Sunrise Church http://sunrisemidland.org/ Sunrise Church of Midland philip@sunrisemidland.org Sunrise Church of Midland Stay up to date with past sermons or share with friend. It is our hope that the gospel of Christ will go forth and transform the lives of those that hear. Stay up to date with past sermons or share with friend. It is our hope that the gospel of Christ will go forth and transform the lives of those that hear. en © 2026 Sunrise Church of Midland no Honor Such Men Philip Miles <p>Christians must steward their honor diligently and refrain from giving honor reserved for good and Godly people, to the wrong people.</p> <p>Christians must steward their honor diligently and refrain from giving honor reserved for good and Godly people, to the wrong people.</p> Christians must steward their honor diligently and refrain from giving honor reserved for good and Godly people, to the wrong people.

]]> Sun, 24 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1648 1 3806c2583f74335ca98600dbd4a88ab1 no The Spirit of Christ In the Community of His Saints Philip Miles <p>Unity isn’t a baseless idea. It comes from a common gospel experience; meaning it comes to us from a shared experience of redemption. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and our unity is founded on the common hope and faith in this reality. We are all together, in Christ, now truly alive and on the path of God in the confidence of the truth of the gospel.</p> <p>Unity isn’t a baseless idea. It comes from a common gospel experience; meaning it comes to us from a shared experience of redemption. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and our unity is founded on the common hope and faith in this reality. We are all together, in Christ, now truly alive and on the path of God in the confidence of the truth of the gospel.</p> Unity isn’t a baseless idea. It comes from a common gospel experience; meaning it comes to us from a shared experience of redemption. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and our unity is founded on the common hope and faith in this reality. We are all together, in Christ, now truly alive and on the path of God in the confidence of the truth of the gospel.

]]> Sun, 17 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2559 2 61009b4e9bcc351f047a7505c54c5aef no Living and Dying In Christ Philip Miles <p>The dualism of the Christian life is found in Paul’s Predicament: life or death…either way there is victory.</p> <p>The dualism of the Christian life is found in Paul’s Predicament: life or death…either way there is victory.</p> The dualism of the Christian life is found in Paul’s Predicament: life or death…either way there is victory.

]]> Sun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2305 3 bb5e62c22cc6b53b9a4366d6131bd2c6 no Encouraged and Encouraging Philip Miles <p>The Christian life is one of gospel partnership and proclamation, love for others, knowledge and discernment, sometimes strife and persecution, but all for the glory of God. In all this, we are called to be faithful and joyful citizens of Christ’s kingdom.</p> <p>The Christian life is one of gospel partnership and proclamation, love for others, knowledge and discernment, sometimes strife and persecution, but all for the glory of God. In all this, we are called to be faithful and joyful citizens of Christ’s kingdom.</p> The Christian life is one of gospel partnership and proclamation, love for others, knowledge and discernment, sometimes strife and persecution, but all for the glory of God. In all this, we are called to be faithful and joyful citizens of Christ’s kingdom.

]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2563 4 6e15018491d5c2489ebaf08e25b82651 no Finally Philip Miles <p>Much of the mess in the Corinthian church could have been avoided if they had merely obeyed Paul's five final commands to be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong and act in love.</p> <p>Much of the mess in the Corinthian church could have been avoided if they had merely obeyed Paul's five final commands to be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong and act in love.</p> Much of the mess in the Corinthian church could have been avoided if they had merely obeyed Paul's five final commands to be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong and act in love.

]]> Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2679 5 d99bd94253d4427b00ba1ce2f8d493f6 no Church Support Philip Miles <p>The church should take seriously the call to support suffering Christians around the world, support the advance of the gospel and provide real support to those who are discouraged.</p> <p>The church should take seriously the call to support suffering Christians around the world, support the advance of the gospel and provide real support to those who are discouraged.</p> The church should take seriously the call to support suffering Christians around the world, support the advance of the gospel and provide real support to those who are discouraged.

]]> Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2264 6 82d7c05833e6c7c1dea51e05efa11663 no Final Victory Philip Miles <p>Death is an inevitable reality, but for believers in Christ, death allows the perishable to give way to the imperishable and in resurrection, there is true victory. Therefore, Christians can live steadfastly in the light of Christ's victorious resurrection, always abounding in the work of the Lord.</p> <p>Death is an inevitable reality, but for believers in Christ, death allows the perishable to give way to the imperishable and in resurrection, there is true victory. Therefore, Christians can live steadfastly in the light of Christ's victorious resurrection, always abounding in the work of the Lord.</p> Death is an inevitable reality, but for believers in Christ, death allows the perishable to give way to the imperishable and in resurrection, there is true victory. Therefore, Christians can live steadfastly in the light of Christ's victorious resurrection, always abounding in the work of the Lord.

]]> Sun, 12 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2828 7 4f370615df3d5f4b26b9d1e6a8346252 no Paul's Wager Resurrection Sunday Philip Miles <p>We do not only have hope in Christ in this life and we are not a people to be pitied. We have a deep and abiding hope of our own future victory over eternal death because Christ has delivered us from death by His own resurrection.</p> <p>We do not only have hope in Christ in this life and we are not a people to be pitied. We have a deep and abiding hope of our own future victory over eternal death because Christ has delivered us from death by His own resurrection.</p> We do not only have hope in Christ in this life and we are not a people to be pitied. We have a deep and abiding hope of our own future victory over eternal death because Christ has delivered us from death by His own resurrection.

]]> Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2351 8 4615a097584019570cf3b46dd8f4f301 no Make Way for the King Are we willing to accept Jesus for the King He is? Craig Hurst Sun, 29 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2369 9 28919174152da3f5eee4c0d4434947d8 no Does It Build Up? Philip Miles <p>What we see in this chapter is essentially a rubric for assessing the maturity of a church and its members and a format for understanding the role of our gifts in serving the church. </p> <p>What we see in this chapter is essentially a rubric for assessing the maturity of a church and its members and a format for understanding the role of our gifts in serving the church. </p> What we see in this chapter is essentially a rubric for assessing the maturity of a church and its members and a format for understanding the role of our gifts in serving the church. 

]]> Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3646 10 a91148e92d12950e0fa8644b29851d40 no A Better Way Philip Miles <p>The church's health is not measured by the activities we undertake, nor the programs we falsely assume establish our legitimacy or the petty things we think define ourselves, but by our love for one another.</p> <p>The church's health is not measured by the activities we undertake, nor the programs we falsely assume establish our legitimacy or the petty things we think define ourselves, but by our love for one another.</p> The church's health is not measured by the activities we undertake, nor the programs we falsely assume establish our legitimacy or the petty things we think define ourselves, but by our love for one another.

]]> Sun, 15 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2677 11 27617606c85c68e1ff3c75570928e802 no The Spirit's Gifts Philip Miles <p>So let us remember that the Gifts of the Spirit are given BY the Holy Spirit TO individuals FOR the well-being of the Church.</p> <p>So let us remember that the Gifts of the Spirit are given BY the Holy Spirit TO individuals FOR the well-being of the Church.</p> So let us remember that the Gifts of the Spirit are given BY the Holy Spirit TO individuals FOR the well-being of the Church.

]]> Sun, 08 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2559 12 804f0dbc77f817263343d903d83259e0 no The Lord’s Table Philip Miles <p>The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming. (Baptist Faith and Message 2000)</p> <p>The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming. (Baptist Faith and Message 2000)</p> The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming. (Baptist Faith and Message 2000)

]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2520 13 0fec8cb1be0741e03d20f2f4c201ccdc no Men, Women and the Glory of God Philip Miles <p>In our churches, men and women are to clearly, both in presentation and behavior, present themselves as men and women. As God’s image bearers, there should be no ambiguity in our homes and our church regarding the roles of men and women. The order of our church and our homes is meant to demonstrate the the glory of God regardless of the oppositional nature of the culture. </p> <p>In our churches, men and women are to clearly, both in presentation and behavior, present themselves as men and women. As God’s image bearers, there should be no ambiguity in our homes and our church regarding the roles of men and women. The order of our church and our homes is meant to demonstrate the the glory of God regardless of the oppositional nature of the culture. </p> In our churches, men and women are to clearly, both in presentation and behavior, present themselves as men and women. As God’s image bearers, there should be no ambiguity in our homes and our church regarding the roles of men and women. The order of our church and our homes is meant to demonstrate the the glory of God regardless of the oppositional nature of the culture. 

]]> Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 3166 14 da521caed46a197289004c132afa3c45 no For God's Glory Philip Miles <p>When was the last time you didn’t do something for the sake of someone else’s spiritual good or well-being? Even if it meant the deprivation of our own wants or even the limitations of our own freedoms. </p> <p>When was the last time you didn’t do something for the sake of someone else’s spiritual good or well-being? Even if it meant the deprivation of our own wants or even the limitations of our own freedoms. </p> When was the last time you didn’t do something for the sake of someone else’s spiritual good or well-being? Even if it meant the deprivation of our own wants or even the limitations of our own freedoms.

]]> Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2131 15 33f96d5ee318122136388001c619545d no Don't Be Unaware Philip Miles <p>There is a real spiritual world and our contest is spiritual and we choose a side every time we give our praise to something lesser, every time we grumble and test the Lord, every time we ignore prohibitions against sinful practices and we must be reminded that when we do this, we are provoking God’s jealousy. </p> <p>There is a real spiritual world and our contest is spiritual and we choose a side every time we give our praise to something lesser, every time we grumble and test the Lord, every time we ignore prohibitions against sinful practices and we must be reminded that when we do this, we are provoking God’s jealousy. </p> There is a real spiritual world and our contest is spiritual and we choose a side every time we give our praise to something lesser, every time we grumble and test the Lord, every time we ignore prohibitions against sinful practices and we must be reminded that when we do this, we are provoking God’s jealousy.

]]> Sun, 08 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2911 16 56b2512d8e1134103573519bedae035a no All Things To All People Philip Miles <p>We are called to willingly lay ourselves down for others in order that some may be saved while rejecting the temptation of sin as we seek to reach sinners.</p> <p>We are called to willingly lay ourselves down for others in order that some may be saved while rejecting the temptation of sin as we seek to reach sinners.</p> We are called to willingly lay ourselves down for others in order that some may be saved while rejecting the temptation of sin as we seek to reach sinners.

]]> Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2423 17 3c42643436cb17d69951d82a9b4444d4 no Gospel Reward Philip Miles <p>Paul makes the case that it is his right to be supported because God has made provision for it, but that the greater reward of ministry is the spiritual fruit.</p> <p>Paul makes the case that it is his right to be supported because God has made provision for it, but that the greater reward of ministry is the spiritual fruit.</p> Paul makes the case that it is his right to be supported because God has made provision for it, but that the greater reward of ministry is the spiritual fruit.

]]> Sun, 25 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 1952 18 f7ef35bd222a4037d73672ec69eaa2ab no What Do You Know? <p>Paul contends that our priority concern in the church isn’t what we know informationally, but that we know the love of God and that that knowledge shapes how we walk with our fellow church members.</p> <p>Paul contends that our priority concern in the church isn’t what we know informationally, but that we know the love of God and that that knowledge shapes how we walk with our fellow church members.</p> Paul contends that our priority concern in the church isn’t what we know informationally, but that we know the love of God and that that knowledge shapes how we walk with our fellow church members.

]]> Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2321 19 5ed757c666cebf80a8402ecb837516ab no Samson: A Squandered Life Craig Hurst <p>Samson points us to Jesus who is a better judge in His perfect faithfulness and obedience to the Lord.</p> <p>Samson points us to Jesus who is a better judge in His perfect faithfulness and obedience to the Lord.</p> Samson points us to Jesus who is a better judge in His perfect faithfulness and obedience to the Lord.

]]> Sun, 11 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2262 20 9b3e9e8165106e234d016a3247aa3f97 no 2025 Year In Review Philip Miles <p>It can be tempting to run ahead without praising God for His past goodness, but when we consider God’s past provision and goodness, in both the good and the hard, we are better able to approach whatever comes in the future with incomprehensible joy and anchored peace.</p><p><br></p> <p>It can be tempting to run ahead without praising God for His past goodness, but when we consider God’s past provision and goodness, in both the good and the hard, we are better able to approach whatever comes in the future with incomprehensible joy and anchored peace.</p><p><br></p> It can be tempting to run ahead without praising God for His past goodness, but when we consider God’s past provision and goodness, in both the good and the hard, we are better able to approach whatever comes in the future with incomprehensible joy and anchored peace.


]]> Sun, 04 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000 2386 21 ca42463e5264dd08e6532d1dc5929534 no Nothing Hidden Philip Miles <p>The Creator of the sun has spoken and, in speaking, not on behalf of some other deity, but on His own authority, He has revealed Himself to His creation.</p> <p>The Creator of the sun has spoken and, in speaking, not on behalf of some other deity, but on His own authority, He has revealed Himself to His creation.</p> The Creator of the sun has spoken and, in speaking, not on behalf of some other deity, but on His own authority, He has revealed Himself to His creation.

]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000 3048 22 05d4bb925bc6342138c2a176c645d2ab no An Eternal Perspective Philip Miles <p>Living with the end in view means living now as citizens of the kingdom of God and subjecting our priorities, our concerns and our desires to God’s will.</p> <p>Living with the end in view means living now as citizens of the kingdom of God and subjecting our priorities, our concerns and our desires to God’s will.</p> Living with the end in view means living now as citizens of the kingdom of God and subjecting our priorities, our concerns and our desires to God’s will.

]]> Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2334 23 40beb2f844b2417834a81b68e9f1331e no Called Out Philip Miles <p>In a world of identity politics, self-proclaimed identity markers and a social order that feels out of order, Jesus defines you in the truest sense in the context of His church/people.</p> <p>In a world of identity politics, self-proclaimed identity markers and a social order that feels out of order, Jesus defines you in the truest sense in the context of His church/people.</p> In a world of identity politics, self-proclaimed identity markers and a social order that feels out of order, Jesus defines you in the truest sense in the context of His church/people.

]]> Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2459 24 aeeba4f03135164ed8d1ef33ef760497 no Marriage, Singleness and God's Glory Philip Miles <p>Our singleness can be a gift in that it allows us to serve God with the fullness of ourselves. However, marriage is a gift in which we model the triune intimacy of God. Therein, we bring glory to God by mirroring Jesus’ relationship with his church and the raising of children to the glory of God. As such, Christians are to remain married as much as lies within them, but are not faulted if an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave them.</p> <p>Our singleness can be a gift in that it allows us to serve God with the fullness of ourselves. However, marriage is a gift in which we model the triune intimacy of God. Therein, we bring glory to God by mirroring Jesus’ relationship with his church and the raising of children to the glory of God. As such, Christians are to remain married as much as lies within them, but are not faulted if an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave them.</p> Our singleness can be a gift in that it allows us to serve God with the fullness of ourselves. However, marriage is a gift in which we model the triune intimacy of God. Therein, we bring glory to God by mirroring Jesus’ relationship with his church and the raising of children to the glory of God. As such, Christians are to remain married as much as lies within them, but are not faulted if an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave them.

]]> Sun, 09 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2706 25 35dc5e0b265d1f89b543e9634e334f0b no Handling Family Business Philip Miles <p>Often the source of our grievances is the sin we undertake against one another and how the church handles those grievances says much about our confidence in the gospel.</p> <p>Often the source of our grievances is the sin we undertake against one another and how the church handles those grievances says much about our confidence in the gospel.</p> Often the source of our grievances is the sin we undertake against one another and how the church handles those grievances says much about our confidence in the gospel.

]]> Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2435 26 6909e4a6be3577e574ed3d555cb2d824 no Your Body's Purpose Philip Miles <p>Is Jesus Christ the master of all of your life and do you serve Him with your whole self (body and mind) in order that God may be glorified in your life?</p> <p>Is Jesus Christ the master of all of your life and do you serve Him with your whole self (body and mind) in order that God may be glorified in your life?</p> Is Jesus Christ the master of all of your life and do you serve Him with your whole self (body and mind) in order that God may be glorified in your life?

]]> Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2404 27 bc59ff71395234d03c2bffb3148c9929 no Winking At Sin Philip Miles <p>Sin should be challenged in the church, not for the satisfaction of the preferences of another’s conscience, but for the health and safety of the one at risk of going astray.</p> <p>Sin should be challenged in the church, not for the satisfaction of the preferences of another’s conscience, but for the health and safety of the one at risk of going astray.</p> Sin should be challenged in the church, not for the satisfaction of the preferences of another’s conscience, but for the health and safety of the one at risk of going astray.

]]> Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2680 28 305fba6c92d5fec09e70afb3a565d320 no The Cross Shaped Leader Craig Hurst <p>The cross shaped leader humbly serves and loves others in service to Jesus Christ.</p> <p>The cross shaped leader humbly serves and loves others in service to Jesus Christ.</p> The cross shaped leader humbly serves and loves others in service to Jesus Christ.

]]> Sun, 12 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2273 29 0cfbd6274a006893443a1618198c0b92 no God's Building Project Philip Miles <p>As the church, we reject what the world sees and values in exchange for God’s work and God’s wisdom. This grounds our hope, not in men’s vision, but in God’s for His church.</p> <p>As the church, we reject what the world sees and values in exchange for God’s work and God’s wisdom. This grounds our hope, not in men’s vision, but in God’s for His church.</p> As the church, we reject what the world sees and values in exchange for God’s work and God’s wisdom. This grounds our hope, not in men’s vision, but in God’s for His church.

]]> Sun, 05 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2251 30 27bf24512d328b74120d1a332793b9cb no Can You Handle It? Philip Miles <p>Informational knowledge is a short cut to perceived spiritual maturity. Theological text books and doctrinal learning are tools for examining the beauty and wonder of God, but can be misused to load our vocabulary with talking points and rhetorical arguments while knowing nothing of the God of the theology.</p> <p>Informational knowledge is a short cut to perceived spiritual maturity. Theological text books and doctrinal learning are tools for examining the beauty and wonder of God, but can be misused to load our vocabulary with talking points and rhetorical arguments while knowing nothing of the God of the theology.</p> Informational knowledge is a short cut to perceived spiritual maturity. Theological text books and doctrinal learning are tools for examining the beauty and wonder of God, but can be misused to load our vocabulary with talking points and rhetorical arguments while knowing nothing of the God of the theology.

]]> Sun, 28 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2455 31 29ee19299e5e8b999c92ffb553c074c3 no Foolish Wisdom Philip Miles <p>The kingdom of God is foolish in that it humbles the wise, shames the strong and values the low and despised. No rhetorical flare can accomplish this; only in Christ Jesus can we be made righteous, sanctified and redeemed. No one towers above this…no one.</p> <p>The kingdom of God is foolish in that it humbles the wise, shames the strong and values the low and despised. No rhetorical flare can accomplish this; only in Christ Jesus can we be made righteous, sanctified and redeemed. No one towers above this…no one.</p> The kingdom of God is foolish in that it humbles the wise, shames the strong and values the low and despised. No rhetorical flare can accomplish this; only in Christ Jesus can we be made righteous, sanctified and redeemed. No one towers above this…no one.

]]> Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2613 32 e53f08ee91086fc65ef2040e84834ac0 no A Call to Unity Philip Miles <p>Members of Christ’s church, been rescued, not by earthly leaders and teachers, but by the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus on the cross whereon He drank the cup of God’s wrath against the sin of His people. This is the foundation of our unity.</p> <p>Members of Christ’s church, been rescued, not by earthly leaders and teachers, but by the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus on the cross whereon He drank the cup of God’s wrath against the sin of His people. This is the foundation of our unity.</p> Members of Christ’s church, been rescued, not by earthly leaders and teachers, but by the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus on the cross whereon He drank the cup of God’s wrath against the sin of His people. This is the foundation of our unity.

]]> Sun, 14 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2361 33 176c3a8f76c640d3773838c6d3729a1c no A Cautionary Tale Philip Miles <p>Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians reminds us that church can be messy and there’s always time and space for course correction as long as we maintain the right things.</p> <p>Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians reminds us that church can be messy and there’s always time and space for course correction as long as we maintain the right things.</p> Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians reminds us that church can be messy and there’s always time and space for course correction as long as we maintain the right things.

]]> Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1934 34 343ea622111d38ac71c7089ec6c5137f no Confusion Philip Miles <p>For all of the threats the church has faced, this threat of confusion around the Gospel cannot merely be endured, but must be addressed.</p> <p>For all of the threats the church has faced, this threat of confusion around the Gospel cannot merely be endured, but must be addressed.</p> For all of the threats the church has faced, this threat of confusion around the Gospel cannot merely be endured, but must be addressed.

]]> Sun, 31 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2483 35 a76dbe71bab6afb9c789261ee6218f4d no Called Philip Miles <p>The full force of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is brought to bear in order that the prodigals and the lost sheep and the seemingly unredeemables might be gathered from every corner of the earth into His church.</p> <p>The full force of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is brought to bear in order that the prodigals and the lost sheep and the seemingly unredeemables might be gathered from every corner of the earth into His church.</p> The full force of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is brought to bear in order that the prodigals and the lost sheep and the seemingly unredeemables might be gathered from every corner of the earth into His church.

]]> Sun, 24 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2217 36 e2f22c22c77596ed1e23b004f33e621e no The Temptation of Jesus Craig Hurst <p>Jesus resisted the temptations of the Devil in the power of the Sprit and with the Word of God, so he could fulfill the plan of God for his life and receive the promise of the Father.</p> <p>Jesus resisted the temptations of the Devil in the power of the Sprit and with the Word of God, so he could fulfill the plan of God for his life and receive the promise of the Father.</p> Jesus resisted the temptations of the Devil in the power of the Sprit and with the Word of God, so he could fulfill the plan of God for his life and receive the promise of the Father.

]]> Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2822 37 ca94b2e6a9e645638d7c8a513da7a6c0 no Trusting in the Sovereignty of God TJ Marshall <p>God's sovereignty encompases every facet of His creation. This should bring hope to believers and a sense of urgency to share the hope of the gospel of Christ with those who are far from Him.</p> <p>God's sovereignty encompases every facet of His creation. This should bring hope to believers and a sense of urgency to share the hope of the gospel of Christ with those who are far from Him.</p> God's sovereignty encompases every facet of His creation. This should bring hope to believers and a sense of urgency to share the hope of the gospel of Christ with those who are far from Him.

]]> Sun, 10 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2218 38 93ed5b0765221102314de0b688ad4ff5 no What We Do to Others We Do to Jesus Our actions toward our fellow Christians should glorify Christ and make His name known through the e Billy Strawter <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 03 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1305 39 8b636829ab31b508825a1181b7c17756 no Scattered Philip Miles <p>As the gospel comes to Antioch and a church is born, we see that the church has always been God’s plan for nations as a hub for the gospel and the place from which we are sustained in our faithfulness and called to serve. </p> <p>As the gospel comes to Antioch and a church is born, we see that the church has always been God’s plan for nations as a hub for the gospel and the place from which we are sustained in our faithfulness and called to serve. </p> As the gospel comes to Antioch and a church is born, we see that the church has always been God’s plan for nations as a hub for the gospel and the place from which we are sustained in our faithfulness and called to serve.

]]> Sun, 27 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2367 40 9a5093e52e49abeb2c3f6237b43e846c no Them? Philip Miles <p>For all of his religious faithfulness, Cornelius still needed to recognize that Jesus will judge all people, not according to their religious adherence, but by their trust in him for salvation.</p> <p>For all of his religious faithfulness, Cornelius still needed to recognize that Jesus will judge all people, not according to their religious adherence, but by their trust in him for salvation.</p> For all of his religious faithfulness, Cornelius still needed to recognize that Jesus will judge all people, not according to their religious adherence, but by their trust in him for salvation.

]]> Sun, 20 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1771 41 24d4d3a015ad0f488211da05c2712c7f no The Goodness of the Resurrection Through the resurrection of Christ we can see three encouraging realities. Doug Wallaker <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 13 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2330 42 eb9035dea46be875947f86e262af92f3 no Transformed Philip Miles <p>In Christ we are called to be living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God in reasonable service to Him.</p> <p>In Christ we are called to be living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God in reasonable service to Him.</p> In Christ we are called to be living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God in reasonable service to Him.

]]> Sun, 06 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2122 43 10164674153b69d6b1a880d4207c90e1 no Spread Philip Miles <p>God’s plan for the spread of the gospel is not by worldly means, but by the simple proclamation of the gospel and the effectual work of the Spirit.</p> <p>God’s plan for the spread of the gospel is not by worldly means, but by the simple proclamation of the gospel and the effectual work of the Spirit.</p> God’s plan for the spread of the gospel is not by worldly means, but by the simple proclamation of the gospel and the effectual work of the Spirit.

]]> Sun, 29 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2562 44 b556de8a32c94dd053fdb7f7731bb9f8 no What Do You Believe? <p>Finding belief in a culture of elusive truth</p> <p>Finding belief in a culture of elusive truth</p> Finding belief in a culture of elusive truth

]]> Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1631 45 6e0edebad9cf4252c30241581c4d5754 no Lost and Found Philip Miles <p>The aim of the church and the gospel message we’ve been given is simple: go call sinners to repentance in order that they may be found.</p> <p>The aim of the church and the gospel message we’ve been given is simple: go call sinners to repentance in order that they may be found.</p> The aim of the church and the gospel message we’ve been given is simple: go call sinners to repentance in order that they may be found.

]]> Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2254 46 297453e9de67f2d607ebcbdfdbdd3500 no Exposed to Jesus John Vander Male <p>Through examining three vignettes of encounters with Christ we see there are those who who fear Him and those who desire to follow Him.</p> <p>Through examining three vignettes of encounters with Christ we see there are those who who fear Him and those who desire to follow Him.</p> Through examining three vignettes of encounters with Christ we see there are those who who fear Him and those who desire to follow Him.

]]> Sun, 08 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1647 47 2c4b840c52f28eda5c411dcf85712522 no Threats Philip Miles <p>Sin within the church is much more dangerous than persecution from without and, yet, we seem more concerned about the threats from without than the threats from within.</p> <p>Sin within the church is much more dangerous than persecution from without and, yet, we seem more concerned about the threats from without than the threats from within.</p> Sin within the church is much more dangerous than persecution from without and, yet, we seem more concerned about the threats from without than the threats from within.

]]> Sun, 01 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2625 48 646fd7e661b1ca834cc11f47e8db003d no Unified Philip Miles <p>No society can stand when the values of the individual trump the values of the greater society. The church, though, is to be an answer to this individualism. The church is the ultimate alternative community.</p> <p>No society can stand when the values of the individual trump the values of the greater society. The church, though, is to be an answer to this individualism. The church is the ultimate alternative community.</p> No society can stand when the values of the individual trump the values of the greater society. The church, though, is to be an answer to this individualism. The church is the ultimate alternative community.

]]> Sun, 25 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2891 49 deedb4a3f8ac5632e884fc2cc2aa8c4c no Proclaiming Philip Miles <p>Jesus is the messenger of God sent to proclaim the good news of peace who will judge the nations. As such, anyone who believes in him received forgiveness for their sins.</p> <p>Jesus is the messenger of God sent to proclaim the good news of peace who will judge the nations. As such, anyone who believes in him received forgiveness for their sins.</p> Jesus is the messenger of God sent to proclaim the good news of peace who will judge the nations. As such, anyone who believes in him received forgiveness for their sins.

]]> Sun, 18 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1793 50 6c59e4729d5b5dc45e2d123ecbcd1cae no Empowered Week 2 Philip Miles <p>Even thought the Holy Spirit can work in ways that surpass our understanding, Scripture suggests that the Holy Spirit's work is always concerned with the glory of Jesus and the advance of His kingdom, not to highlight the self. We must ground our understanding in what God’s Word says and trust that God works more regularly through common means of grace, i.e. the Word, the ordinances and prayer.</p> <p>Even thought the Holy Spirit can work in ways that surpass our understanding, Scripture suggests that the Holy Spirit's work is always concerned with the glory of Jesus and the advance of His kingdom, not to highlight the self. We must ground our understanding in what God’s Word says and trust that God works more regularly through common means of grace, i.e. the Word, the ordinances and prayer.</p> Even thought the Holy Spirit can work in ways that surpass our understanding, Scripture suggests that the Holy Spirit's work is always concerned with the glory of Jesus and the advance of His kingdom, not to highlight the self. We must ground our understanding in what God’s Word says and trust that God works more regularly through common means of grace, i.e. the Word, the ordinances and prayer.

]]> Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2596 51 e47390b8ac57c647051f2bc7fe88d799 no Go! Week 1 Philip Miles <p>The Great Commission is the heart of the mission of the church globally and Christians personally.</p><p><br></p> <p>The Great Commission is the heart of the mission of the church globally and Christians personally.</p><p><br></p> The Great Commission is the heart of the mission of the church globally and Christians personally.


]]> Sun, 04 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1948 52 0c5e8ea39bac386c7a561369131cc72c no Two Ways Philip Miles <p>Our delight should be in the law of God which roots us in Him and makes us fruitful for His kingdom.</p> <p>Our delight should be in the law of God which roots us in Him and makes us fruitful for His kingdom.</p> Our delight should be in the law of God which roots us in Him and makes us fruitful for His kingdom.

]]> Sun, 27 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2085 53 42abb389a9a0a98d6a7e74a5c7010531 no Our Only Hope Philip Miles <p>Jesus the Son of God, came to the earth with one simple mission: to live His life perfectly in order to fulfill the holy demands of God, to offer Himself willingly as a substitutionary sacrifice for our sinfulness in order to satisfy God’s wrath against sin and to rise from death in order to declare the end of death’s reign and provide eternal life for all that would trust in and follow Him.</p> <p>Jesus the Son of God, came to the earth with one simple mission: to live His life perfectly in order to fulfill the holy demands of God, to offer Himself willingly as a substitutionary sacrifice for our sinfulness in order to satisfy God’s wrath against sin and to rise from death in order to declare the end of death’s reign and provide eternal life for all that would trust in and follow Him.</p> Jesus the Son of God, came to the earth with one simple mission: to live His life perfectly in order to fulfill the holy demands of God, to offer Himself willingly as a substitutionary sacrifice for our sinfulness in order to satisfy God’s wrath against sin and to rise from death in order to declare the end of death’s reign and provide eternal life for all that would trust in and follow Him.

]]> Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1761 54 0db647ad092907171a1f01f25c27a9aa no The Conclusion of the Matter Philip Miles <p>In conclusion, Solomon seeks to help God's people to think rightly about life by sharing God's truth as instruction on living life under the sun with eternity in view.</p> <p>In conclusion, Solomon seeks to help God's people to think rightly about life by sharing God's truth as instruction on living life under the sun with eternity in view.</p> In conclusion, Solomon seeks to help God's people to think rightly about life by sharing God's truth as instruction on living life under the sun with eternity in view.

]]> Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2354 55 6106fc209503c309a520ceae2d1e82ba no As the Final Day Draws Near Philip Miles <p>Don’t wait until it’s too late and you're too broken to live a meaningful life for God, but remember him in your youth.</p><p><br></p> <p>Don’t wait until it’s too late and you're too broken to live a meaningful life for God, but remember him in your youth.</p><p><br></p> Don’t wait until it’s too late and you're too broken to live a meaningful life for God, but remember him in your youth.


]]> Sun, 06 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2371 56 5e172a07fbb7111b798cb408be368b2a no Wisdom Comforts In Certainty <p>The unpredictable nature of life has many looking for answers somewhere. No one isn’t searching for answers, but the places that many are looking are just simply the wrong places. </p> <p>The unpredictable nature of life has many looking for answers somewhere. No one isn’t searching for answers, but the places that many are looking are just simply the wrong places. </p> The unpredictable nature of life has many looking for answers somewhere. No one isn’t searching for answers, but the places that many are looking are just simply the wrong places. 

]]> Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2015 57 8ce8b0da12195065590d64b2aeb2d1f3 no Dying Under the Sun Philip Miles <p>Everyone dies and, while we may not know what holds, we can be prepared for the certain day of our death.</p> <p>Everyone dies and, while we may not know what holds, we can be prepared for the certain day of our death.</p> Everyone dies and, while we may not know what holds, we can be prepared for the certain day of our death.

]]> Sun, 23 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2197 58 dca26c0debb359bde2f18f229268b892 no Life Under the Sun Philip Miles <p>The wise, free of the undue interruptions of ruling authorities, can rest in God’s justice, whether at His own hand or by the hand of worldly rulers and, therefore, may give themselves to joy and celebration in their time under the sun.</p> <p>The wise, free of the undue interruptions of ruling authorities, can rest in God’s justice, whether at His own hand or by the hand of worldly rulers and, therefore, may give themselves to joy and celebration in their time under the sun.</p> The wise, free of the undue interruptions of ruling authorities, can rest in God’s justice, whether at His own hand or by the hand of worldly rulers and, therefore, may give themselves to joy and celebration in their time under the sun.

]]> Sun, 16 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2240 59 a8c0d93d322e0737fb2ddd8bbbb25981 no The Way the World Turns Philip Miles <p>Life is full of challenges, but God is still in control whether we understand or see it or not.</p><p><br></p> <p>Life is full of challenges, but God is still in control whether we understand or see it or not.</p><p><br></p> Life is full of challenges, but God is still in control whether we understand or see it or not.


]]> Sun, 09 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 1931 60 1ee1846d00006cf718875bc588e31b4d no Mid Series Recap Philip Miles <p>Before embarking into the second half of the book and the shift in thought structure, a recap may be helpful.</p> <p>Before embarking into the second half of the book and the shift in thought structure, a recap may be helpful.</p> Before embarking into the second half of the book and the shift in thought structure, a recap may be helpful.

]]> Sun, 02 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2155 61 2cf6ff2eb4ac61c983ce539e3efc74e9 no Getting Our Priorities In Order Philip Miles <p>A society, rightly ordered, fears God, honors the king/ruler/emperor and holds money in its rightful place which allows us to live life as the gift that it is with a heart occupied by joy.</p><p><br></p> <p>A society, rightly ordered, fears God, honors the king/ruler/emperor and holds money in its rightful place which allows us to live life as the gift that it is with a heart occupied by joy.</p><p><br></p> A society, rightly ordered, fears God, honors the king/ruler/emperor and holds money in its rightful place which allows us to live life as the gift that it is with a heart occupied by joy.


]]> Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2505 62 7f7ab299a19e8ab2a1bf1657c5940e06 no Two Are Better Than One Philip Miles <p>The church gives us a corporate context where the world's values fade away and are replaced with mutual care instead of competition, communion instead of isolation and deference and service instead of popularity seeking.</p><p><br></p> <p>The church gives us a corporate context where the world's values fade away and are replaced with mutual care instead of competition, communion instead of isolation and deference and service instead of popularity seeking.</p><p><br></p> The church gives us a corporate context where the world's values fade away and are replaced with mutual care instead of competition, communion instead of isolation and deference and service instead of popularity seeking.


]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2318 63 0736868abb506bc45daa767d22cf0d30 no Turn, Turn, Turn Philip Miles <p>Solomon seems to be saying, “you do what you’ve been given to do and let God do His part.” Man toils but God’s work is already accomplished and everlasting.</p> <p>Solomon seems to be saying, “you do what you’ve been given to do and let God do His part.” Man toils but God’s work is already accomplished and everlasting.</p> Solomon seems to be saying, “you do what you’ve been given to do and let God do His part.” Man toils but God’s work is already accomplished and everlasting.

]]> Sun, 09 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2058 64 edaf08079d0f8d802419b6af52db71ff no Why Bother? Philip Miles <p>Christians, living this life, with all its despair and worry, cannot allow ourselves to be troubled by that which is out of our control, but must, instead, live this life in pursuit of the pleasure of God.</p> <p>Christians, living this life, with all its despair and worry, cannot allow ourselves to be troubled by that which is out of our control, but must, instead, live this life in pursuit of the pleasure of God.</p> Christians, living this life, with all its despair and worry, cannot allow ourselves to be troubled by that which is out of our control, but must, instead, live this life in pursuit of the pleasure of God.

]]> Sun, 02 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2055 65 9387d784525d16ed1fbefc693283c31c no I Wish I Knew Philip Miles <p>Solomon, though hating life and feeling the exhaustion of chasing after and trying to grab the wind, teaches us that, though life is vexing, it is still worth living, though we will all die, in the pursuit of wisdom and the rejection of folly.</p><p><br></p> <p>Solomon, though hating life and feeling the exhaustion of chasing after and trying to grab the wind, teaches us that, though life is vexing, it is still worth living, though we will all die, in the pursuit of wisdom and the rejection of folly.</p><p><br></p> Solomon, though hating life and feeling the exhaustion of chasing after and trying to grab the wind, teaches us that, though life is vexing, it is still worth living, though we will all die, in the pursuit of wisdom and the rejection of folly.


]]> Sun, 26 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2006 66 1fc865f8618ac1f1a431ccbba5f83b8a no Trying to Fix the Problem Philip Miles <p>Solomon came face to face with his insufficiency to undo what Adam had done for he was not the promised victor over the serpent, but merely a member in the line of the seed of the woman.</p> <p>Solomon came face to face with his insufficiency to undo what Adam had done for he was not the promised victor over the serpent, but merely a member in the line of the seed of the woman.</p> Solomon came face to face with his insufficiency to undo what Adam had done for he was not the promised victor over the serpent, but merely a member in the line of the seed of the woman.

]]> Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2299 67 4061f388b453335352eaa2aae7c8bed5 no Gaining Perspective Philip Miles <p>Solomon puts our lives in the proper perspective as we consider our lives, the natural world and history in the scheme of His sovereign plan.</p> <p>Solomon puts our lives in the proper perspective as we consider our lives, the natural world and history in the scheme of His sovereign plan.</p> Solomon puts our lives in the proper perspective as we consider our lives, the natural world and history in the scheme of His sovereign plan.

]]> Sun, 12 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2498 68 5481557437fb192875526959c6682867 no Give Thanks Philip Miles <p>God is deserving of our thanks as the sovereign deliverer and victorious One. In all of the grandiosity of His glory, He still remembers His children in their lowly estate and fulfills His promises.</p> <p>God is deserving of our thanks as the sovereign deliverer and victorious One. In all of the grandiosity of His glory, He still remembers His children in their lowly estate and fulfills His promises.</p> God is deserving of our thanks as the sovereign deliverer and victorious One. In all of the grandiosity of His glory, He still remembers His children in their lowly estate and fulfills His promises.

]]> Sun, 05 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 2675 69 5aec9fa0f7a592006122c561b4c56bda no A Heart for Worship Philip Miles <p>Worship is an act or response to God’s movement: thanks for EVERY thing and praise for who He is and His work. When we gather to worship, we experience the goodness of the presence of God among His people and have an opportunity to offer praise back to Him together.</p> <p>Worship is an act or response to God’s movement: thanks for EVERY thing and praise for who He is and His work. When we gather to worship, we experience the goodness of the presence of God among His people and have an opportunity to offer praise back to Him together.</p> Worship is an act or response to God’s movement: thanks for EVERY thing and praise for who He is and His work. When we gather to worship, we experience the goodness of the presence of God among His people and have an opportunity to offer praise back to Him together.

]]> Sun, 29 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2197 70 ada16d0942704e085910434ad6c764da no The Problem In Plymouth Colony As if they were wiser than God Philip Miles <p>Idleness is not merely a failure to work, but a failure to steward the time that God has given to each of us for His glory.</p> <p>Idleness is not merely a failure to work, but a failure to steward the time that God has given to each of us for His glory.</p> Idleness is not merely a failure to work, but a failure to steward the time that God has given to each of us for His glory.

]]> Sun, 24 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2131 71 60c4f0dc65941302f0b0b632a7dd9e31 no Paul's Prayer Request The power of prayer and the faithfulness of God Philip Miles <p>Does the endurance of Christ and the love of God draw us into the faithfulness of God and His promised protection and deliverance from evil men and, thereby, lead us to call out for God to speed ahead the gospel message?</p><p><br></p> <p>Does the endurance of Christ and the love of God draw us into the faithfulness of God and His promised protection and deliverance from evil men and, thereby, lead us to call out for God to speed ahead the gospel message?</p><p><br></p> Does the endurance of Christ and the love of God draw us into the faithfulness of God and His promised protection and deliverance from evil men and, thereby, lead us to call out for God to speed ahead the gospel message?


]]> Sun, 17 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2098 72 cc57a4833ff755303856fbfaa4530253 no Certainty Where There's Uncertainty Certainty is a hard thing to come by in this world Philip Miles <p>God’s elect find comfort in the gospel and are sanctified to perform the work of proclaiming that gospel...the comfort and hope we receive by God’s grace translate into real world comfort.</p> <p>God’s elect find comfort in the gospel and are sanctified to perform the work of proclaiming that gospel...the comfort and hope we receive by God’s grace translate into real world comfort.</p> God’s elect find comfort in the gospel and are sanctified to perform the work of proclaiming that gospel...the comfort and hope we receive by God’s grace translate into real world comfort.

]]> Sun, 10 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2244 73 a69e040312781608e05c035139695bbd no Deception and the Days of Lawlessness The end of days is imminent and Christians should be encouraged Philip Miles <p>Intrigue about the end of days can lead to deception by false teachers and undermine confidence among the weak.</p> <p>Intrigue about the end of days can lead to deception by false teachers and undermine confidence among the weak.</p> Intrigue about the end of days can lead to deception by false teachers and undermine confidence among the weak.

]]> Sun, 03 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2455 74 c3bfd6377174e59022f4fa761b1e5d3a no Judgement, Vengeance and Glory God's people are vessels of God's glory Philip Miles <p>In suffering God is making us worthy of His kingdom, our preparation for the coming King is focused and for our affliction we have a Father who will not let the afflictions we have suffered go unpunished.</p> <p>In suffering God is making us worthy of His kingdom, our preparation for the coming King is focused and for our affliction we have a Father who will not let the afflictions we have suffered go unpunished.</p> In suffering God is making us worthy of His kingdom, our preparation for the coming King is focused and for our affliction we have a Father who will not let the afflictions we have suffered go unpunished.

]]> Sun, 27 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2238 75 2629819dff7c788020b2ca496ba0f731 no Paul's Commendations The church should attend to that which Paul commends Philip Miles <p>Paul commends the Thessalonians for their growing faith, their increasing love and their steadfast endurance; Christians should seek the same today.</p> <p>Paul commends the Thessalonians for their growing faith, their increasing love and their steadfast endurance; Christians should seek the same today.</p> Paul commends the Thessalonians for their growing faith, their increasing love and their steadfast endurance; Christians should seek the same today.

]]> Sun, 20 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2377 76 0284b2f7274ab07b274648a5819bda0c no Short Exhortations Paul's pithy reminders to the church Philip Miles <p>Paul's short exhortations at the end of the first letter to the Thessalonians serve as helpful guides to our response to God’s grace in our lives.</p> <p>Paul's short exhortations at the end of the first letter to the Thessalonians serve as helpful guides to our response to God’s grace in our lives.</p> Paul's short exhortations at the end of the first letter to the Thessalonians serve as helpful guides to our response to God’s grace in our lives.

]]> Sun, 13 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3018 77 993b6c9dbee2e9e9f313240b47ef079f no Alert and Encouraged There is a right posture as we await the second coming of Christ Philip Miles <p>The imagination of too many Christians is captured by the unpredictable part of Christ's coming instead of comforted by the inevitable part.</p> <p>The imagination of too many Christians is captured by the unpredictable part of Christ's coming instead of comforted by the inevitable part.</p> The imagination of too many Christians is captured by the unpredictable part of Christ's coming instead of comforted by the inevitable part.

]]> Sun, 06 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1994 78 e789675893fbb25db562cf4f90884624 no Comfort In Christ's Coming Paul seeks to comfort his readers with enough knowledge that they can rest easy Philip Miles <p>The certainty of Christ’s return gives us hope and our individual hope informs our encouragement to one another.</p> <p>The certainty of Christ’s return gives us hope and our individual hope informs our encouragement to one another.</p> The certainty of Christ’s return gives us hope and our individual hope informs our encouragement to one another.

]]> Sun, 29 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2154 79 7dc52338909966a5b9fb7b466680091b no Lives of Purity and Simplicity We are call, not to perfection, but sanctified purity Philip Miles <p>In today's text, we see what happens when an individual is not a victim of their flesh, but is, instead, driven by what God wants for them whether in matters of purity or the ways in which we live our lives day-to-day.</p> <p>In today's text, we see what happens when an individual is not a victim of their flesh, but is, instead, driven by what God wants for them whether in matters of purity or the ways in which we live our lives day-to-day.</p> In today's text, we see what happens when an individual is not a victim of their flesh, but is, instead, driven by what God wants for them whether in matters of purity or the ways in which we live our lives day-to-day.

]]> Sun, 22 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2432 80 5d9bec7de3ed5470024a2a9eec98fe0c no Love and Holiness Love and holiness for which Paul prays comes by being born again into new life in Christ Philip Miles <p>In the hundreds of prayers in scripture, we see that, as one commentator puts is, “prayer becomes a means of bringing our vision and desires into line with God’s will (rather than vice versa).” (Holmes, Michael; The NIV Application Commentary: 1 and 2 Thessalonians) </p> <p>In the hundreds of prayers in scripture, we see that, as one commentator puts is, “prayer becomes a means of bringing our vision and desires into line with God’s will (rather than vice versa).” (Holmes, Michael; The NIV Application Commentary: 1 and 2 Thessalonians) </p> In the hundreds of prayers in scripture, we see that, as one commentator puts is, “prayer becomes a means of bringing our vision and desires into line with God’s will (rather than vice versa).” (Holmes, Michael; The NIV Application Commentary: 1 and 2 Thessalonians) 

]]> Sun, 15 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2166 81 db25422c40fdbb206ad75df571643c57 no Endurance In the Midst of Challenge Spiritual challenges threaten to move us from Christ, but we find encouragement in one another Philip Miles <p>Paul is encouraged by the faithfulness of the Thessalonians while navigating affliction and spiritual opposition.</p> <p>Paul is encouraged by the faithfulness of the Thessalonians while navigating affliction and spiritual opposition.</p> Paul is encouraged by the faithfulness of the Thessalonians while navigating affliction and spiritual opposition.

]]> Sun, 08 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1923 82 54f77b8fb04fd48a90e82e74cb042fe0 no Faithful Response to Faithful Teaching Paul commends the Thessalonians for their response to the gospel and faithful endurance Philip Miles <p>Paul's faithfulness is a testament to the motives and marks of a faithful gospel messenger. </p> <p>Paul's faithfulness is a testament to the motives and marks of a faithful gospel messenger. </p> Paul's faithfulness is a testament to the motives and marks of a faithful gospel messenger.

]]> Sun, 01 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1877 83 4cfba1e279551c05e190cc8d7ba1f40b no Faith, Hope and Love Faith, hope and love are key characteristics of a faithful follower of Christ. Philip Miles <p>We may be tempted to live our lives for ourselves, but if that’s how we feel most comfortable living, we may find the Kingdom of God an undesirable place. However, if our hearts long for that Kingdom, then we will live according to the hope of that Kingdom in this life. </p> <p>We may be tempted to live our lives for ourselves, but if that’s how we feel most comfortable living, we may find the Kingdom of God an undesirable place. However, if our hearts long for that Kingdom, then we will live according to the hope of that Kingdom in this life. </p> We may be tempted to live our lives for ourselves, but if that’s how we feel most comfortable living, we may find the Kingdom of God an undesirable place. However, if our hearts long for that Kingdom, then we will live according to the hope of that Kingdom in this life. 

]]> Sun, 25 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2478 84 e89752e17e45cdc19f5e2579d60599b3 no The Macedonian Call The gospel’s appeal transcends cultural lines and bears fruit through the work of God’s people Philip Miles <p>Not much has changed for Christians today compared to the Thessalonian Christians. The challenges and threats faced in the early days of the Thessalonian church continue to be faced by Christians today and Paul's letters to the Thessalonians seeks to bolster the faith of the fledgling church.</p> <p>Not much has changed for Christians today compared to the Thessalonian Christians. The challenges and threats faced in the early days of the Thessalonian church continue to be faced by Christians today and Paul's letters to the Thessalonians seeks to bolster the faith of the fledgling church.</p> Not much has changed for Christians today compared to the Thessalonian Christians. The challenges and threats faced in the early days of the Thessalonian church continue to be faced by Christians today and Paul's letters to the Thessalonians seeks to bolster the faith of the fledgling church.

]]> Sun, 18 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2268 85 93c336d1b02c246303d26a1d29ff8044 no Sojourners and Exiles Christians are strangers in a strange land...live like it Philip Miles <p>Life in America for Christians is more like life in Babylon than life in the Promised Land.</p> <p>Life in America for Christians is more like life in Babylon than life in the Promised Land.</p> Life in America for Christians is more like life in Babylon than life in the Promised Land.

]]> Sun, 11 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2492 86 0fb4636e6b38b866d3758b0835584ae5 no The Benefits of Justification Justification is more than a stale theological concept Lewis Macaulay <p>Christ's justification renders the justified at peace with God, giving hope in suffering, an avoidance of God's wrath and reconciliation with the Father.</p> <p>Christ's justification renders the justified at peace with God, giving hope in suffering, an avoidance of God's wrath and reconciliation with the Father.</p> Christ's justification renders the justified at peace with God, giving hope in suffering, an avoidance of God's wrath and reconciliation with the Father.

]]> Sun, 04 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1591 87 64be310f1a9704ab7bf046f1300be78d no To the Glory of God In the contest for the faith once delivered to the saints, we wait to the glory of God Philip Miles <p>Jude’s call to us to build ourselves up in the faith, pray in the Spirit, remain in God’s love while we await the coming mercy and, while we wait, let us hold out the message of God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness to those in need for Christ is deserving of all glory, majesty, dominion and authority forevermore.</p> <p>Jude’s call to us to build ourselves up in the faith, pray in the Spirit, remain in God’s love while we await the coming mercy and, while we wait, let us hold out the message of God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness to those in need for Christ is deserving of all glory, majesty, dominion and authority forevermore.</p> Jude’s call to us to build ourselves up in the faith, pray in the Spirit, remain in God’s love while we await the coming mercy and, while we wait, let us hold out the message of God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness to those in need for Christ is deserving of all glory, majesty, dominion and authority forevermore.

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2744 88 018f8e23dba1236f106c1f497856a3fc no Hidden Reefs False teachers lurk in the midst as they seek to undermine God's Word Philip Miles <p>In our day, with the flow of information so steady, we treat it as though it is nothing. We listen to lies and conspiracies and give our minds to those that mock our Savior and would seek to lead us astray. We give them our eyes and ears for a host of reasons, but at the heart is a desire for something new or something that satisfies us, but its end is our destruction.</p> <p>In our day, with the flow of information so steady, we treat it as though it is nothing. We listen to lies and conspiracies and give our minds to those that mock our Savior and would seek to lead us astray. We give them our eyes and ears for a host of reasons, but at the heart is a desire for something new or something that satisfies us, but its end is our destruction.</p> In our day, with the flow of information so steady, we treat it as though it is nothing. We listen to lies and conspiracies and give our minds to those that mock our Savior and would seek to lead us astray. We give them our eyes and ears for a host of reasons, but at the heart is a desire for something new or something that satisfies us, but its end is our destruction.

]]> Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2673 89 d34c428b2183225df4204b52ad25d85a no An Ongoing War With eternity in view, the follower of Christ can be assured of eternal victory Philip Miles <p>Jude wants us to see that this fight to which he is calling his hearers, to contend for the faith once delivered to all the saints, is part of a bigger picture and bigger war. Through false teachers, the Enemy who seeks to erode the faith and uproot believers and blunt the tip of the gospel as it goes forth to the nations. </p> <p>Jude wants us to see that this fight to which he is calling his hearers, to contend for the faith once delivered to all the saints, is part of a bigger picture and bigger war. Through false teachers, the Enemy who seeks to erode the faith and uproot believers and blunt the tip of the gospel as it goes forth to the nations. </p> Jude wants us to see that this fight to which he is calling his hearers, to contend for the faith once delivered to all the saints, is part of a bigger picture and bigger war. Through false teachers, the Enemy who seeks to erode the faith and uproot believers and blunt the tip of the gospel as it goes forth to the nations.

]]> Sun, 14 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2863 90 c00dfcbf0c03ff987eead4e549f989c0 no Stay In the Fight Jude compels us to fight for the true faith once for all delivered to the saints Philip Miles <p>Christians are not charged with a mandate to shape the culture by the values of the church. Instead, we are to fight diligently to ensure that the church isn’t shaped by the values of the culture.</p> <p>Christians are not charged with a mandate to shape the culture by the values of the church. Instead, we are to fight diligently to ensure that the church isn’t shaped by the values of the culture.</p> Christians are not charged with a mandate to shape the culture by the values of the church. Instead, we are to fight diligently to ensure that the church isn’t shaped by the values of the culture.

]]> Sun, 07 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2487 91 5a39f7c2ccd36ae639649a09b317e3f8 no The Sovereign Power of God's Preservation That which causes mankind to fear is never too much for God to handle John Vander Male <p>With all that seeks to beset and cause fear for followers of Christ, our hope is found in God's sovereign power and a confidence in His everlasting ability to preserve His people.</p> <p>With all that seeks to beset and cause fear for followers of Christ, our hope is found in God's sovereign power and a confidence in His everlasting ability to preserve His people.</p> With all that seeks to beset and cause fear for followers of Christ, our hope is found in God's sovereign power and a confidence in His everlasting ability to preserve His people.

]]> Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1866 92 58b030c92cc2ab42b96e742d83bbb669 no The Wide and Narrow Gate Jim Cross <p>As Jesus declared, there is only one way to salvation and Heaven, by grace alone through faith in Christ alone.</p> <p>As Jesus declared, there is only one way to salvation and Heaven, by grace alone through faith in Christ alone.</p> As Jesus declared, there is only one way to salvation and Heaven, by grace alone through faith in Christ alone.

]]> Sun, 23 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1675 93 5dd9dfb006bd75a0e6ac1b3122348f5b no The Amazing Love of Jesus Christ Exploring the restorative and transformative power of the love of Christ Billy Strawter Sun, 16 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1581 94 9613ced91b5eebeb71972100e9d62585 no Psalm 67 The Glory of God to the Nations TJ Marshall <p>As God's people we must recognize that our purpose and role in creation is to know the Lord and make His glory known to all the earth.</p> <p>As God's people we must recognize that our purpose and role in creation is to know the Lord and make His glory known to all the earth.</p> As God's people we must recognize that our purpose and role in creation is to know the Lord and make His glory known to all the earth.

]]> Sun, 09 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1951 95 665bc19039e43fa53107dc0dd7bf5b3e no Be Ready Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning Kevin Nehrt <p>Let not our faithfulness to Christ wane, nor our dutifulness of service to him falter as we await his coming; let us serve him and proclaim his coming to the final day.</p> <p>Let not our faithfulness to Christ wane, nor our dutifulness of service to him falter as we await his coming; let us serve him and proclaim his coming to the final day.</p> Let not our faithfulness to Christ wane, nor our dutifulness of service to him falter as we await his coming; let us serve him and proclaim his coming to the final day.

]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2028 96 2b17db98df5a8e1b3816e78801409a1b no Displeasure and Discomfort God’s heart is for people from every nation, tribe and tongue Philip Miles <p>“Ironically, this standard confession of the compassionate character of God is the root of Jonah’s anger…Steadfast love, when extended to Jonah, filled him with thanksgiving (Jonah 2:8), but when extended to the Ninevites, filled him with anger” (ESV Study Bible Note)</p> <p>“Ironically, this standard confession of the compassionate character of God is the root of Jonah’s anger…Steadfast love, when extended to Jonah, filled him with thanksgiving (Jonah 2:8), but when extended to the Ninevites, filled him with anger” (ESV Study Bible Note)</p> “Ironically, this standard confession of the compassionate character of God is the root of Jonah’s anger…Steadfast love, when extended to Jonah, filled him with thanksgiving (Jonah 2:8), but when extended to the Ninevites, filled him with anger” (ESV Study Bible Note)

]]> Sun, 26 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2686 97 7d7c358e5c410313f69414a546c46b3c no Declaration and Decree God’s good news bears fruit according to His promise Philip Miles <p>For some, salvation looks like living for yourself in this life with a promise of afterlife deliverance that often just looks like more living for yourself. That’s not the will of God in the lives of His people. God has a different view. God calls us to serve Him and his will of proclaiming His gospel to the nations and our neighbors.</p><p><br></p> <p>For some, salvation looks like living for yourself in this life with a promise of afterlife deliverance that often just looks like more living for yourself. That’s not the will of God in the lives of His people. God has a different view. God calls us to serve Him and his will of proclaiming His gospel to the nations and our neighbors.</p><p><br></p> For some, salvation looks like living for yourself in this life with a promise of afterlife deliverance that often just looks like more living for yourself. That’s not the will of God in the lives of His people. God has a different view. God calls us to serve Him and his will of proclaiming His gospel to the nations and our neighbors.


]]> Sun, 19 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2465 98 7b82c9218b5c9ead150293d23fce974a no Distress and Deliverance God's forgiveness is needed by all Philip Miles <p>The giant fish is incidental to the story. While it does lend a miraculous component that sets up an irrefutable case for God’s involvement in the events of Jonah, the fish simply serves to remind us, in a story where the book’s namesake has disobeyed God, that God is still in control. That is seen even brighter, not in the swallowing and subsequent vomiting of a giant fish, but in the prayer of Jonah that comprise the whole of chapter 2.</p> <p>The giant fish is incidental to the story. While it does lend a miraculous component that sets up an irrefutable case for God’s involvement in the events of Jonah, the fish simply serves to remind us, in a story where the book’s namesake has disobeyed God, that God is still in control. That is seen even brighter, not in the swallowing and subsequent vomiting of a giant fish, but in the prayer of Jonah that comprise the whole of chapter 2.</p> The giant fish is incidental to the story. While it does lend a miraculous component that sets up an irrefutable case for God’s involvement in the events of Jonah, the fish simply serves to remind us, in a story where the book’s namesake has disobeyed God, that God is still in control. That is seen even brighter, not in the swallowing and subsequent vomiting of a giant fish, but in the prayer of Jonah that comprise the whole of chapter 2.

]]> Sun, 12 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2132 99 e7e7743234ec13ef7c5601f6591f6447 no Disobedience and Drowning God’s great commission plan is unassailable Philip Miles <p>Jonah’s disobedience isn’t merely an act of crossing a capricious and abusive God who hands down edicts merely for the sake of seeing who will do what He says, but Jonah’s disobedience is a revelation of his heart; that he does not have the heart of God. In the kingdom of God, our obedience is demonstrative of our transformed heart, not merely an outward-in attempt to make ourselves acceptable.</p> <p>Jonah’s disobedience isn’t merely an act of crossing a capricious and abusive God who hands down edicts merely for the sake of seeing who will do what He says, but Jonah’s disobedience is a revelation of his heart; that he does not have the heart of God. In the kingdom of God, our obedience is demonstrative of our transformed heart, not merely an outward-in attempt to make ourselves acceptable.</p> Jonah’s disobedience isn’t merely an act of crossing a capricious and abusive God who hands down edicts merely for the sake of seeing who will do what He says, but Jonah’s disobedience is a revelation of his heart; that he does not have the heart of God. In the kingdom of God, our obedience is demonstrative of our transformed heart, not merely an outward-in attempt to make ourselves acceptable.

]]> Sun, 05 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2672 100 f1bf31bbeec41d21e715c8218cb410a6 no Is Jonah Just a Story for Kids? Focusing on Jonah as the main character risks making Jonah a story of moral manipulation Philip Miles <p>Jonah is a story of God’s heart for the lost and how we are all disobedient to God in different ways, but that God desires that those who are far from Him would repent and be drawn near to Him and the lengths to which He would and did go to bring His message of salvation to the lost.</p> <p>Jonah is a story of God’s heart for the lost and how we are all disobedient to God in different ways, but that God desires that those who are far from Him would repent and be drawn near to Him and the lengths to which He would and did go to bring His message of salvation to the lost.</p> Jonah is a story of God’s heart for the lost and how we are all disobedient to God in different ways, but that God desires that those who are far from Him would repent and be drawn near to Him and the lengths to which He would and did go to bring His message of salvation to the lost.

]]> Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1814 101 0d2520d12f18d8780a0db42363a0d5ce no What's It To You? Followers of Christ enjoy different calls to the same end Philip Miles <p>Jesus sets the tone for whose ministry they are embarking on and who is in charge. He reminds Peter (and us) that it isn’t about what happens in the lives of other believers that should dictate our faithfulness, our obedience or our endurance. Ultimately, these things should be guided by our connection to Christ. </p> <p>Jesus sets the tone for whose ministry they are embarking on and who is in charge. He reminds Peter (and us) that it isn’t about what happens in the lives of other believers that should dictate our faithfulness, our obedience or our endurance. Ultimately, these things should be guided by our connection to Christ. </p> Jesus sets the tone for whose ministry they are embarking on and who is in charge. He reminds Peter (and us) that it isn’t about what happens in the lives of other believers that should dictate our faithfulness, our obedience or our endurance. Ultimately, these things should be guided by our connection to Christ.

]]> Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2516 102 7c7b3650086810d361a1cd57577ba92f no Follow Me Forgiveness is meant to be received and shared Philip Miles <p>There’s also a call upon us as followers of Christ, not only to bask in the glory of Christ’s forgiveness for us, but to reckon with the fact that to truly glory in Christ’s forgiveness is not to merely ponder it from every angle like a diamond, but to extend it in the same manner in which Christ did and does.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p> <p>There’s also a call upon us as followers of Christ, not only to bask in the glory of Christ’s forgiveness for us, but to reckon with the fact that to truly glory in Christ’s forgiveness is not to merely ponder it from every angle like a diamond, but to extend it in the same manner in which Christ did and does.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p> There’s also a call upon us as followers of Christ, not only to bask in the glory of Christ’s forgiveness for us, but to reckon with the fact that to truly glory in Christ’s forgiveness is not to merely ponder it from every angle like a diamond, but to extend it in the same manner in which Christ did and does.



]]> Sun, 14 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2495 103 4b9bff91fe4edb3006de1d57a5f9dc99 no Going Fishing Jesus provides the power to perform his calling for our lives Philip Miles <p>In a powerful encounter by the sea, the disciples are reminded that fishing was not the work to which they had been called, but, in fact, they had been called to fish for men empowered by his provision and constant care.</p> <p>In a powerful encounter by the sea, the disciples are reminded that fishing was not the work to which they had been called, but, in fact, they had been called to fish for men empowered by his provision and constant care.</p> In a powerful encounter by the sea, the disciples are reminded that fishing was not the work to which they had been called, but, in fact, they had been called to fish for men empowered by his provision and constant care.

]]> Sun, 07 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2138 104 5e37b686d2692c6936aa81442c2dd123 no I Have Seen The Lord The resurrection sounds like a foolish myth to some, but if it's true it's only foolish to ignore it Philip Miles <p>When faced with the objective reality of the resurrected Christ, it is easier for some to concoct ridiculous theories and notions rather than accept what is plainly true. It's easier to deny the resurrection than to come to grips with its implications. If indeed Christ has been raised from the dead, one has to reconcile their fate before him.</p> <p>When faced with the objective reality of the resurrected Christ, it is easier for some to concoct ridiculous theories and notions rather than accept what is plainly true. It's easier to deny the resurrection than to come to grips with its implications. If indeed Christ has been raised from the dead, one has to reconcile their fate before him.</p> When faced with the objective reality of the resurrected Christ, it is easier for some to concoct ridiculous theories and notions rather than accept what is plainly true. It's easier to deny the resurrection than to come to grips with its implications. If indeed Christ has been raised from the dead, one has to reconcile their fate before him.

]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2275 105 a3d83124ca989440ce18e726e546e00d no A Funeral Fit For A King The treatment of Jesus' body represent the final humiliation and first exaltation of Jesus Philip Miles <p>To diminish Jesus’ glory and his kingship and to reduce him to a mere friend is to reduce the power of his work and leads not to more people coming to Christ, but less.</p> <p>To diminish Jesus’ glory and his kingship and to reduce him to a mere friend is to reduce the power of his work and leads not to more people coming to Christ, but less.</p> To diminish Jesus’ glory and his kingship and to reduce him to a mere friend is to reduce the power of his work and leads not to more people coming to Christ, but less.

]]> Sun, 24 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1829 106 a83d58d1c3c003692d6182335cd0617a no It Is Finished At the cross we see Jesus as the son of Mary, the suffering servant and the King of the Jews Philip Miles <p>Jesus died to this end: to bring salvation to a people far from God, to bring them into communion with God and his people, fashioning in them deeper loyalties than biological family connections and he walks with us through the power of the Holy Spirit until the day we arrive in his presence or his kingdom finally comes.</p> <p>Jesus died to this end: to bring salvation to a people far from God, to bring them into communion with God and his people, fashioning in them deeper loyalties than biological family connections and he walks with us through the power of the Holy Spirit until the day we arrive in his presence or his kingdom finally comes.</p> Jesus died to this end: to bring salvation to a people far from God, to bring them into communion with God and his people, fashioning in them deeper loyalties than biological family connections and he walks with us through the power of the Holy Spirit until the day we arrive in his presence or his kingdom finally comes.

]]> Sun, 17 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2786 107 121420a821c1e21ac82a91f27eb4926c no Choose This Day Sin demands our loyalty and opposes us to God Philip Miles <p>As Christ's followers, we are called to embrace what is seen as weakness in the pursuit of Christ’s kingdom, accept the path of foolishness as we walk the narrow path of The Way and deny defeat and rest in the promise of the resurrection.</p><p><br></p> <p>As Christ's followers, we are called to embrace what is seen as weakness in the pursuit of Christ’s kingdom, accept the path of foolishness as we walk the narrow path of The Way and deny defeat and rest in the promise of the resurrection.</p><p><br></p> As Christ's followers, we are called to embrace what is seen as weakness in the pursuit of Christ’s kingdom, accept the path of foolishness as we walk the narrow path of The Way and deny defeat and rest in the promise of the resurrection.


]]> Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2227 108 06ca144fb5360b3af85424b2a1d34157 no A Better King Within the exchange between Jesus and Pilate we see the collision of God’s kingdom and the kingdoms Philip Miles <p>What if the voting booth was a lament and not a joy? What if, instead, it served to remind us that we are still waiting for the king of kings who will end all selfish political attempts at representation and, instead, build a kingdom of blessing and bounty for his people to his glory?</p> <p>What if the voting booth was a lament and not a joy? What if, instead, it served to remind us that we are still waiting for the king of kings who will end all selfish political attempts at representation and, instead, build a kingdom of blessing and bounty for his people to his glory?</p> What if the voting booth was a lament and not a joy? What if, instead, it served to remind us that we are still waiting for the king of kings who will end all selfish political attempts at representation and, instead, build a kingdom of blessing and bounty for his people to his glory?

]]> Sun, 03 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2404 109 cfbac9d647b44366d2819fc8765b7453 no The Faithful for the Unfaithful On that night, there were two trials with very different outcomes Philip Miles <p>We look down our noses at Peter, yet, we are Peter. John intends to cast us all as Peter. Weak against the temptations that beset us. Needy of the forgiveness that Christ offers. Doomed without the sacrifice of the Lamb who was bound.</p> <p>We look down our noses at Peter, yet, we are Peter. John intends to cast us all as Peter. Weak against the temptations that beset us. Needy of the forgiveness that Christ offers. Doomed without the sacrifice of the Lamb who was bound.</p> We look down our noses at Peter, yet, we are Peter. John intends to cast us all as Peter. Weak against the temptations that beset us. Needy of the forgiveness that Christ offers. Doomed without the sacrifice of the Lamb who was bound.

]]> Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1723 110 40ce05063d23fae4343935ca0e1c3b2b no Bound and Denied Jesus is the true High Priest and the faithful witness Philip Miles <p>As the true High Priest, Jesus completes our final atonement and intercedes for us. As the true and faithful witness, he does not falter in the face of difficulty, his revelation of God is clear he proves to be trustworthy.</p> <p>As the true High Priest, Jesus completes our final atonement and intercedes for us. As the true and faithful witness, he does not falter in the face of difficulty, his revelation of God is clear he proves to be trustworthy.</p> As the true High Priest, Jesus completes our final atonement and intercedes for us. As the true and faithful witness, he does not falter in the face of difficulty, his revelation of God is clear he proves to be trustworthy.

]]> Sun, 18 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2105 111 8e759f6bf7fb330150d0ae88166176e0 no Betrayal In The Garden The end of what began in a garden will begin in a garden as well. Philip Miles <p>Judas' betrayal signals the opening salvo in the final battle between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent.</p> <p>Judas' betrayal signals the opening salvo in the final battle between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent.</p> Judas' betrayal signals the opening salvo in the final battle between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent.

]]> Sun, 11 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 1943 112 80685ecb7f376066fa14e5415f8884f1 no Unity For God's Glory God’s glory is clearly displayed in the church’s unity Philip Miles <p>True unity in the church is built on the shared experience of God's love, a commitment to God's truth as revealed in His Word and a common commitment to proclaim the gospel to the nations and our neighbors. </p> <p>True unity in the church is built on the shared experience of God's love, a commitment to God's truth as revealed in His Word and a common commitment to proclaim the gospel to the nations and our neighbors. </p> True unity in the church is built on the shared experience of God's love, a commitment to God's truth as revealed in His Word and a common commitment to proclaim the gospel to the nations and our neighbors.

]]> Sun, 04 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2125 113 b570273144d37c5be3273ef97c85eef9 no Jesus Prays For His Disciples The obedience of the Son gives glory to the Father and the obedience of believers brings glory to th Philip Miles <p>In Christ, obedience to the Father’s Word becomes the concern of his followers, not to secure eternal life, but to bring Him glory.</p><p><br></p> <p>In Christ, obedience to the Father’s Word becomes the concern of his followers, not to secure eternal life, but to bring Him glory.</p><p><br></p> In Christ, obedience to the Father’s Word becomes the concern of his followers, not to secure eternal life, but to bring Him glory.


]]> Sun, 28 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2275 114 d108e7b7bf41187a750bafd67f6e6239 no Take Heart... So as Jesus says goodbye, knowing full well what is to come, he encourages his disciples with three Philip Miles <p>Jesus promises true intimacy with him that provides deeper access to the Father and an assurance of victory over the world.</p> <p>Jesus promises true intimacy with him that provides deeper access to the Father and an assurance of victory over the world.</p> Jesus promises true intimacy with him that provides deeper access to the Father and an assurance of victory over the world.

]]> Sun, 21 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2404 115 04974dd5bb1a7032c493b2d3b05f0770 no From Confused to Confident Jesus’ death was not the end, but the beginning of the fruitful proclamation of the gospel to the wo Philip Miles <p>Jesus promises that in spite of his death, after a little while, all of the disciples' sorrow would be transformed into joy; and not a fleeting or circumstantial joy, but a never-ending joy that results in rejoicing.</p><p><br></p> <p>Jesus promises that in spite of his death, after a little while, all of the disciples' sorrow would be transformed into joy; and not a fleeting or circumstantial joy, but a never-ending joy that results in rejoicing.</p><p><br></p> Jesus promises that in spite of his death, after a little while, all of the disciples' sorrow would be transformed into joy; and not a fleeting or circumstantial joy, but a never-ending joy that results in rejoicing.


]]> Sun, 14 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2212 116 6c283327c6223368394ff3d8f88ba7c4 no The Work of the Holy Spirit Scripture gives us more clarity about the Holy Spirit than maybe some are trying to see Philip Miles <p>Instead of viewing the Holy Spirit as an untraceable force or presence, He should be understood as the gift of Jesus Christ that allows us to maintain our connection to the spiritual realm and God in Christ while we inhabit this physical world.</p> <p>Instead of viewing the Holy Spirit as an untraceable force or presence, He should be understood as the gift of Jesus Christ that allows us to maintain our connection to the spiritual realm and God in Christ while we inhabit this physical world.</p> Instead of viewing the Holy Spirit as an untraceable force or presence, He should be understood as the gift of Jesus Christ that allows us to maintain our connection to the spiritual realm and God in Christ while we inhabit this physical world.

]]> Sun, 07 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2611 117 46e3e365fb58e8f8313b96f9b449798b no Persecution and Perseverance There's no promise of safety for the follower of Christ Philip Miles <p>Jesus warns of the likelihood of persecution facing Christians, cautioning that the servant is not better than the master, but promises help to endure from the Holy Spirit.</p> <p>Jesus warns of the likelihood of persecution facing Christians, cautioning that the servant is not better than the master, but promises help to endure from the Holy Spirit.</p> Jesus warns of the likelihood of persecution facing Christians, cautioning that the servant is not better than the master, but promises help to endure from the Holy Spirit.

]]> Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2697 118 d09f3eac9016e6b283c26348b9661602 no Abiding In Christ Fruitfulness for Christ stems from abiding in Christ Philip Miles <p>Christian fruitfulness comes when believers remain connected to the vine of Christ. Apart from Christ we can do nothing. In Christ, however, we abound in fruitfulness.</p> <p>Christian fruitfulness comes when believers remain connected to the vine of Christ. Apart from Christ we can do nothing. In Christ, however, we abound in fruitfulness.</p> Christian fruitfulness comes when believers remain connected to the vine of Christ. Apart from Christ we can do nothing. In Christ, however, we abound in fruitfulness.

]]> Sun, 26 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2410 119 e05d4de545ed64ae5810020770f32f02 no A Helper On the Way Jesus promises a Helper who will empower and instruct Christ followers Philip Miles <p>The Christian life is often difficult and fraught with challenges, not just the challenges of feeling outside or isolated, but the challenges of walking in the Way. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit who makes our obedience and faithfulness possible, who dwells among us and provides Jesus followers with a source of trust in the midst of chaos.</p> <p>The Christian life is often difficult and fraught with challenges, not just the challenges of feeling outside or isolated, but the challenges of walking in the Way. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit who makes our obedience and faithfulness possible, who dwells among us and provides Jesus followers with a source of trust in the midst of chaos.</p> The Christian life is often difficult and fraught with challenges, not just the challenges of feeling outside or isolated, but the challenges of walking in the Way. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit who makes our obedience and faithfulness possible, who dwells among us and provides Jesus followers with a source of trust in the midst of chaos.

]]> Sun, 19 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2254 120 a1fb5b85934a4fa47884e57031b55e13 no Hope Along the Way Jesus gives us hope as we journey this life awaiting his return Philip Miles <p>As Jesus consoles his disciples in the wake of his warnings of betrayal and impending departure, Jesus comforts his disciples with three truths:</p><p>- We Know That Have A Future With Christ In God’s Presence</p><p>- We Know Christ Has Revealed God To Us</p><p>- We Know That Jesus Answers Our Prayers</p> <p>As Jesus consoles his disciples in the wake of his warnings of betrayal and impending departure, Jesus comforts his disciples with three truths:</p><p>- We Know That Have A Future With Christ In God’s Presence</p><p>- We Know Christ Has Revealed God To Us</p><p>- We Know That Jesus Answers Our Prayers</p> As Jesus consoles his disciples in the wake of his warnings of betrayal and impending departure, Jesus comforts his disciples with three truths:

- We Know That Have A Future With Christ In God’s Presence

- We Know Christ Has Revealed God To Us

- We Know That Jesus Answers Our Prayers

]]> Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2267 121 885804d1a1cc813f390deac3d6b18b06 no Love One Another The call to love one another in the church as Christ has loved us is a command, not a piece of good Philip Miles <p>As the cultural outpost of God’s kingdom, the defining cultural reality for the church is to be the love that is shared for one another.</p> <p>As the cultural outpost of God’s kingdom, the defining cultural reality for the church is to be the love that is shared for one another.</p> As the cultural outpost of God’s kingdom, the defining cultural reality for the church is to be the love that is shared for one another.

]]> Sun, 05 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2566 122 b3302112e9a87fa9cc48bffd05225687 no Psalm 19 God's creation and His law point to His glory and faithfulness. John Vander Male <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 29 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1778 123 733292f138621387aadb3dbf5b341323 no The Greatest Servant Jesus didn't just say to be first is to be last...he modeled it Philip Miles <p>As Jesus prepares his disciples to lead the church into the church age, he provides them with the most valuable and vivid lesson in how to lead like him.</p> <p>As Jesus prepares his disciples to lead the church into the church age, he provides them with the most valuable and vivid lesson in how to lead like him.</p> As Jesus prepares his disciples to lead the church into the church age, he provides them with the most valuable and vivid lesson in how to lead like him.

]]> Sun, 22 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2675 124 893b01bc15b0687ae38a8420ad82869e no Choosing The Light or The Dark The contrast laid out by Jesus is clear TJ Marshall <p>Christ summarizes His mission, to bring those who are in darkness to light of salvation.</p> <p>Christ summarizes His mission, to bring those who are in darkness to light of salvation.</p> Christ summarizes His mission, to bring those who are in darkness to light of salvation.

]]> Sun, 15 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1795 125 96bd03c0482be949dfe03b3a91d8d093 no Belief and Unbelief God is sovereign over belief and unbelief Philip Miles <p>Belief is a gift from God. It is the purview of God whom He calls and the responsibility of believers to be faithful and obedient to Him.</p> <p>Belief is a gift from God. It is the purview of God whom He calls and the responsibility of believers to be faithful and obedient to Him.</p> Belief is a gift from God. It is the purview of God whom He calls and the responsibility of believers to be faithful and obedient to Him.

]]> Sun, 08 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1817 126 0b35dca67202378ae80318732da59db8 no Sending Out Damascus Church The church is God's plan to reach the nations so you can never have too many Philip Miles <p>[18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)</p> <p>[18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)</p> [18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)

]]> Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1813 127 6e2dbe6a42f19d723c635faa73f4d705 no The Light of the World The cross comes into clearer view as Jesus prepares to accomplish his purpose Philip Miles <p>Jesus followers are called to be children of the light and as such, are called to be people of truth, living in community with one another in the church and combating sin through confession. </p><p><br></p> <p>Jesus followers are called to be children of the light and as such, are called to be people of truth, living in community with one another in the church and combating sin through confession. </p><p><br></p> Jesus followers are called to be children of the light and as such, are called to be people of truth, living in community with one another in the church and combating sin through confession.


]]> Sun, 24 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2774 128 98dc42c2be781a2eb08dd83b797e86cb no Skip Recap? Looking back in preparation to move ahead Philip Miles <p>After several weeks off, in preparation for the latter part of the book, here's a recap of the first half of John.</p> <p>After several weeks off, in preparation for the latter part of the book, here's a recap of the first half of John.</p> After several weeks off, in preparation for the latter part of the book, here's a recap of the first half of John.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2695 129 00bec1158298a8e9f3be4d83ff4c503d no The Church and Church Membership The church is the key to the mission of God on the earth Philip Miles <p>“...to be a Christian is to belong to a church...Looking to Christ as Lord means being united to Christ’s people. It’s automatic, like being adopted means you’ll quickly find yourself at a dinner table with brothers and sisters.” (Jonathan Leeman, Church Membership)</p> <p>“...to be a Christian is to belong to a church...Looking to Christ as Lord means being united to Christ’s people. It’s automatic, like being adopted means you’ll quickly find yourself at a dinner table with brothers and sisters.” (Jonathan Leeman, Church Membership)</p> “...to be a Christian is to belong to a church...Looking to Christ as Lord means being united to Christ’s people. It’s automatic, like being adopted means you’ll quickly find yourself at a dinner table with brothers and sisters.” (Jonathan Leeman, Church Membership)

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2917 130 565b1466019c6a6f9199f59646d183fb no The Way of the Righteous or The Way of the Wicked In a culture of relativism and pluralism, God's Word teaches that there are only two ways Philip Miles <p>The way of the righteous is the way of Christ. The gospel teaches us that no one is righteous and that unless one’s righteousness far exceeds that of the most religious that we can imagine, we are in the category of them that will perish. Jesus, therefore, came (living a sinless life, dying a substitutionary death and rising victorious from the grave) so that we may escape the way of perishing and enter the way of the righteous, not by our own merit, but by the merits of Christ by faith (Romans 4:23-25). The way of the wicked is the way of sin and denial of our need for God's rescue in Christ.</p> <p>The way of the righteous is the way of Christ. The gospel teaches us that no one is righteous and that unless one’s righteousness far exceeds that of the most religious that we can imagine, we are in the category of them that will perish. Jesus, therefore, came (living a sinless life, dying a substitutionary death and rising victorious from the grave) so that we may escape the way of perishing and enter the way of the righteous, not by our own merit, but by the merits of Christ by faith (Romans 4:23-25). The way of the wicked is the way of sin and denial of our need for God's rescue in Christ.</p> The way of the righteous is the way of Christ. The gospel teaches us that no one is righteous and that unless one’s righteousness far exceeds that of the most religious that we can imagine, we are in the category of them that will perish. Jesus, therefore, came (living a sinless life, dying a substitutionary death and rising victorious from the grave) so that we may escape the way of perishing and enter the way of the righteous, not by our own merit, but by the merits of Christ by faith (Romans 4:23-25). The way of the wicked is the way of sin and denial of our need for God's rescue in Christ.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2394 131 27510520857d8f0c621e8a82bfe11a7a no Some Greeks Seek Jesus The cost of following Jesus is great Philip Miles <p>Jesus came to fulfill the promise made to Abram that all nations would be blessed in him. That blessing, however, comes not in this life, but in the honor of the Father to those who follow Jesus.</p> <p>Jesus came to fulfill the promise made to Abram that all nations would be blessed in him. That blessing, however, comes not in this life, but in the honor of the Father to those who follow Jesus.</p> Jesus came to fulfill the promise made to Abram that all nations would be blessed in him. That blessing, however, comes not in this life, but in the honor of the Father to those who follow Jesus.

]]> Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2446 132 1fa3f8c759b194095d79795f5074be41 no The Triumphal Entry Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem was not merely a populist uprising. Philip Miles <p>The Triumphal Entry was seen by many as the opportunity to seat a new king and finally eradicate the Roman occupiers, but was, in reality, a preconception breaking fulfillment of prophecy about the true nature and work of Christ the Messiah.</p> <p>The Triumphal Entry was seen by many as the opportunity to seat a new king and finally eradicate the Roman occupiers, but was, in reality, a preconception breaking fulfillment of prophecy about the true nature and work of Christ the Messiah.</p> The Triumphal Entry was seen by many as the opportunity to seat a new king and finally eradicate the Roman occupiers, but was, in reality, a preconception breaking fulfillment of prophecy about the true nature and work of Christ the Messiah.

]]> Sun, 13 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2355 133 11419d9ca2c4c95778affe7ca6b46dbd no A Sweet Aroma Mary's costly devotion contrasts Judas' greedy betrayal Philip Miles <p>Smell can unlock potent memories. It could be a meal, an odor, a chemical or a scent. For Mary, the aroma of the costly spikenard with which she anointed Christ's feet would serve to remind her of the price of Christ's death and the cost of devotion to his mission.</p> <p>Smell can unlock potent memories. It could be a meal, an odor, a chemical or a scent. For Mary, the aroma of the costly spikenard with which she anointed Christ's feet would serve to remind her of the price of Christ's death and the cost of devotion to his mission.</p> Smell can unlock potent memories. It could be a meal, an odor, a chemical or a scent. For Mary, the aroma of the costly spikenard with which she anointed Christ's feet would serve to remind her of the price of Christ's death and the cost of devotion to his mission.

]]> Sun, 06 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2535 134 88cb31739418bc52f57783844dff87ed no Lazarus, Come Out Jesus displays his power over death by bringing Lazarus back from the grave <p>As Jesus fast approaches the final week of his life, we see that he is at war with death and the enemy and that his ultimate aim is to glorify God.</p> <p>As Jesus fast approaches the final week of his life, we see that he is at war with death and the enemy and that his ultimate aim is to glorify God.</p> As Jesus fast approaches the final week of his life, we see that he is at war with death and the enemy and that his ultimate aim is to glorify God.

]]> Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2911 135 4a653b520db75850d0eb4c941b510411 no The Identity of Jesus Jesus and the Father are One Philip Miles <p>Jesus declared clearly that he and the Father are One which was confirmed by the works that he did. Therefore, he is the true Messiah, sent not to merely deliver God's people from political occupation and oppression, but to deliver all of God's chosen people from sin and the wrath of God.</p> <p>Jesus declared clearly that he and the Father are One which was confirmed by the works that he did. Therefore, he is the true Messiah, sent not to merely deliver God's people from political occupation and oppression, but to deliver all of God's chosen people from sin and the wrath of God.</p> Jesus declared clearly that he and the Father are One which was confirmed by the works that he did. Therefore, he is the true Messiah, sent not to merely deliver God's people from political occupation and oppression, but to deliver all of God's chosen people from sin and the wrath of God.

]]> Sun, 16 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2691 136 5ab4db0e3a8ee2a2c044256ab022a24a no The Good Shepherd Jesus is one shepherd over one flock Philip Miles <p>As the man born blind is cast out by the Jewish leaders, he finds belonging in Christ who is gathering a flock of sheep who know his voice.</p> <p>As the man born blind is cast out by the Jewish leaders, he finds belonging in Christ who is gathering a flock of sheep who know his voice.</p> As the man born blind is cast out by the Jewish leaders, he finds belonging in Christ who is gathering a flock of sheep who know his voice.

]]> Sun, 09 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2597 137 de5bf63238fcf53e843b258549aaa7c1 no Jesus and The Man Born Blind It's a problem when Sabbath observance overrules celebrating a miraculous healing Philip Miles <p>The blind man's encounter with Jesus that led to his healing and his encounter with the Pharisees that led to his judgment is a reminder that God’s great big plan of salvation and restoration is in full effect, that allegiance to Christ means broken allegiances in this life and of the dangers of hollow religion that would blind us to the truth.</p> <p>The blind man's encounter with Jesus that led to his healing and his encounter with the Pharisees that led to his judgment is a reminder that God’s great big plan of salvation and restoration is in full effect, that allegiance to Christ means broken allegiances in this life and of the dangers of hollow religion that would blind us to the truth.</p> The blind man's encounter with Jesus that led to his healing and his encounter with the Pharisees that led to his judgment is a reminder that God’s great big plan of salvation and restoration is in full effect, that allegiance to Christ means broken allegiances in this life and of the dangers of hollow religion that would blind us to the truth.

]]> Sun, 02 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2563 138 54338dd12ee4bbcf4bd1c73ad3514c25 no The Wisdom of Christlike Character James 3:13-18 Nate Yurgaites Sun, 25 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2066 139 d98857fbf5a1e28e58bb960d891fbcce no The Truth Will Set You Free Which truth holds the key to such a promise? Philip Miles <p>A wrong understanding of ourselves leads us to think that we don’t need what Jesus is offering and a wrong understanding of Jesus leads us to believe that he’ll offer us something that satisfies our desires, but a right understanding of ourselves as thirsty wanderers in the dark and Jesus as the way, the truth and the life places us in the seat of the slave and Jesus in the seat of the Son; us in need of freedom and he alone able to give it.</p> <p>A wrong understanding of ourselves leads us to think that we don’t need what Jesus is offering and a wrong understanding of Jesus leads us to believe that he’ll offer us something that satisfies our desires, but a right understanding of ourselves as thirsty wanderers in the dark and Jesus as the way, the truth and the life places us in the seat of the slave and Jesus in the seat of the Son; us in need of freedom and he alone able to give it.</p> A wrong understanding of ourselves leads us to think that we don’t need what Jesus is offering and a wrong understanding of Jesus leads us to believe that he’ll offer us something that satisfies our desires, but a right understanding of ourselves as thirsty wanderers in the dark and Jesus as the way, the truth and the life places us in the seat of the slave and Jesus in the seat of the Son; us in need of freedom and he alone able to give it.

]]> Sun, 18 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2376 140 c7139079a105edd5397f7f53ee54d23b no The Forgiveness of Christ In Christ, all is forgiven Philip Miles <p>The interaction between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery illustrates how we are all in need of forgiveness, the source of that forgiveness and the transformation that comes after Christ forgives us.</p> <p>The interaction between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery illustrates how we are all in need of forgiveness, the source of that forgiveness and the transformation that comes after Christ forgives us.</p> The interaction between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery illustrates how we are all in need of forgiveness, the source of that forgiveness and the transformation that comes after Christ forgives us.

]]> Sun, 11 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2667 141 53f2c75e09a36299e3c060e37bf41301 no Known and Loved for the Glory of God The God who knows all things, is everywhere and has authority over all things, knows and loves His c TJ Marshall <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 04 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1690 142 f9d6a7ca737b7d78951bb8e3a6281e09 no I Am the Light of the World There is only one way out of the darkness of this life Philip Miles <p>So much of what we seek to provide enlightenment only plunges us deeper into the darkness. Only Jesus is the True Light that leads us from darkness into God's glorious presence.</p> <p>So much of what we seek to provide enlightenment only plunges us deeper into the darkness. Only Jesus is the True Light that leads us from darkness into God's glorious presence.</p> So much of what we seek to provide enlightenment only plunges us deeper into the darkness. Only Jesus is the True Light that leads us from darkness into God's glorious presence.

]]> Sun, 28 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2793 143 b1df6cd9485845df2131ad1f2fd505fc no Supporting the Sent Farewell to Kevin and Janelle Nehrt Philip Miles <p>A message to the church in light of the Nehrt family's departure to support a new church plant in West Lafayette, IA with The Salt Company.</p> <p>A message to the church in light of the Nehrt family's departure to support a new church plant in West Lafayette, IA with The Salt Company.</p> A message to the church in light of the Nehrt family's departure to support a new church plant in West Lafayette, IA with The Salt Company.

]]> Sun, 21 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 310 144 413bf128fa0c2cf2632b6b8800fb80cc no Come To Me and Drink Only Jesus can satisfy our deepest longings Philip Miles <p>The list of things from which we seek fulfillment is as varied as there are people on the earth. However, Jesus promises that the thirst in our souls for fulfillment and meaning can only be satisfied by him. </p> <p>The list of things from which we seek fulfillment is as varied as there are people on the earth. However, Jesus promises that the thirst in our souls for fulfillment and meaning can only be satisfied by him. </p> The list of things from which we seek fulfillment is as varied as there are people on the earth. However, Jesus promises that the thirst in our souls for fulfillment and meaning can only be satisfied by him.

]]> Sun, 14 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2596 145 0c3de56b6d2ee2a79471fb7bfbd93f78 no Sent Ones What can we learn about being sent by the One who was sent? Philip Miles <p>Since Jesus' return to the Father, his followers have become the sent ones. Following in the footsteps of Jesus means to embrace our call to go. This life is but a vapor and the whole of scripture seems to indicate that our function on the earth as the image bearers of God is to expand His kingdom on the earth by spreading the good news of His gospel as ambassadors and witnesses. </p> <p>Since Jesus' return to the Father, his followers have become the sent ones. Following in the footsteps of Jesus means to embrace our call to go. This life is but a vapor and the whole of scripture seems to indicate that our function on the earth as the image bearers of God is to expand His kingdom on the earth by spreading the good news of His gospel as ambassadors and witnesses. </p> Since Jesus' return to the Father, his followers have become the sent ones. Following in the footsteps of Jesus means to embrace our call to go. This life is but a vapor and the whole of scripture seems to indicate that our function on the earth as the image bearers of God is to expand His kingdom on the earth by spreading the good news of His gospel as ambassadors and witnesses.

]]> Sun, 07 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2007 146 0558d1d3e44a255dc880248c07af918b no Rethinking God's Will God's will may not always appeal to your felt desires, but that doesn't mean it's not God's will Philip Miles <p>We often think about the will of God for our lives through two different and oppositional questions meant to serve as a sort of heart diagnosis about how we see God and his role in our lives: a) as that which best suits me and my interests OR b) as that which leads me His people to obedience, holiness and righteousness.</p><p> </p><p><br></p> <p>We often think about the will of God for our lives through two different and oppositional questions meant to serve as a sort of heart diagnosis about how we see God and his role in our lives: a) as that which best suits me and my interests OR b) as that which leads me His people to obedience, holiness and righteousness.</p><p> </p><p><br></p> We often think about the will of God for our lives through two different and oppositional questions meant to serve as a sort of heart diagnosis about how we see God and his role in our lives: a) as that which best suits me and my interests OR b) as that which leads me His people to obedience, holiness and righteousness.

 


]]> Sun, 30 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2431 147 a374e0e8852d116722aaad587759dc82 no The Feast of Booths Remembering God's goodness is a mainstay to our endurance as we walk this life of faith Philip Miles <p>In John 7-10, Jesus will call himself living water and the light of the world. Understanding the Feast of Booths helps us to better understand why he chose these metaphors. Understanding when Jesus said what he said can help us better understand why he said what he said.</p> <p>In John 7-10, Jesus will call himself living water and the light of the world. Understanding the Feast of Booths helps us to better understand why he chose these metaphors. Understanding when Jesus said what he said can help us better understand why he said what he said.</p> In John 7-10, Jesus will call himself living water and the light of the world. Understanding the Feast of Booths helps us to better understand why he chose these metaphors. Understanding when Jesus said what he said can help us better understand why he said what he said.

]]> Sun, 23 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2730 148 7e1f36b59e7d8483722496c8545a985b no Christ Reigns Over All TJ Marshall <p>Exploring a Christ-centered view of all creation and acknowledging His supremacy over all things.</p> <p>Exploring a Christ-centered view of all creation and acknowledging His supremacy over all things.</p> Exploring a Christ-centered view of all creation and acknowledging His supremacy over all things.

]]> Sun, 16 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1977 149 e012f9cab55eae9e472edecc89679ea6 no Kingdom Advancement The nature of God's Kingdom and His plan to advance it. Nate Yurgaites <p><br></p> <p><br></p>

]]> Sun, 26 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2192 150 360231c2fdd955e3975f6d5fd98177df no The Renewed Mind Life in Christ is a life transformed by the Spirit Philip Miles <p>To be renewed is to live in a renewed community with a renewed mind. This is a joy and not a burden. We too often ponder the weight of these things as if the burden lay solely on us, but if we all live in the light of the mercies of God with renewed minds it would be a great joy and not a burden.</p> <p>To be renewed is to live in a renewed community with a renewed mind. This is a joy and not a burden. We too often ponder the weight of these things as if the burden lay solely on us, but if we all live in the light of the mercies of God with renewed minds it would be a great joy and not a burden.</p> To be renewed is to live in a renewed community with a renewed mind. This is a joy and not a burden. We too often ponder the weight of these things as if the burden lay solely on us, but if we all live in the light of the mercies of God with renewed minds it would be a great joy and not a burden.

]]> Sun, 19 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3336 151 2b9f3e186259ca4a2983874e98c2ba38 no Putting Your "Yes" On The Table Following God's invitation into obedience Kevin Nehrt <p>Abraham's obedience in the face of a test of his faith is a model for us as we consider God's plan for our lives at any age or stage of life.</p> <p>Abraham's obedience in the face of a test of his faith is a model for us as we consider God's plan for our lives at any age or stage of life.</p> Abraham's obedience in the face of a test of his faith is a model for us as we consider God's plan for our lives at any age or stage of life.

]]> Sun, 12 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2334 152 500a93f8dbdac4e76b6829533963c3d6 no The Words of Eternal Life As others flee, the twelve are drawn closer to Jesus Philip Miles <p>The call of Christ's lordship can be challenging. Jesus speaks truthfully and clearly with them, knowing already that there were those among his followers who did not believe. Jesus speaks truth, regardless of the cost, because life and the Spirit come only by the true Word of God wherein God has revealed Himself.</p> <p>The call of Christ's lordship can be challenging. Jesus speaks truthfully and clearly with them, knowing already that there were those among his followers who did not believe. Jesus speaks truth, regardless of the cost, because life and the Spirit come only by the true Word of God wherein God has revealed Himself.</p> The call of Christ's lordship can be challenging. Jesus speaks truthfully and clearly with them, knowing already that there were those among his followers who did not believe. Jesus speaks truth, regardless of the cost, because life and the Spirit come only by the true Word of God wherein God has revealed Himself.

]]> Sun, 05 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2649 153 cc652104c414b8e82f6100955ac0e802 no The Bread of Life The manna in the wilderness was a lesson about the One who would rescue the people of God Philip Miles <p>The crowds aims to secure their standing before God by their works, but Jesus reveals that the only thing they need to do is believe in Him, but they demand a sign. Their demand for a sign after having been miraculously fed to the full is a revelation of the condition of their hearts and, frankly, is reflective of the condition of every human heart before it is redeemed and made alive in Christ. There is a risk that we fail to recognize or see the goodness and awesome power of God in that which is right before us and continue to demand more signs or works if He is to earn or keep our interest.</p><p><br></p> <p>The crowds aims to secure their standing before God by their works, but Jesus reveals that the only thing they need to do is believe in Him, but they demand a sign. Their demand for a sign after having been miraculously fed to the full is a revelation of the condition of their hearts and, frankly, is reflective of the condition of every human heart before it is redeemed and made alive in Christ. There is a risk that we fail to recognize or see the goodness and awesome power of God in that which is right before us and continue to demand more signs or works if He is to earn or keep our interest.</p><p><br></p> The crowds aims to secure their standing before God by their works, but Jesus reveals that the only thing they need to do is believe in Him, but they demand a sign. Their demand for a sign after having been miraculously fed to the full is a revelation of the condition of their hearts and, frankly, is reflective of the condition of every human heart before it is redeemed and made alive in Christ. There is a risk that we fail to recognize or see the goodness and awesome power of God in that which is right before us and continue to demand more signs or works if He is to earn or keep our interest.


]]> Sun, 26 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3028 154 ac1220b8613931b19a5ff7d66d3f55bb no Feeding Thousands and Walking On Water The miracles display the glory of God in Christ Philip Miles <p>In the two miracles recorded back to back in John 6, we see how the primary audience for each miracle responds to Jesus subsequent to their experience. One audience sees this and one audience seeks to leverage this to their own ends. The crowd sees Jesus as the One who conquerors their enemies for them. They seek to make Jesus king on their terms. The disciples come to see Jesus as the One who has all power over all forces of creation and worship him as God.</p> <p>In the two miracles recorded back to back in John 6, we see how the primary audience for each miracle responds to Jesus subsequent to their experience. One audience sees this and one audience seeks to leverage this to their own ends. The crowd sees Jesus as the One who conquerors their enemies for them. They seek to make Jesus king on their terms. The disciples come to see Jesus as the One who has all power over all forces of creation and worship him as God.</p> In the two miracles recorded back to back in John 6, we see how the primary audience for each miracle responds to Jesus subsequent to their experience. One audience sees this and one audience seeks to leverage this to their own ends. The crowd sees Jesus as the One who conquerors their enemies for them. They seek to make Jesus king on their terms. The disciples come to see Jesus as the One who has all power over all forces of creation and worship him as God.

]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2270 155 05083eb5b3def726a32f909ac2882e5e no Witnesses to Christ's Claim Jesus is who he says he is, but not merely because he says so Philip Miles <p>There is sufficient evidence to point to Jesus as the Christ. Does our religious practice obscure Jesus from view? Jesus’ whole mission was to put God’s judgment to rest for those who accept His grace delivered through His judgment poured out on His Son. We don’t come to God with our requests; we come to God for the forgiveness that only He can give.</p> <p>There is sufficient evidence to point to Jesus as the Christ. Does our religious practice obscure Jesus from view? Jesus’ whole mission was to put God’s judgment to rest for those who accept His grace delivered through His judgment poured out on His Son. We don’t come to God with our requests; we come to God for the forgiveness that only He can give.</p> There is sufficient evidence to point to Jesus as the Christ. Does our religious practice obscure Jesus from view? Jesus’ whole mission was to put God’s judgment to rest for those who accept His grace delivered through His judgment poured out on His Son. We don’t come to God with our requests; we come to God for the forgiveness that only He can give.

]]> Sun, 12 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2208 156 cfb11fd43fd1310a140325784fb17028 no Ordination Service Philip Miles and Nate Yurgaites Ordination Kevin Nehrt <p>We were honored to ordain Philip Miles and Nate Yurgaites and affirm their respective calls to ministry; Philip as Lead Pastor of Sunrise Church and Nate as a church planter.</p> <p>We were honored to ordain Philip Miles and Nate Yurgaites and affirm their respective calls to ministry; Philip as Lead Pastor of Sunrise Church and Nate as a church planter.</p> We were honored to ordain Philip Miles and Nate Yurgaites and affirm their respective calls to ministry; Philip as Lead Pastor of Sunrise Church and Nate as a church planter.

]]> Sun, 05 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1902 157 e5b83601f6425258650b98d02ed92a0d no The Son and the Father Are One As the second member of the Trinity, Jesus reveals to us the nature and character of God the Father Philip Miles <p>Jesus' unity with the Father is core to his work and ability to deliver redemption and eternal life to those who believe in him. He is not merely a created being with imparted divinity, but he is God in the flesh.</p> <p>Jesus' unity with the Father is core to his work and ability to deliver redemption and eternal life to those who believe in him. He is not merely a created being with imparted divinity, but he is God in the flesh.</p> Jesus' unity with the Father is core to his work and ability to deliver redemption and eternal life to those who believe in him. He is not merely a created being with imparted divinity, but he is God in the flesh.

]]> Sun, 29 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2936 158 3798f0abee47dc8c6cf008292e471385 no The Redeeming God-Man Jesus provides more than simply physical healing Nate Yurgaites <p>While we have all desired physical healing, it is not our greatest need. Only Jesus, the Son of God, can heal our deepest brokenness and meet our truest need.</p> <p>While we have all desired physical healing, it is not our greatest need. Only Jesus, the Son of God, can heal our deepest brokenness and meet our truest need.</p> While we have all desired physical healing, it is not our greatest need. Only Jesus, the Son of God, can heal our deepest brokenness and meet our truest need.

]]> Sun, 22 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2388 159 88fed9438ae19900231b449c80929519 no A Prophet Has No Honor In His Hometown A desperate father seeks healing for his son Philip Miles <p>A true encounter with Jesus leads to understanding that sight or walking or even life itself is not one’s truest need, but the healing that Jesus gives is.</p> <p>A true encounter with Jesus leads to understanding that sight or walking or even life itself is not one’s truest need, but the healing that Jesus gives is.</p> A true encounter with Jesus leads to understanding that sight or walking or even life itself is not one’s truest need, but the healing that Jesus gives is.

]]> Sun, 15 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2391 160 42134be7fc497097e77c642c0f921221 no The Fields Are Ripe for Harvest The Samaritan woman tells her community about the Messiah Philip Miles <p>After tasting the living water, the Samaritan woman left her jar behind and ran back to her village to invite them to come and see a man “who told me all that I ever did.” Many of them heard her and came to meet Jesus. The outcome was their salvation as they heard Jesus teach.</p> <p>After tasting the living water, the Samaritan woman left her jar behind and ran back to her village to invite them to come and see a man “who told me all that I ever did.” Many of them heard her and came to meet Jesus. The outcome was their salvation as they heard Jesus teach.</p> After tasting the living water, the Samaritan woman left her jar behind and ran back to her village to invite them to come and see a man “who told me all that I ever did.” Many of them heard her and came to meet Jesus. The outcome was their salvation as they heard Jesus teach.

]]> Sun, 08 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2346 161 eed68599761188bfba3566b0380e154e no Living Water A divine appointment at Jacob's well Philip Miles <p>Jesus satisfies our deepest longings which are demonstrated in our empty pursuits. The encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well is a reminder for us of the life that comes only from Christ and an encouragement to us to offer this water to others so that they may worship the one, true God in spirit and in truth.</p> <p>Jesus satisfies our deepest longings which are demonstrated in our empty pursuits. The encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well is a reminder for us of the life that comes only from Christ and an encouragement to us to offer this water to others so that they may worship the one, true God in spirit and in truth.</p> Jesus satisfies our deepest longings which are demonstrated in our empty pursuits. The encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well is a reminder for us of the life that comes only from Christ and an encouragement to us to offer this water to others so that they may worship the one, true God in spirit and in truth.

]]> Sun, 01 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3193 162 0fdbe82954117eef143a9bd19b334563 no Give Thanks His Steadfast Love Endures Forever Philip Miles <p>True thanks is a demonstration of humility. As Christians, the ultimate place of our thanksgiving is to God as we humble ourselves before Him.</p> <p>True thanks is a demonstration of humility. As Christians, the ultimate place of our thanksgiving is to God as we humble ourselves before Him.</p> True thanks is a demonstration of humility. As Christians, the ultimate place of our thanksgiving is to God as we humble ourselves before Him.

]]> Sun, 20 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2180 163 13d9237f3a9bc53a5c9324529c45d19e no He Must Increase John gives the best example of one whose concern is primarily about promoting Christ's fame. Philip Miles <p>Jesus is the promised Messiah from Heaven and his glory is to the primary concern of those who profess him. John the Baptist gives the strongest example of one who could have cared for his own renown, but desired to make more of Jesus.</p> <p>Jesus is the promised Messiah from Heaven and his glory is to the primary concern of those who profess him. John the Baptist gives the strongest example of one who could have cared for his own renown, but desired to make more of Jesus.</p> Jesus is the promised Messiah from Heaven and his glory is to the primary concern of those who profess him. John the Baptist gives the strongest example of one who could have cared for his own renown, but desired to make more of Jesus.

]]> Sun, 13 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1986 164 08e4d7502a8e59fec5869fa8012b3ce2 no God So Loved the World God's love on display Philip Miles <p>The message of John 3:16 says a lot more about God and His grace than about our loveliness.</p> <p>The message of John 3:16 says a lot more about God and His grace than about our loveliness.</p> The message of John 3:16 says a lot more about God and His grace than about our loveliness.

]]> Sun, 06 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2065 165 141ed65288e0da808a4708183d63deed no Jesus and Nicodemus You must be born again. Philip Miles <p>Jesus astounds Nicodemus by telling him that he needs to be born again. "How can anyone be born when he is <a href="http://old?...Can" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">old?...Can</a> he enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born?"</p> <p>Jesus astounds Nicodemus by telling him that he needs to be born again. "How can anyone be born when he is <a href="http://old?...Can" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">old?...Can</a> he enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born?"</p> Jesus astounds Nicodemus by telling him that he needs to be born again. "How can anyone be born when he is old?...Can he enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born?"

]]> Sun, 30 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2092 166 89c8ef0cc0eb3362677184b6e78d12cc no Jesus Clearing Out the Temple Zeal for your house has consumed me Philip Miles <p>Jesus' clearing out of the merchants from the Temple reveals something about who he is and what our worship of him should look like.</p> <p>Jesus' clearing out of the merchants from the Temple reveals something about who he is and what our worship of him should look like.</p> Jesus' clearing out of the merchants from the Temple reveals something about who he is and what our worship of him should look like.

]]> Sun, 23 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2712 167 86b8805bf375df2394dbf86fc3341f6c no Water Into Wine Not just a party trick Philip Miles <p>Jesus' first miracle, or sign, in John's gospel is about more than keeping the party going.</p> <p>Jesus' first miracle, or sign, in John's gospel is about more than keeping the party going.</p> Jesus' first miracle, or sign, in John's gospel is about more than keeping the party going.

]]> Sun, 16 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2172 168 3376870479fb06f882586cde7ee5db0a no The First Disciples Grassroots Evangelism Philip Miles <p>This passage is a short primer on the grassroots nature of evangelism. The first followers of Christ came to him by way of personal invitation; maybe there is a helpful encouragement to found therein.</p> <p>This passage is a short primer on the grassroots nature of evangelism. The first followers of Christ came to him by way of personal invitation; maybe there is a helpful encouragement to found therein.</p> This passage is a short primer on the grassroots nature of evangelism. The first followers of Christ came to him by way of personal invitation; maybe there is a helpful encouragement to found therein.

]]> Sun, 09 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2296 169 db2dd410cbc3852bd84e680bba3e6de0 no John the Baptizer Herald of King Jesus Philip Miles <p>John played an important role in the announcement and beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry while displaying great humility and submission to God's plan.</p> <p>John played an important role in the announcement and beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry while displaying great humility and submission to God's plan.</p> John played an important role in the announcement and beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry while displaying great humility and submission to God's plan.

]]> Sun, 02 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2459 170 b9f4b0f07c420d85bb5164c72d847234 no The Prologue John's Prologue Philip Miles <p>John introduces the "hero" of the gospel story.</p> <p>John introduces the "hero" of the gospel story.</p> John introduces the "hero" of the gospel story.

]]> Sun, 25 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2294 171 64c9d38c5e01abe3af9fb2978158ce30 no Hebrews #18 Part 18 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 17 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2862 172 626a639c9d74881813a9fb4fb1754c97 no Hebrews #17 Part 17 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 10 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2620 173 7334291d0d6ec44527ba7faeb562b7e2 no Hebrews #16 Part 16 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 03 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2157 174 6940a152f2d4c931d8fc353ec9bf93fc no Hebrews #15 Part 15 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 19 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2374 175 920b8433688097136fba0f9c351d64c4 no Hebrews #14 Part 14 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 12 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2889 176 a55cff77bc7b26b96cdc7625d20365a3 no Hebrews #13 Part 13 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 05 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1505 177 7951ac7dc420ff619a9d63370cf6d397 no Hebrews #12 Part 12 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 22 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2853 178 97d05cdd4e06786bfbe0aff566555214 no Hebrews #11 Part 11 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 08 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2588 179 c409e7e60d097f5f7e936935f11e7d10 no Hebrews #10 Part 10 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 01 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2960 180 b268611dfc36e0d464e44bd9efd995cc no Hebrews #8 Part 8 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 03 Apr 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2672 181 9f3b05adc8bc7967c0f6a86f69ef8980 no Hebrews #7 Part 7 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 27 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2801 182 f3af4208bcbf176451401058294a17f6 no Hebrews #5 Part 5 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 13 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2338 183 3e552762ee8264abcb9fc8df76dfe6ef no Hebrews #4 Part 4 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 06 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2605 184 6e4c415cba1e1a30cce83a8dd8d8fb1e no Hebrews #3 Part 3 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 27 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2331 185 62bfbe0d03fd9e6a59e853846b82af96 no Hebrews #2 Part 2 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 20 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2642 186 ff2c5b30a84a0d1704714dbc09392615 no Hebrews #1 Part 1 of 20 Philip Miles Sun, 13 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2270 187 574310757448b7e3744ef2922dd0b915 no