Grace Community Church Midweek Teaching

Genesis Week 30 - Grace

Wed, 13 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for." (Heb 11:1) At the end of his life, we come to the place where Jacob's faith is commended and recorded in the New Testament. Without reservation he blesses Joseph's younger son ahead of the firstborn and worships God. He makes arrangements for his body to be 'buried with my fathers' in the cave Abraham purchased in the land of Canaan. After Jacob's death Joseph reaassures his brothers of his complete forgiveness and reminds them of God's promises, presence, and protection. These men did not live perfect lives but nothing was beyond God's redemptive power. So many times God overruled and intervened on their behalf, giving grace upon grace!

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 48-50

Genesis Week 29 - Restored

Wed, 06 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The long tense back and forth with these brothers finally comes to a good and satisfying end! Twice now Joseph has wept privately, but this time he weeps publically and declares to his brothers; "I am Joseph!" He invites them to move in closely and they embrace one another through tears. And then they talk! When Joseph was a teenager living at home his brothers hated him so much they couldn't even speak to him. (37:4) But now that they have been forgiven and reconciled, a new relationship is forming. There are five years of famine still to come, but this family will spend it together, protected and provided for through God's providential 'working all things for their good.' Joseph shows us what God can do with a life in the midst of hard circumstances and evil schemes.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 45-47

Genesis Week 28 - Brothers

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Through a series of tasks Joseph's brothers reveal who they are now, thirteen years later, and how far he can trust them. In order for true reconciliation in this family there must be sincere forgiveness on one side and repentance demonstrated by humble confession of sin and change in behaviour on the other side. All of which takes time as trust is built and wounds are healed. Judah's charactor seems to have come a long way since his sin with Tamar. He takes personal responsibility for his youngest brother, Jacob's new favored son, Benjamin. Before, Judah encouraged his brothers to sell Joseph into slavery in Egypt and let Jacob believe he was dead. Now, Judah offers himself in Egypt as a slave in place of his brother, so Benjamin can return home to his father who treasures him.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 43-44

Genesis Week 26 - Prison

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

God's presence with Joseph in Egypt is having an impact on his conduct and charactor. He resists multiple advances from a powerful woman and suffers greatly for it. Somehow away from his family Joseph is able to break some unhealthy patterns of deciet and develop a true relationship with his God. In this pagan land of Egypt we are told repeatedly that God is with him there. At the same time Joseph is a slave and is imprisoned even though he is innocent of wrongdoing. How is it possible that God can be with a person yet allow him to suffer so much? And in the face of injustice how does one remain steadfast and not lose heart or lose faith? Endurance comes from the presence and comfort of Almighty God, the strength He supplies and His Grace all sufficient.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 39-40

Genesis Week 27 - Palace

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

After being forgotten in prison for two years, Joseph finds himself standing before Pharoah, an extremely powerful man thought to be descended from the gods. And yet when Joseph stands before him he does not seek to advance his own interests or take any glory for himself. Instead he gives all glory to the true God and gives council for the help of others. God gives Joseph wisdom with a plan to preserve life during a great famine and gives wisdom for bringing about true reconciliation with his brothers. Joseph begins the reconciliation process with a series of tests that will reveal how his brothers have or have not changed. Joseph himself has experienced his relationship with God develop over time thru trying circumstances and will need God's help with this new trial of great power and seeing his brothers again.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 41-42

Genesis Week 25 - Dreamer

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Long ago Jacob deceived his father Isaac with a robe and food from a slaughtered goat. Now his sons deceive him with a coat and blood from a slaughtered goat. Jacob's family knows the true and living God, yet their sin patterns seem at times to be much stronger than their faith. Over the course of this story we will begin to recognize a contrast between two of the brothers. Young and immature Joseph has been spared hard work raised as the favored firstborn son of Rachel, the wife Jacob loves. Joseph starts out with dreams of power and a princely coat and ends up exiled from his family when he is sold into slavery. As a shepherd, Judah knows hard work and is the forth son of Leah, the wife Jacob rejects. He chooses to leave his family and settle among the Canaanites. Through it all the Lord's providential hand, strengthening presence, and unchanging Grace are at work.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 37-38

Genesis Week 24 - Covenant (renewed at bethel)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Jacob’s detour in Shechem costs his family dearly with the rape of his daughter and the retribution his sons enact. After Jacob’s remarkable encounter with God, we are told of one of the lowest points in his family and that his household has acquired many foreign gods. How can that be? We might prefer the narrator to leave out horrific and faithless moments in the lives of God’s people, but that would paint an incomplete picture of their need for God’s grace. When Jacob returns, God again changes his name and throughout the rest of his life we will see both natures at play - sometimes he is Jacob the deceiver, other times he is Israel, surrendered to God. So too with our own faith journey. Romans 7-8, Ephesians 4:20-32 and Galatians 5:16-26 speak of this battle between our old self and our new identity in Christ. Jacob’s wrestle with God marks the beginning of His new nature, not the full completion of it. As you read look honestly at the mixture of cowardice, failure, depravity, idolatry, return, repentance, and restoration.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 34-36

Genesis Week 23 - Wrestle

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Jacob has prayed and sought God’s help. He has planned and sought to appease Esau with gifts. He has protected his family and separated himself from them. He’s done all he knows to do to deal with the problem at hand. And God’s response to Jacob? He wrestles with him all night long as tho they are equally matched, and then with a mere touch, God clobbers him!1 What in the world!?! God prepares Jacob to meet Esau by maiming him? Jacob will walk with a limp for the rest of his life from this encounter with the Living God, but that is not all that happens here. God asks Jacob some poignant questions that get to the core of his identity. Jacob may be meeting Esau with a limp yes, but he is also meeting Esau with a new understanding. God has begun the process of healing Jacob’s inner wounds and he begins to relate more honestly with his brother. He still falls short of full honesty with Esau and full obedience to God’s command to return to Bethel and his family will pay dearly for it. (Gen 34) But He is changing. As you read be watching for these indicators of transformation and what brings them about.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 32:22-Genesis 33

Genesis Week 22 - Return

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

When Jacob left home, he fled from Esau to Laban afraid, alone, and owning nothing. Now he flees from Laban to Esau, still afraid but no longer alone and with great wealth. During his time with Laban, he has been cheated, deceived, and taken advantage of. Jacob has also continued using his learned pattern of deception to get what he wants. But God has kept His promise to be with Jacob, to give him children, to bring him back to the land, and to continue working out His plan of salvation for the world through Jacob’s family. Jacob is still learning who God is and how to trust Him over and above his own intellect and schemes. He lives with an inner restlessness and seeks to fill the void of his heart with things other than God. In the midst of all of this, God calls Jacob back and Jacob answers that call and heads home. He leans on his own understanding in the practical aspects of his return, but he returns nonetheless. After Jacob deals with Laban he turns his focus ahead to the problem of Esau. Does Esau still want to kill him or could his anger have cooled over the years? As you read, pay attention to the ways Jacob is growing along with the ways God meets him in his fear.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 31-32:21

Genesis Week 21 - Messy

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Just because things go our way or we give God credit and praise, does not mean that we are interpreting things correctly. God’s design for marriage is one man and one woman. God’s design for his people is honesty, integrity, and seeking Him above all else. Jacob grew up in a competitive and divided family and creates for himself a competitive and divided family. And yet – God is at work within the mess they create and their choices do not negate God’s grace! What a comfort that is! It is good and wise to break unhealthy patterns in our own families for the benefit of our lives and future generations. And we can take comfort in God’s continued pursuit of each of our hearts in the midst of the messes we create. As you read, watch for the ways idolatry, superstition, and faith are mixed up and how this mixture contributes to the unhealthy ways Jacob’s family functions and relates to God.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 30

Genesis Week 20 - Covenant (w/Jacob)

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

After a disastrous outcome of his deceit, Jacob runs away from home. Will the promised blessing be lost? Jacob has no family or land–he has nothing! All throughout Genesis we have seen many examples of God coming down to those who are not seeking Him, calling out to Him, or reaching up to Him and this plot point of Jacob’s life is no different. God comes to Jacob in a dream showing access to His presence opened and His work throughout the earth taking place. It is true that Jacob’s story did not have to go the way it is going. The choices he and his family made could have been different and created a different family dynamic. And also it is true that God is bigger and able to overcome it all. As you read, pay special attention to the promise God makes to Jacob, God’s care of Leah and who begins to show signs of trust in God as the source of their satisfaction.

Genesis Week 19 - Blessing

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

When we want something really badly it can be a struggle to release our desire in trust to God. It is not uncommon to resort to manipulation, deceit, striving, and grasping at what we can to control outcomes and to accomplish our will. Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Esau all have their own desires for who gets the blessing and their own plans for bringing it about. Not only does this family demonstrate an absence of trust among each other, they are not trusting God and things get pretty ugly. While we might think our own attempts at controlling outcomes are ‘not so bad’ it is wise for us to acknowledge our root issue is the same. When we sew patterns of striving in our lives we really do bring harm to our relationships. As you read pay attention to what each family member looses as a result of everyone’s behavior and how the Lord’s will prevails in the midst of it all.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 27.

For maps, an introduction to Jacob and weekly questions download the study guide below!

Genesis Week 18 - Covenant (with Isaac)

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

God has promised a multitude of children through Abraham and Isaac and yet both Sarah and Rebekah struggled with infertility. Meanwhile Ishmael seems to have no trouble bearing children. Like his father before him, Isaac faces a famine and common sense says to leave the land of promise and head to Egypt. Crops, herds, wells, quarrels, clans, and kings are all a part of Isaac’s story. Whatever we assume Abraham has passed on to Isaac about God’s character and what a life of faithfulness looks like, Isaac’s relationship with God must be his own. Is the Covenant God made still valid? How can Isaac know? Does God change his mind? Will He keep His promise to Abraham through Isaac or is it through one of these other sons? As you read these chapters pay attention to the ways God reveals that He will remain faithful to Isaac just as He was faithful to Abraham no matter how hard or messy things get.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 25-26

Genesis Week 17 - Provision

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The promises to Abraham involved both land and descendants and went well beyond his own lifetime. As his time on this earth is nearing its end, these last recorded stories from his life reveal a practical side of faith. We read of decisions made and actions taken based on an understanding of God’s character and promises rather than direct instruction from God’s voice. God gives practical help and clear guidance through knowledge of His will and confirming circumstances. After years of camping out, Abraham makes a purchase and finally owns a piece of ground in the land God had promised to give him. Although he knew God had promised to give him the land, he pays a fair price for it. Isaac, no longer a child, will shift into focus as we continue to learn of God’s plan and relationship with this particular family. Abraham shows great concern that Isaac’s future be built upon faith in God.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 23-24

Genesis Week 16 - Tested

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This text is difficult on many levels. Human sacrifice was a common practice among the pagan gods of the land, but Abraham had come to believe that God was different. Additionally God had said that the promised blessing and nation was with Isaac specifically. Abraham had already let Ishmael go – now he was to not just let Isaac go live somewhere else, but to actually end his life? The Creator and True God of the Universe is different. He abhors the practices of the surrounding nations in their false worship of their false gods. The promise is with Isaac. These things are true, so something else must be going on here. All of scripture points us to Jesus – let us read this chapter with that in mind.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 22

Genesis Week 15 - Laughter

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Abraham stood and saw the smoke of God’s judgment over two prominent cities - we can only speculate what his thoughts and emotions might have been. Did he forget what God had said before all this destruction happened? Did he know Lot had been spared?

And then….laughter of disbelief becomes laughter of wonder. Abraham and Sarah have a moment in time of deep joy and satisfaction, worship and obedience. This moment is sandwiched in the middle of stories telling of fear, failure, sorrow, confusion, and politics. God keeps His promise, not because Abraham and Sarah have finally gotten their acts together and learned to fully trust and obey, but because He is God – the Promise Keeper.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 20-21

Genesis Week 14 - Consequences

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

God said that the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah were exceedingly grave. If we didn’t take God’s word for it, the details given in this chapter of the evil all around affecting everyone are convincing. Lot escaped the destruction, but he lost everything. His wife lost her life and his daughters lost any moral compass or a right understanding of God’s ways. Sin matters to God. It’s consequences are real. “what benefit do you reap from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things lead to death! For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:19-23) Throughout scripture we are warned to be careful about what we build our lives upon. Paul writes to the church in Corinth “If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.” (1 Corinthians 3:10-23) As you read this chapter, ponder how Lot’s life illustrates this principle.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 19

Genesis Week 13 - Conversation

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The conversations that take place in this chapter seem almost casual, like two old friends talking. One conversation is about miraculous life, the other about destruction and death. We also see here a contrast in the timing of the fulfillment of these two events. On the one hand we have years upon years upon years of waiting, then this final reassurance, yet still another whole year to wait for the promise to come true. On the other hand we have God’s plan shared with Abraham one evening and then carried out within the week! Abraham is the one through whom God’s promised seed will come and his family will significantly impact the entire world. In order to carry out this monumental task Abraham needs to understand some things about God, sin, and leadership. The Lord is consistent with His pattern of ‘coming down’, moving toward the sinner and dealing personally with the justice required. Abraham processes the information through the lens of character he knows is true; God does not flippantly destroy the creation He has made and loves. (see Ezekiel 18:23)

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 18

Genesis Week 12 - Commitment

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Things are about to get really messy, but God is not surprised and Abram cannot thwart or prevent God’s redemption plan as it has never been dependent on Abram – it has always been dependent on God alone. Still, sin always hurts people and Abram and Sarai’s actions, while culturally normal, are sinful. It is good to heed that warning while also maintaining the wonder of how Great and Profound God’s mercy is. This first recorded appearance of the Angel of the Lord is to a single mother-to-be slave girl from Egypt with a pride problem! Additionally, this is the first time we read of God giving a name before birth, showing He has a plan for her child. While the promised Messiah and covenant will be with Abram and Sarai’s son Isaac and the Hebrew people, we must not assume this means that God is not also personally involved in other nations of the world, including the Arab people (Ishmael’s descendants.) As the psalmist says; the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. (Psalm 24:1) As you read this chapter, pay special attention to how God is relating to each individual according to His character revealed thus far in scripture. (from weeks 9-14; He calls, reassures, shields, and sees)

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 16-17

Genesis Week 11 - Covenant (with Abraham)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

God continues to reveal Himself to Abram over time as he goes along. It has been years since Abram left home, and while he has amassed much wealth and his household has grown - he still has no children and owns no land. What did God’s promises mean? How long will they take to come true? What continued hardships will this journey with God entail and how will Abram endure it all? God visits Abram and tells him not to be afraid. He answers Abram’s questions, often in surprising ways with disheartening details. This next chapter lets us listen into Abram’s intimate conversation with the God of the universe revealing to us deep and significant truths about who God is, how He relates to individuals personally and how He is at work in the world.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 15

Genesis Week 10 - Going

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

After his brief stint in Egypt, Abram returns to where he started and calls on the name of the Lord. What follows is quarreling and strife in his family, years of war among the kings in the area, a rebellion and the capture of his nephew who had ended up on the loosing side. Abram mounts an army from his own household and three of his allies, rescues Lot, and then is visited by a mysterious king/priest named Melchizedek. The scriptures don’t tell us anything about what Abram’s first 75 years were like, but these past 15 have been quite eventful! God calls him to leave his home and go to a place unknown and the first thing we read is that there is a famine. Now there is a lot of fighting. Could it really be God’s plan to lead him into such chaos and hardship? As you read these chapters pay attention to what Abram’s choices reveal about his character, and the things God says and does to reassure Abram of His plan.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 13-14

Genesis Week 9 - Called

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The first 11 chapters of Genesis cover thousands of years and the whole earth while the rest of Genesis will cover few hundred years and zero in on one individual and his descendants. What is the author implying about the significance of this particular family? Matthew chapter 1 gives us a clue - revealing to us a plan that went way beyond Abraham and his children. Eve’s promised seed who would crush the head of the serpent is the significance - and we know this is Jesus. But Adam, Eve, Abram & Sarai didn’t know this. As our study takes us through the details and descriptions of their interactions let us not forget the big picture of what everything is pointing to - Father, Son, and Spirit working together to rescue the human race from the curse of sin. It all begins with a man who is called to leave his home and go to a place unknown, taking one step at a time with the God who called him.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 12

Genesis Week 8 - Babel

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This chapter reveals once again how desperately we need God’s intervention. We see here the people’s; “Come, let us make; Come let us build…” contrasted with God’s; “Come, let us go down and disperse….” Left alone we choose our own way, we seek to glorify ourselves, to stay put and establish our own mini kingdoms. Without the ‘But Gods’ of our lives we would not, could not, follow Him or obey His instructions to disperse, be fruitful, and multiply.

God’s command from the very beginning has been to go into all the earth declaring the praises of Him who made us – that all the world would surrender to Jesus Christ as Lord. Come, let us deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow Jesus. For His name alone is worthy of all Praise.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 10-11

Genesis Week 7 - Covenant (with Noah)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Due to Technical Difficulties, we were unable to record this teaching. We apologize for this, we know it's a bummer that those who were unable to attend in person will miss out. We hope with the study guide you are still able to connect with a friend to share what you learned in this passage.

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After the flood the earth and everything in it has significantly changed. Adam’s loving supremacy over the animals has now been replaced with fear and dread. Directions are now given with respect to taking Life. For the first time we have recorded God establishing a covenant – a formal, solemn, and binding agreement – with all humans and all of creation. The fulfillment of this covenant is not dependent on people’s obedience but on God’s faithfulness alone. Were it not so the peaks of our beloved 14ers might be covered tomorrow!

The world we now live in has been deeply affected by Adam and Eve’s sin. Isaiah tells us there will be a return to the patterns of relating between man and animal when Jesus makes all things new again. (Isaiah 11:6-9) Until that day we join with creation’s groaning as we wait eagerly to be set free from our bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. This is the Hope unto which we have been saved. (Romans 8:18-25)

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 9

Genesis Week 6 - Flood

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This account of God’s judgment is jarring as the concept of His wrath can seem offensive. That is until your son’s bike gets stolen and then it is deeply comforting. In all seriousness, this is one of the most heart wrenching and sad chapters in scripture. The entire human race has reached the point of no return. No hope. No thoughts of love or kindness or goodness or beauty. Enmity – that is, active opposition and hostility - exists between God’s Spirit and the sinful nature of Adam’s race. Where is that promised seed of the women who will crush the head of the serpent?

God is not distant – He has remained present and connected throughout all these generations since the beginning of time. He is grieved beyond any grief we can possibly imagine. God’s beautiful creation, the ones made in His own likeness – The likeness of Him whose disposition is only good all the time – have now reached a level of depravity that “every inclination of the thoughts of their heart is only evil all the time.” And so, God is going to destroy what He created – the people, the animals, and the earth. But, He will not leave anyone without a way to be saved – He will provide a means of rescue and place of safety. Sound familiar??

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 6-8

Genesis Week 5 - Humanity

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Every life is important to God, and His desire is for none to perish but all to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) The dividing point between all people is their response to God and His word. These chapters describe two such streams of humanity – the descendants of Cain (ch 4) and those of Seth (ch 5). These histories illustrate the enmity God promised between those who follow Him by faith and those who pridefully go their own way.

In one family line we are told of individuals’ cultural advancements including their skill, artistry, and craftsmanship. In the other we are only told of individuals’ relationship with God. We say that our identity is in Christ, yet let us pause and ponder; if my own legacy were to be recorded, would I be ok with everything about me being left out except for my relationship with God?

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 4-5

Genesis Week 4 - Fallen

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The pursuit of knowledge at the expense of trust is a Siren song we struggle against still to this day. We place high esteem on the learned and at times pity the uneducated. Having more information doesn’t always lead to deeper trust. It is trust we need in keeping with worship of, hope in, and obedience to God. Jesus tells us it is in Him that life is found, and the pursuit of understanding is in vain if it does not lead us to Him. “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” (John 5:39-40)

The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made, His love is great, and His compassion never fails. Ultimately that is all we need to know.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 3

Genesis Week 3 - Humankind

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We now move from broad strokes of all creation, down to man and woman, revealing who we are, and the meaning and purpose of life. Another distinction is a change from; “after its kind” to “after God’s own image and likeness.” Additionally, just as God rules over the entire universe, humankind is given permission to rule over and name the creatures God has made. With everything else, God speaks “let it be, and it was so,” but with man and woman He shares a more detailed and intimate account of forming from dust and breathing His own breath to give life. God’s Eden is a garden of delight, pleasing to the eye and good for food. He has thoughtfully made a place for Adam and Eve to live together and flourish. And finally, He has invited them into a relationship of trust in His wisdom, love, and care; willingly living according to His command.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 2:4-25

Genesis Week 2 - Creation

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

God alone is uncreated and eternally existing. (Psalm 93:2, 90:1-2) He created the heavens and earth out of nothing – which is something only God can do. This first chapter in Genesis lays the foundation for all the rest of what we read in Scripture. If God is able to create as He has said He did – every other statement can be trusted. His love can endure forever, He can raise the dead back to life and He can give us eternal life with Him. (Psalm 136:4-9, John 11:25-26, 43) As we begin, let us keep focused on the grandeur of a God we cannot fully comprehend but are invited to know personally and relate to intimately. When we need perspective, meditating on Genesis 1 alongside Psalm 139 and Isaiah 40:10-31 can settle our hearts as nothing else can. Let us approach with humility our study of God’s revealed account of our world’s beginning.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Genesis 1:1-2:3

Genesis Week 1 - Introduction

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This book of beginnings lays the foundation of our understanding of God's character and work in the world. Come prepared to be transformed in this deep dive study of the Book of Genesis.

We have prepared a study guide for you! Be sure to pick one up at this first week's teaching or download at the link below.

Citizens Week 6 - Jesus, the Way

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus alone is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He alone is God and has given His life for us so that we can enter into an everlasting relationship with Him. He promises that we are known by Him and that we are cared for and guided by Him. These words divided the people of Jesus' day and they divide people in our day as well. Join us as we seek to understand what it means that Jesus has provided us a way to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading John 10 with Matthew 7:13-14

Citizens Week 5 - Access to the King

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus is both our King and our Priest, He is God who became flesh, lived and walked among us, and was tempted in every way we have been tempted. His life, death, and resurrection removed the barrier that separated us from God and granting us access into His very presence! We have access to the King of kings, and His throne is a Throne of Grace!

Join us as we ponder the impact this has for us as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Hebrews 4:14-16 with Matthew 7:7-12

Citizens Week 4 - Our Point of View

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

One of the most challenging things we face as Christians is seeing others as Christ sees them, especially those who we don't like or agree with. Paul says that because we understand what it is to fear the Lord, we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Join us as we discover what it means to judge and evaluate appropriately as followers of Christ who have been made new.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 with Matthew 7:1-6

Citizens Week 2 - Wealth

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Don't we all want to take hold of that which is Truly Life? When we are satisfied with a poor substitute we miss out on the Fullness of Life that Jesus promises is available to us. In our Citizens series we are continuing our discussion on what it looks like to choose God as our Master rather than wealth.

Prepare for this week's message by reading 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Citizens Week 3 - God is a Good Provider

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Psalm 23 is one of the most familiar of all Bible chapters, and still we can have a limited understanding of what difference having such a Good Shepherd makes in our day to day. Join us Wednesday as we unpack what it means that God takes care of us as a shepherd takes care of his sheep.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Psalm 23 with Matthew 6:25-34

Citizens Week 1 - Fasting

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

I think many of us can relate to asking the question; "I've done all these things God, why then haven't you......"

We are kicking off our Citizens series where we continue our Sunday Morning study, going deeper into the themes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and what He has to say about living as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Isaiah 58

Ecclesiastes Week 12 - The Preacher's Last Words

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The preacher’s last words exhort us to care for the poor as a cure for our vanity, meaninglessness, and pride. He also reminds us that this world is not all there is, eternity awaits us and it would be wise to live in light of that rather than for only the here and now.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Ecclesiastes 11:1-12:8

Ecclesiastes Week 13 - Conclusion

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

As we look upon the lessons gleaned from the book of Ecclesiastes, let the message that prevails be to seek satisfaction in God alone and to live our lives dedicated to worshipping Him with awe-filled reverence, content to do His will for His glory and our good!

“Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. Now all has been heard;

here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Ecclesiastes Week 11 - Proverbs on Wisdom

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Although wisdom is not always appreciated, it is still better than brute strength and superior over the foolish utterings that may be more popular. Wisdom is often the harder path, slower route, or longer way of getting things done.

In our next section of the text, Solomon gives us some proverbs on Wisdom. Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:20

Ecclesiastes Week 10 - The King and God

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this section, Solomon explores a common question we all ask; Why? What in the world is God doing? Why are outcomes so unpredictable? Why isn’t there a formula for a good life?

Sometimes as Solomon ponders the things he has witnessed, he draws fatalist and incorrect conclusions about God, His Kingdom, and what we can hope for. We cannot measure God’s character by what happens in life, we must measure God’s love, His justice, His Mercy, and His care by what Jesus did on the cross. We must measure God’s power, His rule, and His victory by Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. While there are principles that do work (sin hurts people) and at times predictable outcomes (gravity causes things to fall), life remains confusing at times. Our hope is in the unchanging character of God. He is for us and He loves us. He alone has the power to make all things new, set all things right, and bring about good in any and every circumstance.

Prepare for this week’s message by reading and reflecting on Ecclesiastes 8:2-9:12

Ecclesiastes Week 9 - Wisdom in Life & Death

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In an attempt to find a better way to live Solomon has discovered it all boils down to wisdom – and that there is no wisdom independent of God. This next section of our text includes a series of proverbs, some at first glance can be confusing.

As you prepare for this week’s message by reading Ecclesiastes 7:1-8:1, ask the God of all wisdom to reveal transformational truths to help you grow in knowing Him better and loving Him more.

Ecclesiastes Week 8 - Wealth and Honor

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week's passage related to wealth and honor, Solomon leaves us with the question; "Who really knows what is good for man in this life?" (Ecclesiastes 6:12) In light of eternity and our relationship with God, who can say whether it is better to be wealthy or poor, to be healthy or sick, to be weak or strong. We know that the ability to enjoy the pleasures of life without them leading us to evil is impossible without the Holy Spirit's help. And we know that we don't take any earthly possessions or earthly accolades with us when we die.

As you prepare for this week's teaching by reviewing Ecclesiastes 5:8-6:12, reflect also on the things that have most helped you to know Christ better and love Him more.

Ecclesiastes Week 7 - Fear God

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Charles Spurgeon says; "There is a fear with which a Christian has nothing to do. The fear of slave who dreads a task-master we have now escaped from."

The Christian's fear of God is rather a humble reverence which stems from the conviction that our Father God is good, kind, wise, loves us deeply and is with us.

Join us as we continue our study of the conclusion Solomon comes to regarding our attitude toward God found in Ecclesiastes 4:13-5:7

Ecclesiastes Week 6 - Judgment

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

It’s easy to become discouraged when we see “all the oppression taking place under the sun:

I saw the tears of the oppressed—

and they have no comforter;

power was on the side of their oppressors—

and they have no comforter.”

Join us as we seek to understand the comfort God’s judgement provides as we consider the words of Ecclesiastes 3:16-4:12

Ecclesiastes Week 5 - Time

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

“to everything turn, turn, turn….” These words were made famous by Pete Segar, sung by the Byrds in the 60s. The original text is found here in Ecclesiastes;

“There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under the heavens:

… I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him”

Join us as we unpack the meaning of time and the motive of growing in reverence for God.

Ecclesiastes Week 4 - Folly and Toil

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Despair over the fleetingness of life and insecurity over having no control of one’s legacy can be discouraging, leading us to wonder; “what is the point of trying?”

David Guzik, in his commentary on Ecclesiastes, says it this way; “If death ends it all, then this life is robbed of true meaning. Even the good and great accomplishments of this world are unbelievably temporary, and therefore ultimately meaningless.”

In light of this, Solomon turned his heart and ‘despaired of all the labor in which I had toiled under the sun.”

But because of the resurrection of Christ, this is not the experience of a Christian!

“For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

“Where, O death, is your victory?

Where, O death is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.” -1 Corinthians 15: 53-58

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Ecclesiastes 2:12-26 alongside 1 Corinthians 15.

Ecclesiastes Week 3 - Wisdom & Pleasure

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The "wisdom" of Ecclesiastes is not the same as the "wisdom" in Proverbs. In Proverbs, wisdom is godly wisdom. Ecclesiastes is focusing on "Everything under the sun" and the wisdom here is man's wisdom.

Remember this distinction as you prepare for this week's teaching in your reading of Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:11

Ecclesiastes Week 2 - Everything is Meaningless

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The perspective lens through which life is viewed will impact the conclusions drawn. There may be nothing new under the sun, but thankfully, followers of Jesus don't only live under the sun!

Prepare for this week's study by reading Ecclesiastes 1:1-11. Think about the questions and conclusions the author raises in light of the gospel and the difference that makes.

Background and Introduction to Ecclesiastes

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The word Ecclesiastes means “preacher” or “philosopher.” This book reveals man’s attempts at happiness apart from God and the absurdity of that attempt. We live in a world struggling to find satisfaction that lasts and meaning behind what we experience. In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon concluded that in the inmost depths of mankind is a longing for Eternity and the peace that only God can provide. Solomon had everything this world can offer and more and so one would think he would have experienced the happiness we all crave. He realized that even the best and most beautiful things of this world pale in comparison to the Creator of this world, and relationship with Him is the only thing that can truly satisfy the longing of our hearts.

Saint Augustine of Hippo puts it this way; “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.”

Join us as we dive into these concepts in our Midweek Teaching study of the book of Ecclesiastes.

(due to technical difficulties, only the audio is available for the first session.)

The Word of God Week 2 - Midweek Teaching

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Word of God Week 3 - Midweek Teaching

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The Word of God Week 1 - Midweek Teaching

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Heb 4:12) <> All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:15-17)

What does it mean that scripture is God-breathed, alive and active? How does knowing about plot, narrative, story, poetry, and history impact our understanding of God’s word? How can we be sure we are correctly handling and applying God’s word to our lives?

What role does the Holy Spirit play?

And most importantly, how does it change me? How does God’s word work towards making me more like Christ?

Join us as we endeavor to grow in our understanding and application of this treasure we have thru our midweek teaching series on the word of God.

Romans Week 29 - Personal Greetings

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The believers in Rome were a varied group! Among those Paul sends special greetings to we have men and women, Jew and Gentile, imprisoned and free. Spurgeon comments; ““They were like the most of us, commonplace individuals; but they loved the Lord, and therefore as Paul recollected their names he sent them a message of love which has become embalmed in the Holy Scriptures.” Included in this closing greeting, Paul gives final words of warning and instruction culminating with praise to the God who is able to establish them and reconcile all nations to Himself through Jesus Christ.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans chapter 16.

Romans Week 28 - Conclusion & Travel Plans

Wed, 01 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Paul has been faithful to His calling as minister of the Gospel to the Gentiles, but he seeks no glory for himself. He knows anything he has accomplished has not been by his own strength or power, but fully by the power of the Holy Spirit, in the strength of God, & because of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Paul reminds the Roman believers of God’s grace in using him for the sake of the Gentiles, he shares his plans to come to them by way of Spain and asks them to join with him in his ministry through praying for him.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Paul’s biographical summary found in Romans 15: 14-33

Romans Week 27 - The Weak and the Strong Part 2

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As we live into the process of becoming like Christ it is easy to become weary and discouraged. We need help both from the Holy Spirit working in us and the Holy Spirit working through us to build each other up. All of us have moments of weakness and confusion and as we learned last week, there are many disputable issues that can divide us. Instead, we are called to receive each other, build each other up, and unify on Christ. As the Holy Spirit equips us to live in this common bond of unity, God is glorified and we are given endurance, encouragement and peace and hope.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans 15:1-14

Romans Week 26 - The Weak and the Strong Part 1

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Cain said to God; “Am I my brother’s keeper?”* As those who live in an individualistic culture this question is familiar to us. Though our natural bent is to make decisions from this perspective, followers of Jesus are called to another way. Paul invites us to live in such a way that we aren’t breaking fellowship with each other over convictions about secondary issues. In our passage this week Paul talks a lot about food because in the early church this was a divisive issue. Should the new Christians keep kosher? What about food that has been offered to idols? In the 2024th year of our Lord food isn’t directly tied to our spiritual life like it was then, but we have plenty of these sorts of issues that divide us. Paul’s words are as important now as they ever were – to be committed to not causing another to stumble or destroy the work of God for the sake of our preference! This remarkable way of Jesus doesn’t require us to erase our differences, but to rise above them! By the power of the Holy Spirit living within us, may it be so Lord, may it be so!

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans chapter 14.

*Genesis 4

Romans Week 25 - Submission, Love, Future

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As we continue in Paul’s practical application section of Romans love is a major theme. Love for God of course, but also what it means to live lives of love toward others. We are challenged to give to all what is owed, whether it’s taxes, honor, or respect and in all things, we are to love. Paul further explains what Is meant by Jesus words; “Love your neighbors as yourself” and how the law is met in doing so. Because we know the times we are living in, we are encouraged to be committed to a right walk with Jesus, growing more and more like Him in how we live and how we love.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by meditating on Paul’s words found in Romans 13:1-14

Romans Week 24 - Love in Action

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus said the 2 greatest commandments are to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. In the first part of Romans 12, we learned a bit more of what it means to Love God in this way. In the second part of Roman’s 12, Paul helps those who have dedicated themselves to God understand what it means to love others. Love must be sincere, without dissimulation, it must be genuine and without hypocrisy. Much more than a feeling or being nice, Love shows itself in action – action that is for the good of the receiver and the glory of God.

Prepare for this week’s teaching by pondering all the ways Love is demonstrated as described in Romans 12:9-21. Ask Jesus to help you with the ones that give you pause.

Romans Week 23 - Gospel Implications/Using Gifts

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

We don’t serve a God to whom we must offer sacrifices in order to gain His mercy. He freely gives us His mercy – which in turn fuels our response of worship and sacrifice.

In David Guzik’s commentary on Romans 12, he points out all the mercies of God Paul has explained to us thus far:

· Justification from the guilt and penalty of sin.

· Adoption in Jesus and identification with Christ.

· Placed under grace, not law.

· Giving the Holy Spirit to live within.

· Promise of help in all affliction.

· Assurance of a standing in God’s election.

· Confidence of coming glory.

· Confidence of no separation from the love of God.

· Confidence in God’s continued faithfulness.

Therefore, Paul says, dedicate your whole self to God. In contrast to the superficial values and customs of this world, give yourself over to the values and customs of God’s kingdom. This is how we mature and are transformed into Christ’s likeness. This is what it means to truly live!

Prepare for this week's teaching by pondering the gospel implications and practical applications found in Romans 12:1-8

Romans Week 22 - Salvation and Israel / Doxology

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

After words of instruction with deep and sometimes mysterious truths, Paul concludes his theological explanation of the gospel with praise and awe of God’s grandure! The next major section of this letter will include practical application, but before moving on into that, take some time to read and reflect on all that you have learned in these first 11 chapters!

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans 11:25-36

Romans 11:11-24 - Ingrafted Branches

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In our next section of Romans, Paul talks about olive trees and the grafting, pruning, and re-grafting of both wild and cultivated branches. Since our goal of studying is for transformative understanding, it is good for us to delve into these concepts and see how they illustrate truths about God, salvation, Jews, Gentiles, faith and unbelief. It is also important to keep the main thing the main thing; for all who are saved, whether Jew or Gentile, stand by faith and are supported by the root of God’s grace.

Grow in transformative understanding with us as we study Romans 11:11-24

Romans Week 20 - The Remnant of Israel

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

A remnant is usually a small part from a whole, or a small quantity remaining of something. This next section Paul addresses the question of whether God has rejected His people with 2 arguments; First, since Paul, a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin, has been reconciled, then no, God has not rejected His people. Second, just as a remnant existed in Elijah’s day of those who had not bowed down to Baal, so there is a remnant of those in Israel who trust in Jesus. All of this is by God’s grace, not of any sort of works among God’s people.

Study with us Wednesday as we walk through Romans 11:1-10

Romans Week 19 - Israel's Unbelief

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Every single person has sinned and is in need of a way to be reconciled to God, which was accomplished through Jesus’ death and resurrection. The way for all is the same – belief. Paul says it this way; “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”

Join us Wednesday as we study what it means to pursue salvation by faith vs. works. Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans 9:30-10:21

Romans Week 14 - Frequent Disobedience of Israel and Consequences

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Paul’s anguish over his brothers and sisters in Israel is palpable. They were given adoption as sons, divine glory, the covenants, the law, the temple worship and promises. The promise of Jesus was fulfilled through them. The consequences for their continual hardened hearts and disobedience is real and just, but so heartbreaking. Can’t we relate? Watching ones we love reject Jesus and go their own way is so very hard and brings grief to our heart. Pain and confusion often brings forth many questions about what has gone wrong, where does the blame lie, and who is responsible for the failure. These questions mine the depths of mystery of God, his Sovereignty, and our free will.

Join us Wednesday as we read Paul’s words and seek to understand what can be understood. Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans 9:1-29.

Romans Week 17 - More Than Conquerors

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In light of all that Paul has laid out for us in Romans 8:1-30, what is our response? Can we really be sure that there is no condemnation for us in Christ? Is our standing as God’s children secure? These final verses in the chapter usher in a resounding; “Yes!” God is for us. He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. Jesus is interceding for us, there really truly is no condemnation. We cannot be separated from the love of Christ. We are held secure.

Join us Wednesday as we drink deeply from the refreshment that is found in Romans 8:31-39.

Romans Week 16 - Present Suffering and Future Glory

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

There is so little we know and so much we can’t see especially in our struggles and suffering. Glory, hope, God at work, being conformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ – these are all promises given to us by our God who has always proved faithful. It is true that the glory that will be revealed in us has no comparison to what is right in front of us. It is also true that this is a hope that we cannot yet see and so we must patiently wait for it. In our waiting we join with creation in its groaning, but we do not groan alone. As God’s children, we have the promised Holy Spirit at work in us, interceding for us and sustaining us.

Restore your hope with Paul’s words found in Romans 8:18-30 and join us on Wednesday as we study this passage further.

Romans Week 15 - Freedom from Death

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Thus far in Romans Paul has explained our universal and personal sin struggle. None of us is immune, none of us can, on our own, be made right with God. We are all guilty. Who will rescue us from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God that through Christ Jesus our Lord we are rescued! Therefore, there is now no condemnation for us! What a relief! We are free from condemnation, we are free from separation, we are free from death!

Prepare for our midweek teaching by reading Romans 8:1-17

Romans Week 14 - The Law and Sin

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Our struggle with sin is real and knowing the right information is not sufficient for the battle. We need Jesus – His power, His grace and His guidance for real help and freedom.

Join us tonight as we learn about the Law and Sin from Romans 7:7-25.

Midweek Teaching | Wednesdays @ 7pm

Romans Week 13 - Freedom from the Law

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Join us as we pick up our study of Romans in chapter 7. Paul taught us in chapter 6 that our relationship with the law as a means of righteousness before God ended with Christ. In Chapter 7 we will grow in our understanding of what it means to have freedom from the law and what to do with our continual struggle with sin. Prepare for this week’s message by reviewing Romans 6:15-23 and previewing Romans 7:1-6.

Romans Week 12 - Slaves to Righteousness

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We all serve something, the question is; will it be God or something else? Whatever we yield our lives over to will produce fruit from that yielding. Thanks be to God that he sets us free from fruitless pursuits that lead to death! With God as our Captain, the fruit we get is our growth in Christlikeness and in the end, eternal life with Him! We can be set free but still choose to live as a prisoner to our old ways. In Christ, our lives are now pointed in a new direction and we get to grow under His ownership and rule over our new hearts. As we learn to live into this freedom, we are so very thankful for God’s faithfulness and grace equipping us on the journey.

Romans Week 11 - Freedom From Sin

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In Christ, we have been set free from slavery to sin – we need not walk in it any longer. This is real living – letting the life of Christ and His righteousness rule over our whole self – our mind, body, soul, and spirit. Paul instructs us not to let sin control the way we live, making us an instrument of evil, death, and destruction. Rather, we have been called into a new way of living – under the freedom of God’s grace we get to use our lives to do what is right for the glory of God.

Romans Week 10 - Death Through Adam, Life Through Christ

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We don’t have to look far to see the results of sin in this world. To imagine a world without death as a part of it is beyond our imaginings. But this is what Christ accomplishes on the cross! He conquered death – the ultimate consequence of sin’s presence in this world, and He gives us Life-the ultimate reward of His righteousness gained on our behalf!

Romans Week 9 - Assurance of Hope

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This is a passage to read again and again and again! Because of Jesus Paul gives a sampling of the riches we can claim: peace with God, access into the remarkable state of Grace in which we firmly, safely, and securely stand, purpose in suffering, a God whose promises never disappoint, a Love so true poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. The most remarkable thing is that it was sinners that Christ died and secured these riches for. That is a Love beyond all love. There is so very much going wrong in this world and so much wrong in each of our hearts – in spite of it all we have perpetual cause for hope in God’s unfailing love and can enjoy our reconciliation with Him no matter where we are, who we are with or what’s gone wrong.

Romans Week 8 - The Example of Abraham

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The way to become right with God has been the same from the beginning both for Old Testament believers and for New Testament believers. God does not change – His Grace was sufficient for those who lived before the law was given, for those who lived after the law was given, and for all of us who live now, after Jesus came and fulfilled the requirements of the law on our behalf!

Paul reminds the Roman believers that against all hope, Abraham believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been promised to him in Genesis (that his offspring would be as numerous as the stars in the sky-see Gen 15:5) The God who kept His promises to Abraham, is the same God who keeps His promises to us! The power of God who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, is the same power at work declaring us Righteous based on our belief and trust in Him!

Prepare for this week’s teaching by reading Romans 4:1-25

Romans Week 7 - Righteous through Faith

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Any boasting we are tempted with is entirely thrown out on the principle of faith. If one is declared free of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God by faith alone – then anyone who has faith in Jesus is given this gift, irregardless of who you are, where you live, or what you have done. All means all – both in all having sinned and fallen continuously short of the glory of God, and all being offered the gift of God’s precious and underserved Grace through the payment for our sin which is provided in Jesus Christ. This is really good news!!

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Romans 3:21-31

Romans Week 5 | The Jews and the Law

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul challenges the religious person’s thinking and belief that they have right standing with God because of having been given God’s law. Knowing the truth is not the same thing as living the truth. Jesus had this to say about those who teach God’s law, but don’t actually obey it; “…obey them and do what they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. Everything they do is done for men to see…” (Matthew 23)

Romans Week 6 - No One Is Righteous

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

There is not a single person who can claim to be righteous on their own. And one cannot be freed of guilt and declared righteous before God by trying to do good works or what the Law says. Paul helps us to understand why God gave us His law – it is so that we become knowledgeable about sin! While the recognition of sin may direct us toward repentance, that alone can provide no remedy. We need Jesus to reconcile us to God and His Spirit to enable us to live in alignment with God’s priorities, values, agenda and mission. This, my friends, is what it means to know Christ and make Him known!

Romans Week 4 | Avoiding Jewish Smugness

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

“Notice, dear friends, that the Lord does not drive you to repentance… The sweetest and best repentance is that which comes, not by driving, but by drawing: ‘The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.’”

-Charles Spurgeon

God is good, He is kind, and He is so very patient with us equally, not favoring one over another in any way. He invites us to repent-meaning to turn to Him-because He knows He is the only source of satisfaction we will ever find.

This is hard for us to fathom – we grow impatient with all that is going wrong around us, yet overly patient with all that is wrong within us. How wonderful to know that God is perfect in His timing and gracious towards all He has made, not wanting anyone to suffer the judgment they deserve, but everyone to repent and receive forgiveness and new life through Jesus Christ!

Romans Week 3 | The Characteristic Sins of the Gentiles

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We have learned of Paul’s desire for the Romans to understand salvation – which raises the question; “what are we being saved from?” In this next section, Paul helps us understand the wrath of God that we so rightly deserve. Beyond proclaiming the gospel, Paul demonstrates the absolute necessity of the good news because of our ungodliness and unrighteousness! He explains why the human race is guilty and the tragic result of this guilt. When we trade the truth of God for a lie, our thinking becomes foolish and futile.

One thing to keep in mind is that Paul didn’t write this letter to a culture that agreed with him, much of what he describes in these verses were practices that the general public openly celebrated and approved.

Romans Week 2 | Thanksgiving and Thesis

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul is writing to all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be set apart for a sanctified life. He is thankful for their faith and trust in God's power, wisdom and goodness. His purpose in writing is for mutual encouragement and to preach the gospel in a way that brings understanding and real life change.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Romans 1:8-17

Rome was founded in 753 B.C. and by the time of Paul it was the greatest city in the world! Paul wrote his letter to the Romans in AD 57. Feel free to enhance your understanding by reading up on what Rome was like at that time!

Midweek teaching is a verse by verse expositional teaching of scripture.

Romans - Intro

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Romans could be argued as Paul's greatest work. Here we explore the significance of Jesus' work on the cross - obtaining a righteousness on our behalf. Righteousness is a key theme in Romans; revealing to us both our great need and God's great provision.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Romans 1:1-7.

Galatians 6:11-18

Wed, 10 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is lavished on us because of the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. ß This is everything! The approvals we seek, the significance we long for, the cares of this world that weigh us down are all covered by Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. To the extent that we understand Grace we can enjoy the true and lasting freedom our souls crave.

Galatians 5:19-6:10

Wed, 03 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul contrasts the actions that come from our sinful nature with the ones from the Holy Spirit. The result of keeping close to Jesus will more and more reveal in our lives the characteristics of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Galatians 5:13-18

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The freedom Paul is talking about is a freedom from selfishness and from the desires of our flesh that war against the Holy Spirit’s work of goodness in our lives. It is a freedom that equips us to serve others with a love that concerns itself with their wellbeing. When we misunderstand and mis-use our freedoms we find ourselves enslaved again and not actually free!

Paul says instead to live our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit, responding to His guidance and submitting to His rule. This is where true freedom is found!

Galatians 5:1-12

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The churches in Galatia were being led away from the true good news of Christ’s free gift of grace to all those who would accept His righteousness rather than seeking to earn their own. Having just celebrated the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior let us stand firm in the freedom Christ has won for us. Let us take to heart Paul’s warnings and live by “faith expressing itself through love.”

Galatians 4:21-31

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Living under the law seems desirable in the sense that you have a clear list of behaviors to follow or reject. It puts the power of relating to God in our hands and under our control. We humans like to be in control of things!! This leads to slavery and death, however, and away from freedom, joy, and rest! Paul uses the story of Sarah and Hagar as an allegory to illustrate living under the law and slavery vs. grace and freedom. (understanding Paul’s use of this story as an allegory is important to understand this passage)

A Christian has no business living under the law! While it can be uncomfortable to release control and receive Grace, that is the only place true Life and Freedom can be found!

Galatians 4:8-20

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul is deeply concerned for the Galatians and their turning back to the law; pleading with them to leave the misery of slavery behind and return to the joy of their freedom in Christ. He asks; “Now that you know God – or rather are known by God – how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?”

Prepare for this week’s lesson by pondering ways you’ve traded in your own joy through reading Galatians 4:8-20

Galatians 3:26-4:8

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This is a tremendously huge marvelous gift Jesus has obtained for us-that we should be called children of God! What a great love, privilege, and inheritance we’ve been given as those invited to call on God just as a child calls for their daddy.

Galatians 3:15-25

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul is illustrating that our freedom from sin and it’s consequences is found by believing in Jesus’ finished work on the cross. He gives evidence from the covenants God established with Abraham long before Jesus came to earth.

Galatians 3:1-14

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul states the basis for our lives, if we call ourselves Christian, is believing by faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross. He gives evidence from the Old Testament, teaching that Faith has been the basis of salvation all along. We serve a Faithful and Unchanging God!

Galatians 2:11-21

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

It is easy to slip into thinking that observing specific behaviors is essential for a right relationship with God, but that would nullify what Christ provided through his death and resurrection. We must not ignore the amazing, unmerited favor given as a free gift available to all who would receive it – Our Right Standing comes by faith in Christ Alone- we rely on and completely trust in Jesus who loved us and gave Himself up for us.

Galatians 1:18-2:10

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul had been entrusted by God to preach the Gospel to the gentiles, just as Peter had been to the Jews. His qualifications came directly from Jesus Himself and not from existing church leaders in Jerusalem. The glory of God and His redemption power were on display in Paul’s changing from an enemy of the Gospel to a champion of the Gospel.

Galatians 1:10-17

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Paul explains his testimony of how he received the gospel of Jesus Christ – not from any man but from Christ himself. This is important for the church of Galatia to understand, that the gospel Paul preached is in fact truth and not something invented by man.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Galatians 1:10-17

Galatians 1:1-9

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

What precisely is the gospel of Jesus Christ? How can you know you have embraced the true gospel and not an imitation? What difference does it make in the life of a Christian? In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he clears up the confusion over what one must do to be saved. The price of redemption was paid by Jesus Christ alone and belief in Him frees people from the impossible burden needing to earn God’s affection by their behavior.

This Wednesday we will begin our study of the book of Galatians. For a good overview spend about 25 minutes reading or listening to the 6 chapters that make up this letter.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Galatians 1:1-9

2 Corinthians 13:1-14 - Final Warnings & Final Greetings

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Paul invites his readers to examine their hearts, motives, and lives against the Gospel. He speaks boldly of his desire for them to have faith and to trust he is representing Christ well.

We'll wrap up our study of 2 Corinthians this week with chapter 13

2 Corinthians 12:11-12:21 - Recommended Response

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

The church in Corinth has struggled with sin, greed, and discernment. All of Paul's words of discipline have been for their strengthening, to love them back to health. How often we too respond poorly to Love that seeks our good and God's glory.

Be renewed this week in our study of 2 Corinthians 12:11-21

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 - The Thorn

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

God's power shows itself most effectively in our weakness. When we are weak in human strength, it is then that we are truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength.

Come and learn of God's kindness to Paul through the 'thorn in his flesh' described in 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

2 Corinthians 11:16-33 - Apostolic Credentials

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Paul defends his apostleship, sharing all that he has endured for the sake of Christ. He has been flogged, shipwrecked, in danger from rivers, bandits, and brothers. He has known hunger and thirst. He has felt weak. He has been tempted to sin.

Understand Paul's sacrifice and service through our study of 2 Corinthians 11:16-33

2 Corinthians 11:1-15 - False Apostles Confronted P2

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

The Corinthian church was struggling in their ability to discern true and false teaching. Paul's frustration stems from his deep love and desire for them to hold fast to Christ, not succumb to easy and pleasant speeches. We too have speakers & influencers who sound & look good, but if examined, would prove false.

Grow in discernment with us through 2 Corinthians 11:1-15

2 Corinthians 10:7-18 - False Apostles Confronted P1

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Paul challenges his audience to cease looking at the surface of things and instead seek to understand what it means to truly belong to Christ and represent Him as a teacher.

Study with us Paul's confrontation of false teachers in 2 Corinthians 10:7-18

2 Corinthians 10:1-6 - Appeal of Obedience

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Though we live in this world, we do not function as the world does. Rather, we are equipped to destroy sophisticated arguments and every exalted and proud thing that sets itself up against the true knowledge of God. We take every thought and purpose captive to the obedience of Christ.

Join us Wednesday to hear Paul's appeal of obedience in 2 Corinthians 10:1-6

2 Corinthians 9:1-15 - The Reward for Generosity

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Our generosity is sustained by the Lord's faithfulness and results in many praises to His name.

Join us Wednesday as we are reminded by Paul of the rewards for generous giving.

Prepare for this week's teaching by reading 2 Corinthians 9:6-15

2 Corinthians 8:10-24 - Advice & Arrangements for Collection

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Before Christmas break, we spent time learning from the generous example of the Macedonian churches. This week we pick up with Paul's words of encouragement and practical motivation to "finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it according to your means."

Join us Wednesday as we resume our study with 2 Corinthians 8:10-9:5

2 Corinthians 8:1-9 - Examples

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

For our final Midweek Teaching of 2021*, we will be looking at the Macedonian's example of love and generosity in spite of their severe trials and afflictions. May these words from 2 Corinthians 8:1-19 carry us through the Christmas Season and into the new year with inspiration and hope!

2 Corinthians 7:2-16 - Paul’s Joy Over Repentance

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

It is never easy to have our sin pointed out, but there is a difference between feeling sorry for being found out and agreeing to wrongdoing - having our sorrow produce repentance. Paul's first letter to the Corinthian church included confrontation of sin. Though he is sorry to have caused them grief, he rejoices in the outcome of changed hearts that resulted.

Join us as we learn more from 2 Corinthians 7:2-16

2 Corinthians 4:1-15 - Power from God

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In the midst of afflictions, confusion, and persecution, Paul reminds his readers of God's sufficiency.

Join us as we too are reminded of God's power revealed in 2 Corinthians 4:1-15

2 Corinthians 3:7-18 - Glory from the Spirit

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Paul says that by the Spirit we are being transformed from one degree of glory to another. In fact he uses the word 'glory' 12 times in these 12 verses!

What is this glory? Join us as we uncover the answer in our study of 2 Corinthians 3:7-18

2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6 - Triumph in Christ

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Paul tried to visit Troas but was led onto Macedonia. He continues to experience setbacks and changes in his plans as he travels. The last 2 years have brought about many shifts and pivots in our lives.

Who is sufficient for these things? Join us as we find the answer in 2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6

2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11 - Change in Plans Defended

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

How often things out of our control hinder us from keeping our plans. When this happened to Paul with his desire to visit Corinth, the church began to doubt his character.

Join us as we study Paul's defense, prepare by reading 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11

2 Corinthians 1:1-11 - Introduction

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, & Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is in Corinth ... Grace to you and peace from God our Father & the Lord Jesus Christ."

These are the beginning words of comfort from Paul's second letter to the Corinthians.

Join us as we begin our teaching in 2 Corinthians - Prepare by reading chapter 1 verses 1-11.