A Life of Fullness by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we will explore Paul’s words to the Ephesians in describing what a life of fullness looks like. People often search for meaning and fulfillment in life, but a true life of fullness only comes from understanding the fullness of Christ himself. What does that mean, and how does it shape our understanding of the Christian life? Let’s find out together this weekend!
A Life of Power by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will explore further the concept of the power of God working in us. We know that God is powerful, and that he works in our lives, but exactly what does it mean when the Bible talks about the power of God in and for us? The answer to this question will not only help us live the Christian life, but also to share with others the hope that is within us.
A Life of Discovery by Dr. Abidan Shah
As we continue through the book of Ephesians, we come to Paul’s prayer that the Ephesians will understand the direction of their lives, who is going with them, and what is available to us on the journey. The same three components apply to our journey with the Lord as well. Do you want to better understand the Christian life? Join us this weekend!
Eyes of the Heart by Dr. Abidan Shah
EYES OF THE HEART by Dr. Shah, Clearview Church, Henderson, NC Introduction: English is an interesting language, especially in how it uses body parts to express actions, emotions, and thoughts. Think about it – “knee-jerk reaction” or a “gut instinct.” I can be thinking “off the top of my head” or “be head over heels.” […]
Church Worth Thanking God For by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we will examine Paul’s description of the church in Ephesus. He talks about thanking God for them after hearing of their faith. What a powerful statement! Could God say the same of us? And exactly what kind of faith makes a person or a church worth thanking God for? We’ll answer these questions and more this weekend!
High Price, not Wholesale by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we turn our focus from the Father’s role in our salvation to that of the Son. Jesus’ death on the cross was the payment for our sin, the high price that you and I could not pay. Does it matter that Christ paid our debt rather than cancelled it? We’ll find out together this weekend!
Why Worship? by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will be taking a look at the opening of Paul’s letter. He begins with several verses of praising God, packed with rich doctrine, especially regarding worship. What we say to and about God matters. Worship is much bigger than just a style of music or a time in service. What does it mean, and how does it affect our lives during and outside of service? Let’s find out together.
You’ve Got Mail by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will take an overview of the church in Ephesus to better understand the church dynamics and the occasion for Paul’s letter. Who were the Ephesians, what was church like for them, and how can we find ourselves in their shoes as well? This will help set us up for the rest of our series and give us a clearer picture of our own church relationships.
Late to Faith? by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we’ll explore further the church in Ephesus. The believers there received the gospel late. In many ways, that impacted their understanding of church and of what it meant to serve one another. Many understood the gospel, but they did not have a foundation of faith in their family history. Still, Paul encouraged them to be obedient to God and to let their service of others come from a love for the Lord.
Why Church? by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will begin by looking at the nature of the church. Why did God choose to work through this unique organization as Christianity began to spread? Understanding more about the early church from the book of Ephesians will help us to discover God’s calling on our lives and his direction for our own church family. Join us as we embark through Ephesians this weekend!
Oh Brother, Where Art Thou by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we come to the end of the book of James. As he closes the book, James gives his readers instructions on helping restore someone who has wandered away from the truth or backslidden into sin. It’s not only about making sure we course correct in our own lives. James tells his readers, and by extension, us, that we are to help our fellow brothers and sisters. In helping bring someone back to God, we are covering a multitude of sin, maybe even our own!
How To Be a Verbal Arsonist By Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we are addressing the issue of our speech. The kinds of words we use, the way we speak to others, and how our words shape the world around us; James has much to say about all of this. Speech is a powerful gift from God that, when used wrongly, can have devastating consequences, much like an uncontrolled fire. I would imagine most of us have found this to be true. We’ll talk about the consequences of our words and how to keep them in check this weekend!
Grab the Worst Seat in the House by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we come to James’ warning against showing partiality. James’ audience was tempted to show preferential treatment to others, just as you and I sometimes are. However, God’s Word reminds us that our actions affect not only our lives, but the perception of the gospel for those around us.
Take a Hard Look in the Mirror by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will learn from James that obedience to God requires more than just hearing the Word. It takes action. We cannot merely listen to the things of God and then go away unchanged. Doing so is like forgetting what your reflection looks like once you walk away from the mirror. If you have been struggling to take action in your walk with God, perhaps it’s time to take a hard look in the mirror.
Knowledge Is Not Power… Wisdom Is by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we will continue our study of James regarding the difference between knowledge and wisdom. While some use those terms interchangeably, they are best thought of as related but distinct. In fact, the Bible has much to say about wisdom, how to acquire it, and its application in our lives.
Familiarity Builds Commitment by Dr. Abidan Shah
As we begin our series this weekend, we will look at the concept of familiarity, especially as it relates to the Christian life. Sometimes, individuals who have grown up in or around church will talk as though they have been jaded by the hypocrisy they claim to have witnessed among believers. However, familiarity does not always bring about contempt. In fact, familiarity with God, church, and ministry can build a sense of commitment.
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.
When God Rebuilds Our Shattered Windows by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will hear God’s response to Job. God speaks to him not in anger, but in a way that corrects his misunderstandings and renews his confidence. We have referred to schemas that Job works through as shattered windows. This weekend, we will learn what happens when God begins to repair those windows and help us see suffering correctly.
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.
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”.