FreeWay Church Clemson

On Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a word out of Luke 8:16 which says, "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light." He talked about when a believer is hidden in Christ, they are responsible for God's Word which reveals and refines. Pastor Jeff challenged us with the question: when the world looks at you, do they see you or Christ in you? Listen to this sermon to learn how being in hidden in Christ reveals what is inside of us and refines us into the person God created us to be so that the light of Christ can shine bright through us. Enjoy the message!

God is righteous, God is gracious, and God is just. There is a price for sin and it is one that only Jesus can pay. Scripture says that Christ is the propitiation for our sin which means He was the satisfying price. On Easter Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached out of 1 Corinthians 13:13 which says, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Earlier in this chapter, Paul talks about spiritual gifts. With time, those gifts will pass away, but what will never pass away is faith, hope and love. Pastor Jeff encouraged us to not wait for tomorrow to do what is right today. Listen to this sermon to learn how you can put your faith in Jesus, hold onto the hope that He freely gives, and love by knowing God.

During our Sunrise Easter Service, Pastor Jeff opened his message with Luke 24:1-8 which describes the women finding the empty tomb. He began with the declaration, “He is risen. He is righteous indeed.” Christ rose from the grave because he is righteous. Pastor Jeff followed this declaration by posing the question: Why is Jesus the righteous one? Listen to this sermon to find out why Jesus was willing to die, able to die, and worthy to be resurrected.

Is the goal of our spiritual walk perfection or progress? Pastor Jeff brought a powerful word on Sunday encouraging the believer to lay aside perfection and start striving toward progress. In so many areas of our life we seek progress. We work towards the degree, the promotion, the relationship, the new car, and the bigger house. Do we have this same mindset in our walk with Christ? Pastor Jeff challenges us to not be stagnant, but instead, to progress towards perfection that we have in Christ our Lord. Listen to this sermon where Pastor Jeff focuses on Romans 11:36 and reminds us that all things start with God, and furthermore, all things are sustained by Him.

Recently we had the opportunity to hear from Elder Carl Sharperson. As a Leadership Innovation Strategist, Carl Sharperson takes his clients from mediocre to maximizing their potential in work life and personal life. He shared with our FreeWay family how he has applied biblical principles in his own life. Listen to this sermon to be encouraged in your walk with Christ, challenged to be a person of your word, and emboldened to let your light shine for others.

This past Sunday Pastor Jeff brought us the Word out of Romans 4 and 5. In this sermon, we were encouraged to be obedient to Christ's call on our lives. We were encouraged that even when a request feels strange, or even impossible, if God has called us, then it will be done. This point was solidified at first by highlighting Abraham's obedience to leave his home to set out for the land of Canaan at age 75 (Gen 12:4) and his ultimate obedience taking Isaac up Mount Moriah (Gen 22). Finally, this point was solidified by looking at the example of Christ who was obedient to death, and even death on the cross. In the same way, it is our obedience through Christ that in the end, as is stated in Revelation 12:11 that we will have triumphed “by the blood of the Lamb and the word of [our] testimony” that in the end we, “did not love [our] lives even unto to death.””

This past Sunday we kicked off a new series, "Called to Be His Holy People" where Pastor Jeff began unpacking the rich depth and knowledge that is found in the book of Romans. God has called His people to be holy which means that He has set His people apart for His purpose and His glory. But how do we begin to live as a holy people? God's people are sanctified through the blood of Jesus to advance the kingdom of God, so we must Operate in Truth. On Sunday, Pastor Jeff focused on Romans 1:18-20 and taught us that in order to operate in truth we must embrace God's invisible qualities, His eternal power, and His divine nature. Listen to this sermon to learn how walking and living in truth allows you to live as God's holy people.

Are you encouraged today? Do you need to be encouraged? Are you encouraging those around you? We all need to be encouraged daily in the things of the Lord. Hebrews chapter 3 tells us to encourage one another everyday so that we do not become "hardened by sin's deceitfulness." On Sunday, Pastor Jeff asked us, "How are we encouraging one another towards the things of God?" Life can get hard. We were not meant to do it alone. We need encouragement to continually point us back to Christ. Listen to the sermon to learn what daily encouragement looks like through righteousness, restoration, and rest.

In John chapter 9, Jesus and his disciples cross paths with a man born blind. The world said his blindness was because of his sin. Jesus said, "this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." It took one encounter with Jesus for this once blind man to see. On Sunday, Pastor Jeff brought a powerful word examining the heart and humility of the blind man. He challenged us not to take life for granted, but to take life for grace. The blind man was only able to experience the presence and the power of Jesus once he dealt with Jesus, dealt with himself, and then dealt with others. Listen to the sermon to learn how you too can live life for grace.

One day Buddy Fisch was an assistant account executive in Atlanta, Georgia, fresh out of college, and working on a Coca-Cola campaign that would spread across the nation. The next week he found himself without a job, homeless, and the caretaker of his younger sister. Buddy was forced to make a choice. Would he sit in his crisis or face the challenge in front of him with hope? He was brought to his knees and encountered Jesus in a way that he had never experienced before. This allowed Buddy to move forward with the joy of the Lord being his strength. Listen to this sermon to find out how the rest of the story ends and how in your distress you too can look to Jesus, the Hope of Glory.

How will you show up for Christmas? In this holiday season, it can be easy to get caught up in the tree, the lights, the shopping, and the busyness that Christmas can bring. This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff encouraged us to show up for Christmas with the love of Jesus in our hearts. The gift we have been given in Christ Jesus is a gift of love that lives, that lights, and that lasts. He led us through 1 John 4:7-14 as we looked at what it means that God is love. Pastor Jeff used the acronym L-O-V-E to challenge us to love like Jesus by… being the LIGHT of the world, responding with OBEDIENCE to His Word, walking in VICTORY, and living in ETERNAL LIFE! We hope you find encouragement through this message as you prepare to show up for Christmas.

This past Sunday, we began our celebration of the Advent season by exploring a powerful section of the nativity story, focusing on Matthew 1:18-24. Pastor Jeff's sermon centered on the example of Joseph, the adopted father of Jesus, and what it means to be a “just man” in the midst of unexpected and difficult circumstances—specifically, how Joseph responded to the news of Mary's pregnancy with a child he did not conceive. The message was unpacked in three key areas: first, we reflected on how Joseph faced his inner turmoil. Rather than allowing his circumstances to define him, he chose to focus on God's will and trust in His plan. Second, we explored how Joseph demonstrated patience and discernment in decision-making, pausing to listen to God's voice and guidance. Finally, we considered the moment when an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream. Despite the potential humiliation and frustration, Joseph obeyed immediately, choosing not to resist but to follow God's direction without delay. Through Joseph's example, we are reminded of the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in God's timing, even when life doesn't unfold as we expect.

This past Sunday, we embarked on a journey through the book of 2 Peter, beginning with an insightful message from Pastor Jeff. He introduced us to the central theme of the book: "Add to your faith." This powerful concept became the lens through which we explored 2 Peter 1. Pastor Jeff reminded us that the knowledge we are encouraged to seek isn't the fleeting wisdom of this world, but a deeper, more transformative understanding—that Christ is the source of our salvation. Everything we receive, from grace to strength, flows not from our own efforts, but through the boundless power of God.With this truth in mind, Pastor Jeff urged us to live intentionally, striving to cultivate virtues like self-control, perseverance, and a deep, abiding love for one another. These qualities are not only vital for our personal growth, but they also serve to strengthen and enrich our faith, setting us ever more firmly on the path of righteousness.

This past Sunday, Rev. Dr. Buddy delivered a heartfelt message rooted in Isaiah 6, sharing his journey of healing from profound suffering. He spoke about how this transformative experience has compelled him to spread the Word of God. In the end, he challenged us to reflect on our own purpose as a community of the Spirit—not only to love God and follow His commandments but also to bear witness to His glory. His words served as a powerful reminder of our calling to engage deeply with our faith and share the light of His love with the world.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a compelling message from 1 Peter 3:17-18 about the significance of suffering, both right and wrong. He explained that wrongful suffering holds no eternal value, ultimately leading to death and disqualifying us from the blessings of suffering for doing good. He urged us to remain steadfast in our commitment to good deeds, even in the face of undeserved suffering, as this can bring glory to God. Additionally, he reminded us not to become so consumed by our current circumstances that we lose sight of our ultimate destination. By doing so, we have the opportunity to emulate Moses, choosing the eternal over the earthly.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful message from 1 Peter 1:1-9, encouraging us to pursue Genuine Faith through Christ. He emphasized the importance of praising Him for what He has done, is doing, and will do in our lives each day. By glorifying Him through our daily actions and striving to live holy lives, we can reflect our commitment to Him. Finally, Pastor Jeff challenged us to honor Christ by placing Him at the center of our lives, elevating Him to the highest position in all that we do.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful message from Numbers 23:13-20, focusing on how faith in God brings blessings into our lives and continues the work He has begun within us. He highlighted three key promises: First, faith in God offers salvation, rescuing us from Satan, sin, and self through Christ. Second, it guarantees fruitfulness, as our connection to God, like branches to a vine, ensures we produce good things in our lives. Third, it assures us that God will complete the work He has started in us, guiding us toward spiritual maturity through His sacrifice and grace. Pastor Jeff encouraged us to trust in God's faithfulness and remember that He is worthy of our praise and proclamation, celebrating His goodness and steadfast love.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff's sermon illuminated the profound message found in Isaiah 48:16-19. This passage reveals God's promise to teach us what is best, guiding us along the path of peace and prosperity if we follow His commands. Pastor Jeff explored how we can prepare ourselves to receive and act on God's wisdom. He emphasized the importance of cultivating a teachable spirit that delights in His Word, actively listening to obey the Holy Spirit's guidance as outlined by Jesus in John 14:6-7 and 16:13-15, and maintaining an attentive heart to find rest and renewal through the Lord, as encouraged in Matthew 11:28-30. The message called us to reflect on how we can better align ourselves with God's teachings to fully experience His peace and blessings in our lives.

This week, Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful message from Deuteronomy 6:4-5, known as “The Shema”: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Pastor Jeff highlighted how we can draw strength from God in our daily lives. He encouraged us to deepen our connection with God through prayer and studying His Word, which helps us align with His will and gain spiritual resilience. He also reminded us that life's tests are opportunities to lean on Christ's strength rather than relying on our own. Finally, Pastor Jeff spoke about living as stewards rather than owners of our resources, emphasizing that true strength comes from surrendering our treasures to God and living with humility and purpose. Through these practices, we can find profound strength and grace in our walk with God.

This past week Pastor Jeff's sermon was focused on Philemon 1:6 which reads, “that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgement of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 1:6 NKJV) He encouraged us to have confidence in who we are in Christ Jesus. To not look down on ourselves, to not let others look down on us and to ultimately let God determine our worth. Pastor Jeff's message was a refreshing reminder that though culture, society and the thoughts of others try to shape how we view ourselves it is ultimately Jesus' verdict that we are forgiven and live a new life in and through Him that really matters. 

This Sunday, Pastor Jeff explored Isaiah 30:18, emphasizing that our approach to God reflects our perception of Him. We are challenged to examine whether we see God as a strict judge who keeps records of wrongs, or as he truly is--a loving Father who extends grace, mercy, justice, and blessings. Drawing from Isaiah's prophecy, the sermon highlights God's promise to show compassion and wait patiently for His people. It encourages believers to trust in God's character of steadfast love and faithfulness, which dispels worry and fear. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with God based on faith in His goodness and provision, rather than anxiety about the future.

Last Sunday, we were deeply moved by Buddy's testimony. Buddy shared his journey of facing a grave illness where doctors gave little hope for recovery. Despite this bleak prognosis, Buddy found strength in Romans 10:17, "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ." He highlighted three profound points from Scripture: how God's Word quickens our spirit, delivers our soul, and heals our body. Buddy's story vividly demonstrated that faith stands in stark contrast to fear. Against all odds, and with the support of prayers, Buddy experienced a miraculous healing that defied medical expectations. His testimony reminded us that God is our ever-present help in times of trouble, and through faith in His Word, we can find hope and healing.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff read out of Acts 17:11-12 and challenged us to embrace readiness as Christians. This readiness begins with cultivating noble character, giving our all to Jesus in every aspect of our lives. As followers of Christ, we must be open to listening and learning from God's Word, receiving its truths with unwavering faith. Readiness also calls us to actively seek and examine the truth—not our own version of truth, but God's truth revealed in Scripture. This pursuit requires humility and a willingness to align our beliefs with God's Word, regardless of societal norms or personal preferences. We as Christians' must also embracing God's truth wholeheartedly. We must hold fast to it, refusing to compromise or let go, knowing that God's truth is our foundation and guide in life. May this message inspire us to deepen our readiness in Christ, to live with noble character, to embrace God's truth fervently, and to impact our world boldly with His love and grace.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a powerful Father's Day sermon from 1 John 3:1-3, reminding us that God the Father is the ultimate example of how to be the best father. God created each of us in His image, uniquely designed and known intimately by Him.. Knowing God leads to knowing His heart for us and for our families. Just as a father anticipates and provides for the needs of his children, God knows our needs even before we ask. Through prayer, we stay connected to Him, communicating our hearts and receiving His guidance. God not only knows us and our needs but also empowers us through His Spirit. His power enables us to love sacrificially, lead courageously, and serve humbly in our families and communities. As we reflect on God the Father's example, let us strive to emulate His love, provision, and empowerment in our own families and beyond.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached a foundational principle of Christianity centered around the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda.  He recounted how the man had been stuck in his destitute position for 38 years before he met Jesus.  His encounter with Jesus led to his deliverance in an instant.  What was the catalyst for his healing?  It was receiving and obeying the word of the Lord. In order to “take God at his word,” we must strive to have the mind of Christ. The scriptures remind us that this is attainable …Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord as to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.”  Yes, we have the mind of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Are there areas in your life where you need healing… sickness, distress, negative thoughts? If you want to get well, you must change the way you think.  Then, just like this man, you can get up, pick up your mat and represent Christ in every way, every day.

This past Sunday, Justin focused his sermon on breaking down the points found in 2 Corinthians 4:4-18. In this chapter, "God has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel." Throughout our life, it's easy to name and fixate on all the troubles we deal with on a daily basis. However, this chapter tells us that what we see with our natural eyes is not what God sees. We need to trust and have faith in God in order to see with spiritual eyes and take in all the blessing God gives us. A way to do this is to speak what we believe and turn to Him first when things get hard. Do not despair, for God has a plan for all of us. We must continue to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a message derived from the first verse in the book of Job. In Chapter 1 verse 1, the Bible records that Job was “blameless and upright.” It was because despite the trauma and trouble Job experienced, he continued to cultivate his relationship with God.  This is indeed a serious matter to God.  In Psalms 50 he rebukes Israel because they have become rote in their sacrifices and religious rituals.  God desired for them to come before him with a grateful heart, walking in obedience with constant trust in him. He despised their pretense.  He was seeking those that would be “perfectly honest” in their interactions.  This is exactly what we should guard against today in our relationship with Christ.  We must purpose to convey the depths of our love and devotion to him in a manner that dispels any hint of guile.  Yes, our God, the righteous judge is seeking those who practice “true worship.”  This is our prayer today and always as we strive to attain His approval and become blameless. Matthew 15:8 (NIV) These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.

In today's world, the greatest celebrations occur around athletic events or entertainment venues. This should not be the case with Christians.  Our greatest joy should be derived from experiencing the effects of a transformed life. This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff highlighted a familiar bible story known as the Prodigal Son. He contrasted the response of the father and the older brother upon the son's return home. The father immediately began to prepare for a celebration. Luke 15:24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. So they began to celebrate. But, the older son was sour and had no plans to join in making merry.  Sometimes, this is our attitude about even our personal transformation. Pastor Jeff admonished us to recognize the reasons for the father's joy.  He was elated at God's manifest divine love, immense mercy and immeasurable grace towards his younger son. We too, walk in this authentic evidence or our heavenly Father's forgiveness. So, let's take our spiritual celebrations to heights even far above the heavens. Psalms 103:11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is his loving kindness toward those who fear and worship Him. 

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a rousing message affirming the necessity of practicing our faith in God. He referenced the story of Joseph and his desperate battle to fend off the advances of Potiphar's wife as recounted in the familiar story in Genesis. God was with Joseph his entire life from betrayal by his brothers, prison and even promotion as a high-level official in Egypt.  God gave him access to the “power” that enabled him to remain steadfast even in a foreign land.  Like Joseph, it is difficult to cling to our faith in the midst of this “strange land.” But according to 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful, he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But, when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.  Our victory over sin, death and the grave lie in practicing our faith each day. Then, we will be blessed to experience God's presence, power, providence and the realization of his purpose in our lives.  Phillipians 2:13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. 

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a profound Easter message about the necessity of following Jesus.  We may not realize that sometimes, even though we profess to be Christians, our patterns of living are much different than Jesus and his Word.  We are following someone or something else.  This is why our relationship with God is lacking because “followship begets fellowship.” Such was the case with the disciple Peter.  Though his denial of Christ hindered their relationship, God knew he needed to restore him (John 21:15-19). Therefore Jesus “reached” to Peter in the middle of his mess.  1 John 4:10 This is love: not that we loved, God but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.  Jesus paid the full price for our sins of yesterday, today and forever so that we could answer Him appropriately when he calls us.  Our aim, to follow Him! Selah

This past Sunday, Casey defined the word "blesing" and spoke about how we can recieve God's blessings in the present. A blessing is the flourishing and multipication of life. In God we see increase. In order to be positioned for a blessing, we need to be planted and rooted in Christ, be connected to Him to have discernment of what feeds you, and be consistent and faithful in Christ.Jeremiah 17:7 "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream...It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." 

This past Sunday, Paster Landon spoke about how as Christians, we believe that if we come to Jesus, we will have life later in heaven. However, Jesus' resurrection gives us hope in the present as well. God loves us for all of who we are, including our mess. We cannot continue to be bystanders in our own life. Jesus brings life, so we need to walk with him in the day-to-day to experience his love in the present.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a profound message about our attitude in giving. He referenced the story of the widow that gave two mites--or what was considered a small amount of money. He admonished us to search our hearts as we pursue to give of our money, time, and talent. We should strive to give “all that we have,” today, knowing that our God will meet all our needs tomorrow. This woman moved Jesus deeply and he commented to the wealthy about her gift. Luke 21: 3-4 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” Our aim: to offer our ALL to God, in view of Him.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached a foundational message about understanding that God's word is “alive.” He used the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her response to the angel's message about her impending pregnancy. Mary accepted the word and began to walk in it. It is similar for us once we embrace that God's word embodies Jesus. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word and word was with God, and, the word was God… 14 the word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. Once we accept the word of God, we must keep it and live it. Living the word means being a servant of God and being obedient. And we know that obedience to the word brings blessings. Psalms 128:1 Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him.

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached a rousing message about understanding the very purpose for which we were created. God's purpose is to love. Our purpose is to worship God and be his witnesses. As we endeavor to represent Christ, we sense his divine presence and know that we are not alone. God is with us. But, the question becomes, are we with God? How can we know that we are with God? One of the primary ways seems simple, but it is actually profound. If we know that God is with us and our very purpose is to worship Him, we should not worry. Matthew 6:25-26 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Jesus goes on to say for us to seek God first and then ALL our physical needs will be met. Once we embrace our purpose, we can walk in peace since God is with us and we are with Him. Then, we will experience his powerful provision each and every day of our lives.

Pastor Jeff preached a challenging message on the life of John the Baptist. He explained that John's primary aim was to advance the kingdom of God. Despite being around the same age as Jesus and having his own following, he constantly pointed people to Jesus, literally and figuratively. John 1:35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the lamb of God!” Scripture records that John's disciples followed Jesus and spent that day with him because of John's proclamation. We are called to do the same, to testify of Jesus in such a manner that people will be compelled to “come and see” what He is all about. John 1:34 I have seen and I testify that this is God's chosen one.

Pastor Jeff continued our study of the book of Galatians, focusing on the iconic symbol of the cross. Paul, despite being known by some as “the second founder of Christianity”, said that his identity and reason for being was a direct result of the cross. While he was highly educated, rarely did he discuss his own accomplishments. He explains this in Galatians 6:14, writing, "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world". Our first need and only boast should be the cross because when Jesus died we were “redeemed” from our sins of yesterday, today, and forever. Also, the cross is the origin of our spiritual healing or wholeness and right standing with God. 1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore out sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” Therefore, we bear witness with the timeless hymn “How Deep the Father's Love for Us” that says, “I will not boast in anything, No gifts, no power, no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection."

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff continued the study of the book of Galatians. He talked about our daily quest to be known and accepted by men and society. This type of “pressure” often causes us to be bound. Our true freedom lies in striving to be known by God. One of the primary ways that we can be known by God is to practice righteous acts motivated by faith, hope, and love. Paul told the church at Thessalonica that they lived a life indicative of their commitment to Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. This type of behavior confirms God's love for us and our love for him, an expression of a life free from the burden of sin. I John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome. Selah.

Pastor Jeff continued our study of the book of Galatians by emphasizing that our freedom in Christ is not based upon simple works or behavior. Today, people talk about and are judged by their "grind" or how hard they work to achieve goals, status, or amass wealth. While we understand that we must work to care for our basic needs, that work (wherever the Lord has placed you) should not feel like a grind. Plus, this working will not buy our salvation, nor will doing "good works." Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that, "It is by grace that you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: It is the gift of God." After the message, the congregation separated into groups of men and women and discussed several strategic questions related to the "grind" versus grace. One of the questions asked was, "Is it a battle" to keep the right perspective of works and grace? As Christians, we must recognize that the immeasurable power of the miracle of salvation comes from His grace, not our grind.

On this past Sunday, Pastor Jeff opened the year by introducing the book of Galatians. By recounting apostle Paul's conversion, he emphasized that we are to live free through our relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord. Galatians 1:11-12: I want you to know , brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. I did not recieve it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I recieved it by revelation from Jesus Christ. This freedom is activated by a clear testimony of our transformation experience that validates our faith. This is the primary method of sustaining the freedom we experience in Christ. Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Then, we continuously strive to obey God's commandments and live in a manner that exemplifies Him. John 8:31-32 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Selah

Pastor Jeff preached a timely New Year's Eve message on this past Sunday. He emphasized that we will need God's supernatural help or strength in order to be successfull in the coming year. The story of Sampson teaches us invaluable principles related to that power and strength. In Judges 16:28 after Sampson had been demoralized at the hands of the Phillistines, he prayed and asked God for strength to avenge his enemies. How was Sampson able to summon God's help during this dismal time? First, he had to acknowledge God in his totality or triune form. Just like us, he needed God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to be victorious. Ephesians 6:10 says, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." The conquering strength and might belong to Him and because we are his, it also belongs to each and every one of us. Selah

Paster Jeff preached from a thought-provoking topic on this past Sunday. Have you ever thought about the fact that there must be a level of humility to have fiath in God? He recounted the story from Matthew Chapter 8 of the centurion's request for Jesus to heal his servant. While the man held a powerful office, he acknowledged that Jesus was more powerful and asked for help. Specifically, he told Jesus that he was not worthy to have him come to his house but if he would just "speak the word," his servant would be healed. The centurion displayed his faith in God through profound humility. James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Words have power and we can access that same power by speaking forth the word of God. Selah

Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He was led to remind us that no matter the circumstances in which you find yourself, God deserves your praise. Even in discouragement. Psalm 42:5 admonishes us to "..put our hope in God and yet praise him..." Additionally, if you are struggling to find legitimate reasons to praise Him, simply recall what he has already done in your life. Psalm 150:2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Our salvation is a daily reminder of one of the many powerful acts he has done in our lives. Every creature has an obligation to praise God, for he is worthy. Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Selah

Brother Justin Carter delivered a powerful, essential word to us on this past Sunday. His scripture reference was James 5: 10-14 emphasizing the necessity of prayer. Prayer is not reserved just for times of trouble. As Christians we must pray all the time in order to know what God's will is for us.1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. God even gives us the "how" for prayer: without ceasing, with confidence and in all circumstances. Furthermore, as we pray let's make sure we are not just reciting our list to Him but also listening to what He has to say to us. Selah

Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He highlighted Chapter 4 and the importance of seaking God's will for your life and walking in that trajectory as much as you can. Sometimes, we can know the right thing to do and make a conscious choice not to do it. James tells us in Chapter 4:17 "If anyone, then knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them." This is because God has a specific plan and course for our life that is far greater than we can ever imagine. Proverbs 16:7 reminds us "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps." Doing good, this is what God wants for us (KJV) Selah

Paster Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He highlighted Chapter 3 and the importance of what comes out of your mouth. In fact, verses 5-7 declare that our tongue can disrupt our entire life. James 3:7 It corrupts the whole body; sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. Therefore, one of our primary spiritual goals should be to "tame our tongue." Paster Jeff gave us the prescription. In order to clean up our language, our hearts must be right or filled with God: heart right, mind right, mouth right. Matthew 12:34b for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (KJV) Selah

Paster Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will recieve the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. This week Paster Jeff emphasized James 2:14-26 reminding us that true faith is demonstrated through our works. He enumerated four levels of faith: saving faith, genuine faith, rich in faith, and living faith. Living or active faith in God, in other words not just saying you believe, but showing, is manifest in a fruitful life. Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. (NIV) Selah

This past Sunday Brother Justin Carter blessed us with a stirring word originating from James Chapter 2. He referenced how Abraham enjoyed a deep relationship and true happiness because of his faith in God James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham beleived God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend. (NIV) This principle is true for us too. Proverbs 29:18-19 Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy is he. (KJV) As we align our personal vision with God's word and strive to walk in obedience, we will also experience that unspeakable joy. Selah

Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. Pastor Jeff emphasized that the crown is reserved for “those who love him.” It is a fact that those who love Him will experience trials and testing to prove our faith is genuine. When we embrace this fact, we can experience victory daily, despite our struggles. 1 Peter 1:7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith --- of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire --- may result in praise glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Selah

Pastor Jeff introduced our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. We should all be striving to receive the crown of life which indicates spiritual maturity through obedience and endurance. Yes, there is a reward for those that remain true to the process of growing in Christ each day. James 1:4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Selah

On Sunday, September 3rd, Sister Casey Sharperson delivered a message entitled "Turn Back" that explored the life of King Hezekiah. First, we were reminded to reflect on your history of faith - what is your testimony? How has God shown his glory in your life? Second, when you fall short, repent, and turn away from what is separating you from God (ie. sin). Third, request of God what ONLY He can do. Hezekiah did not receive a favorable health report. He turned his back from distractions and toward God to petition for his life and though God's mercy, was granted 15 more years. In what ways is God calling you to turn back to remember where he's brought you from, turn back from sin, or turn back to trust Him with big faith? 2 Kings 20:2 Then Hezekiah turned his face to wall and prayed to the Lord…