Matthew 7:7-12. Jesus describes God as a most loving father. In fact, it appears he believes that God will give us whatever we want. “Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find…” On the surface, these seem like open-ended promises…but are they? Suppose you asked for what was not in your best interest. Would a good parent give it to you anyway? Is it possible that a good parent would deny a request to their children? Giving a child anything that he/she asks for is not exactly good parenting, is it? Surely we ought to evaluate the promises of Jesus in light of these experiences, shouldn’t we? How are we to understand this teaching of Jesus?
Connexion: And it was NOT Good! – Josiah Leuenberger (19 Jan 14)
Josiah reminds us that the need for community existed since creation, even prior to the fall into sin, and reflects our being made in the image of God who exists in eternal community.
Let God Be the Judge — Bob Whitaker (12 Jan 2014)
“Judge not or you will be judged” (Matthew 7:1). These words of Jesus are quoted often and they are frequently invoked when someone is feeling protective of another, insulted or personally threatened. As usual, we tend to use the words as if we know their exact meaning, but do we? Is Jesus suggesting that words of judgment should never be used? Does he mean that we should not be discerning about what is good or bad, moral or immoral? Is Jesus suggesting that we ought not make judgments in court, enforce laws or punish criminals? Some claim that this is exactly what Jesus is teaching. This Sunday we will renew our study of the life and teaching of Jesus – rediscovering his teachings.
Connexion: True Community Introduction – Josiah Leuenberger (12 Jan 14)
Josiah kicks off the new semester and the new series True Community with this message that reminds us that while salvation is personal, there are communal aspects we cannot ignore.
Grace Awakening — Bob Whitaker (5 Jan 2014)
A look at the epiphanies of the wise men, the woman at the well, the disciples on the road to Emmaus, and Paul’s conversion.
Don’t Forget the Trees – Dan Waugh (29 Dec 2013)
As we wrap up 2013 and head into a new year, it’s a good time to take stock and make course corrections if necessary. Dan asks two questions to help us do that.
Great Joy – John Mangrum (22 Dec 2013)
Pastor John Mangrum reminds us that the message of Christmas is one of great joy for all peoples. It’s a message that often gets lost in the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
The Peace of Christmas — Bob Whitaker (15 Dec 2013)
A look at “peace”: practical, personal, and complete peace. Is peace possible? Where does this peace come from?
Connexion: The Original KoK – Bob Whitaker (15 Dec 2013)
Bob explains the significance of calling Jesus King, and why it is an incredibly important designation for Jesus despite how odd it sounds to our modern ears. He isn’t President, He is King, the King of Kings. This is the conclusion to our ‘Rediscovering Jesus’ series.
Loving Shepherd — Bob Whitaker (8 Dec 2013)
A message from Isaiah 40:9-11 on the 2nd Sunday of Advent.