Applying biblical insights from passages such as 2 Corinthians 3: 16-18, Pastor Gary Wilkerson encourages us to not only draw near to Jesus, but to others. When we are struggling with hidden pain, past or present, we need confession, prayer and healing. By cultivating a close group of trusted Christian friends, we no longer have to hide, but can begin the healing journey and experience God's love deeply.
Preaching from Matthew 2:1-12, Joshua West offers powerful insights on Jesus the king and our response to him. Herod responded with fear and agitation, but the wise men sought to worship Christ. We see the same types of responses to Jesus today. Some are rebellious and do not want to give up their crown, but others will surrender completely and bow in repentance before Jesus.
Why is the virgin birth of Jesus important to the foundations of Christian faith? Pastor Joshua West shows the power of God at work in the birth of Christ, rooted in the prophecies of the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Covenant. The question Jesus asked his disciples in Matthew 16:15, "Who do you say that I am?" remains critically relevant to everyone today. From his virgin birth and throughout the Gospels, Jesus draws a line in the sand and we must respond to him and only him for salvation.
Jesus came to preach the good news, open our hearts, set captives free, and help the brokenhearted. But childhood trauma, as well as negative experiences as adults, can stifle the love God wants us to experience. The enemy lies to us and wants to destroy us. Only by having an intimate, meaningful relationship with Jesus can we find the healing God wants us to have. We can't know everyone in our church or sphere, but having close Christian friends who love us is critical to knowing we are loved and valued by God.
Dive into the Gospel of Matthew as we uncover the profound significance of Jesus's genealogy. This sermon explores how a simple list of names connects the Old and New Testaments, revealing God's sovereign plan throughout history. Discover why Matthew begins his account with Jesus's family tree and how it establishes Christ's credentials as the promised Messiah. From Abraham to David to Jesus, see how every generation points to the ultimate fulfillment of prophecy in the person of Christ. Whether you're a longtime believer or new to the faith, this message will deepen your understanding of Jesus's identity and his pivotal role in God's redemptive plan for humanity.
In this sermon on 3 John, Joshua West examines the importance of walking in truth and showing hospitality to fellow believers. He contrasts the faithful actions of Gaius with the selfish behavior of Diotrephes, emphasizing that true faith is evidenced by good works and support for those spreading the gospel. The sermon highlights the unifying power of truth in Christ and calls believers to live out their faith through generous support of gospel workers.
In this sermon, based on 2 John, Joshua West emphasizes the critical balance between truth and love in the Christian life. He warns against false teachers and those who distort God's Word, urging believers to remain firmly rooted in Scripture. True love is inseparable from biblical truth and obedience to God's commandments. Joshua cautions against extending Christian fellowship to those who teach contrary to sound doctrine, highlighting the importance of discernment. He concludes by reaffirming the centrality of Jesus Christ as the living Word and the source of light and life for believers.
Gary Wilkerson delves into the profound message of Psalm 40, emphasizing that God's love is unwavering, especially when we find ourselves in the depths of despair and need. He illustrates how God's grace lifts us from our struggles, providing a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Through personal anecdotes and biblical references, Gary encourages Christians to embrace their identity as beloved children of God, irrespective of their circumstances, and to trust in His plans for their lives.
Joshua West delves into the concluding verses of 1 John, highlighting the unshakeable promises that God has given to believers. By examining 1 John 5:13-21, the sermon emphasizes the certainty of eternal life for those who believe in Jesus Christ, the assurance that God hears and answers prayers according to His will, and the victory over sin that believers should experience. The message encourages Christians to anchor their lives in these eternal truths, ensuring they remain steadfast amidst life's uncertainties and to guard against idolatry.
Referencing several key biblical passages, God's glory is revealed by a brief-but-engaging summary of his attributes. There is only one God. He is above all else, infinitely good, perfectly wise, and all-knowing. But God also knows each of us. Our purpose is to pursue God, to seek his face and worship him above everything.