Sermon Reflections from Jesus is Alive| John Klobuchar | April 21, 2024
It was a pleasure to have John with us this Sunday giving the message and telling us more about the Bay Area Chaplin’s ministry. John oversees this ministry and works directly with inmates on a daily basis. His goal is “To Make Christ Known.” Working with the segment of society that is incarcerated is a calling and requires understanding, insight and wisdom as he seeks to make Christ relevant and meaningful to those in hard circumstances. Regardless of where we are in life, Christ is the answer. Showing the inmates the pathway to life and true freedom holds a spiritual challenge for the one who is delivering the message. Knowing that God is impartial and His Holy Spirit can cut across any boundary or barrier is essential. John knows this and walks this pathway each day. John encouraged us from the book of Colossians as he read 3:1-17. As John does with the inmates, he sought to show us that the things we have in Christ are already there, accomplished, finished. We have these things by faith and are now hidden within Christ ourselves. We are secure in Christ. Knowing this we are instructed by Paul to put aside our old self, our old nature and put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. We are to leave that old life and those sins that came so easily to us and take up a new course with Christ. Even though we may not be in jail for crimes, we too have committed crimes against God. We are all sinners as we are reminded in Romans 3:23 “ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Thankfully, in Christ we are all new creations 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” All of us, regardless of who we are or where we live or what we’ve done need Jesus. He is the answer, John 17:3 “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” Jesus is the answer. Whether John is at the prison, at home with family or with us, he is striving to make Christ known as he knows that Jesus is the answer! 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass Celebrating Easter Sunday: The Resurrection and Its Transformative Power
Introduction: Easter Sunday stands as the pinnacle of the Christian faith, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In Luke 24, we find a vivid portrayal of this momentous event and its profound impact on the disciples and believers throughout history. This event didn't just change their context but the entirety of human history. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection for our sins/brokenness, wasn't deserved or earned by humanity, but Jesus was sacrificially given to us by God because he loves us. He wanted to get us back, make us right with him, and give us new life, life eternal. On Easter Sunday, we dove deep into the narrative of Luke 24, where we uncovered the transformative power of Christ's resurrection and its enduring significance for our lives today. LUKE 24:1-8 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” 8 Then they remembered his words. The Reality of the Resurrection: Luke 24 gives an incredible depiction of the reality of Jesus' resurrection. The empty tomb, the angels' proclamation, the women who discovered the empty tomb, and the disciples' encounters with the risen Christ all serve as undeniable evidence of this miraculous event. Just as the disciples were astonished to find the tomb empty, we too are invited to ponder the reality of Jesus' victory over death and the implications it holds for our faith. This wasn't just an important historical event, it was a life changing, history altering, hope fostering, game changing event. Jesus wasn’t just for the disciple's context or point in history, but for all Human History. Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, God would bring about redemption and reconciliation for all Humanity not just for that time or for those people. The Transformation of Believers: The resurrection of Jesus brings about a profound transformation in the lives of His followers. Initially they didn't believe. They were overwhelmed with grief because their Lord, their King, their Messiah was gone, and they didn't know what to do. They were terrified for their lives after defying the Roman Empire, so they hid in fear, filled with doubt, and full of despair. But when Jesus revealed himself to the women at the tomb, then to the two on the road to Emmaus, and finally to all of the disciples they still didn't believe because it seemed improbably, actually impossible. No one has ever been resurrected. How could Jesus be alive? In Luke 24, we witness the disciples' journey from doubt to faith, fear to courage, and despair to hope as they encounter the risen Christ and he revealed the scriptures to them. Their hearts burn within them as Jesus opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, igniting a flame of hope and conviction that propels them to boldly proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth. LUKE 24:30-32 30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” The Promise of Redemption and New Life: Through His resurrection, Jesus extends the promise of redemption, forgiveness of sins, and the hope of new life to all who believe in Him. In Luke 24, we witness Jesus commissioning His disciples to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations, underscoring the transformative power of His resurrection in reconciling humanity to God. This promise echoes throughout the ages, inviting us to embrace the life-giving message of salvation found in Jesus Christ. There is only one path to the heavenly Father, to redemption, and reconciliation, to new life, and that is through Jesus Christ. While some may view this as narrow and limiting, it is open to all, unrestricted by race, status, or background. This reconciliation wasn’t earned or deserved by humanity but sacrificially given to us by our loving God, who embodies Love because He is Love. This divine commission echoes throughout history, beckoning all people to embrace the life-giving message of salvation found solely in Jesus Christ. In His resurrection, Jesus offers not only forgiveness of sins but also the hope of new life—an eternal inheritance that transcends the limitations of this world and promises everlasting joy in the presence of God. LUKE 24:45-48 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. What does this mean for me? As we celebrate Easter Sunday this last week and reflect on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us be reminded of the transformative power of this momentous event. Just as the disciples were transformed by their encounter with the risen Christ, may we too experience the reality of His resurrection in our lives. May we embrace the promise of redemption and new life, and may we boldly proclaim the good news of salvation to all who will listen. Truly, Easter Sunday is a time of joy, hope, and renewal—a time to celebrate the victory of our risen Savior over sin and death. He is Risen. He is Risen Indeed! Blessing, Pastor Alex Hardt MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass Sermon Reflections based on from Rhythms-Refuge in the Almighty | Alex Hardt | February 4,2024
Pastor Alex was in teaching mode this Sunday. He wanted us to see God as viable hope and security in our ever-changing chaotic world. He also wanted us to see that we too could draw nearer to God Himself by practicing some basic connecting activities. Psalm 46 is a wonderful psalm that gives us hope and courage in the face of adversity. God promises to be our refuge (safe place, fortress) when we are in trouble. The psalmist describes the world as a place where things fall, decay, roar, shake, in contrast to Holy God who is eternal, unfailing, and the ender of wars. He will prevail and the nations and the whole earth will one day exalt Him. Pastor Alex suggests that we should read His word, meditate upon it and pray. The psalmist suggests a similar pathway in verse 10, “He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;” We have to be still to read His Word. We have to be still to pray. I’m not talking about being still as in not moving but still in our minds, focused upon God’s Word. This means not letting our minds wander to the grocery list, tasks for the day, worries, and life’s problems but to keep our minds still and present as we read the word and pray. Focusing upon God Almighty as our refuge will allow us to absorb His strength and power into our daily life and keep ourselves from fretting, worrying or being consumed with fear. He promises to be our refuge and God keeps His promises. James 4:7-10 is a powerful reminder that focus upon God will send Satan away and be life changing. “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. God promises to come to us if we go towards Him. Sometimes the most we can do is one step, but know that the one step is the beginning of change. If we are sorry for the wrongs we do and grieve over them in our hearts, God will change our sorrow to joy and gladness. It is humbling to come to God as we are independent, pride-filled, stubborn people. But that one step towards God in faith will lead to step after step. With each step our faith grows stronger and our hope and trust in Him is confirmed. Each step causes us to trust more fully in Him and the plans He has for our lives. Lastly, Pastor Alex led us to participate in 2 Rhythms that are essential for drawing closer to God the Reading of God’s Word and Prayer. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us of the power of God’s Word in our lives. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” James speaks of reasons to pray and the power of prayer. James 5:13, 15-16 “ Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Paul speaks of the need to be consistent with our prayers, Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” I so enjoyed the exercise Pastor Alex lead us through by reading Psalm 46 repeatedly and focusing on different messages God has for us in His Word. With prayer, Pastor Alex walked us through good steps to follow when praying. Praising God, Confession of sin, Thanksgiving, and lastly Petitions or Supplications. The Anonym, ACTS, for this practice is easy to remember to guide us as we pray. A-adoration of God for who He is, C-confession of our sins and shortcomings, T-thanksgiving for all the ways we see God working in our lives, His providential care, S-supplications or requests for ourselves and others. I would suggest one activity that helps to draw me closer to God. When I read a passage like Psalm 46 I will often read it in multiple versions to see what insights God has for me. I often use the New International version, English Standard version, Amplified translation, the Message translation, the New King James and I love the New Living translation. Some of these are more accurate translations and some paraphrased but all can help me see God’s message for my heart. Whatever we do, taking that 1 step in faith- opening our Bibles, saying short or long prayers, will always bring us closer to God if we focus upon Him and let go of the cares of the world. God is faithful and will meet us there! Guaranteed, as God keeps His promises. Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Finding Joy | Sara Wade | December 17, 2023
The Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2, verses 1 to 14, encapsulates the timeless story of Christmas. It's a narrative that transcends time, culture, and creed, resonating deeply with the essence of hope, love, and the divine. On Sunday Sara dived into this sacred passage and unpack the profound significance it holds. Here are some reflections based upon her message. A Journey of Faith The passage opens with a pivotal moment in history, highlighting the reign of Caesar Augustus and the decree for a census to be taken. Joseph and Mary, residing in Nazareth, embark on a journey to Bethlehem, the city of David, as mandated by the decree. This journey, albeit seemingly mundane, foreshadows a greater plan—a divine design set in motion long before the foundations of the world. The Mundane and the Miraculous At first glance, the setting appears mundane—an ordinary couple embarking on a mandatory journey for a census. Joseph and Mary's arduous trek to Bethlehem seems unremarkable, yet it sets the stage for an extraordinary event—the birth of Jesus Christ. Joy in Humble Beginnings The divine birth occurs not in a palace or amidst grandeur, but in a humble stable. A place no one would consider looking for a king, a messiah, or even a baby. The contrast is striking—a king wrapped in swaddling clothes, laid in a manger. This juxtaposition teaches us a powerful lesson about joy—it's often found in simplicity, humility, and unexpected places. You ever try to find Joy in stuff, people, money, or things?!? We tend to find ourselves woefully disappointed. But when we find joy in Jesus it feels different. Divine Revelation and Joy Amidst the serenity of the night, an angel appears to shepherds, bringing the incredible news of the Savior's birth. God brought a multitude of angels. It was the greatest spectacle this world has ever seen. The celestial proclamation illuminates the darkness and fills the shepherds with awe and joy. Their ordinary night is transformed into a moment of divine revelation, emphasizing that joy often arrives unexpectedly, transcending the ordinary and mundane. You could not hold back this announcement... The greatest news that has ever been given or will ever be given was being proclaimed. As the angelic message resonates, a multitude of heavenly hosts join in praising God. Their chorus heralds the birth of the Savior and echoes the joy that permeates the heavens and the earth. This celebration underscores the magnitude of joy that accompanies the revelation of God's grace and love. Lessons for Us: Finding Joy The story of the shepherds serves as a beacon, guiding us in our quest for joy. It teaches us that joy is not confined to extraordinary circumstances or monumental achievements. Instead, it's present in the simple, everyday moments—the beauty of nature, the warmth of relationships, and the kindness we share. Moreover, this narrative encourages us to be open to the miraculous amidst the routine. Just as the shepherds encountered a divine revelation in their ordinary lives, we, too, can find joy in unexpected places, in the midst of our daily routines. Think about what God has blessed you with today? Perhaps a roof over your head, food, clothes, family, animals, friends, and so much more. Every day is another opportunity to discover Joy. Celebrating Joy at Christmas As Christmas approaches, let's reflect on the joyous revelation of Christ's birth. Let's embrace the spirit of joy by acknowledging the blessings around us, fostering gratitude, and sharing love and kindness with others. In doing so, we align ourselves with the profound joy emanating from the story in Luke. Let's remember that true joy isn't confined to a specific season but is a continuous journey—an attitude of the heart that finds delight in the miraculous and the mundane alike. May this Christmas season be a reminder to seek and celebrate the joy that surrounds us—a joy that mirrors the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, bringing light and hope into our lives. Merry Christmas and Blessings, Pastor Alex MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Light and Darkness | Alex Hardt | October 1, 2023
It is not surprising that the apostle John began his letter reminding the reader of Jesus’ preexistence and that he was speaking as one who had seen and heard Jesus himself. John 1:1 “ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. “ John 21:24 “ This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.” 1 John 1:1 “ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.” John’s gospel was written so that those who read the book would believe. John 20:31 “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” Scholars write that this first letter of John was written to believers. It would seem John wants to build up and increase our faith and wants us to know Jesus is the Christ. Knowing this, it is not surprising John begins his letter with the contrast of light and dark. This was a reoccurring theme in his gospel. Pastor Alex began his sermon with our overwhelming need for light and how darkness is something we often fear or avoid. Why is that? God created us for light and to be like him. We were made in his image and He is light! We can be assured that in God there is no darkness. Pastor Alex wanted us to see that darkness pervades, leads to pathways without light or very little light, and grows darker the farther we get from the light source. John equates darkness to a walk without Jesus, lightless and lifeless. He also equates darkness with sin. Verse 6 “ If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.” A life lived in darkness is without truth and not grounded in the truth of God. We know that sin is inherent in our nature. However, John realizes this fact and encourages us to come to Jesus and confess, verse 9 “ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” I love this verse as it has a promise we can cling to. Confession brings forgiveness always! God is faithful to forgive our sins when we come to him repentant and desirous of change. Being an unrepentant sinner leads to death. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord.” Pastor Alex summed it up as A World of Darkness leads to death. John wants us to see that Jesus brings light into our lives and reassures us that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all! If we can live in the light, why don’t we do it all the time? It is hard and as a believer, we try to walk with Jesus in His light daily. This means acknowledging our sins frequently and focus on Jesus’ light. John 8:12 “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” How does one go about walking in His light? Here are a couple of thoughts: read your bible daily, pray daily, seek out other believers for fellowship, focus on doing good with the hours and days God gives you, focus on using your talents and resources for serving God, participate in worship with your whole heart, give generously, talk about Jesus as you relate to others and let your words and thoughts dwell on Jesus. Pastor Alex summed it up with the truth, A World of light leads to life! Lastly, how can you find joy in life? 1 John 1:4 “ We write this to make our joy complete.” John wants us to know that telling others, writing his gospel, letters and Revelation brought him joy! He wants to be about the Father’s business of telling others about the good news of Christ. Jesus commissioned the disciples, and us too, in Matthew 28:18-20 “ Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Jesus wants us to tell others about Him! John is saying that one of the benefits of telling others about Jesus is joy, complete joy. What is this good news we are to tell others about? The early Christians spoke of it in Acts 5:42 “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.” They were proclaiming Jesus, the long awaited Messiah, had come! Life and forgiveness in Him was now available. In Jesus we can have a life that would lead to eternal life John describes in 1 John 5:20 “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.” Who do you need to tell about Jesus this week? It will make your spirit joyous in Him. Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Destined For Greatness | Alex Hardt | September 24, 2023
It was good to have Pastor Alex back in the pulpit after his adventures and misadventures into the world of medicine, surgery and healing. God is good and He returned Alex to us filled and renewed. Have you thought about what your purpose is in life and why God put you right where you are? Knowing our Omnipotent God does not make mistakes, we have to consider what is around me, who is around me that God wants me to impact with His message. We were created to give God glory so where do you need to spread or show His glory right where you are? Our passage in 1 Peter 2 begins with Paul’s admonition to rid ourselves of all evil, hypocrisy, envy, slander, etc. and be ready to take in God’s spiritual food to make us strong and able to face the pressures of this world. Paul tells us we are chosen by God and much will be required of us, so we need to be ready. Being chosen by faith in Jesus is a privilege and because we chose to follow Jesus we are precious to Him. Ponder that for a minute or two. Chosen by God and Precious to Him. What better place can there be than being one who is set apart for His work and loved by Him. I am reminded of one of my favorite verses Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,” Being precious to Him guarantees we are going to be cared for in good times and bad. He is always good, we can depend upon Him. Once we accept that we are chosen and precious to Him, we can get on with aligning ourselves with Jesus and looking with expectation towards the work He has for us. How does one align themselves with Jesus?, would seem a critical question. Peter would suggest that making Christ the cornerstone of our faith is critical. Jesus needs to be the central focus of our study and worship. Dive into God’s Word and learn about Jesus. Pray and ask Him for discernment and wisdom in your everyday life. Seek to reflect Jesus and his foundational principles within your life. Be daring and bold, asking God what purpose He has for you and pray for the courage to step out where He leads you, as He will! Are you aligned with Jesus? If you consider yourself on the pathway God has laid out for you, then seek to live out each day in God. Ask yourself, who can I bring alongside me today to talk with about God? Where can I show His love, kindness, gentleness and hope through the circumstances of my day? Maybe you don’t see an opportunity to talk about God, so make one! Call a friend, or someone who is suffering and offer a ‘cup of cold water’ in His name through your words and prayers. Maybe it is time to send a card to which you can add a word of encouragement. Maybe it is time to plan an event to bring others into fellowship in your home or at a restaurant. God meant us for community and we need to be engaged. You can’t talk and live with and in God by yourself. You were chosen to be in the world relating and filling the needs people have for Him. When in doubt, remember and claim our memory verse in Luke 18:27 “Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” If we are about His kingdom’s work, we can leave a legacy of faith in our wake showing His greatness. Linda MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Dazzled By the Divine | Sara Wade | September 3, 2023
Have you ever wondered if the impossible is possible? Sometimes in our moments of desperation and pain, when we feel overwhelmed and have no idea what to do... we become open to God and seeing his handiwork. So much of what happens in our life is beyond our capacity, skill set, talents, gifts, intelligence, or strength. There is no way that either you or I could do or handle everything alone. We need someone to come alongside us and give us wisdom, someone to give us strength, someone to lead us and guide us, someone to help us do what seems to be impossible. This someone happens to be God. Matthew 17:18-20 says it like this... 18 Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” The disciples of Jesus couldn't do what was asked of them. Jesus had trained, showed, and instructed them how to cast out demons. And yet they still couldn't do it. And I know what your thinking... Of course, they couldn't cast out demons...that's out of this world...that's impossible. Jesus, God, is asking humans to do only what God can do. And you would be right, except Jesus doesn't give them a pass. He calls them out for their little faith. They didn't believe that God could use them to do the impossible. They just needed an ounce of faith in God and God's plans to cast out the demons through them, but the disciples (the closest friends of Jesus) didn't even have that. Jesus wasn't upset that they didn't cast out the demons...he was upset because they didn't believe they could. They didn't trust God or believe that God would use them. They didn't trust that God, the creator of the universe, could cast out and destroy demons. How is the world supposed to believe and trust in God, if Jesus' own disciples are doubting the Almighty?!? Every day people are encountering situations where it seems impossible that any good could come out of the situation or that the situation could be resolved or that anything could be done. We feel overwhelmed, hopeless, lost, broken, empty, and afraid. But if we have even the smallest of faith. The faith of a mustard seed then we can move mountains the scriptures says. I don't know about you, but I am sure glad I don't have to face life alone. That I have a God who is there by my side, leading me, guiding me, and helping me to make the impossible possible. I can see a different path forward because of God. My future no longer looks dark but full of light. It doesn't mean it will be easy, it just means it's possible. And that possibility gives me hope of a brighter future. May you trust God, may you be dazzled by the divine, and may you know that the impossible is possible with God. ] Blessings, Pastor Alex MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from Taming The Tongue | Alex Hardt | July 9, 2023 July 16, 2023 James is such a practical book as it is filled with advice and admonitions about how to live our best Christian life. A life where our walk and our talk line up with scripture and are pleasing to God. Pastor Alex took this Sunday to walk us through James Chapter 3 gleaning important truths for us to remember and put into practice. James starts with the admonition to be careful if you are a teacher. At first glance most of us would say- I don’t teach. But all of us are teachers of spiritual truths by the way we speak and act. Our children, spouses, family and neighbors all hear and see our ‘teaching’ each and every day. I know James was talking about teaching spiritual truths and the need for them to be accurate so that we give out the Word of God correctly. We do not want to cause others to deliberately stumble by what we say and do. Take a few minutes and think about a spiritual truth- God is love, God desires us to be just and righteous in Christ, etc. How have others seen these truths in your life? Are you giving a true picture of Christ and His love? James reminds us that we need to be mindful of the messages we give to others and be sure they are aligned with scripture and show who God is. Next James talks about the power of the tongue. It is a small member of our body but used improperly it can do great damage. We only have think about a time we said something to someone that was unkind or hurtful. I’m sure we have all experienced the repercussion of those types of remarks. Pastor Alex talked about the tongue being a container that we carry around with us that can greatly affect everyone and everything. He wanted us to remember that the power of the mouth has the ability to give life to those around us- positive, hope filled encouragement or to give death with putdowns, discouragement, slanderous, and even evil thoughts. We can praise God or curse God with the same tongue. It holds a lot of power and we need to be mindful of how and when we speak. When we are speaking ill of something, it is like using deadly poison or pouring gasoline on a fire. David describes a poisonous person in Psalm 140:1-3 “Rescue me, Lord, from evildoers; protect me from the violent, 2 who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day. 3 They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips. I know we all agree with David that only the Lord can rescue us from such people and their vile tongues! I love the way James 3 concludes. He talks about 2 kinds of wisdom. Wisdom from God and wisdom of the world. We know we cannot all be perfect but we can seek God’s help, wisdom and guidance to live as best we can for Him. He empowers us through His Holy Spirit to stand firm and resist the devil and his enticing desires. Worldly wisdom is described in James 3:14-15” But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.” Worldly wisdom causes strife, bitterness, selfish desires and untruth to grow in our lives. The root of this type of wisdom is unspiritual and of the devil. It is filled with evil desires and leads to chaos. The wisdom of God, by contrast, is described in James 3:17-18 “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” God’s wisdom leads to peace, hope, living well with others, showing others about Jesus and His righteousness. What a contrast- chaos vs peace! Pastor Alex reminded us that God’s Wisdom produces good fruit. James calls it a ‘harvest of righteousness’. Isn’t that what we all truly desire? So how do we get there?
Linda SERMON LINK Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass.
Pastor Alex used the text in Acts 16:9-15 to show us how encompassing God’s love is. Last week we saw how Cornelius was let to faith in Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit. God meant for Gentiles to be included in His family. This week, we see Paul extending the love of Christ to Lydia, a gentile woman, who readily embraced Christ and then led her whole family to faith. Both Cornelius and Lydia wanted their loved ones to come to the saving knowledge of Christ. They wanted them to know the joy of being filled with the Holy Spirit and having a purpose greater than themselves. We see the God has not put limitations on His love and it cannot be contained.
Both Cornelius and Lydia brought their families to faith. That required an open heart and a willingness to risk their lives and reputations. The desire to see their loved ones come to know Christ surpassed any fears they may have had. Is that the same with you? Are you willing to ‘risk’ it to see your family come into the family of God? Here we see that Lydia and Cornelius were willing, and through their open hearts they were able to lead generations to come into the knowledge and love of God. Pastor Alex directed us to 2 Corinthians 5:20. “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God’. Lydia counted it a privilege to be Christ’s ambassador in her family and in her community. An Ambassador is a spokesperson, an official of the highest rank who is sent on a mission. The mission Lydia and Cornelius were sent on is the same one we are to embrace which, is to spread the good news of Christ, the gospel message. Do you need to hone your ambassador skills? Are you representing Jesus and speaking out for Him? I am reminded of our memory verse for this week from Romans 1:16-17. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” Are you willing to proclaim the gospel without being ashamed of it? Do you truly believe it contains the revelation from God, Christ, which allows us to live within His righteousness? If so, it is the best message yet. Hope, redemption, right living with God, what could be better? If so, who do you need to tell this week? You too can have an immeasurable impact for Christ right where you live: in your family, neighborhood, town and country. Linda The ruins at Philippi which are just over the hill from the stream where Paul and Lydia worshipped. Continue reading Acts 16 for further adventures of Paul and Silas at Philippi that landed them in jail and led to the conversion of the jailer and his family coming to know Christ, too. SERMON LINK Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. Sermon Reflections from A Risen Lord | Alex Hardt | April 9, 2023
Our service always includes the reading of God's Word over the passage Pastor Alex has chosen. This Sunday Sue read from Luke 23:44-24:11 and before she started she said, "There is bad news that is thankfully followed by good or great news!" We began with the cross and Jesus' crucifixion followed by his glorious resurrection. The bad news of Jesus' death and suffering is turned into glorious hope for us as we are now able to receive Jesus' sacrifice bringing restoration, redemption and hope to all who believe! Pastor Alex began his sermon by focusing on the breath, width and depth of God's love for us. Without God's supreme love for us, He would not have sent his only Son to die in our place to redeem us. John 3:16 and Romans 5:8 remind us of God's motives, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life," Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This kind of love is incomprehensible and undeniable when we consider God's actions. God is God and when we say that God is incomprehensible we are saying that God's ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. God is infinite and eternal and knows all things. God made us in His image but we are finite and flawed by sin. In heaven, Praise God!, we will be perfect, but we will still not know all that God knows. God tells us all we need to know about Him through His Word and the indwelling of His Holy Spirit. God wants us to be in fellowship with Him. For that to become a reality, Jesus had to go to the cross and be resurrected. For us to be in fellowship with Him, we need to accept Jesus as our Savior, admit our sinfulness in repentance and invite Jesus to be Lord and Savior of our lives. In that acceptance prayer, we are transformed by His Holy Spirit that comes to indwell us. The transformation is a growing process as we let go of the world and its values and turn to God and seek to glorify and serve Him with our lives. It calls for surrender on our part- will, soul and mind. Jesus said in Matthew 22:37 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." Our surrender brings about reconciliation and restoration to our bodies. We can then profess 2 Corinthians 5:17 " Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" I love the Easter Story as it is filled with hope and newness of life. It is indeed Good News to all who hear and believe. Titus 2:11 "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people." Make sure in the wake of Easter that you are reconciled to God through your faith in Jesus. Reconciliation brings hope and joy. Consider 2 Corinthians 5:19-21 " that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." As brothers and sisters in Christ, we at Crossroads desire that you too be reconciled to God through faith in Jesus so that you can experience the joy and fullness of life that Jesus brings. SERMON LINK Click Here to View the Sermon Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. |
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April 2024
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