When we find ourselves in intense spiritual battles, the promise and hope of Advent is that God is with us in the battle.

When we find ourselves in intense spiritual battles, the promise and hope of Advent is that God is with us in the battle.

Jesus shows mercy to a paralyzed man and it challenges us with the question, who needs us to attend to them, even showing remarkable creativity and determination to care for them?

Jesus shows mercy to a paralyzed man and it challenges us with the question, who needs us to attend to them, even showing remarkable creativity and determination to care for them?

Jesus is merciful to both physical and spiritual needs, and the signs that we have encountered his mercy are repentance, restitution, and renewal.

Jesus is merciful to both physical and spiritual needs, and the signs that we have encountered his mercy are repentance, restitution, and renewal.

Jesus reveals his heart of mercy to the servant of a Roman centurion, and to the son of a widow, and … to us.

Jesus reveals his heart of mercy to the servant of a Roman centurion, and to the son of a widow, and … to us.

The kingdom of God does not operate on the principle of ‘return on investment.’ It operates on the principle of grace and mercy.

The kingdom of God does not operate on the principle of ‘return on investment.’ It operates on the principle of grace and mercy.

Jesus teaches compassion through the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Jesus teaches compassion through the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Jesus teaches that who has been forgiven much, loves much; while those who think they have little need of forgiveness, love little.

Jesus teaches that who has been forgiven much, loves much; while those who think they have little need of forgiveness, love little.

The sign that God's kingdom is present in the world is God’s healing mercy at work.

The sign that God's kingdom is present in the world is God’s healing mercy at work.

God’s justice and mercy means that everyone should be treated rightly and fairly. At the same time, it also means that special care, attention, and generosity should be shown toward the poor, the weak, and the vulnerable of society.

God’s justice and mercy means that everyone should be treated rightly and fairly. At the same time, it also means that special care, attention, and generosity should be shown toward the poor, the weak, and the vulnerable of society.

Sin, injustice, and evil work interpersonally and relationally, but they also work institutionally, structurally, and systemically in society. However, God’s redemptive grace also works interpersonally and relationally as well as institutionally, structurally, and systemically in society through the establishment of God’s kingdom.

Sin, injustice, and evil work interpersonally and relationally, but they also work institutionally, structurally, and systemically in society. However, God’s redemptive grace also works interpersonally and relationally as well as institutionally, structurally, and systemically in society through the establishment of God’s kingdom.

Sin, injustice, and evil are both individual and communal, and even generational. However, God’s redemptive grace is also individual, communal, and even generational through the outworking of his covenant.

Sin, injustice, and evil are both individual and communal, and even generational. However, God’s redemptive grace is also individual, communal, and even generational through the outworking of his covenant.

God’s kingdom of justice and mercy has already arrived and yet is not fully here. Therefore, we should be hopeful but also patient.

God’s kingdom of justice and mercy has already arrived and yet is not fully here. Therefore, we should be hopeful but also patient.

God is just and merciful, and he calls his people to be just and merciful—the kind of people who love the sojourner.

God is just and merciful, and he calls his people to be just and merciful—the kind of people who love the sojourner.

When set in the context of God’s larger story, justice and mercy are much more relational, robust, and restorative than we’re used to.

When set in the context of God’s larger story, justice and mercy are much more relational, robust, and restorative than we’re used to.

God is just and merciful, and his justice and mercy are perfectly expressed in the cross. Therefore, he is our ultimate confidence and hope.

God is just and merciful, and his justice and mercy are perfectly expressed in the cross. Therefore, he is our ultimate confidence and hope.

In the final scene of John’s Gospel, Jesus graciously restores Peter after his failure and then commissions him to be a shepherd to the others.

In the final scene of John’s Gospel, Jesus graciously restores Peter after his failure and then commissions him to be a shepherd to the others.

The risen Christ comes and stands among his people in the midst of their sorrows, fears, and doubts.

The risen Christ comes and stands among his people in the midst of their sorrows, fears, and doubts.

The cross of Jesus is a series of ironies, in which Jesus loses everything so that we can gain everything – a new family, a new satisfaction, and a new life.

The cross of Jesus is a series of ironies, in which Jesus loses everything so that we can gain everything – a new family, a new satisfaction, and a new life.

How might we confuse unity and uniformity? Why is gospel unity of the utmost importance for followers of Jesus?

How might we confuse unity and uniformity? Why is gospel unity of the utmost importance for followers of Jesus?

When sorrow and pain comes what will be your response? How might sorrow and joy hold a tension of hope?

When sorrow and pain comes what will be your response? How might sorrow and joy hold a tension of hope?

The nature of the kingdom of God is disruptive to the world. Therefore the followers of Jesus will encounter opposition. But Jesus promises the sustaining presence of the Spirit who will guide us into all truth.

The nature of the kingdom of God is disruptive to the world. Therefore the followers of Jesus will encounter opposition. But Jesus promises the sustaining presence of the Spirit who will guide us into all truth.

Jesus says that he is the true vine and we are the branches. Apart from him we can do nothing. Therefore we should abide in him, and go and bear much fruit.

Jesus says that he is the true vine and we are the branches. Apart from him we can do nothing. Therefore we should abide in him, and go and bear much fruit.

In preparing to leave his disciples, Jesus promises that he will not leave us as orphans but will send the Holy Spirit to help us.

In preparing to leave his disciples, Jesus promises that he will not leave us as orphans but will send the Holy Spirit to help us.

The disciples are feeling disoriented and are in crisis. So Jesus tells them to trust in him, because he is the way, the truth, and the life.

The disciples are feeling disoriented and are in crisis. So Jesus tells them to trust in him, because he is the way, the truth, and the life.

The night before his death Jesus gathers his disciples in the Upper Room, washes their feet, and then tells them to love one another just as he has loved them.

The night before his death Jesus gathers his disciples in the Upper Room, washes their feet, and then tells them to love one another just as he has loved them.

Though a king, Jesus adopts the posture of someone lowly and humble. Likewise, in his kingdom you have to lose your life to gain it, sacrifice your life to save it, and serve to be great. In other words, he completely reconfigures our understanding of shame and honor.

Though a king, Jesus adopts the posture of someone lowly and humble. Likewise, in his kingdom you have to lose your life to gain it, sacrifice your life to save it, and serve to be great. In other words, he completely reconfigures our understanding of shame and honor.

What does Jesus close his public ministry with? What does he say? What does he focus on? Why does it matter?

What does Jesus close his public ministry with? What does he say? What does he focus on? Why does it matter?

Mary pours out her entire flask of ointment on the feet of Jesus, a costly, sacrificial, and beautiful act of humility, service, and affection. In doing so, she becomes both a picture of the Church’s calling and a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own costly and sacrificial act on the cross.

Mary pours out her entire flask of ointment on the feet of Jesus, a costly, sacrificial, and beautiful act of humility, service, and affection. In doing so, she becomes both a picture of the Church’s calling and a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own costly and sacrificial act on the cross.

Caiaphas suggests that they put Jesus to death as a political solution - that his death will spare the nation from being destroyed by the Romans. But there is a deeper theological meaning to his words, which he could not see - that his death would save a whole people.

Caiaphas suggests that they put Jesus to death as a political solution - that his death will spare the nation from being destroyed by the Romans. But there is a deeper theological meaning to his words, which he could not see - that his death would save a whole people.

Facing death often brings pain, confusion, and even anger, but Jesus has power over death.

Facing death often brings pain, confusion, and even anger, but Jesus has power over death.

What does it look like to love well? How might that shape how we view ourselves and others?

What does it look like to love well? How might that shape how we view ourselves and others?

Jesus is the Divine Shepherd who promises us that nothing can ever snatch us out of his hand.

Jesus is the Divine Shepherd who promises us that nothing can ever snatch us out of his hand.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep, calls them by name, and loves them enough to lay his life down for them, that they might have life and have it abundantly.

Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep, calls them by name, and loves them enough to lay his life down for them, that they might have life and have it abundantly.

When Jesus and his disciples encounter a man born blind, the disciples want to know what caused the man’s blindness - his sin or his parents’ sin. But Jesus refocuses the question from what caused the man’s blindness to what God might be doing in and through the man’s blindness.

When Jesus and his disciples encounter a man born blind, the disciples want to know what caused the man’s blindness - his sin or his parents’ sin. But Jesus refocuses the question from what caused the man’s blindness to what God might be doing in and through the man’s blindness.

We are all by nature slaves to sin, but Jesus offers us the truth that can set us free.

We are all by nature slaves to sin, but Jesus offers us the truth that can set us free.

As the light of the world, Jesus is the one who guides us through life, gives us hope for the world, and brings forth new life.

As the light of the world, Jesus is the one who guides us through life, gives us hope for the world, and brings forth new life.

In a hyper-individualized western society, we often feel a successful life is a life defined by "feeling good." But does pursuing our own natural desires always produce the end we hoped for? How might the person of Jesus, his teachings, his life, and his way, actually show us what the beautiful life is?

In a hyper-individualized western society, we often feel a successful life is a life defined by "feeling good." But does pursuing our own natural desires always produce the end we hoped for? How might the person of Jesus, his teachings, his life, and his way, actually show us what the beautiful life is?

In a world that is on edge, stressed out, and polarizing... how do we learn to talk again? It might just start with answering the question, 'Whose glory are you seeking?" In many ways, this shaped how and why we do relationships.

In a world that is on edge, stressed out, and polarizing... how do we learn to talk again? It might just start with answering the question, 'Whose glory are you seeking?" In many ways, this shaped how and why we do relationships.

Within the normal flow of time, there are certain times and seasons that are especially full of divine significance. Jesus is attuned to these, and those who follow Jesus must be attuned to them as well.

Within the normal flow of time, there are certain times and seasons that are especially full of divine significance. Jesus is attuned to these, and those who follow Jesus must be attuned to them as well.

Jesus claims some hard things, confronts us with hard things, and calls us to hard things. Yet we should not abandon him because he along has the words of eternal life.

Jesus claims some hard things, confronts us with hard things, and calls us to hard things. Yet we should not abandon him because he along has the words of eternal life.

Jesus is the bread of life that satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger.

Jesus is the bread of life that satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger.

In the midst of darkness and storms, Jesus moves toward us with calm, steady power.

In the midst of darkness and storms, Jesus moves toward us with calm, steady power.

With great compassion and love Jesus feeds the hungry. Are you hungry? Jesus is not just offering food, he is giving much more!

With great compassion and love Jesus feeds the hungry. Are you hungry? Jesus is not just offering food, he is giving much more!

Jesus has divine authority, is the source of true life, and is the judge of all the earth.

Jesus has divine authority, is the source of true life, and is the judge of all the earth.

Jesus heals a disabled man in Jerusalem with compassionate mercy and by doing so gives a picture of God’s larger story of healing in the world.

Jesus heals a disabled man in Jerusalem with compassionate mercy and by doing so gives a picture of God’s larger story of healing in the world.

Jesus shows that he is full of grace, power, and life when he heals the son of a royal official.

Jesus shows that he is full of grace, power, and life when he heals the son of a royal official.

When the King comes to his people, he comes disguised in the weak, the helpless, and the vulnerable.

When the King comes to his people, he comes disguised in the weak, the helpless, and the vulnerable.

While we wait for the King to return, he has put things into our trust to be used for the sake of his kingdom. What are we doing with them?

While we wait for the King to return, he has put things into our trust to be used for the sake of his kingdom. What are we doing with them?

Jesus compares the coming of the King to the delayed arrival of a bridegroom. Some bridesmaids are prepared with extra oil for their lamps, some are not. Which bridesmaids are we more like?

Jesus compares the coming of the King to the delayed arrival of a bridegroom. Some bridesmaids are prepared with extra oil for their lamps, some are not. Which bridesmaids are we more like?

When the King comes to the world, but in the middle of history and at the end of history, he will catch people by surprise. Therefore, we are called to care for others well, while we wait, and steward all things as belonging to him.

When the King comes to the world, but in the middle of history and at the end of history, he will catch people by surprise. Therefore, we are called to care for others well, while we wait, and steward all things as belonging to him.

Through the witness of the woman at the well, God’s great spiritual harvest begins to come in.

Through the witness of the woman at the well, God’s great spiritual harvest begins to come in.

Jesus crosses boundaries to welcome a Samaritan woman and invites her to become a true worshipper.

Jesus crosses boundaries to welcome a Samaritan woman and invites her to become a true worshipper.

Are the truths we know and the truths we say actually lived out in our lives? John the Baptist cuts through the religiosity of his disciples and invites them to embody the Gospel. How might our lives need to change when we follow Jesus?

Are the truths we know and the truths we say actually lived out in our lives? John the Baptist cuts through the religiosity of his disciples and invites them to embody the Gospel. How might our lives need to change when we follow Jesus?

What changes us? What brings real healing and peace? Can we do that by our own abilities, logic or intellect? Real change, a heart made new, can only happen when the Spirit moves and we have faith in the Triune God.

What changes us? What brings real healing and peace? Can we do that by our own abilities, logic or intellect? Real change, a heart made new, can only happen when the Spirit moves and we have faith in the Triune God.

After clearing the money-changers out of the temple, Jesus indicates that he is taking over everything that the temple is.

After clearing the money-changers out of the temple, Jesus indicates that he is taking over everything that the temple is.

Jesus turns water into wine as a sign that he is changing the old age into the new age.

Jesus turns water into wine as a sign that he is changing the old age into the new age.

The circle of Jesus’s followers widens as they invite others to come and see.

The circle of Jesus’s followers widens as they invite others to come and see.

Jesus attracts his first followers and invites them to come and see what it is like to be with him.

Jesus attracts his first followers and invites them to come and see what it is like to be with him.

John the Baptist points to Jesus, the one whose sandal he is not worthy to untie, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and the Son of God who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.

John the Baptist points to Jesus, the one whose sandal he is not worthy to untie, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and the Son of God who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.

In Jesus, God took on human flesh. He did so in order to welcome us into his family and give us grace upon grace.

In Jesus, God took on human flesh. He did so in order to welcome us into his family and give us grace upon grace.

What am I here for? What am I to be about? If we don’t know our purpose then life can seem very purposeless. When our identity is rooted in Jesus we know we are blessed and we then overflow that blessing to others.

What am I here for? What am I to be about? If we don’t know our purpose then life can seem very purposeless. When our identity is rooted in Jesus we know we are blessed and we then overflow that blessing to others.

Where do I fit? Where do I belong? The more we learn about who God is and who we are… the more we realize that following Jesus must happen in community. A community unified in Jesus that gives the world a taste of the Kingdom of God.

Where do I fit? Where do I belong? The more we learn about who God is and who we are… the more we realize that following Jesus must happen in community. A community unified in Jesus that gives the world a taste of the Kingdom of God.

Who am I? Where do I find my value and worth? Can we, or do we, have to make our own identity? It is exhausting and fracturing to make and justify your own existence. In Jesus we find a true identity that brings life, wholeness, and purpose.

Who am I? Where do I find my value and worth? Can we, or do we, have to make our own identity? It is exhausting and fracturing to make and justify your own existence. In Jesus we find a true identity that brings life, wholeness, and purpose.

The final passage of Isaiah assures us of the strength of heaven’s throne, the joy of Zion’s childbirth, and the glory of the Lord’s coming.

The final passage of Isaiah assures us of the strength of heaven’s throne, the joy of Zion’s childbirth, and the glory of the Lord’s coming.

Isaiah’s vision of a new heavens and new earth gives us the hope of a world made new, which should give us expectant joy and motivate us to begin the difficult work of rebuilding.

Isaiah’s vision of a new heavens and new earth gives us the hope of a world made new, which should give us expectant joy and motivate us to begin the difficult work of rebuilding.

The Lord reveals his heart towards his people as that of a father who spreads out his hands in welcoming grace and then promises that he can bring forth new wine out of withered grapes.

The Lord reveals his heart towards his people as that of a father who spreads out his hands in welcoming grace and then promises that he can bring forth new wine out of withered grapes.

As the prophet walks among the rubble of the exile, he begins to recount the steadfast love of the Lord and prays for God’s presence and will.

As the prophet walks among the rubble of the exile, he begins to recount the steadfast love of the Lord and prays for God’s presence and will.

A vivid picture of the Lord’s triumph over evil both reassures us that there is cosmic justice and also points us toward our need for atonement.

A vivid picture of the Lord’s triumph over evil both reassures us that there is cosmic justice and also points us toward our need for atonement.

God has made promises to his people and, if these are true, then we should respond by praying, hoping, and working.

God has made promises to his people and, if these are true, then we should respond by praying, hoping, and working.

The Spirit-empowered Anointed One brings good news to the poor, binds up the broken-hearted, sets the captives free, and comforts those who mourn.

The Spirit-empowered Anointed One brings good news to the poor, binds up the broken-hearted, sets the captives free, and comforts those who mourn.

God gives his people a vision of Zion shining with the glory of God. In response, we should arise and shine, and lift up our eyes and see with faith.

God gives his people a vision of Zion shining with the glory of God. In response, we should arise and shine, and lift up our eyes and see with faith.

In a world plagued by injustice, God announces that he will come as the Divine Warrior to set things right and establish justice.

In a world plagued by injustice, God announces that he will come as the Divine Warrior to set things right and establish justice.

God isn’t interested in hollow religion. He desires for our hearts to be changed so that we work for justice, express compassion, and show mercy.

God isn’t interested in hollow religion. He desires for our hearts to be changed so that we work for justice, express compassion, and show mercy.

God dwells in a high and holy place. Yet he also dwells with those who are contrite and lowly in spirit.

God dwells in a high and holy place. Yet he also dwells with those who are contrite and lowly in spirit.

All of us are prone to care about ourselves before others, but the Lord invites us to take refuge in him as not only the source of our renewal but also the way forward as a community.

All of us are prone to care about ourselves before others, but the Lord invites us to take refuge in him as not only the source of our renewal but also the way forward as a community.

In the aftermath of the exile, the Lord calls his people back to the covenant and to a vision of his covenant expanding outward to welcome the outcasts and rejected, and to cross all racial, ethnic, and national lines, so that the temple becomes a house of prayer for all peoples.

In the aftermath of the exile, the Lord calls his people back to the covenant and to a vision of his covenant expanding outward to welcome the outcasts and rejected, and to cross all racial, ethnic, and national lines, so that the temple becomes a house of prayer for all peoples.

The resurrection is connected to the Sabbath, and therefore every Sabbath is a little Easter, full of life, joy, power, and hope.

The resurrection is connected to the Sabbath, and therefore every Sabbath is a little Easter, full of life, joy, power, and hope.

From Israel’s earliest days, the Sabbath was tied to communion with God. In Jesus, this connection is both strengthened and deepened.

From Israel’s earliest days, the Sabbath was tied to communion with God. In Jesus, this connection is both strengthened and deepened.

The Sabbath is a picture of freedom and liberation, and it stirs within us a longing for the freedom to come.

The Sabbath is a picture of freedom and liberation, and it stirs within us a longing for the freedom to come.

We live in disorienting times and seasons but the Sabbath reorients us to eternity.

We live in disorienting times and seasons but the Sabbath reorients us to eternity.

The Sabbath shapes us to delight in God through celebration, especially through singing and worship.

The Sabbath shapes us to delight in God through celebration, especially through singing and worship.

Delighting in God should not just be a spiritual exercise but one that involves our five senses as well. The Sabbath helps cultivate our ability to do this well.

Delighting in God should not just be a spiritual exercise but one that involves our five senses as well. The Sabbath helps cultivate our ability to do this well.

Our Sabbath-keeping God displays many traits. We will explore three of God’s traits described by the prophet Zechariah. A couple of these traits might be a bit surprising to us, His children.

Our Sabbath-keeping God displays many traits. We will explore three of God’s traits described by the prophet Zechariah. A couple of these traits might be a bit surprising to us, His children.

In Jesus’ kingdom, his table is a place of healing grace. Therefore feasting – and Sabbath feasting in particular – is a signpost of the kingdom.

In Jesus’ kingdom, his table is a place of healing grace. Therefore feasting – and Sabbath feasting in particular – is a signpost of the kingdom.

The system of Sabbaths in Israel reveals God’s heart of compassion for the oppressed and marginalized.

The system of Sabbaths in Israel reveals God’s heart of compassion for the oppressed and marginalized.

Since the days of ancient Israel, the Sabbath has been intended to shape God’s people to care about the poor, the needy, and the sojourner.

Since the days of ancient Israel, the Sabbath has been intended to shape God’s people to care about the poor, the needy, and the sojourner.

God gave the Sabbath as a gift not only to people but also for the land and the wild animals. Therefore the Sabbath should shape us to care about God’s creation.

God gave the Sabbath as a gift not only to people but also for the land and the wild animals. Therefore the Sabbath should shape us to care about God’s creation.

The Sabbath is God’s gracious gift that gives us relief from the burdens we carry and all the expectations that pile up on us.

The Sabbath is God’s gracious gift that gives us relief from the burdens we carry and all the expectations that pile up on us.

Our digital word shapes us to look for connection and life through virtual means. However, Jesus is the vine through whom we find true connection and life. The Sabbath is an important way that God practices necessary technological pruning and spiritual fruit-bearing.

Our digital word shapes us to look for connection and life through virtual means. However, Jesus is the vine through whom we find true connection and life. The Sabbath is an important way that God practices necessary technological pruning and spiritual fruit-bearing.

Is it unsettling to your faith when those who hate Jesus seem to triumph and those who love Him endure unspeakable tragedy? It is likely that we have all struggled with understanding what God is doing in our lives and in our world. In Psalm 73 Asaph is brutally honest about this very thing. Find out not only about his wearisome struggle but the one thing that totally changed his thoughts and heart as God gave him a different perspective—His perspective. It just might change your thoughts and heart for the new year.

Is it unsettling to your faith when those who hate Jesus seem to triumph and those who love Him endure unspeakable tragedy? It is likely that we have all struggled with understanding what God is doing in our lives and in our world. In Psalm 73 Asaph is brutally honest about this very thing. Find out not only about his wearisome struggle but the one thing that totally changed his thoughts and heart as God gave him a different perspective—His perspective. It just might change your thoughts and heart for the new year.

In the birth of Jesus, God draws near to us, even in our brokenness and messiness.

In the birth of Jesus, God draws near to us, even in our brokenness and messiness.

In hope, we wait for God’s coming kingdom where the wicked will be brought low and the humble will lifted up.

In hope, we wait for God’s coming kingdom where the wicked will be brought low and the humble will lifted up.

When we are lonely, the Lord is our light and our salvation. Even if all others forsake us, the Lord will take us in.

When we are lonely, the Lord is our light and our salvation. Even if all others forsake us, the Lord will take us in.

Life in this world is filled with pain but the good news of Advent is that God draws near to us in our pain and invites us to wait on him in hope.

Life in this world is filled with pain but the good news of Advent is that God draws near to us in our pain and invites us to wait on him in hope.

When the psalmist feels as though he is sinking down into the depths because of his sin, he learns to wait for the Lord’s redemption and that becomes his solid hope.

When the psalmist feels as though he is sinking down into the depths because of his sin, he learns to wait for the Lord’s redemption and that becomes his solid hope.

Ezekiel describes the Sabbath as a sign – of God’s saving grace, of life free from idols, and of a life set apart for God.

Ezekiel describes the Sabbath as a sign – of God’s saving grace, of life free from idols, and of a life set apart for God.

When the world seems to be falling apart, God is our refuge and strength. Therefore, he calls us to be still and know that he is the Lord.

When the world seems to be falling apart, God is our refuge and strength. Therefore, he calls us to be still and know that he is the Lord.

The Sabbath short-circuits the social abuses and dysfunctions that creep into our lives, and provides a grace-filled space where we can be socially and relationally healthy.

The Sabbath short-circuits the social abuses and dysfunctions that creep into our lives, and provides a grace-filled space where we can be socially and relationally healthy.

By healing the man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, Jesus shows that God’s desire to bring healing and restoration to the body is at the very heart of the Sabbath day.

By healing the man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, Jesus shows that God’s desire to bring healing and restoration to the body is at the very heart of the Sabbath day.

Jesus invites all those who are weary and burdened to come to him and find rest, and he promises to give us rest for our souls.

Jesus invites all those who are weary and burdened to come to him and find rest, and he promises to give us rest for our souls.

We live in a culture in which so many things are commodified. The Sabbath trains us to turn away from the culture of commodification and its gospel of consumerism, and instead to embrace a life of grace and the gospel of the kingdom.

We live in a culture in which so many things are commodified. The Sabbath trains us to turn away from the culture of commodification and its gospel of consumerism, and instead to embrace a life of grace and the gospel of the kingdom.

We live in a world of clocks and calendars that seem to shout all the time, "Faster. Faster. More. More." We may not be able to escape our culture but we can resist it.

We live in a world of clocks and calendars that seem to shout all the time, "Faster. Faster. More. More." We may not be able to escape our culture but we can resist it.

We were made to work and rest, but we often see rest as a means to an end to bring more productivity to our work. When we cease we realize we are not in control. When we cease we are faced with the question, "What makes me worthy?"

We were made to work and rest, but we often see rest as a means to an end to bring more productivity to our work. When we cease we realize we are not in control. When we cease we are faced with the question, "What makes me worthy?"

The Sabbath gives us a new way to approach the anxiety in our lives, by allowing us to rest and trust in God’s provision and promises.

The Sabbath gives us a new way to approach the anxiety in our lives, by allowing us to rest and trust in God’s provision and promises.

The Sabbath gives us a small glimpse of the rest into which we will finally enter in the new creation.

The Sabbath gives us a small glimpse of the rest into which we will finally enter in the new creation.

The Sabbath is a picture of God’s redeeming work - that we are not saved by our works but simply by resting in Christ.

The Sabbath is a picture of God’s redeeming work - that we are not saved by our works but simply by resting in Christ.

God’s pattern of creating the world becomes the pattern for our own weekly rhythms, such that the Sabbath ushers us into the practices of reflecting on God as Creator, ourselves as finite creatures, and our lives as dependent and shaped by God’s ways.

God’s pattern of creating the world becomes the pattern for our own weekly rhythms, such that the Sabbath ushers us into the practices of reflecting on God as Creator, ourselves as finite creatures, and our lives as dependent and shaped by God’s ways.

The Sabbath is a gift from heaven that evidences God’s kind and gracious provision.

The Sabbath is a gift from heaven that evidences God’s kind and gracious provision.

Many of us have a dysfunctional relationship to time but God has built for us a sanctuary in time.

Many of us have a dysfunctional relationship to time but God has built for us a sanctuary in time.

The book of Revelation ends with the promise and the hope that Jesus is coming. This is what grounds our worship and our way of life.

The book of Revelation ends with the promise and the hope that Jesus is coming. This is what grounds our worship and our way of life.

The new creation is a city of glory, where kings bring their glory into it, but also a garden of healing, where the nations of the world find full and final healing.

The new creation is a city of glory, where kings bring their glory into it, but also a garden of healing, where the nations of the world find full and final healing.

John sees a vision of a new creation that is full of God’s presence, that consummates all our desires, that is incomparably beautiful, and that is saturated with glory.

John sees a vision of a new creation that is full of God’s presence, that consummates all our desires, that is incomparably beautiful, and that is saturated with glory.

What do you love? What captivates your heart? Do your answers equate to the actions and deeds of your life? How you answer these questions has an eternal importance.

What do you love? What captivates your heart? Do your answers equate to the actions and deeds of your life? How you answer these questions has an eternal importance.

It's so easy as you think about Revelation to get distracted by any number of secondary questions. In today's text, John reminds us again of what is central to his message and what, therefore, is central for our own understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.

It's so easy as you think about Revelation to get distracted by any number of secondary questions. In today's text, John reminds us again of what is central to his message and what, therefore, is central for our own understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.

Two main truths come out of Revelation 19:11-21. Jesus is the Victor...HE WINS!!! And evil and those who do evil will be severely punished even though it may seem that they are getting by with it. God will NOT let them off the hook. Live in light of being on the winning team.

Two main truths come out of Revelation 19:11-21. Jesus is the Victor...HE WINS!!! And evil and those who do evil will be severely punished even though it may seem that they are getting by with it. God will NOT let them off the hook. Live in light of being on the winning team.

After the defeat of evil, a hallelujah chorus breaks out, culminating in the wedding supper of the Lamb.

After the defeat of evil, a hallelujah chorus breaks out, culminating in the wedding supper of the Lamb.

Babylon is a picture of a seductive evil but the assurance is that one day she will be conquered for good.

Babylon is a picture of a seductive evil but the assurance is that one day she will be conquered for good.

As an expression of God’s power and glory, he eventually will rid the world of all the powers that ruin and destroy it.

As an expression of God’s power and glory, he eventually will rid the world of all the powers that ruin and destroy it.

A warning of the idolatrous and destructive results of drinking from Babylon’s cup is followed by a promise of blessing to those who die in the Lord.

A warning of the idolatrous and destructive results of drinking from Babylon’s cup is followed by a promise of blessing to those who die in the Lord.

After visions of the dragon and beasts waging war on the saints, John sees a vision of the Lamb standing triumphantly on top of Mount Zion, prompting an outbreak of worship.

After visions of the dragon and beasts waging war on the saints, John sees a vision of the Lamb standing triumphantly on top of Mount Zion, prompting an outbreak of worship.

In his effort to make war with the saints, the dragon enlists the beasts of the sea and the land, revealing how all human institutions and systems of power, especially governments, have the capacity for evil.

In his effort to make war with the saints, the dragon enlists the beasts of the sea and the land, revealing how all human institutions and systems of power, especially governments, have the capacity for evil.

John sees a vision of a great red dragon wanting to devour the messianic child but when he is unable to do so, he turns his fury on the followers of the Messiah.

John sees a vision of a great red dragon wanting to devour the messianic child but when he is unable to do so, he turns his fury on the followers of the Messiah.

John sees a mighty angel straddling the land and the sea and then three pictures of God’s people as they live in the midst of the empire—a scroll that tastes sweet even though it is bitter to the stomach, a temple that worships even though it is trampled, and two witnesses who are raised to new life even though they are slain.

John sees a mighty angel straddling the land and the sea and then three pictures of God’s people as they live in the midst of the empire—a scroll that tastes sweet even though it is bitter to the stomach, a temple that worships even though it is trampled, and two witnesses who are raised to new life even though they are slain.

The seven trumpets are an answer to our cry for justice in a world plagued by evil and they give us hope that one day God’s kingdom will be established on earth and make all things right.

The seven trumpets are an answer to our cry for justice in a world plagued by evil and they give us hope that one day God’s kingdom will be established on earth and make all things right.

The resurrection of Jesus assures us that God will transform our mortal bodies into new resurrection bodies - the corruptible into the incorruptible, the dishonorable into the glorious, the weak into the powerful, the natural into the spiritual.

The resurrection of Jesus assures us that God will transform our mortal bodies into new resurrection bodies - the corruptible into the incorruptible, the dishonorable into the glorious, the weak into the powerful, the natural into the spiritual.

Jesus’ cry of agony on the cross shows us both the seriousness of our sin and the basis for our salvation.

Jesus’ cry of agony on the cross shows us both the seriousness of our sin and the basis for our salvation.

Throughout the Gospel of Mark, Mark is pretty low key on who Jesus is (partially because Jesus constantly tells people not to say who he is), but when we get to the triumphal entry, Jesus does not tell people to be quiet, but He lets them shout out who He is. You will discover that there are some great truths in this passage that will help all of us through this very challenging time. One of the most powerful points in this passage is realizing that this is not just a royal procession of a King, but also a funeral procession. Jesus was signing His own death warrant taking Himself to the cross. Sit and rest in the great truths you will hear!

Throughout the Gospel of Mark, Mark is pretty low key on who Jesus is (partially because Jesus constantly tells people not to say who he is), but when we get to the triumphal entry, Jesus does not tell people to be quiet, but He lets them shout out who He is. You will discover that there are some great truths in this passage that will help all of us through this very challenging time. One of the most powerful points in this passage is realizing that this is not just a royal procession of a King, but also a funeral procession. Jesus was signing His own death warrant taking Himself to the cross. Sit and rest in the great truths you will hear!

God seals his people to mark them as his and to protect through the travails of history. As a result, this new people – gathered from every nation – surround the throne in worship.

God seals his people to mark them as his and to protect through the travails of history. As a result, this new people – gathered from every nation – surround the throne in worship.

Like Christians in every time and place, we get a lot of messages (subtle and not so subtle) about what are ultimate commitments should be. The Apostle John weighs in on that challenging our assumptions about what's ultimate and what's not.

Like Christians in every time and place, we get a lot of messages (subtle and not so subtle) about what are ultimate commitments should be. The Apostle John weighs in on that challenging our assumptions about what's ultimate and what's not.

John sees a vision of the throne room with a Lamb standing as if slain. And he is the secret to how God overcomes the sin, evil, and brokenness of the world.

John sees a vision of the throne room with a Lamb standing as if slain. And he is the secret to how God overcomes the sin, evil, and brokenness of the world.

John is taken into the heavenly throne room and given a vision of God’s glory, majesty, holiness, sovereignty, and power.

John is taken into the heavenly throne room and given a vision of God’s glory, majesty, holiness, sovereignty, and power.

The church in Laodicea had become lukewarm and ineffective. Therefore Jesus tells them to come and buy from him what can truly satisfy them.

The church in Laodicea had become lukewarm and ineffective. Therefore Jesus tells them to come and buy from him what can truly satisfy them.

The small church in Philadelphia had been excluded from the larger Jewish community but Jesus reassures them that he will vindicate them, keep them, and make them a pillar in his temple.

The small church in Philadelphia had been excluded from the larger Jewish community but Jesus reassures them that he will vindicate them, keep them, and make them a pillar in his temple.

The church in Sardis has a reputation for being alive but, in reality, they are dead. So Jesus urges them to wake up and strengthen what remains. To encourage them, he promises that their names will never be blotted out from the book of life, he will clothe them in white garments, and he will acknowledge them before the Father in heaven.

The church in Sardis has a reputation for being alive but, in reality, they are dead. So Jesus urges them to wake up and strengthen what remains. To encourage them, he promises that their names will never be blotted out from the book of life, he will clothe them in white garments, and he will acknowledge them before the Father in heaven.

Many in the church in Thyatira were being seduced into the compromising practices of the trade guilds in the city for the sake of vocational and economic success. Jesus challenges the church to follow him without compromise and promises them something that is so much better—a share in the messianic kingdom.

Many in the church in Thyatira were being seduced into the compromising practices of the trade guilds in the city for the sake of vocational and economic success. Jesus challenges the church to follow him without compromise and promises them something that is so much better—a share in the messianic kingdom.

Does our sexuality matter to God? We learn from the church in Pergamum how influence can greatly impact how we understand sexuality.

Does our sexuality matter to God? We learn from the church in Pergamum how influence can greatly impact how we understand sexuality.

The church in Smyrna has suffered affliction and poverty for their faith and yet they have remained faithful. Knowing that the persecution will get worse, Jesus encourages them not to be afraid but continue to be faithful since they have the crown of life awaiting them.

The church in Smyrna has suffered affliction and poverty for their faith and yet they have remained faithful. Knowing that the persecution will get worse, Jesus encourages them not to be afraid but continue to be faithful since they have the crown of life awaiting them.

The church in Ephesus is busy and committed to truth but had fallen from the love they had at first. Therefore, Jesus tells them to remember, repent, and return, knowing that the tree of life awaits them.

The church in Ephesus is busy and committed to truth but had fallen from the love they had at first. Therefore, Jesus tells them to remember, repent, and return, knowing that the tree of life awaits them.

John has a vision of Christ in all his glory. But it is also a vision of grace for the church because Christ has died, has risen, and now holds the keys to Death and Hades.

John has a vision of Christ in all his glory. But it is also a vision of grace for the church because Christ has died, has risen, and now holds the keys to Death and Hades.

The church has received grace and peace from our Triune God and therefore we should respond in worship.

The church has received grace and peace from our Triune God and therefore we should respond in worship.

Jesus’ birth caused upheaval in Mary and Joseph’s lives. And Immanuel, God with us, can cause upheavals in our lives if we will allow Him.

Jesus’ birth caused upheaval in Mary and Joseph’s lives. And Immanuel, God with us, can cause upheavals in our lives if we will allow Him.

Isaiah promises those dwelling in deep darkness that a new day will dawn. This will happen through the birth of a royal son who will be a wonderful counselor, a mighty God, an everlasting father, and a prince of peace.

Isaiah promises those dwelling in deep darkness that a new day will dawn. This will happen through the birth of a royal son who will be a wonderful counselor, a mighty God, an everlasting father, and a prince of peace.

The prophet Isaiah speaks judgment upon a corrupt government official named Shebna and prophecies that a new steward will be appointed, one with integrity who will possess the key of the house of David. As one who can grant access into the presence of the king, he becomes an Advent picture of Jesus who can open the door to the kingdom of God.

The prophet Isaiah speaks judgment upon a corrupt government official named Shebna and prophecies that a new steward will be appointed, one with integrity who will possess the key of the house of David. As one who can grant access into the presence of the king, he becomes an Advent picture of Jesus who can open the door to the kingdom of God.

In a world of violence and discord, Isaiah foretells a day when a king from the line of David will come, establish justice and righteousness, and bring about a world of peace and harmony where wolves and lambs can lie down together.

In a world of violence and discord, Isaiah foretells a day when a king from the line of David will come, establish justice and righteousness, and bring about a world of peace and harmony where wolves and lambs can lie down together.

When Jonah becomes angry that God showed mercy to Nineveh, God uses an object lesson involving a plant to show Jonah just wide is mercy really is.

When Jonah becomes angry that God showed mercy to Nineveh, God uses an object lesson involving a plant to show Jonah just wide is mercy really is.

Jonah goes to Nineveh and announces that God will overturn the city. He, of course, means that as a warning of impending judgment but when Nineveh repents, God shows mercy to the city.

Jonah goes to Nineveh and announces that God will overturn the city. He, of course, means that as a warning of impending judgment but when Nineveh repents, God shows mercy to the city.

After being thrown overboard, Jonah sinks down to the bottom of the sea. But God sends a great fish to rescue him. In response, Jonah prays in thanksgiving to God. But has he really changed?

After being thrown overboard, Jonah sinks down to the bottom of the sea. But God sends a great fish to rescue him. In response, Jonah prays in thanksgiving to God. But has he really changed?

Even though Jonah is reluctant to go to Nineveh, God is relentless in his mission of mercy to the nations.

Even though Jonah is reluctant to go to Nineveh, God is relentless in his mission of mercy to the nations.

Ty Wyss and Aaron Munson from Walls Down Ministry shared about talking to our children regarding sexuality and gender.

Ty Wyss and Aaron Munson from Walls Down Ministry shared about talking to our children regarding sexuality and gender.

When God calls Jonah to go preach to Nineveh, Jonah runs in the opposite direction. Jonah’s response underscores just how radically different his heart is from God’s heart – God desires to bring the city to repentance and show his mercy but Jonah wants to leave it to its own destruction. The contrast presses the same challenge on us: what is our heart for the city like?

When God calls Jonah to go preach to Nineveh, Jonah runs in the opposite direction. Jonah’s response underscores just how radically different his heart is from God’s heart – God desires to bring the city to repentance and show his mercy but Jonah wants to leave it to its own destruction. The contrast presses the same challenge on us: what is our heart for the city like?

The issues of race and justice are complex and point us to the need for God’s new creation where righteousness dwells. In the meantime, the gospel story shapes us to be people of humility, courage, love, and hope.

The issues of race and justice are complex and point us to the need for God’s new creation where righteousness dwells. In the meantime, the gospel story shapes us to be people of humility, courage, love, and hope.

God is forming local churches as missional communities—communities of sent ones. Peter, as he closes this letter, gives us insight into what kinds of communities best serve his mission purposes.

God is forming local churches as missional communities—communities of sent ones. Peter, as he closes this letter, gives us insight into what kinds of communities best serve his mission purposes.

Following Jesus will bring suffering. What do we need to know and think about to suffer well for the Kingdom?

Following Jesus will bring suffering. What do we need to know and think about to suffer well for the Kingdom?

Because God’s new world has drawn near through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we are called to be a hospitable community that loves one another, welcomes one another, and serves one another.

Because God’s new world has drawn near through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we are called to be a hospitable community that loves one another, welcomes one another, and serves one another.

God is forming us into a morally transformed - and therefore countercultural - community.

God is forming us into a morally transformed - and therefore countercultural - community.

In the face of hostility, the church is to be a community that does not fear, that trusts the Lord, and gives voice to the hope that they have. They can do this because Jesus himself has already defeated all evil and hostile forces and thus assured their victory and vindication as well.

In the face of hostility, the church is to be a community that does not fear, that trusts the Lord, and gives voice to the hope that they have. They can do this because Jesus himself has already defeated all evil and hostile forces and thus assured their victory and vindication as well.

Peter encourages the church living in exile to respond to mistreatment as Jesus did—instead of repaying evil for evil or reviling for reviling, we should bless those who mistreat us.

Peter encourages the church living in exile to respond to mistreatment as Jesus did—instead of repaying evil for evil or reviling for reviling, we should bless those who mistreat us.

Based on the pattern of the cross, Peter encourages the church to lay aside their power and submit to others with respect and honor.

Based on the pattern of the cross, Peter encourages the church to lay aside their power and submit to others with respect and honor.

As we taste and see that the Lord is good, our desires get overhauled and renovated and God builds us up together, like living stones, into a spiritual house of worship.

As we taste and see that the Lord is good, our desires get overhauled and renovated and God builds us up together, like living stones, into a spiritual house of worship.

What does it mean to live as a Holy people in exile? What does it mean to be a Holy people? Peter is writing the church to help them understand what it means to be a set-apart community who is living out the mission of God. In a age of hyper individualism, Peter shows us a new way in our new birth.

What does it mean to live as a Holy people in exile? What does it mean to be a Holy people? Peter is writing the church to help them understand what it means to be a set-apart community who is living out the mission of God. In a age of hyper individualism, Peter shows us a new way in our new birth.

God is creating a community that lives in light of its future hope—an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. This living hope gives us a new perspective and a unique resiliency in the face of trials and difficulties.

God is creating a community that lives in light of its future hope—an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. This living hope gives us a new perspective and a unique resiliency in the face of trials and difficulties.

Peter wants the interconnected Christian community throughout Asia Minor to know that even though they may be exiles in this world, they are also the elect of God.

Peter wants the interconnected Christian community throughout Asia Minor to know that even though they may be exiles in this world, they are also the elect of God.

After the final vision, which culminates in the promise of rest and resurrection, Daniel is encouraged to wait patiently for that day to come.

After the final vision, which culminates in the promise of rest and resurrection, Daniel is encouraged to wait patiently for that day to come.

Through a cryptic unfolding of history, God is revealed to be the sovereign interpreter, guider, and victor of history.

Through a cryptic unfolding of history, God is revealed to be the sovereign interpreter, guider, and victor of history.

Part 11 in the series on “Living in Exile"

Part 11 in the series on “Living in Exile"

Daniel prays a prayer of repentance for and on behalf of the people, to which the angel Gabriel responds by telling Daniel that the exile will be extended sevenfold but eventually God will show mercy.

Daniel prays a prayer of repentance for and on behalf of the people, to which the angel Gabriel responds by telling Daniel that the exile will be extended sevenfold but eventually God will show mercy.

Daniel sees a vision of a ram and a goat, representing the Media-Persian and Greek empires, culminating in the desecration of the Jerusalem temple. But God reassures Daniel that though it will be a long time before the temple is restored, it won’t be forever because God will act.

Daniel sees a vision of a ram and a goat, representing the Media-Persian and Greek empires, culminating in the desecration of the Jerusalem temple. But God reassures Daniel that though it will be a long time before the temple is restored, it won’t be forever because God will act.

It may appear that those doing evil are getting the upper hand and they seem to be winning, but even now, unbeknownst to them, a divine courtroom is being convened with an awesome, mighty, and terrifying judge taking His seat at the bench. They will be judged. Bottom line: GOD WINS!! and because He wins...WE WIN!!

It may appear that those doing evil are getting the upper hand and they seem to be winning, but even now, unbeknownst to them, a divine courtroom is being convened with an awesome, mighty, and terrifying judge taking His seat at the bench. They will be judged. Bottom line: GOD WINS!! and because He wins...WE WIN!!

Though liked by King Darius, Daniel is targeted by other administrators who want to bring him down and get him thrown into a den of lions. However, God demonstrates his power by shutting the mouths of the lions and delivering Daniel.

Though liked by King Darius, Daniel is targeted by other administrators who want to bring him down and get him thrown into a den of lions. However, God demonstrates his power by shutting the mouths of the lions and delivering Daniel.

After Belshazzar defiles the temple vessels, God announces his impending judgment upon Balshazzar and his kingdom.

After Belshazzar defiles the temple vessels, God announces his impending judgment upon Balshazzar and his kingdom.

Nebuchadnezzar has a dream in which he sees a tall tree at the center of the world, symboling his own sense of greatness in what he has accomplished. However, in the dream, the tree is chopped down, symboling that he will be humbled until he lifts up his eyes to heaven and recognizes that God is the true King.

Nebuchadnezzar has a dream in which he sees a tall tree at the center of the world, symboling his own sense of greatness in what he has accomplished. However, in the dream, the tree is chopped down, symboling that he will be humbled until he lifts up his eyes to heaven and recognizes that God is the true King.

When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol, they are thrown into a fiery furnace. However, God joins them in the flames and protects them.

When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol, they are thrown into a fiery furnace. However, God joins them in the flames and protects them.

All human kingdoms and empires are intrinsically insecure but the kingdom of God is everlasting and indestructible.

All human kingdoms and empires are intrinsically insecure but the kingdom of God is everlasting and indestructible.

Daniel chooses not to eat the king’s food or drink the king’s wine in order to maintain his identity and God graciously gives him what he needs.

Daniel chooses not to eat the king’s food or drink the king’s wine in order to maintain his identity and God graciously gives him what he needs.

As exiles, we need a particular perspective and a particular posture—namely, we should have the perspective that we are where we are because God has sovereignly placed us here and we should have a countercultural posture that is both fully engaged with the larger culture and utterly distinct from it.

As exiles, we need a particular perspective and a particular posture—namely, we should have the perspective that we are where we are because God has sovereignly placed us here and we should have a countercultural posture that is both fully engaged with the larger culture and utterly distinct from it.

Though Paul is well aware that God is sovereign in all of life, Paul continues to pray asking God to give the Ephesians the Spirit of Wisdom and revelation. Paul also prayed that the eyes of the Ephesians’ hearts would be opened.

Though Paul is well aware that God is sovereign in all of life, Paul continues to pray asking God to give the Ephesians the Spirit of Wisdom and revelation. Paul also prayed that the eyes of the Ephesians’ hearts would be opened.

The resurrection of Jesus radically changes everything we thought we knew about the world, bringing light, glory, and hope into a world characterized by darkness, emptiness, and shame.

The resurrection of Jesus radically changes everything we thought we knew about the world, bringing light, glory, and hope into a world characterized by darkness, emptiness, and shame.

On the night before his crucifixion Jesus shows the disciples the full extent of his love by humbling washing their feet, which is a foreshadowing of his humbly laying down his life on the cross. This is the true definition of love and it is the kind of love that we are then called to express to one another.

On the night before his crucifixion Jesus shows the disciples the full extent of his love by humbling washing their feet, which is a foreshadowing of his humbly laying down his life on the cross. This is the true definition of love and it is the kind of love that we are then called to express to one another.

Jesus rides into Jerusalem as a king, but one which is gentle and humble. In doing so, he reveals that in his kingdom power gets unleashed through gentleness and humility.

Jesus rides into Jerusalem as a king, but one which is gentle and humble. In doing so, he reveals that in his kingdom power gets unleashed through gentleness and humility.

Christ, though he was rich, became poor so that in him we might become spiritually rich. This is the key dynamic of grace that changes our hearts and makes us generous.

Christ, though he was rich, became poor so that in him we might become spiritually rich. This is the key dynamic of grace that changes our hearts and makes us generous.

As we follow Jesus, we are experiencing the death of Christ at work in us as we sacrifice and encounter affliction. But we also experience the life of Christ being revealed in us as well.

As we follow Jesus, we are experiencing the death of Christ at work in us as we sacrifice and encounter affliction. But we also experience the life of Christ being revealed in us as well.

We struggle to make sense of suffering but the cross gives us a new lens through which to view our suffering because it sets it in a larger story that moves from suffering to glory.

We struggle to make sense of suffering but the cross gives us a new lens through which to view our suffering because it sets it in a larger story that moves from suffering to glory.

What does it look like to live skillfully? That is the question of wisdom, but to what end are we seeking to live skillfully? Is it skillful living shaped by the cross?

What does it look like to live skillfully? That is the question of wisdom, but to what end are we seeking to live skillfully? Is it skillful living shaped by the cross?

We tend to think of faith as simply assent to a set of Biblical doctrines. The apostle Paul reminds, however, us that faith in the crucified Jesus is a challenging and costly path with some surprising outcomes.

We tend to think of faith as simply assent to a set of Biblical doctrines. The apostle Paul reminds, however, us that faith in the crucified Jesus is a challenging and costly path with some surprising outcomes.

Before Abraham dies, he must secure a wife for his son Isaac so that the line of promise can continue. All along the way, God’s providence is evident.

Before Abraham dies, he must secure a wife for his son Isaac so that the line of promise can continue. All along the way, God’s providence is evident.

When Sarah dies, Abraham must purchase a place to bury her within the promised land. Doing so is an act of faith that God will indeed eventually fulfill his promise and give his descendants the land.

When Sarah dies, Abraham must purchase a place to bury her within the promised land. Doing so is an act of faith that God will indeed eventually fulfill his promise and give his descendants the land.

God tests Abraham by telling him to sacrifice his son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. Abraham obeys and God provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac, revealing to Abraham that he can be trusted because he is ‘The Lord Who Provides.'

God tests Abraham by telling him to sacrifice his son, Isaac, as a burnt offering. Abraham obeys and God provides a ram as a substitute for Isaac, revealing to Abraham that he can be trusted because he is ‘The Lord Who Provides.'

With the birth of Isaac, God fulfilled his promise made long ago to Abraham and Sarah. In response, Sarah is filled with the laughter of joy.

With the birth of Isaac, God fulfilled his promise made long ago to Abraham and Sarah. In response, Sarah is filled with the laughter of joy.

Though Lot has compromised and is now part of the city of Sodom, God rescues him because of his mercy and the angels direct Lot and his family not to look back once they leave.

Though Lot has compromised and is now part of the city of Sodom, God rescues him because of his mercy and the angels direct Lot and his family not to look back once they leave.

Part 11 in the series on “The Promises of God and the Journey of Faith”When God tells Abraham that he intends to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah in judgment, Abraham intercedes for the city, asking the Lord to spare the unrighteous many for the sake of the righteous few.

Part 11 in the series on “The Promises of God and the Journey of Faith”When God tells Abraham that he intends to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah in judgment, Abraham intercedes for the city, asking the Lord to spare the unrighteous many for the sake of the righteous few.

Abraham is visited by three mysterious travelers who reassure him that the promise will come true within the year. When Sarah laughs, they challenge her with the question, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?”

Abraham is visited by three mysterious travelers who reassure him that the promise will come true within the year. When Sarah laughs, they challenge her with the question, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?”

God gives Abraham a sign of the covenant that pictures what God graciously does in the covenant, marks a new beginning, and calls him to a life of consecration.

God gives Abraham a sign of the covenant that pictures what God graciously does in the covenant, marks a new beginning, and calls him to a life of consecration.

In his covenant, God not only promises Abraham descendants and land, but commits to being his God and the God of his children.

In his covenant, God not only promises Abraham descendants and land, but commits to being his God and the God of his children.

As our merciful and faithful high priest, Jesus sympathizes with our weaknesses and comes to our aid in times of suffering and temptation.

As our merciful and faithful high priest, Jesus sympathizes with our weaknesses and comes to our aid in times of suffering and temptation.

As our old brother, who is not ashamed of us, Jesus came and shared in our humanity so that he could deliver us from the enslaving power of an evil tyrant and bring us to glory.

As our old brother, who is not ashamed of us, Jesus came and shared in our humanity so that he could deliver us from the enslaving power of an evil tyrant and bring us to glory.

God’s history of revelation came to its climactic and definitive event in the incarnation of Christ.

God’s history of revelation came to its climactic and definitive event in the incarnation of Christ.

Having grown tired of waiting on God to fulfill his promise, Sarai decides to take matters into her own hand, leading to disaster. But God reveals himself as the Living One who sees, hears, and comes near to us in grace.

Having grown tired of waiting on God to fulfill his promise, Sarai decides to take matters into her own hand, leading to disaster. But God reveals himself as the Living One who sees, hears, and comes near to us in grace.

Because of the tension between what God has promised and what Abram is experiencing, Abram begins to doubt. However, God reassures him through a surprising covenant.

Because of the tension between what God has promised and what Abram is experiencing, Abram begins to doubt. However, God reassures him through a surprising covenant.

Once again, the promise is threatened, this time when Abram’s nephew Lot is captured and carried off by invading kings from the east. However, Abram, at great personal risk, defeats the kings and rescues Lot.

Once again, the promise is threatened, this time when Abram’s nephew Lot is captured and carried off by invading kings from the east. However, Abram, at great personal risk, defeats the kings and rescues Lot.

Lot lifts up his eyes and sees a fertile plain where he thinks he can prosper. However, the Lord lifts up Abram’s eyes and shows him an even greater inheritance—a land that, though dry and dusty, will become for him the place of blessing.

Lot lifts up his eyes and sees a fertile plain where he thinks he can prosper. However, the Lord lifts up Abram’s eyes and shows him an even greater inheritance—a land that, though dry and dusty, will become for him the place of blessing.

In his desperation and fear, Abram tries to deceive the Egyptians. However, his plan backfires and his wife ends up in Pharaoh’s palace. Nevertheless, God in his grace intervenes in the situation to rescue Sarai, bless Abram, and set them back on track to the land of promise.

In his desperation and fear, Abram tries to deceive the Egyptians. However, his plan backfires and his wife ends up in Pharaoh’s palace. Nevertheless, God in his grace intervenes in the situation to rescue Sarai, bless Abram, and set them back on track to the land of promise.

The call of Abram reveals how unilaterally gracious God’s call is. And though it is deeply challenging, it also holds out stunning promises.

The call of Abram reveals how unilaterally gracious God’s call is. And though it is deeply challenging, it also holds out stunning promises.

There are 3 key truths for us, as a Knox family, as we enter into a new chapter and begin a new journey: The first key truth is follow/observe every command and believe in His promises. God is never late, just learn to wait; that time of waiting is never wasted. Second key truth is remember/don’t forget all the things the Lord has done in the past and His faithfulness to us. If we don’t nurture our remembering of God’s provision, we slip into the delusion that we are the ones who provide for ourselves. And the final key truth is be strong and courageous. We are able to do that because the Lord our God is with us wherever we go!!As we enter this new chapter and embark on this new journey, the goal is not completing a task or the journey but it is experiencing God’s glory, His perfect plans and His friendship—experiencing Him! Let us embrace the obstacles, instead of complaining about them. That will enable us to hear from God and to receive the blessings, truths and insights He has for us.

There are 3 key truths for us, as a Knox family, as we enter into a new chapter and begin a new journey: The first key truth is follow/observe every command and believe in His promises. God is never late, just learn to wait; that time of waiting is never wasted. Second key truth is remember/don’t forget all the things the Lord has done in the past and His faithfulness to us. If we don’t nurture our remembering of God’s provision, we slip into the delusion that we are the ones who provide for ourselves. And the final key truth is be strong and courageous. We are able to do that because the Lord our God is with us wherever we go!!As we enter this new chapter and embark on this new journey, the goal is not completing a task or the journey but it is experiencing God’s glory, His perfect plans and His friendship—experiencing Him! Let us embrace the obstacles, instead of complaining about them. That will enable us to hear from God and to receive the blessings, truths and insights He has for us.

Let's explore how we might move forward through life's many transitions with success as God defines it.

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Let's explore how we might move forward through life's many transitions with success as God defines it.

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

Service of Installation for Bryan Gregory

It is our job to share and the Holy Spirit's job to change the heart.

It is our job to share and the Holy Spirit's job to change the heart.

In Peter’s confession that Jesus was the Christ and rebuke at Jesus’ word of the cross, we learn that sharing in the life of Jesus means following Jesus in the way of his death – there is no crown without cross.

In Peter’s confession that Jesus was the Christ and rebuke at Jesus’ word of the cross, we learn that sharing in the life of Jesus means following Jesus in the way of his death – there is no crown without cross.

When you decided to become a follower of Jesus, he made you part of his church. You're now friends with all of Jesus' other friends. We like to think that's an optional part of following Jesus. But what if being part of the church is central to being "in Christ"? It might be harder than you think and better than you can ever imagine.

When you decided to become a follower of Jesus, he made you part of his church. You're now friends with all of Jesus' other friends. We like to think that's an optional part of following Jesus. But what if being part of the church is central to being "in Christ"? It might be harder than you think and better than you can ever imagine.

In the healing of the woman who touched his garment and the raising of Jairus’ daughter from the dead, we meet Jesus as the one who makes unclean things clean and commends humble faith above presumptuous faith.

In the healing of the woman who touched his garment and the raising of Jairus’ daughter from the dead, we meet Jesus as the one who makes unclean things clean and commends humble faith above presumptuous faith.

Few things make us feel more weak and vulnerable that the issue of sin. Sure, we balk at churchy notions of sin. But deep down, we know...we know we're broken, we know we've hurt and been hurt, we know our secrets we can't tell, the mistakes we've made, the dreams that have fallen to the ground. Can anyone fix us? In the end, can we really be forgiven?

Few things make us feel more weak and vulnerable that the issue of sin. Sure, we balk at churchy notions of sin. But deep down, we know...we know we're broken, we know we've hurt and been hurt, we know our secrets we can't tell, the mistakes we've made, the dreams that have fallen to the ground. Can anyone fix us? In the end, can we really be forgiven?

As we consider prayer again, what is at its heart? Too often we think it's about our performance—our energy,our effort. What if prayer is really about our need and God's goodness? We do not pray because we are strong, we pray because we are weak.

As we consider prayer again, what is at its heart? Too often we think it's about our performance—our energy,our effort. What if prayer is really about our need and God's goodness? We do not pray because we are strong, we pray because we are weak.

In the calming of the sea the disciples meet Jesus as Lord of creation and redeemer of his people. Because Jesus Christ is both creator and redeemer, he is a worthy object of faith.

In the calming of the sea the disciples meet Jesus as Lord of creation and redeemer of his people. Because Jesus Christ is both creator and redeemer, he is a worthy object of faith.

Find out why no matter how hard his circumstances were the Apostle Paul did not lose heart. And no matter what your circumstances are, you do not need to lose heart.

Find out why no matter how hard his circumstances were the Apostle Paul did not lose heart. And no matter what your circumstances are, you do not need to lose heart.

How are you spreading the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ through forgiveness and obedience to those who are being saved and those who are perishing?

How are you spreading the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ through forgiveness and obedience to those who are being saved and those who are perishing?

Are we different than the world we live in; or are we trying pretty hard to simply fit in with our neighbors, friends and colleagues?

Are we different than the world we live in; or are we trying pretty hard to simply fit in with our neighbors, friends and colleagues?

In times of suffering and in all of life, what unshakable thing can you find hope in?

In times of suffering and in all of life, what unshakable thing can you find hope in?

Some hopes we keep inside, some we expose. Some depend on us, some on the efforts and success of others. Is there a hope we can count on, one that will never put us to shame? The apostle Paul says, “Yes."

Some hopes we keep inside, some we expose. Some depend on us, some on the efforts and success of others. Is there a hope we can count on, one that will never put us to shame? The apostle Paul says, “Yes."

We try to keep up with the latest fashions so we're appropriately clothed for...success? To be cool? To he hip? To be seen? But what if the best fashion trend is the least cool and the most ancient, to be clothed with Heaven?

We try to keep up with the latest fashions so we're appropriately clothed for...success? To be cool? To he hip? To be seen? But what if the best fashion trend is the least cool and the most ancient, to be clothed with Heaven?

Prayer so often feels dull and burdensome. No wonder we let everything else crowd it out. But what if prayer is a gift that brings joy?

Prayer so often feels dull and burdensome. No wonder we let everything else crowd it out. But what if prayer is a gift that brings joy?

Do you think you know what is best? Do you? What if we focused less on performance and more on depend on Jesus?

Do you think you know what is best? Do you? What if we focused less on performance and more on depend on Jesus?

An ancient Christian once said that the human problem is that we've thrown away our birthright of beauty? What does it mean then to be spiritually ugly? More important, what does it mean to be spiritually beautiful?

An ancient Christian once said that the human problem is that we've thrown away our birthright of beauty? What does it mean then to be spiritually ugly? More important, what does it mean to be spiritually beautiful?

The prophet Zechariah echoes Jesus' words, "In order to find your life, you have to lose it." What on earth could either Jesus or Zechariah mean by such crazy advice?

The prophet Zechariah echoes Jesus' words, "In order to find your life, you have to lose it." What on earth could either Jesus or Zechariah mean by such crazy advice?

In our day, religion is a bad thing. "I'm not religious but I am spiritual" is a common way for us to talk about ourselves. The prophet Zechariah acknowledges religion can go bad. But what does it mean for religion to go good?

In our day, religion is a bad thing. "I'm not religious but I am spiritual" is a common way for us to talk about ourselves. The prophet Zechariah acknowledges religion can go bad. But what does it mean for religion to go good?

Listen to how God is loving and providing for those in need in Burundi.If you would like to contribute in a tangible way to Kibuye Hope Hospital, please use this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4ca8aa28a31-kibuye.Thank you for your interest in partnering with the McCropders as they bring hope and healing to the people of Burundi. Please have all items delivered to Knox Presbyterian Church by June 15, 2065 S Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, where they will be stored until the next shipping container heads to Burundi.If you would like to give monetarily, please visit www.serge.org/give and look under "Give to Projects" for a variety of different projects happening at Kibuye right now.Thank you for supporting the work God is doing in Burundi!

What makes you feel that you're all right with God, with your neighbors, even yourself? If it isn't God (and guess what, it probably isn't), that's bad news.

What makes you feel that you're all right with God, with your neighbors, even yourself? If it isn't God (and guess what, it probably isn't), that's bad news.

Listen to how God is loving and providing for those in need in Burundi.If you would like to contribute in a tangible way to Kibuye Hope Hospital, please use this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4ca8aa28a31-kibuye.Thank you for your interest in partnering with the McCropders as they bring hope and healing to the people of Burundi. Please have all items delivered to Knox Presbyterian Church by June 15, 2065 S Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, where they will be stored until the next shipping container heads to Burundi.If you would like to give monetarily, please visit www.serge.org/give and look under "Give to Projects" for a variety of different projects happening at Kibuye right now.Thank you for supporting the work God is doing in Burundi!

Not the A, B, C's but the D, E, F's of God fulfilling His vision; God chooses to use:1. Diligent Obedience, v. 152. Earthly Valuables, vs. 10 & 113. Formerly Filthy High Priest, vs. 11-14

When Christ said, “my kingdom is not of this world,” he was asserting an idea that no other ancient faith claimed. Christ apparently made a distinction between his heavenly or spiritual kingdom and the civil affairs of Rome or Jerusalem. The idea of secular politics, consequently, is a distinctly Christian one. Without Christianity’s distinction between the secular and the sacred, the civil and the ecclesiastical, the temporal and the eternal, the West would not know what “secular” means.This talk explores the theological basis for Christ’s teaching about his kingdom, why western Christians have objected to secularity, and how contemporary believers might recover a Christian sense of the secular.

When Christ said, “my kingdom is not of this world,” he was asserting an idea that no other ancient faith claimed. Christ apparently made a distinction between his heavenly or spiritual kingdom and the civil affairs of Rome or Jerusalem. The idea of secular politics, consequently, is a distinctly Christian one. Without Christianity’s distinction between the secular and the sacred, the civil and the ecclesiastical, the temporal and the eternal, the West would not know what “secular” means.This talk explores the theological basis for Christ’s teaching about his kingdom, why western Christians have objected to secularity, and how contemporary believers might recover a Christian sense of the secular.

Not the A, B, C's but the D, E, F's of God fulfilling His vision; God chooses to use:1. Diligent Obedience, v. 152. Earthly Valuables, vs. 10 & 113. Formerly Filthy High Priest, vs. 11-14

Every day, someone in the media calls America the “city on a hill.” The metaphor comes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, of course, but that hasn’t stopped historians, politicians, journalists, and even preachers from applying it to America. When John Winthrop used Jesus’ words to inspire (and caution) his Puritan community in 1630, he had no idea how his words would be used and transformed in the centuries ahead. At the moment, the “city on a hill” is used by both major political parties to wage war in the immigration debate, but the metaphor has a much longer and more complicated history. The story of the city on a hill presents Christians with the opportunity to see what happens when Scripture is appropriated by politics and to reflect on how they as believers might need to guard metaphors that have been entrusted to the Church.

What do you find your worth in? What if our worth did not come from us “making it happen” but what if it came from knowing that we were forgiven?

What do you find your worth in? What if our worth did not come from us “making it happen” but what if it came from knowing that we were forgiven?

Every day, someone in the media calls America the “city on a hill.” The metaphor comes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, of course, but that hasn’t stopped historians, politicians, journalists, and even preachers from applying it to America. When John Winthrop used Jesus’ words to inspire (and caution) his Puritan community in 1630, he had no idea how his words would be used and transformed in the centuries ahead. At the moment, the “city on a hill” is used by both major political parties to wage war in the immigration debate, but the metaphor has a much longer and more complicated history. The story of the city on a hill presents Christians with the opportunity to see what happens when Scripture is appropriated by politics and to reflect on how they as believers might need to guard metaphors that have been entrusted to the Church.

God has addressed the question of sin and evil among his people. But the question remains as to what God will do in response to sin and evil in the world.

This talk will introduce the concept of “culture war” and briefly describe the religious, intellectual, and political climate of the early twentieth century prior to the Scopes Trial of 1925. This will set the stage for consideration of the fervent cultural conflict that came to be called the Fundamentalist-Modernist controversy, of which the Scopes Trial was a principal early episode. Having outlined the immediate context of the trial, introduce the chief actors in the drama, and summarize the trial and its outcome, the talk will conclude with a review of the ways the story of the trial has been told and the lessons that should, and should not, be taken by those who wish to understand this early stage of America’s twentieth-century culture wars.

This talk will introduce the concept of “culture war” and briefly describe the religious, intellectual, and political climate of the early twentieth century prior to the Scopes Trial of 1925. This will set the stage for consideration of the fervent cultural conflict that came to be called the Fundamentalist-Modernist controversy, of which the Scopes Trial was a principal early episode. Having outlined the immediate context of the trial, introduce the chief actors in the drama, and summarize the trial and its outcome, the talk will conclude with a review of the ways the story of the trial has been told and the lessons that should, and should not, be taken by those who wish to understand this early stage of America’s twentieth-century culture wars.

God has addressed the question of sin and evil among his people. But the question remains as to what God will do in response to sin and evil in the world.

What does Zechariah’s message have to say about God and the question of sin and evil, particularly among God’s people?

Like the Reformed, Lutherans are attempting to retrieve their earlier heritage of natural law teaching, and to situate it in their related theology of the two kingdoms. What does the distinction between Law and Grace mean for the relation of church and state? This presentation will briefly survey the traditional Lutheran thinking about natural law, the two kingdoms, and the particular relevance of both for our contemporary political context.

Like the Reformed, Lutherans are attempting to retrieve their earlier heritage of natural law teaching, and to situate it in their related theology of the two kingdoms. What does the distinction between Law and Grace mean for the relation of church and state? This presentation will briefly survey the traditional Lutheran thinking about natural law, the two kingdoms, and the particular relevance of both for our contemporary political context.

What does Zechariah’s message have to say about God and the question of sin and evil, particularly among God’s people?

Nothing embodies the Christian faith more accurately than the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. So the question is: “Are you a Paul…who knows this resurrected Jesus and has let your life be changed by Him OR are you a Felix who knows about this Jesus but is waiting for a more convenient time?” Listen in as both a “Paul” person and a “Felix” person are each given a challenge. Which one are you and what will your response be??!!

Nothing embodies the Christian faith more accurately than the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. So the question is: “Are you a Paul…who knows this resurrected Jesus and has let your life be changed by Him OR are you a Felix who knows about this Jesus but is waiting for a more convenient time?” Listen in as both a “Paul” person and a “Felix” person are each given a challenge. Which one are you and what will your response be??!!

Too often we think of the person who makes a difference as a person who does “big” things. But our text today reminds us that the building blocks of God’s kingdom, more often than not, our the small acts of obedience and faithfulness we offer to him as we do them for others.

Too often we think of the person who makes a difference as a person who does “big” things. But our text today reminds us that the building blocks of God’s kingdom, more often than not, our the small acts of obedience and faithfulness we offer to him as we do them for others.

One of our most besetting problems is the problem of the guilty conscience. We feel accused. We feel condemned. The good news of Jesus says, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

One of our most besetting problems is the problem of the guilty conscience. We feel accused. We feel condemned. The good news of Jesus says, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

How do we find God? We meet him where he has promised to reveal himself. But that’s where the controversy begins. The Scripture insists that he has promised to reveal Himself in Jesus.

How do we find God? We meet him where he has promised to reveal himself. But that’s where the controversy begins. The Scripture insists that he has promised to reveal Himself in Jesus.

Challenging circumstances can lead to limited plans and small expectations. Zechariah asks what it means to know that God is with us and that He works through us in those circumstance.

Challenging circumstances can lead to limited plans and small expectations. Zechariah asks what it means to know that God is with us and that He works through us in those circumstance.

If reality is simply the random movement of atoms, why care for the world we live in? Why not exploit it for our purposes and our pleasure? But if the world we live in belongs to God, it's not ours to exploit. It's given to us as a gift to enjoy and care for and steward for God's glory.

If reality is simply the random movement of atoms, why care for the world we live in? Why not exploit it for our purposes and our pleasure? But if the world we live in belongs to God, it's not ours to exploit. It's given to us as a gift to enjoy and care for and steward for God's glory.

God will keep his promise to protect his people from destruction. But how will he do it? Zechariah says, "Craftsmen." What on earth could he mean?

God will keep his promise to protect his people from destruction. But how will he do it? Zechariah says, "Craftsmen." What on earth could he mean?

It's hard to live in a world where there is so much evil and suffering without crying out, "How long, O Lord, how long?" It's been a long time since Zechariah's contemporaries cried out this way to God. We've been doing it for 2,000 years as followers of Jesus. Is God asleep at the switch or is the answer better than we imagined.

It's hard to live in a world where there is so much evil and suffering without crying out, "How long, O Lord, how long?" It's been a long time since Zechariah's contemporaries cried out this way to God. We've been doing it for 2,000 years as followers of Jesus. Is God asleep at the switch or is the answer better than we imagined.

A new year means at least one thing—new year's resolutions. A couple problems with that. We didn't keep last year's (or worse, maybe not the several years of resolutions before last year's either). So, what makes us think we'll keep this year's? Maybe what we need to hear is God's plan for renewal in this new year.

A new year means at least one thing—new year's resolutions. A couple problems with that. We didn't keep last year's (or worse, maybe not the several years of resolutions before last year's either). So, what makes us think we'll keep this year's? Maybe what we need to hear is God's plan for renewal in this new year.

What does it mean to live in a secular culture? What does it mean to believe in a secular culture? It means a lot of things, but one is the difficulty of belief. Each of us has to believe in the face of so many competing claims to truth. How do we do that?

What does it mean to live in a secular culture? What does it mean to believe in a secular culture? It means a lot of things, but one is the difficulty of belief. Each of us has to believe in the face of so many competing claims to truth. How do we do that?