Emmanuel Presbyterian Church

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:2-6 (ESV)2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.Sermon Outline1. Be steadfast in prayer[2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 2. Be watchful in prayer[2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. [2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3. Be outward in prayer[3] At the same time, pray also for us[3] At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—[4] that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.John 17:20–21[20] “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, you are marvelous and yet you desire intimacy with us. You have given us prayer to know you. But our sin has twisted this gift where we seek things from you more than we seek you. You invite us to cultivate a preference for you, but we confess that we often have a preference for ourselves. Instead of your will to be done, we want our wills to be done. Forgive us. Thank you for Jesus, who prayed for us and gave up his life to restore us to you. Help us to enjoy your grace, to see your grace more clearly, and to share that grace with others. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul invites us to “continue steadfastly in prayer.” In other letters, he's said, “pray without ceasing” and “be constant in prayer.” Where does prayer currently fit into your everyday life? What do you find enjoyable about prayer? What feels difficult? If you were to take inventory of your prayers, how much is asking God for things versus simply being with him? What might it look like to enjoy God more in prayer?What helps you notice God more? What makes it difficult? What might it look like to see your life through “grace-colored glasses”, where you notice more of God's acts of grace around you? How would that change your outlook this week?In John 17, Jesus prays not only for his disciples, but for all who will follow him throughout time. How does it affect you to know that Jesus has already prayed for you? Who are 1-2 people in your life that God might be “opening a door” for you to share your faith with? What might be one small step you can take this week?What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: EasterLuke 24:13-49 (ESV)13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” 25 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.28 So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, 29 but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” 33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. 38 And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate before them.44 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”Sermon OutlineThe resurrection of Jesus is perplexing and our world is complicated, so it is worth asking what Easter is about if we want to experience the joy and wonder of it:1. Easter is about Jesus in our messy world.v21 “but we had hoped…” v26-27 “was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?”2. Easter is about a spiritual transformation where God reveals what brings us life.v16 “their eyes were kept from recognizing him”vv30-32 “he took the bread… and their eyes were open… ‘did not our hearts burn…?'” (vv34-35 - “he is risen indeed”)vv44-48 “he opened their minds to understand the scriptures…” 3. Easter is about God granting peace so we can have joy even while things are being worked out.v36 “Jesus himself stood among them… ‘peace'” v41 “they disbelieved for joy”Prayer of ConfessionOur life-giving God: even as we hear the good news with hope, we confess our unbelief. There are things we don't want to believe, and there are things we don't want to do. We admit the problem is deeper than we have discerned and we are guilty in ways we have not acknowledged. Forgive every sinful thought, word and action. We want the peace and joy offered to us in Christ, but our hearts are hard and our minds resistant to belief. We thank you that you are gracious, giving us what we have not earned, and generously granting life in such a costly way. Transform us so we see Jesus and that we come alive with new life in him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat about life or our world doesn't make sense? How do those things affect you?What about Christianity doesn't make sense? What don't you understand, or have trouble believing?What is the significance of Jesus' death? What is the significance of his resurrection? How can anyone best learn and understand why he had to suffer and enter into glory?What keeps you from “seeing” Jesus? As you reflect on yourself, is there anything that may prohibit you from recognizing him, his presence, the meaning of his teachings or what he did?Have you ever had a spiritual experience where you sensed God's presence or activity? If so, what was it like? What did you experience? What were the circumstances?If you begin to see how all things come together in Jesus, and that God and His plan are more remarkable than you could have imagined – what would you expect to experience?How does the gospel bring joy? What in the story of Jesus' sufferings and glory can bring you gratitude, wonder, hope, or some experience of goodness?How can you deal with the questions you still have, or the confusion you still experience? What are healthy ways of trusting God, following Christ, and living faithfully even when it is hard, or you lose a sense of its purpose?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:22-4:1 (ESV)22 Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. 25 For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.4:1 Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.Sermon OutlineColossians 3 contains a foundational principle that helps us as we strive to live wisely in our world.1. What is the principle?v23 “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (3:17)v24 “You are serving the Lord Christ.”2. How is it applied?v22 “Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters”4:1 “Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” 3. Why is it important?v23 “work heartily” v22 “not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.”v24 “from the Lord you will receive the inheritance”4. When do you draw on this?v24 “from the Lord you will receive... You are serving the Lord Christ.”Prayer of ConfessionOur sovereign Lord, who rules the heavens and the earth: have mercy on us. We have not done all things for your glory. We have not honored you from the depths of our hearts. We have sinned, having fallen for the lies of this world. Forgive our abuse of power, the arrogance with which we have looked down on others, and where we have harmed rather than protected. Forgive our rebellious spirits, all our selfish actions, and all the ways we have been hypocritical. We have not honored you with our work or the things you have entrusted to us. Release us from the power of sin and lead us in the way of freedom. May whatever we do, in word or deed, be done in the name of Christ, our savior and Lord. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow are we to do “all things” in the name of Christ? Which parts of your life is Christianity obviously relevant to? Which parts of your life are hard to understand how it connects with following Christ?Who are some of the people whose approval you want or need? Why?What are some of the ways corruption makes its way into the work place? How can work be dehumanizing? What temptations do you face in the work you do? What, in your work, do you find most stressful?What can make work meaningful and rewarding?In an extremely corrupt work arrangement, like slavery, what options does a suffering worker have? What possibilities should Christians in those circumstances consider?Why is it important for people with power to understand they are accountable to Christ? Does this inspire you to better steward your power? Does it make you fearful? Why? How can it help workers to know that Jesus sees all that we do, cares, and will reward his followers?What does it say about Jesus that he took the form of a servant to free his people from their sin and misery? What does this reveal about God? What does it expose about the world?In your current work (whether employment or whatever you do), what limitations do you need to accept? What is meaningful? What is problematic enough that you should not ignore it? How can you make the most out of whatever opportunity you have?How do you need to follow Jesus in your current situation? Is there an opportunity to do something good? Do you need to draw on his strength? Do you need to repent of something? Do you need courage to make a decision? Pray about your circumstances and watch and respond as you go about this week.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Tim CraigSermon Series: Retreat 2026Matthew 9:35-10:15 (NIV)35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”10:1 Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.2 These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.5 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. 7 As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.' 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.9 “Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts— 10 no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep. 11 Whatever town or village you enter, search there for some worthy person and stay at their house until you leave. 12 As you enter the home, give it your greeting. 13 If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. 14 If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet. 15 Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father; we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have left undone those things that we ought to have done; and we have done those things that we ought not to have done; and there is no health in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us. And grant, O most merciful Father, for your Son Jesus Christ's sake, that we may hereafter live a godly and righteous life, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:18-21 (ESV)18 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.Sermon Outline1. Trusting God's DesignGenesis 1Day 1: light/darkness >> Day 4: sun, moon, starsDay 2: sky/water >> Day 5: birds/fishDay 3: land/vegetation >> Day 6: animals/humansGenesis 1:27 – God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.2. Obeying God's Calling[18] Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. [19] Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. [20] Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. [21] Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.3. Relying on God's Power[18] Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. [19] Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. [20] Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. [21] Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, your design for the world is good and orderly. You intended for flourishing and harmony, yet we have failed to live according to the callings you have given us. Instead of seeking the good of others, we pursue our own power and selfish ambition. Too often we allow others to struggle so that we might benefit. Forgive us for not trusting your design, following your calling, or relying on your power. Lord Jesus, you are the rightful head and authority over us. You gave up your life so that we might flourish. Help us to trust your leadership. By the power of your Spirit, make us people who seek the flourishing of others and bring honor to your name. Amen. Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?How does seeing creation as ordered and not random shape how you think about God?Why do you think people today often assume that hierarchy automatically means inequality? How can there be equality but difference?What parts of Paul's teaching do you think would have felt counter-cultural then, and what parts feel counter-cultural today?How might the principles of this household code shape how the different generations in the church care for and relate to each other?Living out these callings often requires putting someone else's needs before our own. Why do you think sacrificial love in relationships can feel so costly?Why is our relationship with Jesus essential for living out these roles well? Consider the qualifies that Paul uses: e.g. “as is fitting in the Lord” and “for this pleases the Lord.” What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon OutlineGratitude is not simply a benefit of the Christian life, but it is at the heart of what it means to be Christian.1. Who are you?v15 And be thankful.2. What do you have?v16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 3. What do you do?v17 “…do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks…”v16 “singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs”Prayer of ConfessionOur merciful God, we look to you seeking change from our patterns of looking away from you. We are guilty of pride and we bear of shame. We have been deceived, yet we have blamed you and others for the misery that has followed. We have been complainers, gossips, slanderers and accusers. We have not sufficiently valued the good in our lives and we have failed to return thanks to you. We have taken you and your gifts for granted. We have used these grievances to justify our sinful actions. Forgive us. We thank you for the word of Christ that speaks good news to us. Cleanse us of sin and may we do all things in the name of Jesus Christ, through whom we give thanks to you. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow often do you give thanks to God? When you do give thanks to God, what is it for?What are the themes of your complaints? What are regular sources of dissatisfaction? Where do you see patterns of taking things for granted in your life? How does shame shape your internal narrative? What negative patterns or ruminations are frequent for you?What is the lure of pride? Why does it feel good to have more or be better than others?How can understanding God's grace open your eyes to recognize the treasures we have in Christ? What of the gospel message can stir thanksgiving in you?Why is a prayer of thanks before eating a valuable habit? What has God given you that you can steward in service to Him? How can you do your daily tasks in a spirit of generosity towards God or others? What does it mean to do all things in the name of Jesus? How can singing be a means of expressing thanks, and when are opportunities to do it? How can singing be a means of drawing you in to a thankful spirit?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon OutlineIn a fractured world, Christ restores harmony by clothing us in His love and ruling our hearts with His peace.1. Longing for Harmonyv14 which binds everything together in perfect harmony.2. Covered with Lovev14 And above all these put on love3. Ruled by Peace v15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts to which indeed you were called in one body.Prayer of ConfessionOur wise God and Father, we long for peace while we suffer dissonance. Corrupt desires have ruled our hearts. We have worn sin like a garment. We have not been peacemakers. Our thoughts, words and actions have caused harm and division. Forgive us. We look to Christ, the only one worthy to take the highest place. We marvel that we are called into his body, and that you graciously cover us in your love. We pray with thanks in the name of Jesus, who is our peace. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIf you have had an experience of feeling at peace, what were you experiencing? Or, if you are longing to be at peace, what is it you are hoping for? What is present and what is absent in that experience?What sorts of internal conflicts do you experience? What tensions are commonly present?What are some key causes of interpersonal conflict? What causes division in the world?How does love promote peace? What are the qualities of Christian love?Why is God's love crucial for our having peace with God? How does the love of Christ bring peace to specific aspects of our lives?How does love “bind things together in perfect harmony?” What does it mean to “put on love?”Who or what is in charge of your heart? How can Jesus become the one who guides you in each decision? When you are being overwhelmed by temptation, what can you do so that Christ is ruling in your heart and over your life? How can you get through those periods faithfully?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon Outline1. When do we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another…2. What does forgiveness look like?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other…3. How can we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.[2:13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, we live in a world of broken relationships where we have been wronged against, and we have wronged others. Our offenses are not always accidental, but often intentional. Instead of mending what's been broken, we withhold forgiveness. We want others to pay for what they've done. Jesus, your grace is amazing because you gave us complete forgiveness before we uttered a word of confession. You bore the cost of our sin, and you did not make us pay. As you have forgiven us, may we forgive one another. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul assumes that in the church there will be situations when people will hurt one another, and these won't be accidents. Have you witnessed or experienced any “complaints” in the church?How would you define and describe forgiveness?What do you find difficult and challenging about forgiveness?Paul uses the language of “forgiving each other” as though forgiveness will be ongoing. Have you had a situation where you've been challenged to forgive someone in an ongoing way?Paul shares that the basis for our ability to forgive others is because Jesus has forgiven us. How does this help you to forgive? How might you still struggle to forgive?If Jesus' forgiveness towards us was full and complete, how does that give you assurance and comfort? What if his forgiveness was partial? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon OutlineMaturing involves seeking and growing in the character of Christ. (v 12)1. Do we value these characteristics?compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience2. How did Jesus display these characteristics?Put on then…3. Can we attain these characteristics? as God's chosen ones, holy and belovedPrayer of ConfessionOur merciful God, we turn to you in weakness, admitting our guilt. We have neglected and mistreated people, rather than having compassion and acting with kindness. We have been prideful and selfish; we have judged and treated others harshly. In our desperation to be strong we have faked it and have misused the power we had. Even acts that appear kind sit on faulty foundations of fear, apathy or a desire for comfort and ease. Forgive these and all our sins. We turn to you because you are compassionate, patient and kind. Help us in the name of Christ, in whom we are chosen, holy and beloved. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhich character traits or virtues do you value most? List your top 3 traits (what you appreciate, not necessarily which you have).Which of the characteristics (pick 1) of Colossians 3:12 is most developed in you? Which is hardest for you? They are: a compassionate heart, kindness, humility, meekness, patience.Do these traits make us or vulnerable? What are the characteristics of a strong person?Which character traits of Jesus stand out most to you? What do you admire most in him?Was Jesus strong? If so, in what way? If not, what did he lack? Does he meet the worlds standards of strength?How does the crucifixion reveal Jesus' strength? What are we meant to see that should move us to recognize greatness in him because of what he did?How can a relationship with God help form you gain these character traits? Why is receiving compassion, kindness and patience from God important for your healing and growth?Do you relate to God in a way that stirs growth and change in you? How does the call to follow Jesus help safeguard against forming God in our own image or as a projection of our own desires?How does the character of God create a solid foundation for us? Why is it important to recognize we cannot manipulate God, or that God is not reactive (He remains in control of what He does and doesn't lose control based on what we say or do)?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:5-11 (ESV)5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming. 7 In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. 8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.Sermon OutlineMaturing in the fulness of the life Jesus invites us into requires intentionally putting an end to former ways.1. What is the problem?v5 “what is earthly in you”v5 “covetousness, which is idolatry”v5 “sexual immorality…”vv8-9 “anger…”v6 “On account of these the wrath of God is coming”2. How do you address it?v5 “Put to death”v8 “put them all away”vv9-10 “put off the old self with its practices”3. Why is this important?v11 “but Christ is all, and in all”v10 “the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator”v11 “Here there is not…”Prayer of ConfessionOur Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer: you invite us to seek the things that are above, but we have oriented our lives towards the things of earth. We confess we have been covetous. We have been ruled by selfish desires. We have fixated on things people have, and have treated people as though they were things. We are guilty of the very ways you have warned us to put aside. Our lips have exposed that our hearts are not right. Forgive every expression of sin, and free us from the power and presence of sin within us. We turn to you, receiving the life of Christ through faith, and commit to walking in him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDoes it seem that the world that you see and experience is all that there is? How do people live when they assume there is nothing beyond this world and that life ends when you die? What changes with the belief that there is a God we can know and that we are eternal beings?What are some good things that are natural to you (desires, instincts, habits)? What are some problematic things?How does corruption make good desires harmful? What happens when people are controlled by problematic desires? What is the impact?What are helpful ways of trying to control problematic desires? What should we avoid?Which model for dealing with your sin is most appealing to you: fighting it/going to war to defeat it (put to death); putting it away (recognizing it needs to be contained and dealt with); putting it off (like changing an old garment)? Are you neglecting any of the means or approaches? Why?What happens if you focus only on the good things offered in Christianity and pay no attention to the hard work of dealing with sin? What happens if your focus becomes dealing with sin and you ignore the positive aspects of looking to God with hope and for satisfaction?What does it mean that Jesus offers us a “new self” which is being renewed after the image of its creator? What are simply implications of “being renewed”? What are reasonable expectations for a maturing/growing life?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:1-4 (ESV)1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.Sermon OutlineSetting your sight on the heavenly goal orients you for a life of growth towards it.1. Seek the Things Abovev1 “seek the things that are above”v2 “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth”2. Where Christ Isv3 “For you have died,” v1 “If then you have been raised…”v4 “Christ who is your life” v1 “the things that are above, where Christ is”3. You Will Appear with Himv1 “…seated at the right hand of God.”v3 “your life is hidden with Christ in God”v4 “you also will appear with him in glory”Prayer of ConfessionOur Lord and Savior, have mercy on us. We have erred in pursuing things that could never satisfy. We have neglected looking to you. Our minds, set on earthly things, have generated shameful thoughts. We have acted regretfully. We have failed to live in this world in accordance with the glorious things you have made known. Forgive every sin. We remember the death of Christ on our behalf, and take hold the life given us in him. Renew our minds and guide us towards the life of honor and glory. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you think about? Where does your mind naturally go (what is it “set on”)?What do you seek after? What do you hope to acquire, value, make sacrifices for? Why?How can you set your mind on things above?How can you be more consistent in thinking about what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, worthy of praise? (Philippians 4:8)What can you do when your mind is focused on negative things?Why is important to understand that Jesus comes to find us? How does Jesus seeking you, calling you, and giving himself for you, help you seek the things where he now is?How can your identity be shaped more by looking to where Christ is? What can you learn about yourself? How can you grow into what is shown to you there?What are some of the implications of your life being kept safe where Christ is? How can this help you live differently in the world?What about the future hope of glory encourages your soul? What are you hopeful for? How can you ground yourself more in that hope so it shapes how you think and perceive?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 2:13-23 (ESV)13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.Sermon Outline1. The allure of self-made religion[16] Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. [20] …why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations—[21] “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” [22] (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings?2. The burden of self-made religion[23] These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.[20] If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations. 3. The freedom from self-made religion[13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.[15] He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, you have made clear for us the way of salvation, and yet we turn instead to the many laws and regulations of self-made religion that promise life but never satisfy. We cannot save ourselves. Lord, we need the rescue of Jesus. We turn to him for freedom, for he has given us forgiveness and he has disarmed the rulers and authorities. By your Spirit, help us to enjoy being with Jesus more and more each day, and to live in the freedom he has won for us.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul says that self-made religion has the appearance of wisdom. Why do you think this is the case?What versions of self-made religion do you see today?What does Paul mean when he says that the practices of self-made religion are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh?How have you seen rules or expectations become the goal rather than a tool in spiritual life?In what ways do you struggle with doing things for Jesus rather than enjoying him?Describe how you might struggle to rest in grace instead of striving or proving yourself.What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 2:15-23 (ESV)15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.Sermon OutlineThose who desire to grow spiritually must focus on Christ and be discerning of the lure of self-made religion.1. The Danger of Being Puffed Upv18 “…going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind”2. The Fear of Disqualificationv17 “These are a shadow… but the substance…”v18 “Let no one disqualify you” [v16]3. The Need to Hold Fast to Christv20 “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why…” v17 “the substance belongs to Christ”v19 “not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body… grows with a growth that is from God.Prayer of ConfessionOur God, you are so great we should abound with thanksgiving and eagerly walk with you. We confess we have been apathetic and lukewarm. When we have demonstrated greater fervency, it has often been infected with pride. We are guilty of forming faith and practices around our own desires. We have been fooled by those who appeal to these desires. Our thoughts and actions have not honored you. We are immature, needing forgiveness as well as guidance. We ask, in the name of Christ, that you forgive our sins and nourish us so that we grow in him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionAre you more typically ambivalent and lax in your walk with God, or overzealous? Are you content, believing your walk with God is healthy? What do you observe?Can you be “too devoted” or enthusiastic in following Christ? What distinguishes a highly enthusiastic and engaged faith that is healthy, from one that is problematic?Does a “reasonable mind” require denying supernatural elements of Christianity? How do you discern what is true and real? How can you identify what is false?How can churches create social pressures that appeal to ego or fear? What are some of the dynamics of an unhealthy Christian community? What might you see or experience?How does Jesus set us free from the powers of the elemental spirits of this world?How can you live free of the lure of these spirits and from the unruly desires withing you?What does it mean to hold fast to Christ? What are some of the means God provides for your growth within the body of Christ? How does church and Christian community provide nourishment from God?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 2:6-15 (ESV)6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. 9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. 11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.Sermon OutlineReal enduring growth flows out of the change that begins with the unique work that Christ does.1. Circumcisionv11 “In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands… the circumcision of Christ”2. Crucifixionv13 “you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh”v14-15 “canceling the record of debt that stood against us… nailing it to the cross…He disarmed… put… to… shame”v13 “God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses”3. Baptismv12 “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God…”Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, who works powerfully for your people: forgive all our sins. We have not been thankful for your sacrificial love. We have not believed that your ways lead to life. We have trusted in our own judgements even when they have conflicted with your teachings. We have acted on corrupt desires, even when we recognized they lead to death. We have not been faithful to the covenant nor honored our relationship with you. Our hope is in Christ, who cancelled the record of debt that stood against us. Forgive us in him. Cleanse us and fill us with your Holy Spirit as we look to you with faith and give thanks for your grace. Amen.Questions for ReflectionAre you abounding in thanksgiving? How often do you experience envy, resentment, or in some way dissatisfaction because you feel like you don't have enough? What are some of the themes of negativity that persist in your life?Jesus calls us to a new way of life. How would you describe it? How does it work? What don't you understand about it?Why is God concerned about our hearts? Why is the work of Christ described as a circumcision of the heart? How does the crucifixion of Jesus bring forgiveness to us? How does it work?How can reflecting on what Jesus did for you help with your struggles of shame or efforts to be free from all that holds you captive? What does baptism picture? What are we supposed to see when we observe a baptism?What does it look like to have faith in the powerful working of God? What changes can you make this week to make progress in walking “in Christ”? How will you try to think differently? What habits will you put aside? Which will you take on?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 2:6-15 (ESV)6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. 9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. 11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and against our neighbors, in thought, word and deed, through negligence, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We are truly sorry and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and grant that we may serve you in newness of life, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:5 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father; we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have left undone those things that we ought to have done; and we have done those things that we ought not to have done; and there is no health in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us. And grant, O most merciful Father, for your Son Jesus Christ's sake, that we may hereafter live a godly and righteous life, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: AdventLuke 2:1-21 (ESV)1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.Sermon OutlineReflecting on glory and peace in the song of the angels (v14) will help clarify why Christmas is worth celebrating.1. Gloryv1 “a decree… from Caesar Augustus”v9 “an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them”v18 “And all who heard it wondered”v20 “the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God”2. Peacev14 “on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased”v10-11 “the angel said to them, ‘Fear not… I bring you good news of great joy… a Savior'”v15, 17 “When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds… made known the saying… concerning this child”v13-14 “a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God… and on earth peace…!'”Prayer of ConfessionOur glorious God, we praise you and rejoice at the good news of Jesus' birth. Hear us as we admit our sin and appeal for forgiveness. We have sought our own glory, and are guilty of pride, envy, arrogance and idolatry. We have forfeited peace and struggle with the consequences. We have been troublemakers, not peacemakers. We humbly admit our need of your grace, and we marvel at your kindness. Forgive our sins. Thank you for the peace given to us in Christ. May all glory go to you. In Jesus' name, amen.Questions for ReflectionHow are you feeling this season? How are you feeling about Christmas? Why? What are you looking forward to? What are you dreading?What do you imagine the shepherds saw when the angels appeared? What did they hear (what did it sound like)?Do you postpone peace in pursuit of glory? Have you given up striving for glory because you want to be at peace? Which is more of a priority in your life right now (peace or glory)?What evidence is there that the world is not at peace with God? Why is the birth of Jesus good news? What benefits come because he came into the world? How is Jesus a gift to the world?How do we receive peace from God? What did Jesus do so that we would have peace with God?How do we “give” glory to God? What attitude and actions should you cultivate?As you practice receiving peace and giving glory, what will help set a clearer trajectory for a life of joy?

Audio Recording Scripture TextsSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Lessons & CarolsLuke 1:26-38 (ESV)26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?”35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.Matthew 1:18-23 (ESV)18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”(which means, God with us).

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:5 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.Sermon OutlineA life that deepens in Christ includes struggling (1:29-2:1) as part of the maturing process.1. Proclaiming Christ1:28 “ Him we proclaim…”2:2-3 “God's mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”2. Suffering for Christ1:24 “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church”1:29 “For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.”3. Maturing in Christv28 “…that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”v27 “this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”Prayer of ConfessionOur great God, you have made available to us all the riches of wisdom and knowledge. Yet we have not trusted you, walked with you, or loved you. We confess our sins and turn to you for forgiveness. We have set our hearts on earthly treasures while neglecting the treasure of Christ. We have been more concerned with our bodies than with the body of Christ, your church. Comfort has been a greater priority than love for others. We have been childish, but not child-like. We thank you that through the remarkable love of Christ we have the hope of glory. Cleanse and renew us. Sustain us by the powerful working of your Spirit so that we have strength to walk in a manner worthy of Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat forms of suffering do you assume are a normal part of life? What forms of suffering do you not understand, or leave you confused or make it difficult to believe in God?What encouragement can readers of Colossians take from the costly sufferings Paul endured in order to bring the gospel to us and to offer teaching and help?Why is it important to stay focused on Christ? What is challenging about remaining focused on Christ?How does a person “look to Christ”? What should you do?How can challenges push you grow? What kinds of trials should Christians expect to be part of their growing process?How can you draw from the power of God to be sustained when enduring difficulties?Is there anything you are doing or failing to do that is hindering your maturing in Christ? What can you start to do differently?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:15-23 (ESV)15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.Sermon OutlineWhy we need reconciliation (v.21)How Jesus reconciles (v. 20-22)What this means for how we live now (v. 23)Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you created the universe for wholeness and flourishing. Harmony and peace were meant to be ordinary elements of day to day life. But we have brought ruin and created distance from others, ourselves, and you. Forgive us for our evil deeds, both seen and unseen. Forgive us for our hostile thoughts. In your mercy and kindness, you did not start all over again, but you sent your Son, Jesus, to reconcile all things to himself. We do not deserve this gift of reconciliation. Help us to remain in Jesus and be firmly secured in the hope of the gospel. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?The brokenness of the world reveals that there is distance from others, ourselves, and from God. Where do you feel this distance in your own life?Sometimes, even the slightest doubt or suspicion can take away intimacy and contribute to more distance. How have you seen this to be true?God is the one that initiated reconciliation. Why is this significant?Jesus “presents us holy, blameless, and above reproach.” Reflect and mediate on this truth. How might this be an encouragement to your soul?The gospel is meant to be our foundation for all of life. Describe how we might treat it as one option among many. What might continuing in the faith look like for you in this season?What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:15-20 (ESV)15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by[a] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.Sermon OutlineWe are invited into the reforming and reordering of all things in Christ, who is far greater than we imagine.1. Christ is first.vv17-18 “he is before all things… he is the beginning”v15 “he is the image of the invisible God”, v19 “for in Him all the fulness of God was pleased to dwell”2. Christ holds all things together.v17 “in him all things hold together”v20 “through him to reconcile all things, whether on earth or in heaven”3. Christ is above all.v15 “the firstborn of creation”, v18 “the firstborn of the dead”v18 “he is the head of the body… that in everything he might be preeminent”Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, our Creator and Redeemer, you who are above all: we admit our sin and shortcomings. With pride we have sought to take the preeminent place. With greed we have been lured into believing there are things greater than you. With corruption we have failed to act honorably toward you or others. With shame we admit that we are broken people and cannot fix ourselves. We thank you that Christ, who gives life to all, has given us new life. We ask for the forgiveness of our sins. Renew us by the Spirit that binds us to Christ, in whom all things are held together. The kingdom, the power and the glory are yours, forever. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you see as “preeminent” in our world? What do people put first, value most, get most excited about, etc.?Why is it hard to see that Jesus is preeminent?What is meant by the phrase “if you want to know what God is like, look at Jesus”? What are you supposed to do?How is looking to Jesus like keeping your “eye on the ball”? How can you keep your eyes on Jesus throughout a typical day? In extraordinary circumstances?How does Christianity provide meaning in life? Does life make sense? Are you experiencing a sense of purpose? In what areas of your life would you benefit from reordering things with Jesus as your guide and teacher? Where do you feel like you most need to give attention? Why is it good news that Jesus is above all? Are you confident Jesus is worthy of that position? What concerns do you have? What are some implications of Jesus being over all, and all things being accountable to him?Do you ever have a sense of the transcendence and glory of Christ? What can you be attuned to in order to help you recognize the greatness of Christ? What can you expect to happen within you if you can more consistently connect with the exalted Christ?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:9-14 (ESV)9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.Sermon OutlineWe mature spiritually as we align with God's will, so we should seek growth in the following areas:1. Understandingv9 “asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding”2. Actionv10 “so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God”3. Endurancev11 “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience”4. Attitudevv11-12 “with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light”Prayer of ConfessionOur wise God, we don't want to walk in darkness. We admit we often have the attitude “not thy will be done, but mine.” We have not sought to understand your will. In fact, we have tried to ignore it. We have contradicted it. We have sinned in thought, word and deed. We recognize our ingratitude, and we admit stubborn resistance to rejoice in you. Grant us forgiveness. Fill us with the knowledge of your will so that we walk with wisdom in a manner pleasing to you. Strengthen us with your power, according to your glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow do you pray for other people? Aside from specific needs, what do you (or should you) ask God to do in the lives of others? What does it mean to know God's will? What kinds of things should Christians know? What can we not know?What role does learning play in the Christian life? What are some ways learning happens?How are actions (what we do) part of the learning process? What does it look like to draw strength from God? How can your endurance be with strength that God provides?What is needed to get through periods where you are not experiencing joy? Is it possible to choose to rejoice? Are there things you can do that are authentic and faithful when you are not feeling joyful?What role does thanksgiving play in the Christian life? How can prayers of thanksgiving be a more frequent part of your day? How does the concept of inheritance inform how we can live? What is implied? What do you have that you did not earn? What are you doing with what has been entrusted to you?What does it look like to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord”? What attitude and posture should you have?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:3-8 (ESV)3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.Sermon OutlineThe gospel message of grace produces life that evidences itself in hope, faith and love.1. Hopevv3-4 “We always thank God… since we heard…”v5 “because of the hope laid up for you in heaven”2. Faithv4 “since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus”v6 “you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth”3. Lovev4 “and of the love that you have for all the saints”v8 “has made known to us your love in the Spirit.”Prayer of ConfessionOur God and Father, we need your grace. Forgive our misplaced hopes. We have deep longings, yet we seek satisfaction apart from you. We have many firm convictions and opinions, yet insufficient faith in you. Our love always falls short. Our actions evidence corruption, and fail to evidence being alive in your Spirit. True grace has come in Christ, so in him we appeal for forgiveness and mercy. Revive us as we look to the hope laid up for us in heaven. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat is the gospel? What are the key components of this message, that is described as “the grace of God in truth.”What are your deepest desires? What, most basically, do you really want? What do you absolutely need?What are your hopes? What things do you look to in order to realize those hopes? What are the top 3 things where you think “if I had that, I would be satisfied”?How is Christian hope “laid up in heaven”? What does that mean? How is faith the “instrument” of salvation? What saves us? How does one connect with what saves?What happens when faith is weak? How can your faith be strengthened?How are faith and love connected to hope? What are some ways hope feeds faith and love?What changes when you truly believe that God loves you?Why does the work of the Spirit in a person have to manifest itself in love?Which of the three – faith, hope, love – do you need to give particular attention to in this season of life?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:1-8 (ESV)1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae:Grace to you and peace from God our Father.3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.Sermon OutlineWith Christ as our guide we can enter Colossians with expectations of maturing and fruitfulness.1. Who is this letter from?vv5-6 “the truth, the gospel, which… is bearing fruit”v1 “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God”2. Who is this letter for?v2 “To the saints and faithful brothers” v2 “Grace to you and peace from God our Father”v2 “in Christ at Colossae”Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, forgive us. We have squandered the grace and peace you have granted to us. We have not lived holy lives. Forgive every corrupt thought, word or action. Forgive us for how we have not honored you or our neighbors. We thank you for eternal life that is ours in Christ, for the forgiveness of all that is past, and our hope for all that is ahead. Sanctify us by your grace. Amen.Questions for ReflectionAs we enter the book of Colossians, what do you hope you can gain from the book? How might time in this particular book help you grow?What power does the Gospel message have? How is it that the “good news” about Jesus can be transformative? Can you think of any examples of the gospel “bearing fruit”?What can you infer about Colossians from Paul identifying himself as a messenger of Christ? Are these simply his thoughts? How can you learn from Christ as you read the book?What practices could enhance what you get from a sermon? What things can you do prior to church? What can you do during the sermon? What might you do after the sermon?How do your own attitudes and expectations shape how you engage reading the Bible? What changes if the reader understands themselves to be a saint, set apart and part of the family of God?What does the greeting “grace and peace from God our Father” convey?What does it mean to be “in Christ”? How are Christians “in Christ” while also being in a particular physical location? What are some implications of being “in Christ” wherever you are?How can you experience eternal life today? How is the gospel enough for today's needs, and how can you be more present, with God, in each moment?Are there ways you are stuck in the past? How can the gospel free you? Are you anxious about the future? How does Christ provide strength for today? How can you live wisely in the moment without be overwhelmed with trying to control the future?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:7 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.Sermon OutlineThe way to a truly fruitful life is to mature in the grace of Christ.1. Beginning2:6 “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord”2:2-3 “all the riches… which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures…”2:7 “abounding in thanksgiving”2. Continuing2:6 “so walk in him”2:7 “rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught”Prayer of ConfessionOur loving Father, you have been so good to us. Your kindness and generosity should stir us to grateful stewardship of all you have entrusted to us; yet we take so much for granted. We don't abound with thanksgiving. We are marked instead by grumbling, envy, and all the characteristics that evidence we need your forgiveness. We are guilty of complacency. We have done much wrong. There is much we have failed to do. With honesty and humility, we admit our failings and appeal to you for mercy. We turn to you, in Christ, whom you have given to us and through whom you give us all things. As we renew our commitment to walk in him, lead us in maturing in him in this next season. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow does the Christian life begin?Why is it important to recognize that God gives and we receive? What is your understanding of grace and how it works?What riches and treasures do you recognize in Christ? What in his character, in what he teaches, in what he has done, or in what he gives is of great value? How can you grow in discerning and taking hold of even greater things in Christ?When do you give thanks? Do you have any routine or habits of pausing to take stock of what you have and celebrating whatever is good? How can thanksgiving be a more regular part of your daily life?Does maturity automatically happen? How does one mature spiritually? Are there ways to tell if you are growing?What can you expect to experience in the process of maintaining a simple faith in Christ while engaging an increasingly complex world? Does Christianity equip you for all of life?Have you been neglecting any of the areas of the five practices of Acts 2: Fellowship, the Word, Prayer, Sacraments, Mission (FWPSM)? How can these practices be a “means of grace”, habits that nourish and sustain you?What could be next for Emmanuel? How can our church grow, improve, deepen, become more fruitful?

Audio Recording We apologize, there is no video of this week's sermon. Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the ChurchJohn 15:1-11 (ESV)1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me, he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.Sermon OutlineThe deep union between Jesus and his church is unique in its life-giving nature.1. Unitev2 “every branch in me”, v4 “in me, and I in you”v1 “I am the true vine”v5 “apart from me you can do nothing”2. Remainv4 “abide”v2 “every branch that does bear fruit he prunes”3. Provev7 “My words abide in you”v8 “bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples”v9 “abide in my love”v11 “that your joy may be full”Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, you have called us to abide in Christ, the true vine, that our lives may bear good fruit. Yet we confess that we have often wandered from him. We have tried to grow apart from your grace, trusting our strength rather than your Spirit. We have resisted your pruning, clinging to habits and desires that do not give life. We have sought joy in passing things instead of abiding in your love. Forgive us, O Lord. Cut away all that is dead within us, and cleanse us from every fruitless work. Teach us to remain in your love and to keep your commands with joy, so that our lives may glorify you and our joy may be complete in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat does the vine and branches metaphor teach about the relationship of Jesus and his people? What do you think Jesus means when he says “apart from me you can do nothing”?How do we get the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self control)?How can the framework of “pruning” offer a perspective that can help you remain in Christ when enduring difficult periods?Why is it important for Christian community to be based on our spiritual bond and our faith in Christ? How can our natural hopes for community become a problem in the church?What kinds of meaningful support should mark Christian relationships? How can we sustain one another through the ups and downs of life?What does it look like to keep Jesus' command to love? Why is love meant to be consistent and regular in the Christian life?Do you believe that the Christian life is the path to true joy? What questions do you have? What can you pray for to grow in this season?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the ChurchRevelation 19:6-10 (ESV)6 Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out,“Hallelujah!For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.7 Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory,for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready;8 it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure”—for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.9 And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.” 10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.” For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.Sermon OutlineThe picture of the church as a bride (v7) helps us see that the message of God's love is profound (and includes commitment, sacrifice, joy)1. The Marriage Supper v9 “blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper…”v6 “the Lord, our God… reigns”, v7 “for the marriage… has come”2. The Lamb v7 “marriage of the lamb” (cf v9)v10 “the testimony of Jesus”v10 “he fell down to worship”3. The Linen Garment v7 “the bride has made herself ready”v8 “it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen… the righteous deeds of the saints”v7 “let us rejoice”Prayer of ConfessionOur loving God, you have been faithful to us, but we have not been faithful to you. We have taken you for granted. We have assumed a contractual relationship where we have served you in exchange for things we want from you. We have presumed upon your patience by persisting in what you have warned us not to do. We have failed to trust you. We have sinned in ways that have dishonored people whom you have made. Forgive all of our sins. Wash us clean. Show us again your grace and favor, as we strive to put off the old ways and put on what is fitting for those awaiting the great celebration you have invited us to. We pray this through Christ, the one who loved us and who alone is worthy. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDo you find the message of God's love appealing? What skepticism, cynicism, fear or incredulity do you have towards this message? Why?Does it feel like you relate to God under a contract (a practical relationship, a sense of duty, a foundation of exchange, etc.) or a covenant (a personal commitment, a desire to be faithful, a foundation of love)? How does your framework shape your expectations, your experience of God, your interpretation of life events, etc.?Does love typically include joy, commitment and sacrifice? Are all three necessary? Are they always present? What else does real love need?Why is it important to recognize that God is patient and faithful with unfaithful people?Why is Jesus pictured as a lamb in the book of Revelation? What other passages of the Bible help you understand why Jesus is the “lamb of God”?How is a marriage celebration a helpful image for understanding where God is leading history? What does the metaphor of the church as a bride imply about how we are to live? What does it look like to get changed/dressed if the garment is “righteous deeds”? Do you believe the future is hopeful, and that a joyous occasion awaits? Why or why not? How are you currently affected by what you believe about the future?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Imagining the Church1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (ESV)12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. Sermon Outline1. We are unique members [12] For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ…[14] For the body does not consist of one member but of many... [20] As it is, there are many parts, yet one body... [27] Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. [22] the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, [24] which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it [15] If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 2. We belong to the body of Christ [13] For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. [25] …that the members may have the same care for one another. [26] If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. [21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 3. This is God's design [18] God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose [24] God has so composed the body Genesis 2:23 - Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.”Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, you created us for connection, not isolation. You arranged every member of Christ's body as indispensable, and your design is beautiful. Yet we confess our sins. We bring division, we measure people's worth wrongly, we see ourselves too highly and others too lowly. Instead of strengthening the body, we weaken it. Forgive us, O Lord. Turn our eyes to Jesus, whose body was broken to make us whole. May we live each day assured that we belong to him, for we are bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul says each member of the body of Christ has value and worth, not just usefulness. Why do you think it's hard for us to believe this about ourselves or others?Describe a time when you felt overlooked or undervalued in the church or elsewhere? How did that affect you?What's the most meaningful encouragement you've ever received, and why did it resonate with you? How might we grow our church's culture of encouragement? Think of a time when someone “suffered with you” or “rejoiced with you.” How did that experience shape your sense of belonging?We may not be best friends with everyone in church, but what's one simple step you could take to connect more meaningfully with someone you don't know well?What if the song that Adam sung to Eve (“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh”) is being sung over us by Jesus? How might that encourage you to know that you are intimately tied to Jesus? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the Church1 Timothy 3:14-16 (ESV)14 I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, 15 if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels,proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.Sermon OutlineThe church, as a household (v15), is the family of God.Church of The Living God (v15)The Mystery of Godliness (v16)How To Behave (v15)Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious heavenly Father, we are assembled before you, the living God. With honesty and humility, we confess our sins. We have not displayed the family likeness. We have not followed the ways of Christ. We have wandered and walked in the ways of the slanderer, the deceiver, the accuser, the liar, the murderer. We have compromised the truth. We have not acted with honor towards those in the household of faith, nor our neighbors. Forgive us. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. In this family gathering, renew us, nourish us, cleanse us, lead us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIn what ways is a church like a family? Are there ways in which a church is not like a family? Why is the weekly pattern of assembling in the presence of the living God an essential part of the Christian life? (the word for “church”, ekklesia, also means an assembly)How is a Sunday worship service like a family gathering? How do falsehood and deception bring ruin? How do they turn people against God and one another?How is God's plan for all things held together in Christ? What makes Jesus the way, the truth, and the life?What can we do to keep focused on the things God has chosen to reveal? What things can we do while there is still much we don't understand?Why is it important that Christians get clear on how they are to behave? What are some of the characteristics of the family of God? What are some traits that all members of God's household should have?

Audio Recording We apologize, the recording encountered a glitch. At about the 42:35 mark there is a jump. The missing segment was about 20 seconds.Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the Church1 Peter 2:1-12 (ESV)1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For it stands in Scripture:“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious,and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,“The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”8 and“A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.”They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.Sermon OutlineWhat does it mean that the church is a “priesthood”?1. A Spiritual Housev5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthoodv11 I urge… to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soulvv1-2 put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander… long for… spiritual milk, that… you may grow up…2. A People Called with Mercyv7 “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”v9 you are a chosen race… him who called you… out of darknessv10 Once you were not a people… but now you have received mercy3. Those Offering Sacrificesv3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.v5 …offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christv9 that you may proclaim the excellencies…v12 Keep your conduct… honorable… Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father, without your help we will lose the war against our souls. We confess our weakness. We have ignored or justified envy when we should have recognized it and turned from it. We are guilty of malice, deceit, hypocrisy and slander. As a church, we have been weak in proclaiming your excellencies and our good works have been insufficient. Forgive every sin. We thank you for the mercy we receive through Christ, who offered himself as a sacrifice on our behalf. Empower us with your Spirit to offer spiritual sacrifices that bring you glory. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDo you ever experience “war against your soul”? What feelings or experiences drain you (or feel like they are killing you)?What is your experience with envy? How does envy function in your life? Are you always aware when envy is at work within you?How does envy keep people stuck in misery? Why is it so hard to get free from envy?How is envy connected to malice, hypocrisy, slander and deceit?Why is it so important that God is merciful? How do we know God is merciful?How does God use the rejection of Jesus Christ to turn us from lifeless rocks to living stones? How does the resurrected Jesus call us out of darkness and into his marvelous light?Have you tasted that the Lord is good? Has your soul had any stirrings of life because of some connection with the goodness of God?What does it look like to make spiritual sacrifices through Christ? How does “proclaiming the excellencies of him who called you” (praise to God) help safeguard against envy?How does God use the church to fill the world with worship and good works? Where is the church failing in this calling? What can the church be doing in this period of time?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the ChurchJohn 10:1-18 (ESV)1 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.7 So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”Sermon OutlineThe church is a group of people committed to following Jesus.1. Do you need a guide?v3-4 “he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out… the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”v6 “they did not understand what he was saying to them”2. What kind of leader do you need?v12 “the wolf snatches them and scatters them”v7-8 “…All who came before me are thieves and robbers”v12 “a hired hand and not a shepherd”v10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”3. Are you with the people following Jesus?v9 “I am the door… enters by me… will be saved”v11 “the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep”v16 “I have other sheep… there will be one flock, one shepherd”Prayer of ConfessionO great Shepherd, you call, but we resist. We have wandered, thinking we could navigate life on our own. We have been deceived by the thief who appealed to our cravings and corrupt desires. We have done what we should not do; we have failed to do what we should. Thank you that you are a good shepherd, and that in laying down your life you offer forgiveness and reconciliation. Forgive us. Do not leave or forsake us; lead us in the way of abundant life. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIn what ways is the church like a flock of sheep?Do you need a guide in life? How are you guided, or who guides you? How do you recognize the voice of Jesus? How can you tell when he has called you? How can you follow his lead?How do our corrupt desires make us vulnerable to thieves and false shepherds?How are you influenced by others? How do the habits, desires, and goals of people around you shape you?What has Jesus said or done that evidences he is a leader worth following?How does Jesus lead the church? What role do human leaders play? The Bible? The Holy Spirit?What in the metaphor of the church as a flock of sheep helps us understand why Christians are not meant to live their own personal lives of faith in isolation from one another?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the ChurchMatthew 5:1-16 (ESV)1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.Sermon OutlineThe church is called to be light for the world (v14).1. Which Light?v16 “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”2. What Do We Uphold And What Do We Hide?v15 “Nor do people… put it under a basket, but on a stand…”3. Why Are We Left In The World?v14 “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”Prayer of ConfessionOur glorious God, you are the Creator and Sustainer of life. We are a people who walk in darkness. Forgive us for wanting to take your place. Forgive us for presuming darkness could be used for our own advantage. Forgive us for all the things we have thought and done that we fear could be found out. Forgive us for ways we have made the world a darker place through our sinful actions. We look to Jesus, the true light, and through faith ask that you dispel the darkness in our lives. Thank you for how you have blessed us; grant us the grace to live in the world as those who generously bring your blessing and light to the world around us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhy does the church exist?How should we understand that Jesus tells us not to do good works in order to be seen (Matthew 6), yet tells us to do good works so that people may see them (Matthew 5)? What distinction is Jesus making? Where do you look for “light”? What do you see in the world that promises life?Why does the Bible insist that we look to God? What happens if we try to become like God (take God's place)? What happens if we devote ourselves to people, things, ideals, with the devotion and hope that should be in God alone?When Jesus claimed to be the light of the world, what did he reveal in his character, teachings and actions that demonstrate this? Where can we see the glory of God? When the Holy Spirit open eyes to discern God's reality, what kinds of things does the Spirit show you?How does the pattern of the church – gathering every week, on the first day of the week since Jesus was raised to worship God – sustain us with spiritual health? What are some ways that church becomes lifeless and draining instead of life giving?How do churches become a “city on a hill”? What characterizes faithful disciples who go into the world to bring God's light into it?What habits will help you remain in the paradigm of receiving blessing and light from God, and stewarding it by seeking to bless and bring light to your family, friends, coworkers, NYC?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 22:1-14 (ESV)1 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, 3 and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. 4 Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”' 5 But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, 6 while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. 7 The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. 8 Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9 Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.' 10 And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.11 “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. 12 And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14 For many are called, but few are chosen.”Sermon OutlineWhy do we resist God's gracious invitation? (v3)1. Resisting God's Callv5 “they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business”v6 “the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them”v11 “a man who had no wedding garment”2. Responding to God's Callv4 “he sent other servants… ‘Tell those who are invited… everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.'”vv9-10 “…those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.”Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father: with generosity you invite us to life with you. We admit our confusion, our resistance and our rebellion. With pride and self centeredness we have been apathetic, angry, and unwilling to change. We acknowledge our thoughts and actions towards you and others require forgiveness. We humbly ask that you forgive our sins, as we respond to your gracious call to turn from our sin and towards you to receive life in the name of Christ. It is in his name we pray. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you find most appealing or intriguing in Jesus' call to life with him?What in the Christian message and invitation does not appeal to you? What troubles you? What do you think is missing?What do you recognize in aspects of who you are – your life experience, your attitudes, your patterns, your expectations – that resists Jesus' call? What do you need to resist in yourself, or correct?Who in this parable are you most like: the disinterested who don't come because they have other things to do? The angry who respond with aggression towards the ones inviting? The individual who comes but does not change as appropriate for the occasion?If you received an invitation to attend a celebrity party, how would you feel? How does the invitation to join the kingdom of the Creator of Heaven and Earth land differently in you? Why?Why is it important to recognize that we don't earn our way into God's kingdom but we enter because of the generosity of the king? What spiritual health follows from a foundation of grace?How does belonging in God's kingdom help with life in this world? How can a Christian identity provide sufficient security for you to navigate places in our world where you don't feel good enough?Reflect on the process of change in the Christian life. How are you being called to put off what you have had on, and put on the things of Christ (Colossians 3)? What do you need to set aside, and what do you need to take on?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 18:21-35 (ESV)21 Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.' 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.' 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.' 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?' 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. 35 So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”Sermon OutlineJesus invites us into a way of life marked by forgiveness (v21), which both challenges and frees us.1. A Heart Unchanged by Mercyv26-27 “the servant fell on his knees… out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt.”vv29-30 “So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded… He refused…” vv32-33 “I forgave you… should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?'”2. Jesus' Concern for the Heartv28 “he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.'”v35 “So also my heavenly Father will do… if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” 3. A Heart in Forgivenessv22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.v25 And since he could not pay,Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father, if you kept a record of sins, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness. We need forgiveness for all our sins, including our failure to appreciate your generosity and mercy to us. We have taken for granted the cost at which forgiveness comes to us. We have been vengeful people, desiring to hurt and punish. We justify ourselves, thinking we are judges who operate only in the realm of righteousness. We have not recognized the harm we have been doing to ourselves and the unintended consequences to others. Forgive and free us from these and all our sins. Cleanse us from the harms done to us and from all the lingering effects of them. Show us the heart of Jesus so we become people of great humility, joy and peace. May we give to the world as we receive from him, so that our lives bring you delight and honor to his name. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhy is forgiveness important?Why is forgiveness so hard? What makes forgiving others difficult for you?What is the connection between receiving mercy and becoming someone who is merciful? What prohibits us from being deeply transformed by the generosity shown to us?What does Jesus mean when he says we must forgive “from the heart”?What can you do when you are finding it difficult to forgive? How can you protect yourself when you forgive someone who isn't changing? Is the gospel affecting you deeply? As you walk with God, are you growing in gratitude, humility, wisdom, joy, etc.? What habits or practices could help you connect more with God?How can you process your life more fully with God? How can Jesus Christ be a help, strength and healer to you?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (ESV)24 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, 25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. 26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. 27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?' 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.' So the servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?' 29 But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”'”36 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” 37 He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40 Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, 42 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.Sermon OutlineJesus orients us to thrive as we follow him through a world with suffering.1. God's Agendav24“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field”v28 “An enemy has done this”, v39 “the devil” v29 “lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat”2. God's Patiencev30 “Let both grow together until the harvest”v39 “The harvest is the end of the age”3. God's Wisdomv26 “So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also”v41-43 “they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers… Then the righteous will shine…”Prayer of ConfessionOur Father: we are attuned to our own sufferings, yet ignorant of what it is like to be a holy God who governs our corrupt world. We have questioned your goodness and ability. We are guilty of the slander of those who think they know better than you. We admit our weakness and inability to face the challenges of this world honorably. We confess we have done what we should not, sometimes unaware of the damage we are doing, and sometimes with disregard for it. Forgive all our sins. Grant us grace to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change the things which should be changed, and wisdom to distinguish one from the other. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat are some ways you respond to suffering? What forms of suffering are most difficult for you?What are your thoughts about God when suffering? Why is it important to not lose sight of positive goals (things you aim to do or accomplish) when challenges arise? When you look at social and political discourse today, where do you see forces that aim to move too quickly into complex issues? What trends or patterns do you observe in recent years?Why is patience valuable when dealing with challenges? How is patience different from passivity or avoidance?What is needed to be able to accept limitations and also be proactive about positive change? What skills do you need to develop to be able to make progress in areas where the radical change or the goal you want is not likely?What comfort or help comes from knowing that the God of Christianity is not removed from suffering?What are some convictions to hold to, or expectations to clarify, that will help orient you so that as you face difficulties in life you can make progress and have protection?

Audio Recording Due to technical difficulties, there is no video of the sermon. Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (ESV)1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. 3 And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. 5 Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, 6 but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. 7 Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. 8 Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9 He who has ears, let him hear.”18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”Sermon OutlineJesus and his message produce fruitful lives, but we need to watch for what prohibits hearing and understanding it (v19, 23).1. Hardnessv4 “some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them.”v19 “When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart.”2. Shallownessv5 “had no depth of soil… when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away.”v20-21 “when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.”3. Oversaturationv7 “the thorns grew up and choked them.”v22 “the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”4. Fruitfulnessv8 “Other seeds… produced grain”v23 “the one who hears the word and understands it”v9 “He who has ears, let him hear”Prayer of ConfessionOur good and mighty God, you have revealed yourself and made your ways known. There is so much we don't understand. Instead of learning with humility, we respond with pride, apathy and resistance. We have taken what we have wanted from you, choosing to accept what already appeals to us or what we already agree with. We have adopted the desires, values and goals of those in our world who do not put you first. Rather than fruit of the Spirit, our thoughts, words and actions have been filled with weeds and thorns. We admit our sin and ask for forgiveness. We thank you that the message of your kingdom is a message of grace and mercy. Today we open our hearts to you, praying that you would feed and strengthen us so that the fruit of your Spirit manifests itself in our lives. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhere do you observe hardness towards Christianity in yourself? What attitudes, instincts, responses, etc. evidence an innate resistance to some aspect of Jesus and his message?How can you move past Christian shallowness? How can you learn to face the challenges of life with Christ? What can you recall in situations where you are tempted to walk away from Christ (even if just temporarily)?What in your life competes with seeking God's kingdom first? Do you have pursuits or priorities that are choking your faith? How can you tell when things in your life are choking your spiritual growth? What does it look like to have a life fully open to God and His work? What devotional habits can you prioritize to make sure you are listening to God, learning and growing as a disciple of Christ? How can you have “ears that hear”?What aspects of the Kingdom of God do you find clearly valuable? Are there areas of interest in the Christian life you need to revisit or refocus on? How can you sustain enthusiasm for your walk with God?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 13:47-50 (ESV)47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.Sermon OutlineEveryone will be gathered (v. 47)Everyone will be sorted (v. 48-49)Justice will be served (v. 49-50)Prayer of ConfessionHoly and righteous God, in your kingdom, there is no room for evil; only righteousness. Yet, we confess that we are not righteous, though, in our pride, we presume we are. We easily judge others but excuse ourselves. We wrongly assume that we deserve salvation. Forgive our sins. Thank you for you Jesus, who rescued us from the fiery furnace and who endured the judgment we deserved, so that we would not be cast away. Help us to cling to his righteousness alone. Lord, have mercy on us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?How would you describe someone who is “inside” or “outside” the kingdom of heaven?Jesus says that the net gathered fish of every kind. What implications do you see for your own life, your friendships, your calling to be an ambassador of Jesus? The final judgment will happen “at the end of the age.” Why not have judgment in real time? What difference(s) does this make?In what ways does this passage inform your understanding of “righteousness”? In what ways does this passage make you unsettled about the final judgment? How can there be assurance of our own salvation?How might you see aspects of God's compassion and love in this passage that appears to be focused only on judgment? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 25:14-30 (ESV)14 “For [the kingdom of heaven] will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.' 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.' 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.' 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'Sermon OutlineOur kingdom responsibility… What it is (v. 14-17)What gets in the way (v. 18, 24-30)How do we do it (v. 20-23)Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, you entrusted the world to us. You generously provided resources so that we might cultivate your kingdom. But we confess that we often live as though what we have is ours; not yours. We forget that we are your stewards. We misperceive you as valuing productivity more than faithfulness. We do not have reverent fear of you, but our fear paralyzes us. Forgive us. We need Jesus and his perfect work done for us. Free us from the bondage of productivity. Because of Jesus, may we remember your words to us: “Well done, good and faithful servant.“ Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?If God has called us to be his stewards and has entrusted us his kingdom, how does that shape and influence your daily life?What has God uniquely given to you that might be part of your kingdom responsibility? What skills, passions, experiences might contribute to his kingdom?What do you think made the third servant be afraid of the master? Do you resonate with anything about him?Describe when you might have misperceived God. How did that affect your life and outlook at the time?If God values faithfulness, how might that change the way you live? What do you find freeing about this? What might be challenging? Consider taking time personally and privately and listen to God's words of affirmation to you: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Allow those words to saturate your heart and soul. What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 13:31-33 (ESV)31 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”33 He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”Sermon OutlineThe kingdom of heaven is small (v. 31-32a)The kingdom of heaven is hidden (v. 33a)The kingdom of heaven is more than it seems (v. 32b, 33b)Prayer of ConfessionHeavenly Father, your kingdom is great, but it does not meet our expectations of what a kingdom should be. We confess that we tie significance to what is impressive. When you are not clearly visible, we wrongly assume that you are absent, and we might believe that you do not care. Remind us that though we are specks in this universe, you sent your son, Jesus, to rescue us and invite us into your grand kingdom because we are of infinite worth to you. May your Spirit send us out and be with us as we share your good news to our neighbors. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Why did Jesus choose a mustard seed and leaven to describe the kingdom of heaven? What do each of these images convey?How do we tend to measure someone's worth or significance? How does this shape the way we look at people?Describe an example of how God's work was hidden and not obvious, but then in hindsight it was as clear as day.Why is it difficult to trust God when he is not clearly visible?How can we live out the generous hospitality of the kingdom of heaven and make room for others?Though each of us are small, compared to the entire universe, we are deeply loved by Jesus. How might this encourage your heart? How might you encourage someone else with this truth?What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 20:1-16 (ESV)1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.' 5 So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?' 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.' 8 And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.' 9 And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. 10 Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, 12 saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.' 13 But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. 15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?' 16 So the last will be first, and the first last.”Sermon OutlineThe beauty of grace (v. 1-7)The offense of grace (v. 8-12)The power of grace (v. 13-16)Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, grace is central to you and to your kingdom. There is utter beauty in your grace towards us. We do not deserve it. But we struggle to live by grace. Rather, we trust a merit-based life. We find our worth in our accomplishments, we measure ourselves against others, we seek recognition for what we do. May your Spirit help us to trust in grace-based living; that grace is the way to freedom and salvation. Thank you for the grace that is found in Jesus, where you made us equal to him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Describe the character of the owner. What is notable? What is surprising?In what ways might you relate with the workers who were hired in the last hour? How might you struggle with imposter syndrome?Why do you think the first set of workers felt wronged? In what ways do you relate to them?How does this parable challenge the idea that we can “earn” God's favor?If the kingdom of heaven truly has no rankings, how might that change how we live? How have you experienced the power of grace in your life? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Parables of the Kingdom in the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 13:10-17 (ESV)10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” 11 And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says:“‘“You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.”15 For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed,lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their earsand understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.'16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.Sermon OutlineParables reveal who we are (v. 10-12)Parables reveal who Jesus is (v. 13-15)Parables reveal who we're meant to be (v. 16-17)Prayer of ConfessionJesus, you are the image of the invisible God. You have fully revealed the beauty and wonder of the Kingdom of God. But we confess there are times when we hear but do not want to understand, when we see but do not want to perceive. Our dull hearts, our blocked ears, our closed eyes desperately need your healing. May your Spirit give us the strength to turn to you and gaze upon your beauty and marvel at your wonder. Remind us of our blessedness because Jesus has saved and rescued us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?When you hear the word “parable,” what comes to mind?What implications are there that God's kingdom is something that must be received, not just figured out on our own?Why do you think Jesus chose parables to reveal who he is?How does Jesus' persistence in revealing himself, even in the face of rejection, shape how you view him?To what degree do you believe that we are blessed to see and hear what prophets longed for?In what ways might you be a mini-parable to those around you and in the places that God has uniquely called you? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Ed SiryaMatthew 5:1-12 (ESV)1 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Prayer of ConfessionMost merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 63:15-64:12 (ESV)17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth,and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.18 But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create;for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness.19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in my people;no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping and the cry of distress.20 No more shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not fill out his days,for the young man shall die a hundred years old, and the sinner a hundred years old shall be accursed.21 They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit.22 They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat;for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.23 They shall not labor in vain or bear children for calamity,for they shall be the offspring of the blessed of the Lord, and their descendants with them.24 Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear.25 The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and dust shall be the serpent's food.They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,”says the Lord.Sermon OutlineSet your heart on the city of God and pursue lasting joy and gladness (vv17-18).1. What Is Missingvv19-25 “no more… weeping… cry of distress… infant who lives but a few days… they shall not… plant and another eat… labor in vain or bear children for calamity… wolf… lion… serpent…”v24 “Before they call I will answer”2. Who Is Presentv24 “while they are yet speaking I will hear.”vv18-19 “I create Jerusalem to be a joy… gladness. I will rejoice… be glad in my people”3. How We Livev25 “the lion shall eat straw like the ox…”v18 “be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create”Prayer of ConfessionOur Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, we are in great need of your help. We wander this world foolishly seeking to satisfy our pride, greed and lust. When joy is lacking, we envy, resent, and act with spite. We have lived in the world for ourselves. We have not put you first. We admit our disordered loves and disordered life. With hard hearts we have neglected your call, making excuses instead of coming at your invitation. Forgive every offense. Transform our hearts and minds. Fill us with your love so we inhabit and serve our city as faithful citizens of your city. Grant us eternal joy and gladness through Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you love about New York City (or where you live)? What do you not like?Why does the Bible make love for God such a priority? How is putting God first difficult for you?What in the list of what God will fix do you most long for: no more cries of distress, no early death, no building and others inhabiting, no futile work, no children born to suffer, no predators?How can the vision of a hopeful future help you in the present? How is the city of God different from human cities? What does Jesus do and say that indicates the new Jerusalem will be very different?What can you learn from the picture that the wolf and the lamb will graze together, and the lion will eat straw like an ox? How is the pursuit of joy and the pursuit of God intertwined? What can you change in your life so that there is more joy and gladness in it?How can sacrificial service be a means to a more satisfying life?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 63:15-64:12 (ESV)15 Look down from heaven and see, from your holy and beautiful habitation.Where are your zeal and your might? The stirring of your inner parts and your compassion are held back from me.16 For you are our Father, though Abraham does not know us, and Israel does not acknowledge us;you, O Lord, are our Father, our Redeemer from of old is your name.17 O Lord, why do you make us wander from your ways and harden our heart, so that we fear you not?Return for the sake of your servants, the tribes of your heritage.18 Your holy people held possession for a little while; our adversaries have trampled down your sanctuary.19 We have become like those over whom you have never ruled, like those who are not called by your name.64:1 Oh that you would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains might quake at your presence—2 as when fire kindles brushwood and the fire causes water to boil—to make your name known to your adversaries, and that the nations might tremble at your presence!3 When you did awesome things that we did not look for, you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence.4 From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear,no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.5 You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways.Behold, you were angry, and we sinned; in our sins we have been a long time, and shall we be saved?6 We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.7 There is no one who calls upon your name, who rouses himself to take hold of you;for you have hidden your face from us, and have made us melt in the hand of our iniquities.8 But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.9 Be not so terribly angry, O Lord, and remember not iniquity forever. Behold, please look, we are all your people.10 Your holy cities have become a wilderness; Zion has become a wilderness, Jerusalem a desolation.11 Our holy and beautiful house, where our fathers praised you,has been burned by fire, and all our pleasant places have become ruins.12 Will you restrain yourself at these things, O Lord? Will you keep silent, and afflict us so terribly?Sermon OutlineWaiting on God (v4) can be hard, but lament helps us resist the pull towards isolation.1. Sin and Its Effectsv15 “Look down from heaven… from your holy and beautiful habitation”; v11 Our holy and beautiful house… has been burned by fire”vv15-19 “your compassion… held back” “Abraham does not know us” “you… harden our heart” “held possession for a little while” “like those over whom you have never ruled”vv5-7 “we sinned” “…unclean… righteous deeds are like a polluted garment… we fade like a leaf... no one who calls upon your name…” (“you meet him who joyfully works righteousness”)2. Remembering and Its Effectsv5 “You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways.” v8 “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (v16 “For you are our Father”)v1, 3 “Oh that you would rend the heavens”, “When you did awesome things that we did not look for, you came down”v4 “no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.” v9 “Behold, please look”Prayer of ConfessionOur Father, we have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away. There is no one who calls upon your name, who rouses himself to take hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us, and have made us melt in the hand of our iniquities. But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. Be not so terribly angry, O LORD, and remember not iniquity forever. Behold, please look, we are all your people. As we join our voices with your people who have confessed their sin and helplessness throughout the ages, we do so in the name of Jesus, who makes forgiveness and our return possible. Grant us forgiveness in his name, and cleansing through your Holy Spirit. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you find hardest about waiting on God? What kinds of things do you do, or want to do, when you feel stuck?What is sin? How do you understand it?Why is it hard to hear that you are a sinner? What is helpful about learning we are all sinners?How can you pray prayers of lament? What are you free to do? What should you not do? What is helpful (and what is not helpful)?What are some ways to resist sins' pull into alienation? What should you watch for so you don't get fooled into thoughts or actions that will further separate you from God or people?Why is remembering a good first step when you feel helpless? What kind of remembering is helpful? What steps might remembering lead to (what is next)?What are some implications of understanding God as our “Father”? How does the relationship between God and His people framed that way help us?How does the humility and suffering of Jesus help us in the absence of answers to our questions? What in the mission and character of Jesus helps us wait faithfully in hard seasons?What role does joyful righteousness play in the Christian life? How can that become more of your way life?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 61:1-11 (ESV)1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed meto bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;2 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn;3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes,the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit;that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.4 They shall build up the ancient ruins; they shall raise up the former devastations;they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.5 Strangers shall stand and tend your flocks; foreigners shall be your plowmen and vinedressers;6 but you shall be called the priests of the Lord; they shall speak of you as the ministers of our God;you shall eat the wealth of the nations, and in their glory you shall boast.7 Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion; instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot;therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion; they shall have everlasting joy.8 For I the Lord love justice; I hate robbery and wrong;I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.9 Their offspring shall be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of the peoples;all who see them shall acknowledge them, that they are an offspring the Lord has blessed.10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God,for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.11 For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up,so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.Sermon OutlineWhat kind of life will produce righteousness and praise? (v11)1. Righteousnessv3 “that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”v8 “I the lord love justice, I hate robbery and wrong”v10 “priest… bride…”v1-3 “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me… anointed me to bring good news to the poor…”v10 “for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness”v4 “they shall repair the ruined cities” 2. Praisev10 “… my soul shall exult in God, for he has…”v9 “an offspring the Lord has blessed”v7 “they shall have an everlasting joy”v3, 7 “instead of”Prayer of ConfessionOur just and merciful Father, our sins alienate us from you and from one another. We wander into places where we become entangled and trapped. Our desires, thoughts and actions evidence our weakness, our foolishness, our arrogance. If we were to reap what we have sown, our future would be dreadful. You are righteous and just, but also unimaginably merciful. We confess our sins and pray for forgiveness. We cannot justify what we have done, nor can we explain away what we have failed to do. Our justification is in Christ our savior, not our own deeds. Cover us with his righteousness. May the good news take root in us. May our lives root firmly in you. May your Spirit produce righteousness and praise. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat outcomes would evidence that you lived your life well?What is needed for a good life? Do you believe you can have a good life without God? What from the planting/sprouting imagery can help you understand the nature of a spiritual life where there is growth, strengthen, fruitfulness?Why do we try to justify ourselves? How do we do it?What is the good news Jesus brings? Why is our union with Christ so important? How are we clothed with a robe of righteousness?How should Christians play a “priestly” role in the world? In what ways do Christians serve God and people? What roles do we have in the repairing of the world?What in the Chrisitan message or experience produces praise in you? What are some things for which you are particularly thankful?What is a wise expectation for Christian joy? When Christians endure long hard periods, how should they think about the praise of God? How can you live as one who has been blessed by God? What does it look like in your day-to-day life to hold that mindset? How can your life bless others? How can you bring the blessing of God to your relationships, workplace, neighborhood?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 60:1-14, 19-22 (ESV)1 Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples;but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you.3 And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.4 Lift up your eyes all around, and see; they all gather together, they come to you;your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.5 Then you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill and exult,because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you, the wealth of the nations shall come to you.6 A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come.They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall bring good news, the praises of the Lord.7 All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered to you; the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you;they shall come up with acceptance on my altar, and I will beautify my beautiful house.8 Who are these that fly like a cloud, and like doves to their windows?9 For the coastlands shall hope for me, the ships of Tarshish first,to bring your children from afar, their silver and gold with them,for the name of the Lord your God, and for the Holy One of Israel, because he has made you beautiful.10 Foreigners shall build up your walls, and their kings shall minister to you;for in my wrath I struck you, but in my favor I have had mercy on you.11 Your gates shall be open continually; day and night they shall not be shut,that people may bring to you the wealth of the nations, with their kings led in procession.12 For the nation and kingdom that will not serve you shall perish; those nations shall be utterly laid waste.13 The glory of Lebanon shall come to you, the cypress, the plane, and the pine,to beautify the place of my sanctuary, and I will make the place of my feet glorious.14 The sons of those who afflicted you shall come bending low to you,and all who despised you shall bow down at your feet;they shall call you the City of the Lord, the Zion of the Holy One of Israel.19 The sun shall be no more your light by day,nor for brightness shall the moon give you light;but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.20 Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself;for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended.21 Your people shall all be righteous; they shall possess the land forever,the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I might be glorified.22 The least one shall become a clan, and the smallest one a mighty nation;I am the Lord; in its time I will hasten it.Sermon OutlineWe are given a picture of where God is leading history that can transform how we live.1. Draws Usv1 “your light has come” v5 “you shall see and be radiant; your heart shall thrill”v7 “I will beautify my beautiful house”, v9 “because he has made you beautiful”2. Directs Usv1 “arise”v2 “darkness shall cover the earth”v11 “the people may bring to you the wealth of the nations” v20 “your days of mourning shall be ended”v19 “sun shall be no more… the Lord will be your everlasting light… your glory” 3. Utilizes Usv1 “shine” v14 “they shall call you the city of the Lord… Zion”“come”Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father; we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have left undone those things that we ought to have done; and we have done those things that we ought not to have done; and there is no health in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us. And grant, O most merciful Father, for your Son Jesus Christ's sake, that we may hereafter live a godly and righteous life, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDo you believe the future is hopeful? If you imagine a great moment in the future, what do you picture?What does the theme of light rising and shining help us understand?What distinguishes true beauty from superficial beauty? Can you think of examples of how true beauty brings life to a person's soul?How can the vision of a hopeful future help you endure present difficulties? How can it inspire faithfulness when what you see is discouraging?How can this picture of people bringing gifts to God inform how you do your work or live your daily life? What does it look like to glorify God with all that you do?Why are Christians called to be a “city on a hill”? How do good works cause the light of God to shine from us into the world? Do you find joy in doing good?How can the church improve in being a community that shines light into the world? What can we do differently?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 59:14-21 (ESV)14 Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far away;for truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter.15 Truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.The Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice.16 He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no one to intercede;then his own arm brought him salvation, and his righteousness upheld him.17 He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head;he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak.18 According to their deeds, so will he repay, wrath to his adversaries, repayment to his enemies; to the coastlands he will render repayment.19 So they shall fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun;for he will come like a rushing stream, which the wind of the Lord drives.20 “And a Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who turn from transgression,” declares the Lord.21 “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the Lord, “from this time forth and forevermore.”Sermon OutlineThe Bible presents Jesus as the answer to the deep and complex questions of life. 1. The Truthv14 “truth has stumbled in the public squares, and uprightness cannot enter”v15 “he who departs from evil makes himself a prey”2. The Intercessorv15 “The Lord saw it, and it displeased him”v16 “He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no one to intercede”3. The Redeemerv16 then his own arm brought him salvationv17 He put on… v20 “a Redeemer will come… turn from transgression” v21 “this is my covenant… My Spirit that is upon you, and my words… shall not depart…”Prayer of ConfessionOur holy God, we have all sinned and there are none who are righteous. Truth has stumbled in the public squares. We admit that we have fallen, believing what is false, and attempting to deceive others. We have failed to seek justice and have not always stood with courage against injustice. We have doubted your word. We have not fully surrendered to Jesus, whom you sent. Our thoughts and actions reveal we need a redeemer. We thank you that Jesus came to intercede for us, clothed with righteousness, offering himself for us. We turn from our transgressions to you, asking for forgiveness, with thankful acknowledgement of your mercy. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhere do you see “truth stumbling” today?Do you find it hard to be honest? Are you straightforward with the truth? When are you tempted to conceal or spin things?Is God's anger with human sin justified? What is your response to the Bible's portrayal of God who is angry with the sin and injustice of our world?What error are you more likely to make when there is injustice: jumping in hastily and making things worse, or failing to do or say something? Why?What are some qualities of a faithful intercessor? What are some things you should be prepared to do as a Christian in our corrupt world?What qualifies Jesus to be the only intercessor between God and humanity? How does he intercede?What does it say about God that He comes Himself to redeem us? What can we learn from the fact that God redeems those who had turned from Him at such cost to Himself? How does this help us as we go through life?Do you believe Jesus is the truth, the way and the life? What questions do you have as you navigate this next stretch of life? What good are you seeking, what troubles are you struggling to deal with, and what are you learning?How are you making use of God's Spirit and Word? What role do they play in your life?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 58:1-14 (ESV)1 “Cry aloud; do not hold back; lift up your voice like a trumpet;declare to my people their transgression, to the house of Jacob their sins.2 Yet they seek me daily and delight to know my ways,as if they were a nation that did righteousness and did not forsake the judgment of their God;they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God.3 ‘Why have we fasted, and you see it not? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you take no knowledge of it?'Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all your workers.4 Behold, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to hit with a wicked fist.Fasting like yours this day will not make your voice to be heard on high.5 Is such the fast that I choose, a day for a person to humble himself?Is it to bow down his head like a reed, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him?Will you call this a fast, and a day acceptable to the Lord?6 “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke,to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house;when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?8 Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily;your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.'If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,10 if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.11 And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong;and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.12 And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations;you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.13 “If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day,and call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the Lord honorable;if you honor it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly;14 then you shall take delight in the Lord, and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth;I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”Sermon OutlineIs God a source of delight or a means to it?1. Fastingv3 “why have we fasted, and you see it not?”vv3-4 “seek your own pleasure… oppress your workers… quarrel… fight”v5 “is such the fast that I choose?”2. The Vulnerablevv6-7 “bonds of wickedness… oppressed… hungry… homeless… naked…”v7 “share… bring into your homes”3. Sabbathv13 “call the sabbath a delight” v13 “your pleasure… your own ways”v14 “then shall you take delight in the Lord”Prayer of ConfessionOur amazing God, you are the source of light, healing, righteousness and glory. We confess our guilt and confusion. We have turned from you and devoted ourselves to things that cannot satisfy. We have presumed we could earn your favor, failing to recognize that our frustrations and accusations are evidence of our own sin. We have looked at the poor and needy with arrogant, hard hearts, not discerning our own poverty and need. We return to you, exchanging our false humility and corrupt practices for the life you give in Christ. Forgive us, heal us, and continue to draw us into the delight of life with you. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat brings you delight? What do you value that you willingly make sacrifices for?Does following Jesus require sacrifice? What are problematic ways we make sacrifices as part of a religious life? What are healthy or wise ways to make sacrifices as part of life with God?Why is it problematic to think you can earn God's favor? How can striving to earn God's favor lead to resentment?What attitudes towards the vulnerable, the materially poor, or people with needs do you see in yourself?Why does our attitude towards the materially poor expose us? What deficiencies can we expect to see?What does the gospel of Jesus reveal about God? If we make sacrifices for what we delight in, what can we infer from Jesus sacrificing his life for us?How does insight into the depth of the goodness of God bring deep transformation to us? What kind of connection with God brings light, healing, righteousness and glory into our lives?What practices help us walk with God? How can God and life with Him become more of a source of delight for you?What roles can fasting and keeping the Lord's Day (sabbath) play in living a God-centered life?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 56:1-8 (ESV)1 Thus says the LORD:“Keep justice, and do righteousness,for soon my salvation will come,and my righteousness be revealed.2 Blessed is the man who does this,and the son of man who holds it fast,who keeps the Sabbath, not profaning it,and keeps his hand from doing any evil.”3 Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD say,“The LORD will surely separate me from his people”;and let not the eunuch say,“Behold, I am a dry tree.”4 For thus says the LORD:“To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,who choose the things that please meand hold fast my covenant,5 I will give in my house and within my wallsa monument and a namebetter than sons and daughters;I will give them an everlasting namethat shall not be cut off.6 “And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD,to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD,and to be his servants,everyone who keeps the Sabbath and does not profane it,and holds fast my covenant—7 these I will bring to my holy mountain,and make them joyful in my house of prayer;their burnt offerings and their sacrificeswill be accepted on my altar;for my house shall be called a house of prayerfor all peoples.”8 The Lord GOD,who gathers the outcasts of Israel, declares,“I will gather yet others to himbesides those already gathered.”Sermon Outline1. What is righteous living? (v.1)1 Thus says the LORD: “Keep justice, and do righteousness, for soon my salvation will come, and my righteousness be revealed.2. Who is righteous living for? (v. 3-6) [4] For thus says the LORD: “To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose the things that please me and hold fast my covenant, [6] “And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD, to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD, and to be his servants, everyone who keeps the Sabbath and does not profane it, and holds fast my covenant— [3] Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD say, “The LORD will surely separate me from his people”; and let not the eunuch say, “Behold, I am a dry tree.”3. How do we live righteously? (v. 4-8) [4] For thus says the LORD: “To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose the things that please me and hold fast my covenant, [5] I will give in my house and within my walls a monument and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off. [7] these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; [7] for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.” [8] The Lord GOD, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, declares, “I will gather yet others to him besides those already gathered.”Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, you call us to keep justice and do righteousness, but we often put ourselves first than our neighbors. We make it more difficult for others to enter your kingdom, and we lose sight of how you graciously welcomed us despite our sins. Thank you for the righteous life of Jesus who ended our fears, gathered us to your family, and invites us to live righteously so that more may taste heaven. Amen.Questions for Reflection1. What connected with you from the sermon or the passage?2. In your own words, how would you describe righteous living after reading Isaiah 56:1?3. When did you receive or experience someone else's righteous living?4. Our passage tells us that foreigners and eunuchs, once considered outsiders, are now fully welcomed by God. Why do you think this would have been surprising and challenging for the original listeners? 5. Why is the practice of Sabbath so central in this passage? 6. How does Jesus show righteous living differently than we might typically think about it?7. If righteous living means following Jesus and continuing his ministry, what's one small but meaningful way you can live righteously this week?8. What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 55:1-13 (ESV)1 “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters;and he who has no money, come, buy and eat!Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.2 Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.3 Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live;and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.4 Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples.5 Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know, and a nation that did not know you shall run to you,because of the Lord your God, and of the Holy One of Israel, for he has glorified you.6 “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;7 let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts;let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth,making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty,but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.12 “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace;the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle;and it shall make a name for the Lord, an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.”Sermon OutlineIsaiah has a message that gives life to weary souls (v3). What do you need to hear?1. A questionv2 “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” v1 “thirsts”, v6 “seek”V10-11 “as the rain and snow come down… water the earth, making it bring forth…” 2. An invitationv1-3 “come… listen diligently… incline your ear” v11 “so shall my word be… it shall accomplish…”v7 “return to the Lord… compassion… abundantly pardon”3. A better wayv9 “my ways… my thoughts…” v7 “forsake his way…thoughts” v6 “seek the Lord”v13 “instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress”v12 “you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace” Prayer of ConfessionOur compassionate God, who pardons abundantly: we receive your word and humbly respond with confession. We acknowledge that our ways have not been your ways, and our thoughts have not been your thoughts. You called, but we did not come. You gave words of life, but we did not listen. We have been troubled by our own thoughts and our ways have produced suffering. We have labored for that which cannot satisfy. We are weary. You alone can grant forgiveness, so we ask for it. You alone can give life, so we turn to you for it. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Through him, set us free. Teach us your thoughts and lead us in your way. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat are you looking for in life? What do you go into the world hoping to find or attain? What do you seek first?How are you laboring for “that which does not satisfy”? What drains you or leads to exhaustion? Do you have an interest in God's thoughts? How can you learn from God?How are your ways not in line with God's ways? Do you believe God's ways are wise and good?God invites you to think differently, and to live a new way - what appeals to you in this invitation? What bothers you?Why are God's compassion and forgiveness essential for change?Can you do anything to get life from God? Why is it important to recognize you cannot earn or achieve eternal life?What is repentance? How is turning to God something we have to do continually? Is there a particular habit or pattern that you are trying to change or break free from? What does it look like to work on this change with God? How does trusting Christ help you live differently?How can you make walking with God your priority? How can this bring life to all you are doing?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 52:13-53:12 (ESV)13 Behold, my servant shall act wisely; he shall be high and lifted up, and shall be exalted.14 As many were astonished at you— his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of the children of mankind—15 so shall he sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths because of him,for that which has not been told them they see, and that which they have not heard they understand.53:1 Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?2 For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground;he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him.3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief;and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows;yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities;upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way;and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth;like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth.8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who consideredthat he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people?9 And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death,although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.10 Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief;when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days;the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied;by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.12 Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong,because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors;yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.Sermon OutlineOur longings to ascend are only satisfied in the one who descended. (52:13)1. How Bad Things Are53:6 “all we like sheep have gone astray” 53:2-3 “…no form… that we should desire… despise and rejected… we esteemed him not” 53:9 “although… there was no deceit in his mouth…”53:4 “yet we esteemed him… stricken by God”53:1 “who has believed?”2. How Good God Is52:14 “many were astonished” 53:3 “a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief”53:5 “he was pierced for our transgressions… with his wounds we are healed” 53:6 “the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all”53:11 “by his knowledge… make many to be accounted righteous”3. How Wise We Need to Be52:13 “Behold, my servant shall act wisely”53:10 “it was the will of the Lord” 53:10 “when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring”53:11 “out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied”Prayer of ConfessionOur great and exalted God, we need you to lead us in the way of life. We all are like sheep who have gone astray. We have not trusted you. We have not listened to you. We have not understood you. Foolishly rejecting you, we have done many things we should never have done. Our thoughts and actions expose deep roots of sin. We are astonished that your love is so sacrificial. We marvel that Jesus would suffer such terrible things to bear our iniquities. Forgive us. Heal us. Lead us in the way of righteousness and peace. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDescribe your desires for an “upward” life. How are you desiring growth, progress, a better future, etc.? What do you imagine fulfillment of those desires will look like?What is your response to the Bible's claim that all humans have sinned/are sinners? What feelings does that provoke?What can you learn from the metaphor that we are like sheep who have gone astray?Why was Jesus, a person who did so much good and nothing wrong, treated so terribly? What can we learn about human nature from how we responded to Jesus?How does the extreme suffering of Jesus reveal unique qualities of God? What do you see?Why did Jesus suffer as he did? Do you believe that he did these things for you? What do you have trouble understanding?Is there a way you can make yourself righteous? How does Isaiah 53 describe how things get fixed?What deep wounds can start to be healed as you open your life to the sacrificial love of God for you?Does Jesus teach us to seek suffering? Is the goal of life to give up good for misery? How do you wisely incorporate Jesus' teachings on suffering into your life? What are wise goals for life? What end are you oriented towards?How can you follow Jesus through periods of suffering? What is helpful to remember, to hold to, to hope for?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series