This weekend, we are examining the sixth church in the book of Revelation: Philadelphia. The church was doing many things well but was locked in fear and failed to take opportunities that God presented them. Fear can blind us to God’s plan and prevent us from stepping out in obedience. That was true for the church in Philadelphia; is it true for you as well? The title of this weekend’s message is “CHURCH-AUTOPSY: PARALYZED.”
In light of Mother’s Day, I want to preach a special message not just for moms, but for all parents. Children are God’s gift to us and as parents, we have such a precious few years to impact them. At times, parenting can be overwhelming, confusing, or even frustrating. However, God’s Word helps us not only lead our children, but count it a privilege to do so. The title of this weekend’s message is “DELIGHT.”
As we approach Holy Week, I want to begin a series titled “ANASTASIS”. This is the Greek word for resurrection. Many of us have heard the language of the empty tomb or Christ rising from the dead, but what does that mean for us? How does that change our perspective on life and belief? Over the next few weeks, we will dive into this idea of resurrection and how that impacts our understanding of the Christian life. This weekend’s message is titled “ANASTASIS: FOUNDATIONS”.
This weekend, we are examining Jesus’ statement that he is the “resurrection and the life.” He delivers this statement in the context of the loss of his friend, Lazarus. Jesus reminds those gathered to mourn that he is the answer to the problem of death. Christ himself was not bound by death and his resurrection offers wonderful promises for us as well. Much more than something to talk about at Easter, the concept of resurrection is central to our faith.
This weekend, we are continuing to move through the lives of Abraham and Sarah. They have struggled to understand God’s promise and see the ways he has been working in their lives. God plainly reminds them both that the promise will result in a child, their child, that will usher in blessings for the entire world. Sarah laughs, first in disbelief and later in joy at the birth of her son, Isaac. The title of this weekend’s message is “MAN OF PROMISE: LAUGHTER.”
Here are some key points to remember from the message Encounters 4