Autopsy of a Dead Faith by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will explore one of the most prominent aspects of the book of James: the relationship between faith and works. The Bible is clear that we are saved by faith as a gift from God. However, James seems to make it clear that faith without works is useless, even dead. What is going on here, and what does it mean for our lives today? We’ll answer this question and more as we continue our study of the book of James this weekend!
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.
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: Preservation of the Word by Dr. Abidan Shah
This weekend, we will continue our study of the Bible as we look at the way God’s Word has been preserved through the centuries. While we no longer have the autographs of Scripture, we can say with utmost certainty that what we hold in our hands is truly the Word of God. Throughout the years, God has protected the process of the preservation and transmission of Scripture. We’ll uncover what that means for us as we worship together 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.
When You Encounter False Wisdom by Dr. Abidan Shah
In this weekend’s message, we come to a much different exchange between the mysterious Elihu and Job. Elihu’s words to Job are unlike those of his other friends, speaking of suffering as a form of instruction, rather than punishment. This ideology is very similar to Buddhism and the monks who have been in our headlines recently. But is it true? What does God have to say about suffering?
When You Are in the Eye of the Storm by Abidan Shah, PhD
In this weekend’s message, we come to an interesting part of the book of Job. Chapter 28 feels, in many ways, like a departure from the overall flow of dialogue between Job and his friends. There is a sudden discourse on wisdom, where it comes from, and how God uses it. This is much more than just an aside or a later addition to the book. We will walk with Job this weekend through the eye of the storm.
When Death Feels Like a Good Option by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will encounter Job at possibly his lowest moment. He has endured unimaginable tragedy. In a few short moments, everything he held dear was taken from him. Job reaches the conclusion that death would be a better option than to continue existing in this life filled with suffering. Some of you may have felt that way at one point or another. But as God reminds Job, there is always hope.
Recovering Your True Identity by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will examine Job’s responses to his suffering. In his responses, we find the profound truth that Job’s identity was not rooted in possessions, status, or even his relationships. Rather, his identity was founded in Christ. This becomes clearer throughout Job’s story. This message will help us craft our true identity in Christ.
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!
End Times Prophecy | Act Two: Israel by Abidan Shah, PhD
In this weekend’s message, we are moving into the second act of our series, focused on Israel and how God still has a heart for his people. There is a lot of conversation around Israel in our world today, and much of it is unprofitable and negative. This message will help us in our understanding of Israel’s place in God’s plan currently and in the future.
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: 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: Mercy to the Israel of God by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend marks the beginning of our study of end-times prophecy! This series will shape our church and our understanding of God’s plan. While we will spend a considerable amount of time in Revelation, this weekend I want us to begin by looking at the book of Romans. We cannot rightly understand end-times without first grasping the relationship between God and the nation of Israel. God has always had a special plan for his people and that includes what will happen in the time to come. This first installment in our series will focus on the relationship between God and Israel and why that matters for our understanding of end-times prophecy.
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”.
Forever Worship by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will continue this introductory series to prophecy by looking at the importance of worship. Worship is much more than a specific style of music or portion of service. It is also a prominent theme in the book of Revelation. Worship defines us as believers and is one of our core values here at Clearview. The title of this weekend’s message is “FOREVER WORSHIP”.
Hired Gun by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we are coming to a big shift in the book of judges. The era of the judges has ended. The people have gone off the deep end. We will soon see the lasting ramifications of the people’s disobedience and their disdain for God’s correction through the judges. This setup is eerily similar to what we are facing in our world today. The title of this weekend’s message is “HIRED GUN”.
Sightings by Abidan Shah, PhD
This weekend, we will look at the precursors to Samson’s life. His parents had an encounter with the angel of the Lord, who is much more than just an angelic messenger. Throughout the Old Testament, we see glimpses of the pre-incarnate Christ interacting with God’s people. What does this mean for our understanding of Scripture? How does this affect our view of Jesus? We’ll unpack this and more in our message titled “SIGHTINGS”.
Act of God, Man and the Devil by Abidan Shah, PhD
ACT OF GOD, MAN, AND THE DEVIL by Dr. Shah, Clearview Church, Henderson, NC Introduction: The social media videos and pictures from Hurricane Helene will stay with us for the rest of our lives. It has been especially sad for Nicole, our kids, and me to watch them because for the past 22 years, we have […]