punches, challenging us to think critically about the way we interact with and obey God. Are we quick to listen? Are we doers of the Word? This week James doubles down by revealing that perhaps “our” version of Christianity doesn’t match up with the Lord’s. Pray for the Spirit’s leading as you prepare for Sunday morning!
James 1:22-25
Rev. Charlie Phillips
James 1:25 says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves”. Commentators argue that this verse is the theme verse of the entire book of James, and therefore one of the more important verses in the Bible. But why? Why is it so significant? Why is James so focused on our “doing” of the Word of God? What are we missing out on if we fail to “do” it? Come this Sunday ready to be a “doer” of the Word!
Ruth 3:1-18
Dr. Stephen Estock
God’s sovereign control over all things does not lessen the importance of man’s faith-filled actions. As we consider the 3rd Chapter of Ruth’s story, we see how God reveals His redeeming work through the plans, obedience, and kindness of His people.
Ruth 1:1-22
Rev. Charlie Phillips
Centuries ago the Creator of our universe brought together a nobody couple in the nowhere town of Bethlehem. In His sovereign grace they fell in love and bore a child whose importance cannot be overstated. Spoiler alert: I’m not talking about Mary and Joseph, but Ruth, Boaz and their son, Obed. Ruth’s story is one of incredible redemption and hope in the darkness. It’s a sign that God will accomplish His almighty purposes in ways unexpected. Through the line of Obed would come the great King David as well as the King of Kings Himself. A book filled with the hope and longing for redemption, Ruth might be the perfect book to study during Advent. Bring your families and join us this Advent season!