Discovery Church: Grand Rapids

This week we celebrate Christmas since bad weather delayed our originally scheduled Christmas service. John 1:1-14 The human heart longs for home, especially at Christmas. Home is not just a sentiment or locale, but where we belong…deeply. Jesus came, the Word made flesh, to bring us to His home—His presence. He came to make a temporary home with us, pitching His tent on earth, that He might lead us to our real and eternal home—to be with Father God, for He calls us His children. The home of our hearts is with Father God and His family. Key Verse: The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

This final week of Advent, Pastor Paul's talk comes from Matthew 2:13-23. Fooled by the magi, King Herod immediately sets out to kill the child-king, who is the true King of All. Jesus turns into a refugee as the family flees to Egypt as instructed by God. In Egypt, Jesus embodies a second exodus where God's deliverance is brought about by the God-man Jesus. After Herod's death, God leads them to little Nazareth in Galilee, a place that speaks of the King of the Jews and the King of the Gentiles. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/bgn4ZTdtf-U

This week's talk comes from Matthew 2:1-12. Surprise! Foreigners (magi) come into the nativity story to affirm the kingship of Jesus for the nations by the gifts these Gentiles brought—gifts that shout, “King!” They followed the star, which had kingly connotations. The magi came across 2 kings—the real King of the Jews and a self-proclaimed wicked king. Israel was already in turmoil because of Herod, whose political corruption and intrigue had an undercurrent of horror, while his power kept his opponents (including Jews) crushed. Against the backdrop of all this intrigue, murder, and paranoia came Jesus, born the true king and attested to as king by the magi. Key Verse: When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:10-11) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/FHnNPia4vEs

Today's talk comes from Matthew 1:18-25. From what should be a picture perfect courtship, there is trouble in paradise—Mary the engaged is pregnant. Joseph, the husband to be, is told in a dream by God that this is not a nightmare but the moving of God to be near people by the birth of His Son in Mary. Joseph accepts what God is doing, marries Mary, and adopts Jesus as his legal heir. God's voice, the centerpiece of the story, speaks of how this is the fulfillment of God's greatest love prophesied by Isaiah. Key Verse: All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). (Matthew 1:22-23)

Matthew 6:19-34 Money and possessions can easily gain power over us. Money has this power because it is sly and deceptive so you can be greedy and not know it when we compare ourselves to others. It is the unwavering trust in God alone that sets us free from power earthly treasures have over us so we can build up treasures that matter. Key Verse: No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. (Matthew 6:24) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/MGX7d6SbEcY

Pastor Paul preaches from Habakkuk 3:17-19 and Deuteronomy 26:1-11. It's possible to have joy even when things in life are going wrong. When God is center in our lives, we always give Him our best, which is the principle of the Old Testament “Firstfruits.” So when God is first in our lives, even in the toughest of economic times we are able to give sacrificially, joyfully, and graciously. Key Verse: Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (Habakkuk 3:17-18) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/HjYUceD6id4

This week's talk comes from 2 Corinthians 8:8-15; 9:6-12. The Corinth church was well off and Paul was trying to raise a collection for the poor church in Jerusalem. Paul wants them to want to give generously but they seem unwilling from their heart to do so. Giving comes from joy that flows from a loving heart that has been surrendered to God. God takes our heart and helps us to see blessings that come when we join with His work in giving. Key Verse: Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/uJjD7m0HWA0

This week's talk from Matthew 8:1-13 is on Love the Differences. We are people divided in our hearts, in our allegiances, in everything besides Jesus. We typically feel most comfortable among people who are similar to us—it shows who we are. By connecting with two people who are on the extreme outside, Jesus shows that differences do not necessitate division. He enfolds them with empathy and love, and we should do the same. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/z8TozLZhamA

Pastor Paul continues the series on Love One Another. His Talk from Matthew 5:14-16 is on The 10 Second Rule. By following the Spirit's inner promptings, we have the privilege to serve others. The 10 Second Rule says: “Just do the next thing you're reasonably certain Jesus wants you to do, commit immediately—within 10 seconds—before you change your mind.”

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/cxTfffi4gq4

Galatians 6:1-10 In giving a picture of true love for one another, Jesus' law of love includes carrying each other's burdens—the church hasn't always done this well—we can do this better. We need to get humanly close enough to see what those burdens are, and we have to be a person who is connecting deeply to God so He can empower us, open our eyes, and prompt us to help bear these burdens, great or small, of our sisters and brothers. Key Verse: Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2)

Romans 12:1-13 When God calls us to draw near to Him, we don't do so just by ourselves. His call is not just about a private commitment or faith, but to belong to others. He calls us to be a part of a rich family of intimacy and accountability. What we see in the Bible is that the gospel has the power to renew our lives—it upends us. The gospel wants to move us away from the inward focus of just ourselves to being a people who love well—love God, love one another, and love the world. Because of God's mercy, He calls us to be a living sacrifice that is part of one big family being empowered by His Spirit.

John 13:31-35 It is often once a year (New Year's) that we resolve to do better. Do typical resolutions help us to live better lives? What if Jesus was the one who influenced what our resolutions should be? Jesus' last words on love is primary for all disciples. You can't be a growing disciple without a resolve to follow His example of humble servant love. When we love this way as community, it shows Jesus to those around us because it is God's Spirit who is empowering us with God's very own love.

Matthew 6:9-13 Many people struggle with prayer—finding time, having variety, removing boredom, staying awake—why shouldn't we struggle because prayer is the area that the evil one would most want to discourage us in. As we act on the truth that prayer draws us close to the heart of God, God's Spirit in us encourages us to come close to God in prayer.

This week brings the final talk in our series on the book of Daniel. Daniel 12:1-13 God gives a picture of His ultimate triumph, along with His people who have suffered much. Although there are still many questions of how this will all come to be (Who, When, What, Why), we now know because Jesus came that He will always be our living, loving Lord. “If God is on our side, who is against us?” finds the truth lived out in Daniel's experience. His life and visions promise those who believe that “nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). Key Verse: At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. (Daniel 12:1)

This week's talk comes from Daniel 10:1-21. Burdened for his people, Daniel goes into prayer for them and is visited by an angel. The angel tells of his wrestling match with evil in trying to reach Daniel—a picture of how God fights for us. It is also a picture of our wrestling in prayer. We find in prayer that God gives strength, even for what seems overwhelming to comprehend. Through this we are reminded that God not only hears our prayers but sends the forces of heaven to bring His answer. Key Verse: The angel's hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.” (Daniel 10:10-11)

This week's talk continues our series on Daniel. Daniel 9:1-19 Though in captivity, Israel is still God's covenant people. During the captivity, God measured up to all that He was, while Israel fell far short once again. So Daniel prays his confession on behalf of Israel for how they have been properly punished for their sin. In his confession, Daniel asks God to keep his promise to restore Israel and Jerusalem. God will restore His people, not because they are worthy, but because of God's great mercy. His mercy still prompts God to care and provide for His people, for He is a faithful and covenant God. Key Verse: The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him. (Daniel 9:9)

This week's talk in our series on Daniel comes from Daniel 7. Daniels sees a dream but oddly he can't interpret his own dream, so an angelic messenger needs to explain it to him. He sees 4 beasts and each one symbolizes an arrogant kingdom. Then there is a super beast with lots of horns and one prominent one (horns often represent kings). This arrogant king exalts himself as god and persecutes God's people. Then God shows up, destroys the super beast and exalts the Son of Man on the throne and shares God's rule over all of the nations. As a snapshots of the whole book, this dream is about the fading glory of the world's power and kingdoms, and the increasing glory and power and presence of God's kingdom. The battle continues on—God might not seem in control but He is, and God's sure arrival and eternal rule will come. Key Verse: As I watched, this horn was waging war against the holy people and defeating them, until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the holy people of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom. (Daniel 7:21-22) Watch the full service here: https://youtu.be/JKxOM_ZW-0M

Today Pastor Paul continues the summer series on the book of Daniel. His Talk on The Lions' Den is from Daniel 6. In comparison to chapter 3, now Daniel is persecuted. He refuses to pray to and worship the king as a god. Like his friends earlier, he is sentenced to death and thrown into the lion's den. God delivers Daniel from the beasts, and like his friends, the king then exalts Daniel and praises his God. Daniel can face the consequences of being faithful to God because he has felt God's love and experienced God's faithfulness to him first. If people doubt God's faithfulness because of circumstances, look to the cross. Being faithful includes making prayer a priority. Key verse: So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions' den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!” (Daniel 6:16) View the full service on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/1dvnGsKPBBQ

Today's Talk from Pastor Paul is titled Nebuchadnezzar's Pride, and comes from Daniel 4:34. The king is filled with pride because of his imperial power. So God, like in chapter 2, warns him in dreams and visions. Again, only Daniel can interpret. The king is to humble himself before God and the king arrogantly resists. Nebuchadnezzar is stricken with madness and becomes like a beast in the field. Then he humbles himself before God, humanity is restored to him, he is forgiven by God, and he reigns as king again. Pride is incompatible with trusting God. God's judgment might be patient, but it is absolutely certain, so don't put God to the test of “how long?” Key Verse: At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. “His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation.” (Daniel 4:34) Watch the full service on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/yEC6H8Xd61Q

Today's Talk from Ryan Phan is titled Why, God?, and comes from Habakkuk 1. Pastor Ryan Phan says about himself "I am the new Associate Pastor at inSpirit Church, from Windsor, Ontario, Canada and married to my wife, Kezia Phan." and we are excited to welcome them on July, 17. Key verse: The prophecy that Habakkuk the prophet received. How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save? Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds. Therefore the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted. The Lord's Answer “Look at the nations and watch—and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told. I am raising up the Babylonians, that ruthless and impetuous people, who sweep across the whole earth to seize dwellings not their own. They are a feared and dreaded people; they are a law to themselves and promote their own honor. Their horses are swifter than leopards, fiercer than wolves at dusk. Their cavalry gallops headlong; their horsemen come from afar. They fly like an eagle swooping to devour; they all come intent on violence. Their hordes advance like a desert wind and gather prisoners like sand. They mock kings and scoff at rulers. They laugh at all fortified cities; by building earthen ramps they capture them. Then they sweep past like the wind and go on—guilty people, whose own strength is their god.” Lord, are you not from everlasting My God, my Holy One, you will never die. You, Lord, have appointed them to execute judgment; you, my Rock, have ordained them to punish. Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrongdoing. Why then do you tolerate the treacherous? Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves? You have made people like the fish in the sea, like the sea creatures that have no ruler. The wicked foe pulls all of them up with hooks, he catches them in his net, he gathers them up in his dragnet; and so he rejoices and is glad. Therefore he sacrifices to his net and burns incense to his dragnet, for by his net he lives in luxury and enjoys the choicest food. Is he to keep on emptying his net, destroying nations without mercy? (Habakkuk 1) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel with this link: https://youtu.be/pZz8KjSM0ks

Today's Talk from Ryan Waalkes is titled The Kingdom in the City, and comes from Matthew 4:12-17. Mr. Ryan Waalkes from Bridge Street Ministries will be giving The Talk. We bless God for our partnership with BSM. We give thanks for the blessing the Waalkeses are to Discovery Church. We look forward to what God has to say to us through our brother Ryan. Key verse: When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 4:12-17) You can watch the full service on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/gRI_O2a5jMg

Daniel's 3 friends refuse to bow down and worship a huge idol statue, which represents the king and his power. The friends are persecuted and thrown into a fiery furnace. God delivers them from death. The king exalts the 3 and finally acknowledges their God as the true God. They stood up for God, placed their faith in a sovereign God, and allowed God's faithfulness to carry them to whatever destiny He has planned. Key Verse: If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. (Daniel 3:17-18) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/JjGssSrMoI0

The king has a dream and only Daniel is able to interpret. It is a huge statue made out of 4 types of metal. It represents a sequence of kingdoms with the head being Babylon. A huge rock flies in and shatters the statues. This is how many of the rest of the dreams unfold. There will be kingdoms that come after Babylon. One day God's kingdom will come and He will humble the arrogant kingdoms of this world and fill this world with the healing justice of God. Key Verse: After Daniel interpreted the king's dream, King Nebuchadnezzar fell prostrate before Daniel and paid him honor and ordered that an offering and incense be presented to him. The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.” (Daniel 2:46-47) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/flZFqYHHAEA

This introduces the ongoing tension of the book. Daniel and his friends are wise and capable and are recruited to serve in the royal palace of Babylon. They are told to turn from their Jewish way of life and view of life in all aspects of their life. They refuse. This puts them in danger, but God rescues them, then elevates them by Babylon's king. Faith and obedience are our common food, for in this God preservers and takes care. He is faithful by giving to Daniel a way to show the Babylonians that God's way works. Key Verse: To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. King Nebuchadnezzar talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service. (Daniel 1:17, 19)

Key Verse: At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. (Matthew 18: 1-5)

Are we willing to suffer and sacrifice for principles that get into our imagination and change us? Always learning and always growing is the longing the church should have. This moves the church to engage with those who are searching, showing how radically counter culture God's community is from a spirit of humbleness. Key Verse: Jesus stepped into a boat, crossed over and came to his own town. Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” (Matthew 9:1-2) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/rnH-FDj-Zfs

We want to be known as a church where people are known, loved, and cared for. This is much needed as loneliness penetrates the deepest parts of our lives. In Paul's letter to new Christians, he wants them to know the life transforming power that is possible—it is still possible today. Key Verse: From Christ the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:16) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/d9wc0IxXb5w

Being a community is more than a gathering of people. It is living out together the wisdom and ways of God. As a faith community does just this, its neighbors see God and His people as something they need and want. Living out God's way of life together results in being on mission together with God. Key Verse: Observe God's laws carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” (Deut 4:6) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/kXi2Lgd6k9c

This week's talk is from Luke 15:1-2 and 11-32. God's love for others spans the huge spectrum of people on all levels. It reaches to the younger brother, the older brother, and to us. We reflect this love to those who know their brokenness shows they need God, and those who believe their goodness makes them not seek after God. Key Verse: But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:22-24)

Today we begin a new series: A Church that Looks Like Jesus. Acts 8:1-8 What a church is includes living out with joy a reflection of God's love for others. When the church moved out of Jerusalem, it moved into diverse and skeptical communities. The result of going and sharing the good news is that the church was filled with joy. Key Verse: Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there…. So there was great joy in that city. (Acts 8:4-5, 8) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/hlG91zQqVx8

Pastor Paul preaches this Easter Sunday on Matthew 28:1-10 and John 20:19-29. This is the day that promises new beginnings. Jesus faced the worst of the worst and yet rose from the grave on this day to start a new era. Because of His resurrection, He meets and fills those who yearn and search after Him. Jesus also meets those who are misunderstood and feel defeated—you can be different because of today. It is not because of anything you can do, but only because of Jesus and what He did on this day anyone can have a fresh start. Key Verse: On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:19)

Pastor Paul preaches on Matthew 27:57-66. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/duEyTpLdwvY

Welcome to Holy Week. We continue our walk with Jesus to the Cross with this sixth Sunday of Lent. Jesus willingly suffered on behalf of people (including us) who don't deserve the offering of grace, forgiveness, and new life. Key Verse: “What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked them. “Crucify him!” they shouted. “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!” (Mark 15:12-14) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/lTEj96kFEXs

Luke 22:54-71 Peter's failure mirrors our human weakness—Peter's repentance demonstrated God's love and mercy. Only remembering Jesus' words saves Peter from total despair and total destruction. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/b1S9F_3D8K8

Happy New Year! We've begun a new series: Connect Deeply. We were created for relationship. We flourish when we are growing in our relationship with God and deepening relationships with others. This series looks at the ways God uses to deepen our connection with Him and others. Prayer stands out as the ultimate way for conversation to happen in our most important relationship—with Father, Spirit, and Son. Key Verse: This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. (1 John 5:14-15) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/ZIixmDtK8k4

Isaiah, who prophesied hope, wrote of how God would bring His salvation to the world. It would be in an unexpected light—we know that light as Jesus. His light came in a way that was surprising, and equally surprising is for who this light of new life is for—anyone and everyone who receives it by faith in Him. The Magi fully exemplify who Jesus' light of salvation is for, and they show what happen when outsiders get drawn into His light. Key Verse: When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. (Matthew 2:10-11) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/22DWoTF0Ixc

Merry Christmas! View the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/cEfRdfokfMs

It's the fourth week of Advent -- Christmas is almost here. Our Advent series is called Behind Christmas. While God revealed His Son to the sages and magicians from the East, Herod was lost in trying to find Him. Herod was disturbed about this “king.” Jesus would have been part of the genocide if not for God's intervention with Joseph. Joseph leads his family to safety in Egypt from Herod, but His claims of being King are still true. Herod shows the truth of humanity, that outside of grace we are at enmity with God—self-centered, self-righteous, and self-absorbed. To search after the true King still disturbs people today because in Jesus is God's call to place Him on the throne of everyone's heart. This comes not by raising ourselves up, to summon inner strength or show credentials that we are worthy, but like Jesus be humbled down to show our humility and need for a great Savior King. Key Verse: When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.” (Matthew 2:13-15) Watch the full service here: https://youtu.be/BfuWt9eHNi0

Matthew 1:20-23 Matthew's account of Joseph reveals that the coming of Messiah was even greater than what people could imagine from reading the prophets. Even though the Jews believed God was both personal and infinite, anytime anyone drew near to God in the Old Testament, it was completely terrifying. Now, drawing near to God is comforting. God in the flesh, which Jesus claimed to be, gives great hope—hope not only for life and love after death, but that God is so close in times of problems, sadness, and loss. View the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/z2lsPUNojm8

Welcome to the second week of Advent! We're continuing our series Behind Christmas. Matthew's gospel beginning with Jesus' genealogy, which includes women, can seem tedious, and even boring. Yet it shows God's planning for the arrival of His Son. Their stories change how we see other people's stories—people are not lost causes or too different but worthy of time, grace, and love—for Jesus came for such as these. Key Verses: This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah… Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar… Boaz the father or Obed, whose mother was Ruth… David the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah's wife… Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah. (Matthew 1:1,3,5,6, 16) View the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/WIMK3RkJJG0

Welcome to the first Sunday of Advent, and the beginning of a new series: Behind Christmas. This week's talk is on Isaiah 9:2, 6-7. No matter what you want to do in a room, you have to first turn on the light, or you can't see to do anything else. These verses call the world “dark,” which is ignorance and evil. No “good will” or “Christmas spirit” can change that. Only the light of Christ. Christ's light dawning brings life, truth, and beauty. Christ's light shows the world as it really is, and He also shows the way out of darkness—through faith in Him. Watch the full service on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZeR3WZpFMqc

This week's talk is brought by Pastor Kevin Schutte from Olathe, Kansas, but who considers Discovery his home church. Curiosity flows from a life of love devoted to God and neighbor. As Ted Lasso famously quoted in the popular TV show, "Be curious, not judgmental." Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/wXc3ciHfKIs

Continued in our series GPS Impact, on how Gifts, Passion, and Story can show us how we can impact others. We all love a good story because they move us. We all have a good STORY of the difference Jesus makes to us—those differences happen most often in our brokenness rather than in our time of strength. When we see patterns God has woven in our story, we trust that God will take some part of that story to give an “ah-ha” moment that will impact others for Him. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/TI0uJc1ic3s

Part two of the series GPS Impact: How Gifts, Passion, and Story Can Show Us Where to Have Impact Pursuing our calling to make a difference isn't easy—it travels uphill. Understanding our PASSION helps us tap into the power source that motivates us to have impact. God's GPS in us helps us uncover the people we intuitively care about and the causes that light us up. Our passion moves us to stand up for these people and causes. Key Verse: As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. (1 Samuel 17: 48) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/dvh9zVZEoig

GPS Impact is a new series about how Gifts, Passion, and Story can act as GPS and guide us to what God's unique plan is for our lives to impact others and bring glory to Him. Each Jesus follower is a masterpiece, a one-of-a-kind bearer of God's image. As we come to know how God uniquely wired us together, we hear more clearly God's invitation to a purpose that adds value to others. One's spiritual GIFTS, given by the Holy Spirit, are woven into our calling to give direction to positively impact other people. Key Verse: For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NLT) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/vd2uZOI1W84

Evan Tinklenberg, Worship & Youth Director at Discovery, shares this week's talk from Ephesians 1:1-10, 22-23. Ordinary followers of Jesus struggle to hope in a world like ours, but God gives us the grace to have resilient hope. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Ze5FhVQPqP8

Luke 4:17-18 Our experience of grace and new life through Jesus motivates Jesus' followers to emulate His servant leadership to seek justice, bring healing, and extend grace and mercy to the various worlds we live in. Key Verse: Jesus read from Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners.” (Luke 4:18) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/lWQp1Kr98zc

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 God created us for His glory—our purpose is to bring glory to Him in all we do. When we do this, we become the people God intended us to be. Only in this way we find true joy in all aspects of life. Key Verse: For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6) Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/XFFWsSCZObw

This talk concludes our Choose Wisely series. Proverbs 16:1-4, 9 We all want good guidance to make good decisions. God is always at work giving us guidance and working His plan, and what He wants us to do is slow down to listen to Him and see Him at work. Watch the full service on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/W6gvkMv9RsE

Series: Choose Wisely Proverbs 5:15-20 God created sexual pleasure for our enjoyment within the confines of a married relationship. God calls us to strengthen our marriage bonds in how we communicate, love, and serve each other. Key Verse: May you rejoice in the wife of your youth. (Proverbs 5:18) Watch the full service on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H-ddmRrW_48