When God Gives You More Than You Can Bear by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will examine the beginning of the book of James and the assurance of trials in our lives. We often quote the phrase, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” Is that true, though? Does God give us more than we can handle in our own human capacity? James seems to indicate there might be a deeper truth that we will discover this weekend.
The Case for the New Testament: Power of the Word by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we will move from talking about what Scripture is to what Scripture does in our lives. The Bible is the only book that, as you read it, changes you. However, neglecting the study of God’s Word and surrounding yourself with people who do the same is a recipe for disaster. I believe this message will help guard us from the lies of the world and help us to build our lives upon the truth of the Bible.
The Case for the New Testament: Nature of the Word by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, as we begin our new series, we will take time examining the nature of the New Testament. These 27 books were written by different people across different places, but all cohesively tell the story of Jesus’ life, the birth of the early church, and the spread of Christianity. In studying the New Testament, we will learn that not only is the Bible true in everything it says, but it also gives the help we need to lead godly lives.
When You’re Waiting for an Apology by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, as we continue to walk through the book of Job, we encounter Job justifying himself before his friends. The Bible goes to great lengths to remind us that Job remained righteous before the Lord. That does not mean he completely understood and followed God’s plan blindly through his suffering. At times, he was waiting for an explanation, justification, or even an apology.
End Times Prophecy | Does God Elect?
As you know, we are in our series on end-times prophecy, looking specifically at how God’s plans for Israel are still intact. In this weekend’s message, we turn our attention to the doctrine of election. This divisive doctrine has caused much contention through the ages. But what does the Bible actually teach about election? Does God choose in advance who will be saved? We’ll find out together!
Banquet by Abidan Shah, PhD
Sharing a meal together was not a novel concept in the ancient world. In fact, the Romans were known for their lavish banquets. While there are some similarities, the Lord’s Supper is unique among banquets and feasts. There is a much deeper meaning beyond just eating at the same time and in the same place.
End-Times Prophecy: Spirit Minded (Part 2) by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will continue our study of the Holy Spirit. Paul writes in Romans that the Holy Spirit serves as our intercessor, going before God the Father on our behalf. Understanding the work of the Holy Spirit is vital to our growth and maturity as believers. Being spirit-minded is how we take our eyes off this world and focus them on Christ.
End-Times Prophecy: Act One – Verdict by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will see in the book of Romans how God’s judgment is coming for all mankind. The judgment of God is not something we discuss often, but it is a necessary part of his nature. Seeing the judicial language in Romans points ahead to God’s coming judgment in the book of Revelation. When we operate with the judgment of God in mind, it gives a sense of urgency in sharing the gospel with those around us!
End-Times Prophecy: Mapping History (pt. 3) by Abidan Shah, PhD
In this weekend’s message, we will continue to trace God’s providential plan throughout history. God worked of course with his people throughout the Bible, but his hand can be seen in the rise and fall of many different nations, civilizations, and kingdoms. While history has had many different eras, God’s hand has consistently been guiding this world through time. Today is no different and as we head toward the future, it is critical that we see the end in light of his sovereign plan.
End-Times Prophecy: Mapping History (pt.2) by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will continue to examine God’s design throughout history. In his letter to the Romans, Paul is holding up the Roman believers as an example to others. His letter is unique in that he does not seem to be addressing a particular situation or controversy but rather provides a guide of core beliefs for all Christians. In doing so, he offers a guide for us today on how the church should function and believe.
End-Times Prophecy: Mapping History by Abidan Shah PhD
As we head back into our series this weekend, I want to focus on tracing God’s plan throughout history. Since time began, God has been writing the story of creation. While things might seem out of control at times, the Bible reminds us that God has always been and will always be in control. End-times prophecy reminds us especially of God’s sovereignty and his providence both in our lives and throughout all of history.
Life Together by Abidan Shah, PhD
In this weekend’s message, we will be examining the concept of biblical community. This is coming from God’s Word, but also from the desires we have heard from many of you. The Christian life was never intended to be lived in isolation but among a family of brothers and sisters. This weekend’s message will chart a course for us moving forward and will reorient us to the concept of living life alongside one another. The title of this weekend’s message is “LIFE TOGETHER”.
The Sobbin’ Women by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we come to the end of our series. We learned last weekend about the Benjamites standing in opposition to the rest of God’s people. As a result, the people of God took an oath not to give the Benjamites their daughters in marriage. They propose a solution, albeit an unsavory one. This is a reminder that women are held in high regard by Scripture and everywhere the gospel has gone, the status of women has been elevated. With this being the week of Christmas, it also draws our attention to Mary and how she was being treated unjustly. The title of this weekend’s message is “THE SOBBIN’ WOMEN”.
Truce by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we are continuing our study through the life of Samson. Samson made what appeared on the surface to be questionable choices. However, when we understand the culture of that day and the circumstances in the book of Judges, Samson’s choices not only make sense but he is presented as the hero he was always intended to be. This even affects how we view communion. The title of this weekend’s message is “TRUCE”.
Imposter by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we learn about Gideon’s successor, Abimelech. He played the part of a leader of God’s people, but he was a power-hungry charlatan. God’s people disobeyed as a result of his leadership and suffered the consequences. The Holy Spirit of God wants to put us on to accomplish God’s work but will not work through someone who is faking their faith or going through the motions. The title of this weekend’s message is “IMPOSTER”.
GPS: Relationships – Part 3 by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will continue to examine God’s plan for our relationships. We have talked about the wisdom in searching for God’s will in our relationships as well as the criteria to look for in a future spouse. However, we must also understand the role we have to play in this process. How much is God responsible for and how much are we responsible for when it comes to looking for your significant other? Join us as we answer these questions and more in this weekend’s message titled “GPS DESTINATION: RELATIONSHIPS PT. 3”.
Tracking: Target by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will examine the end of Peter’s list of characteristics to track as you grow closer to God. It is no coincidence that the list ends with love. While we might know that love is important in the Christian life, we likely do not realize the role it has to play in spiritual discipline. What is the significance of these different traits all leading to love? We will find out in this weekend’s message titled “TRACKING: TARGET”.
Tracking: Level Three by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we come to the conclusion of Peter’s list of components of our spiritual life. Peter lists these characteristics as markers of God working in our lives, evidence of the Holy Spirit refining us and making us more like Christ. The question is: will we allow this process or fight against it? So many times, we are tempted to resist God’s prompting and do our own thing, but God has called us to a life of obedience. This weekend’s message is titled “TRACKING LEVEL THREE”.
Unchecked by Abidan Shah, PhD
As we begin this series, we need to understand the importance of a balanced growing spiritual life. Many of us, if we are honest, are simply hoping for the best in our relationship with God. We go to church and maybe even serve on a ministry team, but through the week our spiritual lives are left to chance or simply hoping for the best. Or worse, we live however we want throughout the week and try to clean up for church. This weekend, we will understand the dangers of a spiritual life that is “UNCHECKED.”
Table of Nations: Part 1 by Abidan Shah PhD
This weekend, we will be looking at what is known as the Table of Nations. These are the generations following Noah and his sons. These people groups dispersed throughout the land and settled into the nations that are present in the accounts of Scripture. What role did these people play in God’s grand story of redemption and the coming of the Messiah? The title of this weekend is “TABLE OF NATIONS PART 1”.