Coquina Community Church

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us on Acts chapter 10. In this chapter we see 2 visions take place. The first is God speaking to Cornelius, a gentile in the Italian Cohort. Cornelius is said to be a man who feared God. In the vision, Cornelius is told to send men to Joppa and ask for Peter. Once the vision ends he does as God said. The chapter goes on to say that the next day Peter also gets a vision, one in which God presents Peter with a sheet full of "all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air." In fact, he gets it 3 times because he tells God no at first due to the food being unclean. He does obey after God instructs him to not call unclean what God has made clean. It is after Peter obeys that the men Cornelius sent arrive and ask him to come to Cornelius'. Peter states that while it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with a gentile, he now sees that God does not want him to call any person unclean. Peter goes to Cornelius' home and from there Gentiles hear the gospel and the Holy Spirit pours out on them and they are baptized. While unpacking all of this Joey speaks to us about how through these 2 visions and what transpires after we are shown the lesson that God does not show partiality, but instead He makes clean what is unclean. Joey then asks us if we reflect God in this way or do people see us as people who show partiality?

This past Sunday, the Coquina family gathered to celebrate Easter and Joey spoke on Acts 9:32-43. In this section of scripture, we see Jesus' resurrecting power shown twice through the actions and faith of Peter. First, we see Aeneas, a man paralyzed for 8 years. Peter heals him in the name of Jesus, and it is said many look to the Lord. The second is the death of Tabitha (Dorcas), a good and charitable woman loved by the church. Peter found her dead and after praying and commanding her to rise, she sat up alive. While celebrating the resurrection of Jesus, Joey makes the following points; first is that the resurrected Christ is our healer, and second is that the resurrected life is your life. Jesus came to heal the sick, and He willingly does so repeatedly for each of us. In believing this, we can be like Tabitha and live a life that looks to the things above.

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us in Acts 9:1-31. This is a well-known section of scripture, the conversion of Saul, and the beginning of his work in the church. In this section of scripture, we see Saul persecuting believers with the support of the high priest. While heading to Damascus we see Saul struck by a bright light and the voice of Jesus asking why Saul is persecuting Him. Saul leaves this experience blind. He is led to Damascus by his men where he spent 3 days without sight, food or drink. We also see Ananias being spoken to by God, and he is told to go visit Saul. Ananias initially pushes back for he knows what Saul has been doing to followers of Christ, but he eventually obeys as God tells him that Saul will be his instrument. Ananias speaks to Saul and shares the gospel. Upon receiving the power of the Holy Spirit Saul's sight is restored. From this point we see Saul become a believer preaching about Jesus. This confounded and also angered the Jews to the point they wanted to kill him, but he escapes to Jerusalem. Once in Jerusalem Saul is presented to the apostles by Barnabas, who vouches for his conversion. While unpacking all that transpires in these verses Steve gives 3 main points; the gospel forces us to make a choice about who we believe Jesus is, the gospel forces us to be in dangerous situations, and the gospel forces us to love others. 

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on Acts 8:26-40. In this section of scripture, Philip obeys God by walking the road between Gaza and Jerusalem. There he finds a eunuch from Ethiopia in a chariot on his way back home. The eunuch is a court official of the Ethiopian queen who had been worshipping in Jerusalem. Obeying God's call, Philip approaches the Eunuch and finds him reading Isaiah. Philip shares the gospel of Jesus and the eunuch believes. During this part of the story, Justin reminds us that Jewish law said someone like a eunuch could not be present in the assembly of God, but belief in Jesus does not exclude him. Upon coming to water the eunuch asks to be baptized. Once baptized the eunuch continues on his way rejoicing while Philip it seems teleports immediately to Azotus. He then continues preaching the gospel as he travels to Caesarea. In looking at this story Justin gives 3 important points. First, like Philip, we should listen and be obedient to God's call to proclaim the gospel. Second, we need to know the gospel like Philip did so we are prepared to share it. Third, if we hear and proclaim the gospel we are empowered to proclaim even more. 

This past Sunday, Steve spoke on Acts 8:4-25, where we see that the believers have scattered due to Saul's persecution but continue to share the gospel. We are introduced to Philip in Samaria, where it is said he was preaching and healing in the name of Christ. One of those said baptized is Simon the Magician. When Peter and John arrive they begin sharing the Holy Spirit with the new believers. Upon seeing this Simon tries to buy the power of giving the Holy Spirit from the apostles. Peter rebukes Simon instructing him to pray and repent.  Instead, Simon asks them to intercede on his behalf. In unpacking all this, Steve first highlights that Samaria was a place not liked by many. Philip going there is an example that we sometimes must willingly be uncomfortable or go where we would rather not for the gospel. The other point Steve makes is Simon's mistake, trying to not only buy the power of the Holy Spirit but also asking the apostles to pray on his behalf instead of going to God himself. Like Philip, we should not always choose the easiest path in spreading the gospel. Unlike Simon, we should seek God in prayer instead of looking to someone else, like church leadership to intercede for us. 

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us on the man Stephen, who is introduced in the book of Acts. In the message, Joey references two sections of scripture that tell Stephen's story. Acts 6:7-15 is where we are first introduced to this man described as being full of grace and power. Then in Acts 7:51-8:3, we see Stephen's death as a martyr for the gospel. In unpacking all of this, Joey gives four points of Stephen's mentorship; despite being an ordinary man Stephen is full of grace and power, he walked with gospel clarity and conviction, he lived in the belief that Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father, and lastly, Stephen demonstrated that to live is Christ and to die is gain. We should consider deeply the example that Stephen gives us. 

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on what takes place in Acts 6:1-7. Noting that the early church faces strife immediately. In this section of scripture, we see that problems arose amongst the believers as Hellenists claim that their widows are being overlooked in distribution. The apostles decide that in order to address this seven men should be appointed based on their character to the duty of making this right. In speaking on this Steve makes the point that it is important that the church body is taken care of, but it is also important that servant leaders are put in place, as shown in this account so that the apostles can stay devoted to prayer and preaching. This is not because those preaching are "above" the others, but to try and handle all that is part of a healthy church while also trying to focus on prayer and preaching would take away from spreading the gospel. By unpacking all this Steve shows what a healthy church looks like with servant leadership. "And the word of God continued to increase..."

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on Acts 5:12-42, where we see the apostles again speaking of the gospel and being punished for it. The section starts with the Apostles speaking at Solomon's Portico though the rest of the believers dared not go. It is said the crowds held the apostles in high regard and many more were added to the number of believers. This angered the leaders. Twice the apostles are arrested, beaten, and ordered to not speak of Jesus again. Twice upon release, they rejoiced in their suffering for Christ and then went right back to preaching. Speaking of all this, Justin makes 3 points of what it is to follow Christ; we have to be around people, there will be opposition, and we must obey God. Of these things, we the church must boldly do.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us on Acts 4:32-5:11. In this section of scripture, we are given examples of how the members of the early church lived out the gospel together boldly and with fear of God. We are also given an example of the believers' generosity for one another by Barnabas selling land and giving proceeds to the church. On the flip side, we also see what happens when we sin and lie about generosity. The latter shows the harshness of sin in the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira. While discussing all these things, Joey unpacked four points; the importance of Godly fear, the hate of sin, the mercy of God, and the strategic role of generosity.  As a final point, Joey emphasizes that "generosity is key in taking the gospel to the ends of the earth."

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on the events that take place in Acts 4:1-31. In this section of scripture, we see the religious leaders angry about Peter and John's gospel message. When confronted, Peter and John boldly speak of Jesus and remind the leaders of their hand in His crucifixion. Despite being threatened to stop sharing the gospel, Peter and John respond clearly that they will continue to share Jesus and tell of what they have heard and seen. We then see this boldness and courage continue as the believers are filled with the holy spirit while gathered in prayer. In unpacking all of this, Joey offers 4 reasons for the courage that is shown by Peter, John, and the other believers.

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on storytelling as he went through Acts chapter 3. In this section of scripture, we see Peter and John attending the temple. While entering the Beautiful Gate they come upon a lame beggar who daily sits outside asking for money. It is here in the story Steve starts speaking on the "3 acts". The first act is compassion, as the apostles acknowledge the beggar, then address his need for the gospel and to be healed of being lame. This leads to the second act, worship. Steve shares how the beggar's response is to follow them into the temple leaping and praising God. His behavior infects the crowd as they rush to hear the apostles. In the third act, Peter says it is in Jesus the beggar is healed as he shares the gospel of Jesus. In wrapping up, Steve reminds us that the gospel is the story, and we are the storytellers.

This past Sunday, Justin completed chapter 2 of Acts by discussing what happens in verses 42-47. In this section of scripture, we see a description of the early church as believers came together in community. While speaking to what is said of this early inception of the church, Justin highlights the importance of what the believers devoted themselves to; the teachings of the apostles, fellowshipping with one another, steadfast prayer, and generosity with one another. Looking at these ways of devotion Justin challenges us to examine how devoted we are to God and our church. Lastly, he encourages us with ways for us to show love.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us from Acts 2:14-41. In this section of scripture, we see Peter addressing the crowd just after all have witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit. As he speaks to all in attendance Peter shares the gospel of Jesus. While looking at Peter's message Joey unpacks 4 convictions for us; life-giving power of the bible, boldness is wisdom, power of the gospel to save, and it is the Lord is who causes growth. Along with these convictions he also reminds us that while God uses us to grow the kingdom, He is not dependent on us for it.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on Acts 2:1-13, which is when we see the fulfillment of the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. While the disciples are gathered with others in prayer God sends the Holy Spirit to them. The text tells us that this arrival is displayed in the sound of rushing wind and tongues of fire settling on each of them. With them all now filled with the Holy Spirit, they begin speaking in many different languages so that all in attendance are able to understand them. Some accused them of being drunk on wine, but scripture says that many were also in awe. While talking to us about the experience of Pentecost, Joey gives us 3 important points; a mighty work of providence in how God did all this on the day of Pentecost, the faithful gift of power in the Holy Spirit's coming, and a glorious fruit of praise in everyone hearing their own language spoken. 

This past Sunday,  Joey spoke on Acts 1:12-26. In this section of scripture, we find the disciples gathered together in the upper room for prayer after Jesus' ascension. Led by Peter's encouragement the disciples prayed over who would replace Judas in the twelve. Then they cast lots and Matthias was chosen.  In speaking to all that happens in the upper room, Joey gives us 3 points of encouragement; Peter's redemption, the trustworthiness of the Holy Spirit, and the Christ-centeredness of the Holy Spirit. Along with these points, Joey emphasizes the importance of the apostles gathering together and learning to pursue Christ in prayer. 

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us about what happens in Acts1:1-11. In this section of scripture, we see Jesus speaking to the disciples about the Holy Spirit coming to be their help and comforter. He also gives them the mission of spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth. Then we see Jesus' ascension into heaven. While speaking on all of this Steve gives us 3 main points to look at with the Spirit's coming; the power of the Holy Spirit, a mission to preach to the ends of the earth, and the promise of His return. 

This past Sunday, we began the new year with a new study in the book of Acts. Joey introduces this study to us by speaking to why the elders have chosen to dive into this book. In doing so he presents 3 points that are present in Acts; the finishing of Jesus' finished work, the commissioning and empowering of the disciples, and the proclamation of the gospel. While unpacking these three points Joey also reminds us that we as believers are the continuation of this story.

This past Sunday, we observed the fourth and final Sunday of Advent and lit the Peace candle. Joey then spoke on where we can find peace in our lives amidst a world that seems to be so lacking in peace, Joey reminded us that in this season we are told that Jesus is the prince of peace. He also points out that Hebrews refers to God as a God of peace. He then goes on to explain how it is through reconciliation in Jesus that peace is given. From there Joey encourages us to go to God when we need peace. 

This past Sunday, we continued our observance of Advent with the third week's theme of Joy and lighting of the Joy candle. In this service, we also celebrated with our families in Baby Dedications, followed by Steve's message on the week's theme. Steve spoke to Joy for this season by describing Jesus's coming as "the supreme act of service". He also made the distinction between joy and happiness by speaking to how we know joy despite current circumstances. This is also the kind of joy he speaks to Mary had when given the good news, that she would bring the Messiah into the world. This we know in holiday tradition to be good news of great joy. Steve then ended the message with a charge to rediscover the joy we had at the moment of our salvation. 

This past Sunday, we observed the second Sunday of Advent with the lighting of the faith candle. Justin then spoke to us on faith by going through the first chapter of Luke, and the story of John the Baptist's birth. While discussing this section of scripture, Justin looks at Zechariah and Elizabeth's faith, which led to them being considered righteous. We likewise are asked to live out faith by believing in Christ's return, just like what we observe in the 4 weeks of advent as we wait on the Christmas birth.

This past Sunday, we started our observance of Advent with the lighting of the Hope candle. Joey then spoke to us on our unseen hope found in both the groans and glory of our faith. Looking at Romans 8:18-25, Joey unpacked that, despite our groanings in today's life we have hope for what is to come in Jesus Christ's return. It is in this hope that we are saved, and so we rejoice!

This past Sunday, Steve wrapped up our study of 1 Samuel. After giving a quick recap, Steve unpacked 4 points for why we went through 1 Samuel which ultimately was to see how Jesus is represented. In unpacking all this, Steve gave us 4 points. First, the bible is the story of Jesus, the story of a savior. Second, 1 Samuel advances towards Jesus in Hannah's prayer and examples of bad and good human leadership. Third, even though Jesus as a man does not come to us until the New Testament He is previewed to us in this book, as well as accompanying Psalms. Fourth and final, we should be telling the story of Jesus in our lives.

This past Sunday, Justin took us through 1 Samuel 31,  the last chapter of this book. In this final chapter, we see the Philistines attacking Israel. Saul's sons fell in battle and he was badly wounded. When his armor-bearer would not kill him Saul chose to fall on his sword to not become a prisoner. Philistines then took the bodies of him and his sons and desecrated them, but the bodies were then rescued by the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead. This happened because of the legacy Saul had left with them when he saved them from Nahash the Ammonite. While looking at this dark ending to the book Justin spoke to how despite the mistakes made by Saul, his legacy with Jabesh-gilead stayed intact. Justin went on to speak on how Jesus' legacy is greatly different from the legacy of Saul. He also made the important point of asking us what our legacy would be. 

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 30. In this chapter, David and his men have found that a raiding party has kidnapped all the women and children at Ziklag, including David's two wives. With God's permission, David and 600 of his men pursued and overtook them. They rescued everyone as well as everything the raiders had taken as spoils. David then made a statute that shared all the recovered spoils with all the people, as well as sent it to all the places where he and his men had roamed. Looking at this section, as well as what has happened throughout 1 Samuel in the life of David, Joey looked at how David consistently found his strength in God.  Joey then gave 4 points as to how we can also find and live in the strength that comes from God.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 29. In this chapter, we find David after he has lived for quite some time amongst the Philistines. King Achish of the Philistines has been very pleased with David and his men to the point he had decided they would join in the battle against Israel. Some of the Philistine leaders however disagreed with this so King Achish told David to take his men and leave in peace. While speaking on what took place in this chapter, Joey unpacked how God's faithfulness is shown in the life of David and also gave four points to how God shows His faithfulness to us.

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on 1 Samuel 28. In this chapter, King Saul is very afraid of the Philistines. So much so that he seeks out a medium, known as the witch of Endor. Steve went on to speak on how Saul had to do this under the cover of night because he was not only near the Philistine camp, but also because he had previously outlawed all mediums and sorcery. By swearing on the name of the Lord Saul convinces the medium to summon the spirit of Samuel despite the fact Samuel had stopped speaking to him long before he passed away. Saul then asked the spirit of Samuel if Israel would beat the Philistines. Samuel not only reminds Saul that God had already given a prophecy that Saul would lose his kingdom to David, he then added that Saul and his sons would die. In unpacking all of this, Steve speaks to how God can use something that is wrong for good. He also gives us the reminder that unlike the works of so-called mediums, God's will and prophecy are true. We see from this to be so in the study of the bible.

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on 1 Samuel 27 and David's decision to go to the Philistines to get away from King Saul's constant pursuit of him.  Successfully ridding himself of Saul, David goes on to perform raids and then lie to the King of the Philistines who thinks of him as a benefit. While explaining all that transpires, Justin highlights how in this section of scripture David, one who is known for seeking God's counsel, instead looked to himself and his own means. In unpacking all of this, Justin presented 3 important truths; do not fear to seek God's counsel, God will protect His People, and God will make secure His inheritance.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 26. In this chapter, we see Saul again gathering his men and searching to kill David. We also find David once again having the opportunity to kill Saul, but saying the Lord forbids it. While going through this section of scripture Joey looks to the afflictions David had to live through while running from Saul. He also shows us other examples of God's people in the bible living through afflictions, and still being great followers of God. Pulling from David's life and the other examples, Joey offers us 5 points of how God works with our afflictions and shows us why we should trust God amidst the afflictions of life.

This past Sunday, Joey finished up 1 Samuel 25:1b-44. Focusing on the section where David hopes to get aid from Nabal, Joey spoke to how truth and love can lead to confrontation in relationships. Angered by how Nabal denied and then turned away his men, David had blood on his mind as he set out with 400 men to attack. Abigail, Nabal's wife intercepted David on the way. She confronted him with truth and love which convicted David to stand down. Unpacking all that transpired, Joey shared 3 points that took place; a fleshly struggle, a merciful rebuke, and a spiritual triumph. He also spoke to the reality that the Christian life is full of hard conversations. We can avoid, or we can be like Abigail and rebuke in truth and love.

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on 1 Samuel 25:1a. While this is only 1 verse, it is an important one that tells of Samuel's death. Steve explained how monumental this was for the people of Israel, all of whom it is said gathered for his funeral and burial. From there Steve reflected on the story of Samuel, highlighting how his birth was a promise from God to Hannah. He then went on to retell Samuel's life and the many great things that God did through him. In this, Steve made a point in showing how Samuel was a great example of God using people to carry out His work. Going further, he shared that we are the hands and feet of God who, like Samuel look towards being counted in the great cloud of witnesses. Steve also emphasized the importance of being in a community with other believers if we are to finish the race that is sharing the good news.

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on 1 Samuel 24. In this section of scripture, Saul is again seeking to find and kill David, who is hiding out in the caves. While hunting Saul takes to a cave to relieve himself not knowing that David is hiding within. Seeing this as the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver Saul into his hands David sneaks up behind him. Even though he would have been seen as rightful in killing him, David chooses instead to show mercy by only cutting a piece of Saul's garment. Once Saul left the cave David revealed himself stating how he had chosen to spare Saul's life. This revelation caused Saul to have a change of heart as he declared David the rightful king. Justin then broke this down stating how David was able to follow God's lead in not killing Saul because he was responding to the spirit. He then shared how the bible teaches us that we heap burning coals on others when we repay their evil with good as David did with Saul. Justin then wrapped it up in showing how this is all an example of God's mercy which only God can grant.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 23. In this chapter we see David follow God's instruction to go and save the city of Keilah from the Philistines. From there we see David betrayed by Ziphites as they told Saul where David was hiding. David and his men ultimately escape Saul when Saul gets called back to defend Israel from another Philistine attack. Looking at all that took place for David in this chapter Joey speaks to how David overcame these hardships and found comfort; he sought God, gave comfort to others, and believed in God to provide. 

This past Sunday, Joey continued speaking from 1 Samuel 22:6-23. In this section of scripture,  we see Saul's anger lead to calling for the death of Ahimelech and 85 priests of Nob, fulfilling God's curse on Eli's descendants. This was immediately followed by every man, woman, ox, donkey, and sheep in Nob being put to the sword. One man, Abiathar, escaped to David for protection. Looking at these very dark events, Joey speaks of the schemes of the devil that were working in the lives of Saul and others during this time. 

This past Sunday, Steve spoke on 1 Samuel 21:10-22:5, and David's existential crisis. In this section we see David running in fear of Saul to Gath, the hometown of Goliath. After being recognized by King Agish as the giant's killer, David became afraid and pretended to have lost his mind, and ultimately escaped to the Cave of Adullam. Comparing this behavior to how David approached facing Goliath with great faith in God, Steve unpacked the lack of faith David displayed on the run. He then went on to show how in humility David returned to faith by looking at the Psalms he wrote during this time. In response to this renewed faith, many are drawn to David as a man relying on God. Looking at all that transpired in David's lack of faith and then humbled return to God, Steve gave 4 great truths of God for us to live by.

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on 1 Samuel 21:1-9. In this section of scripture, we find David going to the temple because he knows this is where the presence of God dwells. We also see David meeting the priest Ahimelech, who he lies to about why he has come to the temple. Despite his lies, David is treated with mercy by Ahimelech as he is given the holy bread at the temple. Speaking on this, Justin shines a light on how Ahimelech displays both obedience and mercy in how he treats David. 

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us again from 1 Samuel 19-20, this time looking at the traumatic events taking place during David's life at this time. With David as the example, Joey spoke to how our lives are also full of different pains and sufferings, overall trauma. He then went on to speak to the common ways many react to trauma that can be detrimental as well as recommended truth on how we as faithful believers should respond to the trauma we experience, both individually and most especially within the community.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke to us on 1 Samuel chapters 19 and 20. In these chapters, we continue to see the relationship grow between David and Jonathan, while the hatred Saul has towards David increases as well.  While summarizing what happens in this section of scripture Joey speaks to 4 means of grace that we can see portrayed in the life of David.

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on 1 Samuel 18:17-30. In this section of scripture, we see that despite Saul's growing jealousy of David, he offers his daughter Michal in marriage. While discussing all that transpires, Steve also shines a light on David's charisma and leadership that the people of Israel are so drawn to, as well as 3 theological truths that exist for both David and followers of Christ.

This past Sunday, Caleb spoke to us on David and Jonathan as they are presented to us in 1 Samuel 18:1-16. Speaking on the differences between father and son, Saul and Jonathan, Caleb shows us how Jonathan lived a life of faith, honor, and humility that would likely have led to him being a great king. Unlike his father, who we see become jealous of David, Jonathan showed love for God's anointed. He even went as far as becoming less in the eyes of the Israelites by publicly lifting David up as more than just a shepherd. Caleb goes on to show how in the New Testament there is a parallel to this with John the Baptist saying he must decrease so Jesus' ministry can increase. 

This past Sunday, Joey continued the story of David and Goliath found in 1 Samuel 17. Speaking on this section of scripture we see how Goliath mocked Israel, David, and God. In contrast to this, Joey shows us how God's glory is not only challenged,  but affirmed and displayed in David's defeat of the mocking giant. He then goes on to remind us that the glory of God is ultimately seen in Jesus.

Last Sunday, Justin introduced us to the giant of the Philistine army, Goliath. Looking at 1 Samuel 17:1-37, we see Goliath mocking Israel and God every day as he challenges them to send a fighter to face him. We also see David being sent to the Israeli army by his father. He learns of Goliath while there and chooses to face the giant. While speaking on this section of scripture, Justin compares Goliath and David and shares the hard truth we are often like Goliath. Lucky for us, Jesus is like David. 

This past Sunday, Steve spoke to us on 1 Samuel 16:14-23. In this section of scripture, we see that Saul had a very troubled soul. In trying to find comfort the king's physicians prescribe music. David was chosen to play the lyre for the king. Speaking to this, Steve presents us with a few different points in relation to God and how he treats his children, as well as how Jesus is seen in all that transpires.

This past Sunday Joey spoke to us with the backdrop of 1 Samuel 16:1-13 as the scripture reference. In this section of 1 Samuel we see God instruct Samuel to anoint a new king from amongst the sons of Jesse. Samuel is then surprised when God chooses David, for he was the youngest and least formidable or admirable in appearance. Joey then goes on to highlight how God is making it clear that He looks at our hearts. David was chosen based on his heart, which meant a new heart for Israel with him as king. Joey goes on to speak on how we at times let our hearts be led by sin, self want, etc. Ultimately, we are like Israel and in need of new hearts which we can have in Jesus.

This past Sunday, Caleb finished up chapter 15 of 1 Samuel as he spoke on Samuel confronting Saul's disobedience following the capture of Amalekite king Agag. In speaking on this section of scripture, Caleb shares how Saul responds by asking Samuel to join him in sacrifice and ceremony. Knowing that Saul was not repentant, but just wished to go through the motions to save face and move on, Samuel refuses him. Caleb goes on to speak on how Samuel also lets Saul know that Israel will be okay because his kingship is not the glory of the kingdom. In shedding light on all of this, Caleb warns how we can also be like Saul if we start to think of ourselves in the wrong light. We can go through the motions of worship and ceremony without a genuine heart for God. Ultimately, Saul and Samuel never reconcile, but we can always have reconciliation in Jesus.

This past Sunday, Steve gave a message based on 1 Samuel 15:1-16. In this section of scripture, Saul is commanded by God to wipe all of the Amalekites. While he does defeat them, Saul also disobeys God by keeping their king alive. Due to this God shares with Samuel that he regrets making Saul king. In diving into this section of scripture, Steve speaks to the mistakes Saul makes and the consequences for them. He also shares 3 points of how we can respond to God; when He tells us to do something, when He changes His mind, and when we are caught in sin.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 14:47-52. Looking closely at Saul, he spoke to the restless heart of Israel's king born in his lack of faith, and ultimately a lack relationship with God. Despite the fact that Saul was winning in battle, had a strong family, and valiant men around him, he lived with a restless heart. Joey also specifically pointed out that Saul referred to the Lord as Samuel's God and not his own God. From there, Joey goes on to speak to how it is God who can give rest to a restless heart. Where Saul missed the opportunity to turn to God, we can turn to Him for our needs. 

This past Sunday, Joey finished up chapter 14 of 1 Samuel. When looking at the foolishness in Saul's oath of not eating, Joey unpacks for us how this story is a great example of sin's deceit and the foolish living it creates. Using 3 specific points, Joey explains how we can easily become foolish like Saul by the deceit of sin.

This past Sunday, Joey spoke on 1 Samuel 14:1-23. In this section of scripture, he spoke to Jonathan's faith in action against the Philistines compared to Saul's religious actions that lacked faith. Expounding upon the story of Jonathan's victory, Joey shined a light on how Saul's behavior was in complete contrast and lacking substance. While Jonathan acted with faith that God would show up, Saul went through religious motions without God's involvement. Speaking to this Joey shared how we, like Jonathan, need to have a faith of substance that is rooted in a faithful, alive, and victorious God.

This past Sunday, we returned to the study of 1 Samuel with a recap over chapters 1-13 from Steve. During the recap, he also spoke to the importance of Hannah in the 1 Samuel, and in our faith overall. In speaking to Hannah's prayer, often referred to as Hannah's Song Steve shared how it can be found in other places in the bible, including Mary having a very similar prayer in the New Testament. 

This past Sunday, Steve finished our series on Core Values with a wrap-up of how we at Coquina Community Church try to live out these values in our community. Speaking on the values themselves he also looked to examples of the church like what is found in Acts 2. He also expounded on how we live these values out in the vision and mission of Coquina. In doing this, we at Coquina strive to live out the gospel of Jesus by loving God and loving people. 

This past Sunday, Justin spoke to us on the Core Value of Everyday Disciple-making. By first acknowledging that the world has its own version of disciple-making in the way role-models are created for people to follow, Justin shed light on how the Christian life has a very different kind of disciple-making, one that mirrors Jesus. While admitting that we are not God, Justin made the point of how we should be disciples and imitators of Christ. By imitating Christ we ultimately are creating disciples that are imitating us imitating God. By presenting an order of operations based on evangelism, movement of the spirit, community, and intentional teaching Justin lays out how to live the Great Commission and make disciples.