The sermon then unfolds Paul’s deep affection and clear aim. Like a nursing mother and a caring father, Paul was gentle, sacrificial, and personally invested—imparting not only the gospel of God, but his own soul, laboring night and day so as not to burden them. His goal was not merely a momentary decision, but that they would “walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.” Listeners are challenged to embody the gospel they proclaim: entering unbelievers’ lives with integrity, genuine love, and a long-term aim for their salvation and growth in a life worthy of God.

Pastor Strelecki exhorted us to remember how the gospel first came to us and to recognize what it has produced: a work of faith, a labor of love, and a patience of hope. The Thessalonians received the word “in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost,” becoming followers of Paul and of the Lord, even under pressure and opposition. We, too, have been entrusted with this powerful gospel; our task is not to dress it up with flattering speech or human technique, but to proclaim it plainly and confidently, trusting its inherent power. Rather than letting Scripture become competing “content” alongside our devices and distractions, we are called to open this book, believe what it says, and allow its power in the Holy Ghost to renew our minds, shape our relationships, and anchor us with much assurance in what God has done and will yet do in Christ.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, then outlines the primary purposes and themes of the letter. Paul writes to encourage the saints in their steadfastness, defend the integrity of his ministry, comfort them in suffering, exhort them in their daily walk (including diligent work), correct misunderstandings about prophetic events, and address relational tensions within the assembly. A key structural lens for the epistle is found in 1 Thessalonians 1:3—their “work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope”—which he uses to frame the letter’s flow: faith expressed in gospel reception and proclamation, love expressed in serving the living and true God and one another, and hope expressed in waiting for God’s Son from heaven. The coming of the Lord Jesus is woven throughout, not as mere prophecy charts, but as a practical motivator for holy living in light of the judgment seat of Christ. The aim, as presented, is that this “lovely epistle” would not remain a distant historical document, but actively renew our minds and shape how we walk, suffer, serve, and abound more and more until Christ’s return.

Building on supporting passages in 1 Peter 1, John 17, Psalm 2, Proverbs 8, Hebrews 10, and Ephesians 1, the message shows that Christ was foreordained before the world began, set up as the Father’s wisdom and delight, and willingly accepted the Father’s eternal will. Redemption, then, is not God’s main purpose but the necessary means to reach His ultimate goal: the full exaltation of His Son and the gathering together of all things in Christ. The sermon challenges us to stop beginning with ourselves and to start thinking from Christ outward—seeing creation, history, salvation, our identity, and our future all “in Him,” where God has placed every spiritual blessing.

This overview of divine counsel is not just theological “academia”; it is meant to ground believers in something that truly cannot be shaken. While our possessions, plans, and even our lives are uncertain, God’s counsel “shall stand” and He “works all things after the counsel of His own will.” The sermon presses probing questions: Do you know God’s counsel? Which counsel are you actually trusting—His or your own? Are you resting in the certainty of His purpose in Christ? As the series continues, the teaching will unpack the specific substance of that eternal counsel and what God has predestined as the believer’s everlasting end.

He stresses that real spiritual change does not flow chiefly from practical instruction or behavior tweaks, but from beholding the glory of the Lord in His Word by faith. As believers gaze on Christ—the perfect image of the invisible God—the Spirit transforms them “from glory to glory,” so that ordinary spheres of life (marriage, family, work, citizenship, church) become the very places where God’s character is displayed. Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, urges Christians to stop chasing worldly greatness and instead rest in God’s unchanging promises and eternal purpose in Christ, allowing His attributes to be formed in them and expressed through them in the seemingly small, everyday details of life.

Strelecki then turns to God’s existence and attributes, showing from passages like Psalms, Romans, and Isaiah that denying God is the height of folly, even as creation, human dependence, and the order of the world all testify to a first cause and sustaining Creator. He highlights God’s incommunicable attributes—His eternity (from everlasting to everlasting) and aseity (self-existence, “I AM THAT I AM”)—as realities that set God utterly apart from idols and from His creatures, and yet this high and lofty One chooses to dwell with the humble and contrite. He closes by pointing to Christ as the perfect image of the invisible God, through whom believers not only come to know God savingly, but are also transformed into His likeness in those communicable attributes that reflect the family resemblance to their Creator.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, then traced how Hebrews 1 presents God speaking “at sundry times and in divers manners” in the past—through direct speech, visible manifestations (like the burning bush and Sinai), dreams, visions, miracles, and prophetic words that addressed both near and distant future events—culminating in His final and fullest revelation in His Son. Christ is the Word made flesh, the image of the invisible God, the One in whom all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily, and all Scripture ultimately testifies of Him. In these last days, God has spoken by His Son, and that revelation has been inscripturated through the apostles and prophets, giving us a complete written Word that both reveals who God is and works effectually in the believer’s soul.

Special revelation fills that gap. Pastor-Teacher Strelecki traces how God moved from speaking directly to individuals — Adam, Abraham, David — through dreams, visions, and miracles, and ultimately through His Son, before having it all inscripturated in written form for every generation. He emphasizes the unparalleled treasure believers possess today: a completed, written revelation containing everything God wanted known, progressively unfolded over time and now fully available in scripture. The session closes with a preview of coming studies on the mediums and progressive nature of revelation, the existence and attributes of God, and ultimately His eternal plan and purpose in Jesus Christ.

Yet, if general revelation powerfully displays God’s glory, why do we still grope in darkness without His Word? This sermon answers that by highlighting the limits of creation’s witness and the indispensable role of special revelation—God’s direct self-disclosure in His Word and ultimately in Jesus Christ. Listeners are urged to see Scripture not as a mere religious book, but as God personally unveiling Himself, His will, His redemptive purpose, and our true condition. The goal is not bare information, but transformation: to move from vague notions of God to a deeper, accurate, and personal knowledge that shapes our lives and fuels our gratitude and worship.

What does God’s choice to reveal Himself tell us about Him and about us? Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, presses home that because God is infinitely beyond human reach, we would know nothing rightly—about God, ourselves, or reality—if He had not chosen to speak. Yet He created us to know Him, took the initiative to disclose His character, will, and purposes, and preserved that revelation in written form. He closes by asking us to reflect on several implications: that relationship with God rests on His gracious initiative, that His revelation is profoundly personal, and that its central content is God Himself—who He is, what He has done, and what He will do—preparing us to consider, in future lessons, the specific kinds and means of His revelation.

Pastor Strelecki then emphasizes that God has graciously chosen to reveal Himself, and that this is both our greatest need and our greatest privilege. God has unveiled Himself in creation, in history, in Scripture, and supremely in the Lord Jesus Christ. The series will unfold in three parts: “Finding Out God” (revelation, illumination, God’s existence and attributes), “The Determinate Counsel of God” (His plan, will, and purpose in Christ), and “God Hath Revealed” (how He works out that counsel in progressive revelation and redemption). His stated aim is that believers would not merely accumulate facts about God, but truly know Him personally, applying His revealed character to their lives so that gratitude, faith, and Christlike transformation deepen as they behold Him in His Word.

Josh then turns back to Matthew 6 to explain the “conditional” language in its proper context. He presents it not as a salvation formula but as instruction to a remnant being taught how to live and pray in contrast to the self-righteous Pharisees, who trusted in themselves, despised others, and did not see their own need for forgiveness. The condition—“forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”—functions in the realm of relational life and reward, not judicial standing, paralleling Paul’s principle in Galatians 6 that we reap what we sow. Likewise today, under grace, since we have already been fully forgiven in Christ, our call to forgive others (Ephesians 4:32) is part of sowing to the Spirit; failures to forgive will not jeopardize our salvation but will affect our reward at the judgment seat of Christ.

From there, the sermon traces a biblical pattern for decision-making: recognizing the foundational resources we have in Christ, renewing our minds by the Spirit through the Word, and then making specific judgments in real-life situations. Passages like Romans 8, Romans 12, Titus 2, Philippians 1, and 1 Corinthians 6 & 10 are used to show how believers move from “what is lawful” to “what is loving, expedient, and edifying,” learning to deny the flesh, walk after the Spirit, refuse to repay evil for evil, and abound in love that approves what is excellent. The aim is to help believers see how to weave God’s truth into daily choices so that their lives increasingly echo Christ’s character in unique, practical circumstances.

Pastor Josh, Pastor-Teacher, then highlights six intertwined motivations for Philemon’s forgiveness: his own indebtedness to Paul through the gospel, the opportunity to continue refreshing the saints (including Paul), the call to obey God’s clear command to forgive as he has been forgiven, the expectation that he will “do more than” Paul asks, the accountability of Paul’s planned visit and the shared fellowship of other laborers, and finally, the sufficiency of “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” with his spirit to actually do these hard things. He applies this to local church life, warning how unforgiveness breeds schism and gives Satan an advantage, while forgiveness restores joy and fellowship. He concludes with modern stories of radical forgiveness to illustrate how the gospel can free both offender and offended, urging believers to let God’s forgiveness of them become the pattern and power for extending forgiveness to others—even when they do not deserve it.

Pastor Strelecki also expounds on how the act of forgiving is a reflection of the divine, encouraging Christians to forgive as God has forgiven them through Christ. He references various scriptures, including the teachings of Jesus and the writings of Paul, to show that forgiveness is a key part of Christian living. Strelecki emphasizes that the ability to forgive fully and abundantly stems from understanding and internalizing the forgiveness believers themselves have received. By doing so, they not only emulate God's character but also strengthen the unity and love within the local church, showing that forgiveness is not a mere doctrinal point but a lived spiritual reality meant to transform human hearts and relationships.

Strelecki further explores the roles of repentance and change as essential precursors to forgiveness and acceptance, using Onesimus' conversion and subsequent journey back to Philemon as a vivid example. He underscores the importance of a contrite heart and genuine repentance in facilitating true forgiveness and restoration of relationships within the Christian community. By analyzing Paul's role as an intercessor and substitute, Strelecki draws parallels to Christ's role in our reconciliation with God, urging the congregation to embrace similar actions in their relationships. He contrasts worldly forgiveness with divine, Christ-like forgiveness, stressing the deep, genuine bonds that are strengthened through the transformative power of love and grace, a power that believers should actively demonstrate in their interactions with others.

Strelecki emphasizes the relational dynamics within the early church, underscoring the refreshing and joyous impact Philemon has on his fellow believers. Through Philemon's example, the principle of forgiveness is examined as both a personal and communal experience of grace and faith in action. Strelecki highlights the core message that true Christian practice involves extending forgiveness and embodying Christ's teachings, not just in words but in actions that align with divine love and grace. In doing so, he encourages believers to see forgiveness as a conqueror of worldly divisions, inviting them to reflect Christ's humility and mercy in everyday relationships.

Strelecki further explores the broader issue of slavery in the Roman Empire, explaining that while the New Testament does not directly attack the institution of slavery, it promotes a Christian ethic that fundamentally alters the master-servant dynamic. Citing various scriptures, he illustrates how both masters and servants are encouraged to act with a spirit of love and grace, reflecting their identity in Christ. The sermon concludes with a call for self-reflection on how these principles apply to contemporary issues of forgiveness and reconciliation, urging believers to embody the communication of faith through the acknowledgment of the good in Christ Jesus.

The message closed by emphasizing Paul’s last line in the epistle: “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.” Loving Christ in sincerity was defined as an unmixed, genuine devotion shaped by the truth of Ephesians 1–3 and lived out in the worthy walk of Ephesians 4–6. Strelecki reviewed those core doctrines—the counsel of God before the world began, the believer’s identity in Christ, the mystery of Jew and Gentile in one body, the heavenly vocation of the church, and the provision of the whole armor of God—showing that they are not abstract ideas but truths meant to permeate every relationship and circumstance of life. His expressed desire as Pastor-Teacher is that this local church would be marked by such sincere love for Christ, walking as children of light, standing firm in the evil day, and living now in a way that reflects who they already are in Him.

He also described the fullness of prayer as the Word and Spirit moving from mere knowledge into action—Christ dwelling in our hearts by faith so that His love “which passes knowledge” is actually lived out. Drawing from Ephesians 1–3 and 4–6, he urged believers not to stop at right theology, but to let prayerful meditation on God’s truth produce concrete obedience: serving others, meeting needs, interceding for all saints, bearing infirmities, and walking as children of light. In sum, Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, called the church to be a praying people—continuing instant in prayer, watching with all perseverance—so that we neither ignore the battle nor waste our completeness in Christ, but glorify God by actively doing His will.

Pastor Josh further elaborates on the frequency of prayer, encouraging believers to engage in continuous communication with God, as reflected in passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which advises Christians to "pray without ceasing." He points out that prayer is an ongoing dialogue that can be undertaken at any time and is not confined to specific locations or circumstances. By examining Old and New Testament scriptures, Pastor Josh illustrates how seeking God's face—His character and glory—enriches the understanding and appropriation of God's will. He encourages the faithful to remain vigilant in prayer, especially during spiritual battles, and to utilize prayer as a means of seeking God’s comfort, strength, and guidance, ultimately enhancing their walk of faith.

By examining scripture, Strelecki underscores various elements and features of prayer such as adoration, confession, supplication, and thanksgiving. He encourages believers to approach prayer with a sense of reverence, acknowledging God's greatness and character before presenting their requests. Furthermore, he reassures that confession in prayer doesn't question one's forgiveness but enhances relational dynamics with God by acknowledging personal sins and weaknesses. Supplication is seen not just as making requests but as intertwining God's provisions into one's life, while thanksgiving ties the other elements together, ensuring a rich and vital prayer life. Strelecki implores believers to engage earnestly in prayer, affirming it as life-giving and strengthening one's communion with God.

Strelecki further emphasizes that believers have unprecedented access to God through Jesus Christ, pointing out that prayer is a form of worship and an acknowledgment of both God's all-sufficiency and our dependency on Him. He explores various aspects of prayer, such as the role of words in communication with God and the privilege of access bought by Christ's sacrifice. Addressing prayer's fundamental connection to mankind's creation in God's image, Strelecki underscores the transformative power of prayer, urging the congregation to move beyond mere knowledge of spiritual truths to active engagement, seeing prayer as a mechanism for participating in God's work. He challenges listeners to examine their prayer lives, encouraging them to be both the recipients and agents of answered prayers, embodying the teachings of scripture in every facet of life.

Pastor Strelecki also encouraged believers to engage deeply with Scripture through reading, studying, meditating, and believing in the Word of God, emphasizing that its strength lies in its ability to transform the inner man. He pointed out that the sword of the Spirit is sharper than any two-edged sword, capable of reaching the soul and spirit and serving as a discerner of the heart's thoughts and intents. He urged the congregation to value this divine weapon, protect it from neglect, and use it to pull down strongholds in their minds. Furthermore, Pastor Strelecki highlighted the importance of wielding this sword in unity with other believers, strengthening the body of Christ to fight the good fight collectively. In conclusion, he prepared to transition into discussing the role of prayer, connected with the Word of God, as part of the believer's spiritual arsenal.

Drawing from various scriptures, including Ephesians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and Romans, Strelecki highlights how the hope of salvation provides enduring joy, peace, and comfort, enabling believers to withstand spiritual attacks and remain steadfast. This hope, deeply rooted in the revelation of God’s eternal purpose through Jesus Christ, serves as a powerful tool for confronting the wickedness of the present world. By focusing on this future assurance, believers are encouraged to remain diligent in their spiritual walk, allowing their understanding of their identity in Christ to transform how they live moment by moment. Ultimately, Strelecki exhorts his audience to let this profound hope shape their inner strength, fostering faith, hope, and charity in their lives.

Pastor Strelecki further expounds on the nature of faith, asserting that it is critical because it appropriates and exacts God's provisions against spiritual attacks. He highlights the dependency of faith's strength on the substance in which it is placed—faith in Jesus Christ empowers believers to overcome challenges. He encourages the congregation to immerse themselves in God's Word, understanding the countless thoughts and promises God has for them, which arms their faith to quench all adversarial fiery darts effectively. Concluding with a call to action, Strelecki urges believers to engage actively in their spiritual battles, using their faith to defend against and subdue any thoughts or challenges that contradict the knowledge of God.

In addition to providing inner tranquility, the gospel of peace equips believers to confront spiritual adversities actively and maintains unity within the body of Christ. By embracing this peace, believers are ready and zealous for good works, similar to David's readiness to face Goliath. The message urges believers to remain steadfast, avoiding entanglement with worldly affairs, and to let the peace of God govern their hearts, enabling them to confront life's trials with courage and reflect Christ's love and unity. This preparation encourages believers to meditate on these truths, allowing them to be the cornerstone of their spiritual resilience in the Lord.

The sermon further explores the dual purpose of righteousness: securing eternal justification and promoting a righteous walk as a defense against spiritual attacks. Strelecki highlights that protecting the heart is crucial since it is the source of life’s issues. He admonishes believers to delve into God's Word for truth and allow it to penetrate their hearts, producing righteousness that counters sin and guards against fear and guilt. Emphasizing the blessings of living righteously, Strelecki cautions against relying on secular solutions and encourages trust in God's provisions for the soul, fostering a life that is not only shielded by righteousness but is proactive in love and faith towards others.

Strelecki also reflects on the eternal purpose and destiny God has set forth for believers, emphasizing the importance of understanding this transcendent truth over the fleeting concerns of the present life. He encourages believers to focus on the spiritual blessings found in Christ and to live by these principles, urging them to prioritize spiritual truths over worldly desires. By understanding and valuing the truth in Jesus, believers can navigate life's challenges with a perspective rooted in God's eternal plan, leading to a life characterized by godly fruit and spiritual victory.

Strelecki contrasts the nature of worldly error and deception with the enduring nature of God's truth, which begins with God Himself and is revealed through creation, the Scriptures, and ultimately the person of Jesus Christ. He explains that spiritual warfare involves bringing every thought into captivity to Christ, highlighting that understanding and living in God's truth are essential for overcoming the lies and error propagated by the devil and worldly influences. The sermon calls believers to embrace the truth of the gospel as central to their lives, living out this truth in a world engulfed in spiritual darkness and standing boldly in the victory of Christ.

Strelecki also draws parallels from the Old Testament, citing figures like Joshua and David as examples of those who were strong in the Lord against formidable enemies. He asserts that the spiritual strength believers need today is akin to that confidence and lack of fear modeled by biblical figures. This strength involves a deep understanding and belief in the transformative power of the Gospel, the promises of eternal life, and the inheritance in Jesus Christ. Additionally, Strelecki calls believers to confront worldly ideologies rooted in darkness with the wisdom and light of Christ, reminding them that their true battle is spiritual. With references to historical figures like Richard Wurmbrand, who demonstrated unwavering faith amidst persecution, he inspires Christians to echo heaven in their lives, consistently drawing strength from their assured future and the hope of glory in Christ.

Strelecki further explains that the confrontation is deeply rooted in spiritual wickedness, aligning with the adversary's strategy to deceive through spiritual darkness rather than physical attack. He delves into the biblical origins of this warfare, tracing it back to Lucifer’s fall and his spreading of iniquity. Strelecki urges believers to discern and combat these spiritual ploys with the truth of the Gospel, embracing a different value system centered on Christ-like behavior of truth, giving, and sacrificial love. As he concludes, Strelecki challenges listeners to stand firm, imbued with the strength and might of God, to fight the good fight against spiritual darkness, preparing for the next discussions on the specific elements of the armor of God.

Strelecki delves into the role of institutions established by God, such as the church, marriage, family, and government, as reflections of eternal realities. He contrasts these with the corrupted powers and principalities described in Ephesians, influenced by spiritual wickedness. Through various scriptural references, including Romans 13 and Colossians 1, the sermon illustrates the nature and purpose of governmental authority and the believer's responsibility to live contrary to the world’s darkness. He calls believers to live by faith, equipped with spiritual armament, to fight against the influence of darkness, emphasizing that true transformation occurs within believers' hearts and minds through God's Word.

Strelecki further connects this idea to the broader themes within the Book of Ephesians, highlighting the importance of walking worthy of one's calling in Christ. He explains that this involves not merely going through the motions but understanding and living out one's vocation through the power of the Spirit and the wisdom of God. The pastor underscores the eternal impact of demonstrating Christ-like servitude in earthly relationships, suggesting that such actions serve both as a testament to one's faith and as preparation for the life to come. He invites listeners to see their work as an opportunity to glorify God, promising that the true reward is not earthly recognition but the eternal inheritance received from the Lord.

Strelecki turns to biblical references to illustrate how the principles of servitude and freedom in Christ transcend earthly bondage. Citing scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments, he delves into the historical and scriptural context of slavery, demonstrating God's emphasis on attitude and character over the societal structures of the time. He encourages believers to draw from Christ's example of humility and service, reminding them of the eternal rewards promised to those who labor in faith and obedience. Through this lens, mundane tasks gain spiritual significance, motivating believers to transform their workplace experiences into acts of worship and testimony. Strelecki concludes by urging the congregation to be thankful for opportunities to illuminate Christ's life in all their endeavors, thereby aligning their personal conduct with the heavenly vocation to which they are called.

Continuing, Strelecki underscores the necessity of spiritual nourishment through the "nurture and admonition of the Lord," interpreting nurture as corrective instruction with a purposeful aim toward righteousness. He references the broader biblical theme of divine chastening, which serves to instruct and correct believers lovingly, producing the peaceable fruit of righteousness. He challenges parents to instill spiritual teachings and discipline, aiming for heartfelt obedience rather than mere outward conformity. As parents exercise this role, they themselves grow in spiritual maturity. Strelecki concludes by encouraging families to be Spirit-filled, drawing wisdom and guidance from God's Word to build strong, faith-based relationships within the family unit.

Strelecki also addresses the distinct roles of mothers and fathers within the family structure. He underscores the nurturing aspect of motherhood and the fathers' responsibility to lead without provoking their children to wrath. Drawing from various passages, he illustrates how the biblical approach to parenting transcends dispensations, providing timeless principles that guide believers today. By investing time, love, and the teachings of Christ into their children, parents not only fulfill their God-given roles but also prepare their children to navigate and withstand the challenges of the world, ultimately living lives that honor God.

Strelecki encourages parents to recognize the fleeting yet significant opportunity they have to influence their children's spiritual growth. He suggests involving children in church activities and fostering a love for God’s Word as practical steps toward nurturing obedience and honor. Additionally, he extends these principles to all believers, stressing the importance of spiritual discipline and adherence to God’s commandments. Strelecki calls for a focus on fostering godliness within the family and church community, urging believers to prioritize spiritual relationships and to be actively involved in supporting the local church.

In discussing the role of parents, Strelecki underscores their critical position as representatives of God's authority in the family. He emphasizes that parents are entrusted with nurturing and instructing their children in the ways of the Lord, creating an environment rich with spiritual learning. The family, as designed by God, serves as the primary avenue for spiritual influence and development, and parents should seize the opportunity to integrate biblical teachings into daily family life. Strelecki concludes by encouraging families to focus on creating a Spirit-filled home that influences the larger world by exemplifying a life centered on God's word and dedicated to the spiritual nurture of each family member.

Strelecki also addresses the importance of marital intimacy, discussing the Biblical perspective of sexual union within marriage from 1 Corinthians 7. He emphasizes mutual respect and benevolence, framing the physical relationship as a sacred, exclusive bond to be cherished and nurtured. While acknowledging cultural influences that may challenge traditional views, Strelecki encourages open communication and sacrificial love, viewing it as a reflection of Christ's enduring love for the church. Ultimately, he highlights that the greatest spiritual growth comes from the relationship between spouses, with each partner playing a significant role in the other's journey to becoming more like Christ. Through this lens, Strelecki urges couples to see their marriage as a powerful testament to God's grace and purpose, bringing glory to Him and serving as a light to others.

Strelecki further explains that the husband's love is not contingent upon the wife's merit but is a reflection of Christ's unconditional love. He urges husbands to see their responsibility as a profound one, equating the marital union to the relationship between Christ and the church. This includes a commitment to sanctify and cleanse the marriage, much like Christ sanctifies the church, using the Word of God as the means of purification. The pastor-teacher underscores the transformative power of this love, which can impact not only the marriage but also serve as a testimony to others. By understanding and applying these biblical principles, husbands can truly embody the spirit of Christ in their homes.

A significant portion of the sermon is dedicated to understanding the biblical, mutual responsibilities of marriage, emphasizing love, chastity, help, and peace as essential duties for both husbands and wives. Josh Strelecki emphasizes the importance of applying biblical instructions regarding treatment of fellow believers to one's own spouse, challenging the congregation to view these teachings as pertinent not only to church-wide interactions but primarily within the marriage union. He stresses that the submission called for is voluntary and Spirit-led, rather than coerced, and urges the faithful to view marriage through God’s lens, seeing its sanctity and glory, even amidst cultural opposition and personal failure. The sermon concludes with encouragement to see marriage as a reflection of Christ and the church, urging believers to navigate marriage with grace and a Spirit-filled perspective.

Pastor Strelecki also underscores the importance of submitting to one another in love, as a reflection of Christ's relationship with the church. He addresses common misinterpretations of submission and headship, urging a return to Biblical principles rather than succumbing to societal distortions. The sermon encourages believers to view marriage as a training ground for eternal life, where mutual submission and love mirror the relationship between Christ and the church. Strelecki concludes by challenging the congregation to recognize the transforming power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God in strengthening and sanctifying marriages in a way that honors Christ.

Pastor Strelecki further explores the Apostle Paul's writings, particularly in Romans 7, 2 Corinthians 11, and Ephesians 5, to explain how Paul uses the analogy of marriage to articulate the transformative and intimate relationship between Christ and the church. He stresses that Paul's revelation of the church as the body of Christ provides a fuller understanding of the profound union with Christ, beyond the metaphor of a bride awaiting marriage. Strelecki encourages his audience not to be divided over the terminology of "bride" and "body" but to appreciate the richness of these similes in illustrating our identity and relationship with Christ.

Strelecki underscores the significance of understanding and living out this submission, not only within earthly relationships but in anticipation of the life to come. He contrasts the flaws and tensions in worldly authorities with the harmonious, cooperative order within Christ's kingdom, achievable only through the Spirit's influence and the transformative power of God's Word. By embracing this mindset and resisting the self-centered tendencies of the flesh, believers align their lives with divine purposes, turning ordinary exchanges into meaningful reflections of Christ's love. Throughout, Strelecki encourages a faith-driven walk that fosters unity and strength, grounded in the love and example of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Strelecki underscores the importance of thanksgiving as an expression of humility and recognition of our reliance on God's provision. He connects this gratitude to the spiritual and physical blessings found in Christ, urging believers to maintain a thankful heart in all circumstances, including during hardships. Addressing the theme of submission, Strelecki depicts it as a vital practice among believers, modeled by the humility and service of Christ. By submitting to one another, Christians reflect the life of Christ, defying worldly notions of power and authority. The sermon concludes with an encouragement for the congregation to genuinely embrace these practices, viewing them as integral to living out their faith in all aspects of life.

Pastor Strelecki also broadens the context by reviewing the grandeur of God's eternal purpose in Jesus Christ as revealed in Ephesians. He encourages congregants to meditate on the ultimate purpose of their identity in Christ, which transcends worldly pursuits and focuses on what God has purposed before creation. The sermon underscores that the Spirit-filled life involves regular thanksgiving for both the natural and spiritual blessings believers receive. By filling themselves with the Spirit and renewing their minds, believers can maintain a sense of gratitude that aligns with God's grand plan, ultimately directing their hearts towards eternal and spiritual realities that supersede temporary worldly concerns.

Furthermore, Pastor Strelecki draws connections between scriptural examples and the spiritual songs he mentions, noting the deep heritage of singing in biblical history—from creation to significant biblical events and beyond. He urges believers to assess their approach to music and singing, stressing the importance of singing from the heart with an understanding of God's truths. Pastor Josh explains how singing together corporately not only honors God but also unifies the congregation, reflecting a shared belief and doctrine. He closes with a call to embrace singing as a profound response to the victory Christians have in Jesus Christ, regardless of life's challenges, encouraging the congregation to continue this tradition as a vital aspect of their spiritual lives.

Pastor Strelecki further explains that being filled with the Spirit involves consciously engaging with the Word of God, yielding to it, and allowing the Spirit’s influence to manifest in one’s actions and thoughts. He draws a parallel between the effects of excess wine leading to drunkenness and the effects of the Spirit—when fully embraced—leading to spiritual fullness displayed in sober understanding. Strelecki highlights Paul's prayers for believers, emphasizing the need to grow in the knowledge of God and to let Christ dwell richly in their hearts by faith. The aim is for believers to mature spiritually, reflecting the fullness of God in their lives, which is part of God’s grand objective for them.

Furthermore, Pastor Strelecki outlines the practical outcomes of a Spirit-filled life, such as singing, giving thanks, and mutual submission among fellow believers. He highlights the importance of understanding and living in accordance with God's will, rooted in Scripture, to shine as lights in a world filled with darkness. By embracing the wisdom imparted through the Holy Spirit, believers are called to exhibit a life reflective of Christ, evidenced by gratitude, unity, and service.

Strelecki also addresses the common struggle with regretting wasted time and offers encouragement for dealing with these feelings. He suggests that godly sorrow should lead to repentance and transformation rather than dwelling on past failures. Emphasizing grace, he encourages believers to lean on God's abundant mercy to overcome past mistakes and press forward in pursuit of a meaningful, God-glorifying life. Strelecki asserts that the grace of God enables believers to move beyond their failures and engage actively in redeeming their opportunities for spiritual growth and service, thus laying hold of eternal life here and now. Ultimately, he calls the congregation to embrace their freedom in Christ, to detach from worldly vanities, and to commit to a life characterized by giving, ministering, and sacrificial love that reflects the Savior.

Pastor Strelecki further elaborates on the practical application of redeeming the time by drawing parallels with biblical redemption, where value and necessity are tied to purchasing for a higher purpose. By studying Scripture and allowing the Spirit to transform their minds, believers can gain divine wisdom, which acts as a form of spiritual currency. This wisdom equips them to seize opportunities and make meaningful, God-honoring choices. Strelecki encourages his congregation to prioritize spiritual wisdom over worldly goods, emphasizing that true happiness and fulfillment are found in understanding and living out the principles God provides. By doing so, they not only redeem their present moments but also lay hold on eternal life, living out their faith.

Pastor Strelecki further elaborates on the biblical understanding of time, noting that while the world perceives it at a macro level, believers should recognize its segments—moments and opportunities—as precious. By developing a mindset of seeing each day as an opportunity for righteous living, believers can counteract the evil present in the world. This understanding transforms the perception of life's brevity from a source of anxiety into a motivation for purposeful living. He encourages the congregation to embrace the privilege of living wisely and spiritually, using time as a classroom for edification and conformity to the image of Christ, stressing that this godly use of time will have eternal significance.

Pastor Strelecki draws parallels between Ephesians 5 and Romans 13, illustrating how the light of God's Word gives believers the wisdom to navigate a dark world. He urges the congregation to rely on their identity in Christ to enlighten their understanding and guide their conduct. The sermon stresses that redeeming the time is crucial because it aligns with God's will and is an antidote to the world's tendency towards darkness and sin. Although walking circumspectly and avoiding spiritual sleep does not affect salvation, it is a testament to the believers walk after the Spirit. Pastor Strelecki encourages believers to pursue godliness actively, illustrating that even in failure, one must continue striving towards righteousness, supported by God's rich grace and love.

Strelecki also outlines the importance of reproving the unfruitful works of darkness by not partaking in them and by unashamedly living out the truth. He challenges to assess whether one is spiritually awake or asleep, urging them to rise and embrace the light of Christ. This involves a conscious effort to walk in the ways of God, which includes using scripture as a guide in both proving what aligns with God's will and reproving what doesn't.

Pastor Josh further elaborates on the implications of being light in the Lord, encouraging believers to reflect this light in a world filled with darkness. He stresses the importance of not merely recognizing their identity in Christ but actively walking in it by displaying godliness in behavior and attitudes. Using examples from Scripture, he illustrates how the spiritual light provided through the gospel empowers believers to overcome the allure of worldly desires and live lives that are blameless and fruitful. The sermon concludes with a call to believers to embrace their position in Christ and to let this spiritual light guide their conduct, ultimately bringing glory to God and witnessing to the world.

Strelecki further stressed the significance of understanding both positional and practical truths. While believers are secure in their status as God's children, they are also called to live out this identity through holy conduct. The sermon addressed the dangers of succumbing to worldly behaviors and the necessity of not having these deeds named among believers. Encouraging the congregation to avoid being deceived by vain word that undermine the seriousness of sin, Pastor Strelecki urged them to walk in love and gratitude, reflecting the power of the gospel of Christ. Through an unwavering focus on God’s Word, believers are equipped to reject the old ways and embrace a life that pleases God, thus upholding both doctrinal integrity and a holy walk.

Josh Strelecki further elaborates how being "dear children" of God serves as motivation to reflect the love that God has shown. Illustrating this, the sermon references Paul's instructions in Ephesians 4, encouraging behaviors such as speaking truth, working honestly for self and others, and being tenderhearted and kind. The ultimate example of love is Christ's sacrificial offering, which believers are called to walk out in their own relationships—primarily through forgiveness and self-sacrificial love. The sermon ends with a prayer, asking for growth in these virtues and for the congregation to genuinely embody the life-changing implications of the Gospel, emphasizing that this transformation is not merely an intellectual exercise but a profound, spiritual way of living.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, further explained that the Holy Spirit not only seals believers but also acts as a guarantee of their inheritance until the final redemption. This seal signifies divine authenticity and ownership. Strelecki challenged the congregation to avoid quenching the Spirit, which he likened to a blacksmith's process of quenching hot metal, thus losing its tenderness. He encouraged believers to embrace the "flame of God's Word," allowing the Spirit to reshape their hearts. Strelecki concluded with a call to embody the forgiveness that God extends, emphasizing that understanding and embracing God's profound forgiveness liberates believers to forgive others, thereby exemplifying divine love and unity within the church body and love for those without.

Strelecki also discussed the dangers of false doctrines and divisiveness within the church. He urged believers to steer clear of diverse and strange doctrines and emphasized the significance of establishing one's heart with grace and focusing on Christ. Strelecki emphasized the need to prioritize the truth and avoid being led astray by every wind of doctrine.

He also explored various hindrances that can impede both the speaker and the hearer in sharing and receiving truth, including lack of knowledge, shame, and misconceptions about the value and authority of truth. Throughout the sermon, Pastor Josh encourages a deeper understanding of the truth and the importance of embracing it with humility.

In this sermon, Josh looks into the significance of Jesus' fleshly identity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and believing in the incarnation. Highlighted is the unity that the faith provides for both Jew and Gentile believers, stressing that one is not superior to the other according to the gospel. Strelecki underscores the belief in Jesus' resurrection as being greater than flesh and the recognition of Jesus Christ the Lord, regardless of his fleshly identity.

Also covered is the concept of unity in the faith, emphasizing that all are under sin and that the faith unifies people in connection with their sinfulness and righteousness. He discusses the perfecting of the saints and the spiritual gifts, highlighting the role of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers in this process. One of the main points was exploring the metaphor of seeing through a glass darkly and the transition to seeing face to face without the glass, examining the implications of this concept in the context of the New Testament, specifically in Paul's writings during Paul's life. Strelecki explores 1 Corinthians 13 alongside with what Christ gave grace unto, that is, the perfect man and the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. He ends by describing the perfect man and the fulness of Christ.

Pastor Josh leads a discussion on the word "till" in verse 13, examining its significance in the context of spiritual gifts and the perfecting of the saints. Strelecki expounds upon the adverbial nature of "till" and its role in defining the duration and parameters of the giving of the spiritual gifts, while also addressing the implications of the Word of God for the ongoing work of the ministry. In this sermon is provided evidence for the belief that the spiritual gifts have ceased, failed, and vanished away, and the broader implications of this interpretation. With all of this, he emphasizes the importance of unity and treating others with respect and love, even when there are disagreements on minor issues, while also cautioning against compromising on doctrine for the sake of perceived unity.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher conducted a reteaching of Lesson 102 from Ephesians chapter 4, verses 7 through 16, titled "Christ Gave Grace for Perfecting Work and Edifying" due to technical difficulties at church.

In this sermon, he explains the significance of Jesus Christ's ascension and the gifts given to men, emphasizing their connection to the church and the world. He also led a detailed discussion on the diversity and order of spiritual gifts, drawing from biblical passages including Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, 13, and 14, and Ephesians chapter 4.

He delves into the purpose of Christ's gifts, highlighting the roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers in perfecting the saints, facilitating the work of the ministry, and ultimately edifying the body of Christ. He emphasized the interconnected nature of these activities, explaining that the perfecting of the saints serves as the foundation for the work of the ministry, which in turn leads to the edification of the body of Christ. Strelecki also provided a detailed analysis of the interconnectedness of spiritual gifts, administrations, and operations, drawing from 1 Corinthians 12.

Finally, Strelecki delivered a passionate discourse on the essential nature of the perfecting of the saints within the church, emphasizing that it should take precedence over pragmatic gimmicks and cultural catering. He delved into the gifts bestowed by Christ for the perfecting, work of the ministry, and edifying of the body of Christ, highlighting the ongoing nature of these aspects through a shift in mechanism via the faith and knowledge of the Son of God. Strelecki also addressed the misconception surrounding the word "till," clarifying its adverbial usage in relation to the perfecting, work, and edifying.

Also examined is the hierarchy and purposes of spiritual gifts in the church, drawing comparisons between the lists in 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4:11. He highlights the specific roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, and explained that not everyone, when they were given, possessed the same gifts. Strelecki notes, when Christ gave these gifts, their direct commissioning by the Lord Jesus Christ and their crucial responsibility in perfecting the saints, doing the work of the ministry, and edifying the body of Christ.

In the first section, worldly "one another" dynamics—such as envy, pride, and division—were examined as destructive forces that must not characterize the body of Christ. The second section addressed the potential for similar behaviors to infiltrate the church, urging believers to guard against biting, devouring, and provoking one another, which disrupt unity and hinder growth. The final section focused on the godly "one another" practices that promote spiritual health and fellowship: loving, admonishing, forgiving, serving, and preferring one another in humility. Josh ended by emphasizing hospitality as a practical expression of these dynamics, reminding believers that true growth is measured not by visible success but by the depth and godliness of relationships within the church.

Worship is presented as a comprehensive and continuous act that involves honoring God with one’s whole being—spirit, soul, and body—and is not confined to singing or physical rituals.

Fellowship is described as the shared unity among believers in Christ, promoting mutual faith, encouragement, and spiritual blessings while avoiding an unequal yoke with the world, yet maintain evangelistic company toward the ungodly.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher highlights the critical roles of prayer and spiritual growth in fostering church strength. Prayer is depicted as a labor of love, deepening the believer’s relationship with God and others through intercession, gratitude, and thinking of others. It also strengthens accountability and guides decisions in alignment with God’s will.

Spiritual growth is presented as both doctrinal learning and the practical application of the mind of Christ, with an emphasis on acting upon the truths of Scripture. Josh calls for believers to prioritize these elements, encouraging selfless worship, meaningful fellowship, and consistent spiritual growth to strengthen the church body and fulfill its purpose in Christ.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher also underscored the foundational role of the Word of Truth, delivered by the Spirit, in the operation of the church. The Word not only reveals the wisdom and knowledge hidden in Christ but also works effectually in those who believe, fostering spiritual growth and unity. By submitting to sound doctrine and engaging with the learning of Christ, the local church builds a community that upholds heavenly values over worldly distractions. Members are called to accountability, mutual encouragement, and active participation in ministry, making the local assembly a pillar of truth in its locale.

Strelecki then shifts to the practical aspects of church life, focusing on the importance of gathering together in one place. He stresses that the local church serves as a space for worship, teaching, and mutual encouragement, where members can fulfill the biblical “one another” commands like admonishing, comforting, and restoring. Christ is presented as the head of the church, with leadership roles like elders and deacons accountable to Him and tasked with guiding the congregation toward understanding doctrine and godliness. Strelecki closes with an appeal for the church to embrace its purpose wholeheartedly, not as a mere organization but as a living, dynamic reflection of Christ to the world. Through this, the church fulfills its calling to glorify God and grow into the fullness of Christ, both individually and collectively.

Josh issues a caution against vain worship, drawing from scriptural examples such as Israel’s missteps in Isaiah and Jeremiah. These passages illustrate how religious practices can lose their significance when disconnected from their divine purpose. In contrast, the local church is called to be a living, purposeful fellowship that reflects the word of truth and Christ's love. Through intentional growth in faith and understanding, believers are encouraged to live by the faith of the Son of God in every aspect of their lives.

Philippians Primer

In this sermon, Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher examines this world, its darkness, and works - who runs it? how does he run it? and, how do we war? Pastor Josh also devles into the hope of the believer and the present fruit of that hope.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher in his sermon delves into answer this question as he brings the reality of the mind, bowels, and life of Christ being display in the life of the believer.

In this sermon, Pastor Strelecki examines the labor in studying the word and doctrine, but specifically the intended fruit of that labor. Where is the fruit of our labor? Who benefits from that fruit? Josh Strelecki answers these questions and more.

Strelecki examines the place of digestion drawing upon the example of food being digested physically, but also the purpose digestion. Finally, Josh ends with the process of digesting the word of God in reading, studying, meditation, and praying.

From that dark backdrop, the passage then bursts into the glorious “But now is Christ risen from the dead.” The sermon traces Christ as the firstfruits of them that slept, the new Adam whose resurrection guarantees life for all who are in Him. It highlights the order of resurrection, Christ’s present reign, His ultimate subduing of every enemy (including death itself), and His delivering up of the kingdom to the Father so that “God may be all in all.” Listeners are called to see how resurrection truth demands a newness of life now, fuels endurance in suffering, reshapes our priorities, and anchors our hope in the coming day when every enemy is destroyed and the glory of God fills all in all.