Grace Family | Pleasant Hill
Dr. Smith explores the Book of Ruth, emphasizing faith and obedience. Even when confused or hurt, trusting in God is paramount, as demonstrated by Ruth and Naomi. Ruth's decision to glean wasn't a demand but a trust in God's existing provisions for the vulnerable, like widows. This act showed faith, not expecting miracles, but relying on God's established ways. Dr. Smith highlights the importance of storing God’s word in our hearts before crises arises, enabling us to act in faith, not panic. Faith invests effort, as Ruth did, leading God to direct her to Boaz's field. God wants our hearts and obedience, even without knowing the outcome. True belief manifests in action, not just intellectual agreement.
Dr. Smith explores the Book of Ruth, emphasizing faith and obedience. Even when confused or hurt, trusting in God is paramount, as demonstrated by Ruth and Naomi. Ruth's decision to glean wasn't a demand but a trust in God's existing provisions for the vulnerable, like widows. This act showed faith, not expecting miracles, but relying on God's established ways. Dr. Smith highlights the importance of storing God’s word in our hearts before crises arises, enabling us to act in faith, not panic. Faith invests effort, as Ruth did, leading God to direct her to Boaz's field. God wants our hearts and obedience, even without knowing the outcome. True belief manifests in action, not just intellectual agreement.
Dr. Smith discusses how theological education often fails to prepare pastors for shepherding people through immense personal crises. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and dealing with suffering rather than medicating it away, noting that bitterness and hope can coexist. Using Naomi's story in Ruth, he illustrates how it's okay to be truthful and sad, as God gave us emotions for a reason. He encourages embracing sadness and directing anger towards God rather than withdrawing from God. He highlights that God prefers us to be angry with Him than to withdraw and ignore Him. Dr. Smith urges listeners to be a supportive presence. He encourages being like Ruth, offering loyalty and love instead of trying to fix problems. He reminds everyone that seasons turn and God is at work, even when unseen, guiding believers through their journeys.
Dr. Smith discusses how theological education often fails to prepare pastors for shepherding people through immense personal crises. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and dealing with suffering rather than medicating it away, noting that bitterness and hope can coexist. Using Naomi's story in Ruth, he illustrates how it's okay to be truthful and sad, as God gave us emotions for a reason. He encourages embracing sadness and directing anger towards God rather than withdrawing from God. He highlights that God prefers us to be angry with Him than to withdraw and ignore Him. Dr. Smith urges listeners to be a supportive presence. He encourages being like Ruth, offering loyalty and love instead of trying to fix problems. He reminds everyone that seasons turn and God is at work, even when unseen, guiding believers through their journeys.
Dr. Roger L. Smith discusses faith in the Book of Ruth, emphasizing that it's about trusting God even without grand gestures. He highlights Naomi's difficult situation and her urging her daughters-in-law to return to their former lives. However, Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi, demonstrating unwavering faith. Dr. Smith explains that Ruth's vow shows a commitment to faith, choosing a hard path. He contrasts this with Orpah, who returns to her old life. He stresses that investment in God's kingdom is permanent, requiring a willingness to suffer. Dr. Smith concludes by encouraging listeners to make Ruth's vow their own.
Dr. Roger L. Smith discusses faith in the Book of Ruth, emphasizing that it's about trusting God even without grand gestures. He highlights Naomi's difficult situation and her urging her daughters-in-law to return to their former lives. However, Ruth chooses to stay with Naomi, demonstrating unwavering faith. Dr. Smith explains that Ruth's vow shows a commitment to faith, choosing a hard path. He contrasts this with Orpah, who returns to her old life. He stresses that investment in God's kingdom is permanent, requiring a willingness to suffer. Dr. Smith concludes by encouraging listeners to make Ruth's vow their own.
Dr. Roger L. Smith discusses the theme of investment, particularly investing faith in God during difficult times. It uses the story of Ruth and Naomi to illustrate this concept, highlighting their decision to leave Moab and return to Judah after a famine. Dr Smith emphasizes that faith often requires making decisions without guarantees, trusting in God's goodness and power even when resources are scarce. It also stresses the importance of recognizing God's work amidst chaos, as demonstrated by Naomi's willingness to follow God's leading despite her dire circumstances. Ultimately, Dr. Smith encourages listeners to become familiar with God's voice and to practice obedience in small things, preparing themselves to take radical steps of faith when called upon.
Dr. Roger L. Smith discusses the theme of investment, particularly investing faith in God during difficult times. It uses the story of Ruth and Naomi to illustrate this concept, highlighting their decision to leave Moab and return to Judah after a famine. Dr Smith emphasizes that faith often requires making decisions without guarantees, trusting in God's goodness and power even when resources are scarce. It also stresses the importance of recognizing God's work amidst chaos, as demonstrated by Naomi's willingness to follow God's leading despite her dire circumstances. Ultimately, Dr. Smith encourages listeners to become familiar with God's voice and to practice obedience in small things, preparing themselves to take radical steps of faith when called upon.
Dr. Smith emphasizes the resurrection of Jesus as the most significant event in creation, where God's kingdom triumphed over the world's. This pivotal moment, a once-for-all sacrifice, challenges our understanding of life and death. The initial response to this truth is often disbelief and attempts to rationalize it, as seen with Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb. Accepting this transformative truth requires a process of wrestling with it, allowing it to reshape our worldview. The personal encounter with the resurrected Jesus and believing in His message, even without physical proof, is essential for genuine faith and transformation.
Dr. Smith emphasizes the resurrection of Jesus as the most significant event in creation, where God's kingdom triumphed over the world's. This pivotal moment, a once-for-all sacrifice, challenges our understanding of life and death. The initial response to this truth is often disbelief and attempts to rationalize it, as seen with Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb. Accepting this transformative truth requires a process of wrestling with it, allowing it to reshape our worldview. The personal encounter with the resurrected Jesus and believing in His message, even without physical proof, is essential for genuine faith and transformation.
In John 17, Jesus prays for believers to be one, sharing the glory the Father gave Him. This glory, central to God's character, isn't worldly fame but a manifestation of His self-revelation. It unites, excites, and drives us. God displays His glory through creation, His holiness, and His purposeful actions, like freeing prisoners, and giving sight to the blind through Jesus. This glory, once veiled, is now unveiled through Christ's cross, a triumph of love and justice. Believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, share in this glory, seated with Christ, and called to shine their light, expressing God's love and grace, confusing the world with their unique lifestyle and works of faith, worship, discipleship and service. This unity reflects God's love, ultimately pointing people to the cross and the Gospel.
In John 17, Jesus prays for believers to be one, sharing the glory the Father gave Him. This glory, central to God's character, isn't worldly fame but a manifestation of His self-revelation. It unites, excites, and drives us. God displays His glory through creation, His holiness, and His purposeful actions, like freeing prisoners, and giving sight to the blind through Jesus. This glory, once veiled, is now unveiled through Christ's cross, a triumph of love and justice. Believers, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, share in this glory, seated with Christ, and called to shine their light, expressing God's love and grace, confusing the world with their unique lifestyle and works of faith, worship, discipleship and service. This unity reflects God's love, ultimately pointing people to the cross and the Gospel.
In his high priestly prayer, Jesus paused to pray not only for his followers at that moment but for all who would believe in Him. He prayed for unity and witness, vital components of the mission given to the body of Christ. Jesus prayed that believers would be one, just as He and the Father are one, so the world may believe in Him. Jesus shifted His prayer to include believers from all time, praying for their unity. He highlighted the importance of believing through the word of the apostles, emphasizing the unique blessing for those who believe without seeing. Jesus' prayer reveals that faith is directly tied to the word of his disciples, now preserved in the New Testament.
In his high priestly prayer, Jesus paused to pray not only for his followers at that moment but for all who would believe in Him. He prayed for unity and witness, vital components of the mission given to the body of Christ. Jesus prayed that believers would be one, just as He and the Father are one, so the world may believe in Him. Jesus shifted His prayer to include believers from all time, praying for their unity. He highlighted the importance of believing through the word of the apostles, emphasizing the unique blessing for those who believe without seeing. Jesus' prayer reveals that faith is directly tied to the word of his disciples, now preserved in the New Testament.
In John 17, Jesus prays as a faithful guardian, emphasizing His protection and nurturing of His disciples. He reveals that He guarded them, keeping them in God's name, and only Judas was lost, fulfilling scripture. Jesus actively built their faith, resolve, love, and strength, investing personally in each disciple, despite their differences. Dr. Smith highlights the transformation of John from a "son of thunder" to the "disciple whom Jesus loved," and Simon the Zealot's shift from political extremist to peaceful follower. Jesus emphasizes that he kept their faith alive, even when times were dark. He says that he knows what they need to hear and how to talk to them. Jesus prays for the Father to keep them, just as He has, and emphasizes that experiencing both joy and hate are part of the Christian life. He wants his joy fulfilled in them, drawing a line between the world and His followers. Jesus says we should remember the world hated Him first. He says that, in the end, the faithful believers will experience that joy is divine in its origin and supernatural in its power.
In John 17, Jesus prays as a faithful guardian, emphasizing His protection and nurturing of His disciples. He reveals that He guarded them, keeping them in God's name, and only Judas was lost, fulfilling scripture. Jesus actively built their faith, resolve, love, and strength, investing personally in each disciple, despite their differences. Dr. Smith highlights the transformation of John from a "son of thunder" to the "disciple whom Jesus loved," and Simon the Zealot's shift from political extremist to peaceful follower. Jesus emphasizes that he kept their faith alive, even when times were dark. He says that he knows what they need to hear and how to talk to them. Jesus prays for the Father to keep them, just as He has, and emphasizes that experiencing both joy and hate are part of the Christian life. He wants his joy fulfilled in them, drawing a line between the world and His followers. Jesus says we should remember the world hated Him first. He says that, in the end, the faithful believers will experience that joy is divine in its origin and supernatural in its power.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the crucial distinction between God's people and the world, referencing John 17:9-11. He argues that Jesus' prayer for his followers, not the world, signifies a godly division based on faith in Christ. This division is not about exclusion, but about aligning oneself with God's principles and receiving his blessings. Dr. Smith challenges the modern, cultural view of Jesus as universally accepting, highlighting that true acceptance comes through repentance and following Christ's teachings. He emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ, regardless of background, and the responsibility to reflect God's glory through a transformed life, demonstrating our faith through actions and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the crucial distinction between God's people and the world, referencing John 17:9-11. He argues that Jesus' prayer for his followers, not the world, signifies a godly division based on faith in Christ. This division is not about exclusion, but about aligning oneself with God's principles and receiving his blessings. Dr. Smith challenges the modern, cultural view of Jesus as universally accepting, highlighting that true acceptance comes through repentance and following Christ's teachings. He emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ, regardless of background, and the responsibility to reflect God's glory through a transformed life, demonstrating our faith through actions and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. Referencing John 17:6-8, he explains that Jesus’ revelation of God to humanity is the ultimate testament to God's love and plan for salvation. Dr. Smith argues that true faith lies in receiving and believing God's word, as demonstrated by the disciples whose faith, though imperfect, was celebrated by Jesus. He reassures listeners that even a small amount of genuine faith is enough for God, who views us through the lens of grace and sees the transformative work He is doing in our lives. The sermon concludes with a call to prioritize faith in Jesus above all else, for it is through Him that we find eternal life and the forgiveness of sins.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. Referencing John 17:6-8, he explains that Jesus’ revelation of God to humanity is the ultimate testament to God's love and plan for salvation. Dr. Smith argues that true faith lies in receiving and believing God's word, as demonstrated by the disciples whose faith, though imperfect, was celebrated by Jesus. He reassures listeners that even a small amount of genuine faith is enough for God, who views us through the lens of grace and sees the transformative work He is doing in our lives. The sermon concludes with a call to prioritize faith in Jesus above all else, for it is through Him that we find eternal life and the forgiveness of sins.
Dr. Roger L. Smith explores the profound connection between Jesus' mission and His divine identity as revealed in John 17:4-5. Dr. Smith emphasizes that Jesus, being both fully God and fully human, alone could perfectly glorify God through His obedient life, culminating in His sacrifice on the cross. Jesus, as the "guarantor of life," secured eternal life for all who believe, His sacrifice fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies about a righteous and eternal priesthood. Our response to this truth should be worship and humble submission, recognizing Jesus as the exalted Lord of creation, deserving of our highest praise. Dr. Smith urges believers to embrace the fullness of Jesus' identity, acknowledging Him as God incarnate who offers salvation and invites us to participate in His eternal glory.
Dr. Roger L. Smith explores the profound connection between Jesus' mission and His divine identity as revealed in John 17:4-5. Dr. Smith emphasizes that Jesus, being both fully God and fully human, alone could perfectly glorify God through His obedient life, culminating in His sacrifice on the cross. Jesus, as the "guarantor of life," secured eternal life for all who believe, His sacrifice fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies about a righteous and eternal priesthood. Our response to this truth should be worship and humble submission, recognizing Jesus as the exalted Lord of creation, deserving of our highest praise. Dr. Smith urges believers to embrace the fullness of Jesus' identity, acknowledging Him as God incarnate who offers salvation and invites us to participate in His eternal glory.
This sermon focuses on Jesus' prayer in John 17:1-3, where He asks God to glorify Him so He may glorify God. Dr. Smith emphasizes the depth of this prayer, highlighting Jesus' complete submission to God's will, even facing death. He contrasts this with the human tendency towards self-reliance and seeking personal gain, emphasizing that true faith requires acknowledging our limitations and relying on God's power. Dr. Smith draws parallels between Adam, who used his authority for selfish gain, and Jesus, who used His authority to serve and save humanity. He reminds listeners that eternal life comes from knowing God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the simplicity and transformative power of believing in him. The sermon concludes with a call to emulate Jesus' model of submission and service, praying for God's glory to be revealed through our lives.
This sermon focuses on Jesus' prayer in John 17:1-3, where He asks God to glorify Him so He may glorify God. Dr. Smith emphasizes the depth of this prayer, highlighting Jesus' complete submission to God's will, even facing death. He contrasts this with the human tendency towards self-reliance and seeking personal gain, emphasizing that true faith requires acknowledging our limitations and relying on God's power. Dr. Smith draws parallels between Adam, who used his authority for selfish gain, and Jesus, who used His authority to serve and save humanity. He reminds listeners that eternal life comes from knowing God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the simplicity and transformative power of believing in him. The sermon concludes with a call to emulate Jesus' model of submission and service, praying for God's glory to be revealed through our lives.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith focuses on the concept of Christian investment, emphasizing the differences between worldly and Godly returns. Dr. Smith urges listeners to invest in worship, service, scripture study, and disciple-making as long-term commitments that yield eternal rewards. He cautions against seeking immediate gratification and emphasizes the need for consistent, lifelong dedication to spiritual growth. Dr. Smith reminds the congregation that God's economy operates differently, requiring faith and the surrender of personal will for His. He encourages self-reflection on spiritual goals and honest evaluation of one's "fruit" as evidence of true investment in God's kingdom. Ultimately, Dr. Smith calls for a year of intentional, sacrificial investment in God's word, worship, and service, resulting in transformed lives and a thriving church community.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger L. Smith focuses on the concept of Christian investment, emphasizing the differences between worldly and Godly returns. Dr. Smith urges listeners to invest in worship, service, scripture study, and disciple-making as long-term commitments that yield eternal rewards. He cautions against seeking immediate gratification and emphasizes the need for consistent, lifelong dedication to spiritual growth. Dr. Smith reminds the congregation that God's economy operates differently, requiring faith and the surrender of personal will for His. He encourages self-reflection on spiritual goals and honest evaluation of one's "fruit" as evidence of true investment in God's kingdom. Ultimately, Dr. Smith calls for a year of intentional, sacrificial investment in God's word, worship, and service, resulting in transformed lives and a thriving church community.
In this sermon, Rick Keunzler encourages the congregation to "invest" in their relationship with Jesus. He draws parallels between financial investment and spiritual commitment, highlighting the importance of going "all in." Keunzler argues that many followed Jesus for superficial reasons, like miracles or the promise of an earthly kingdom, but true discipleship requires faith and acceptance of Jesus as the Son of God. Using Peter's unwavering belief as an example, he emphasizes that faith is the foundation upon which a meaningful relationship with Christ is built. Keunzler urges listeners to seek understanding of God's word through the Holy Spirit and prioritize knowing Jesus above all else, ultimately finding fulfillment in following their divine calling. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of personal reflection, prayer, and commitment to becoming who God intends us to be.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God rightly, not through societal interpretations, but through scripture and a relationship with Jesus Christ. The speaker stresses that eternal destiny hinges on this true understanding. He criticizes modern society's focus on self-worship and fleeting pleasures, urging listeners to invest their time and effort in knowing God. He reminds the congregation that true knowledge of God leads to love, fear of Him, and hatred for sin. He encourages them to boldly share the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus' resurrection. He concludes by highlighting the joy and fulfillment found in seeking and delighting in God.
Dr. Roger Smith's sermon, centered around the theme "Invest," encourages the congregation to actively participate in God's kingdom. He draws parallels from the early church in Acts, emphasizing their devotion to the apostles' teachings, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayers. Dr. Smith emphasizes the need to invest time, energy, and resources in these areas, not for personal gain, but for spiritual growth and the expansion of God's kingdom. He highlights that true investment requires faith, trust, and a willingness to let go of selfish desires, reminding the congregation that God promises exponential, eternal returns on their investments. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the congregation to reflect on their personal investment in God's kingdom and to actively seek opportunities to love and serve one another.
Dr. Roger Smith's sermon, centered around the theme "Invest," encourages the congregation to actively participate in God's kingdom. He draws parallels from the early church in Acts, emphasizing their devotion to the apostles' teachings, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayers. Dr. Smith emphasizes the need to invest time, energy, and resources in these areas, not for personal gain, but for spiritual growth and the expansion of God's kingdom. He highlights that true investment requires faith, trust, and a willingness to let go of selfish desires, reminding the congregation that God promises exponential, eternal returns on their investments. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the congregation to reflect on their personal investment in God's kingdom and to actively seek opportunities to love and serve one another.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of gratitude as a key to unlocking unlimited hope and living in God's will. The speaker argues that gratitude should not be a passive response to blessings, but an active and constant state of being, regardless of circumstances. Using the example of David's declaration in Psalm 9, the speaker highlights the importance of choosing joy and focusing on God's faithfulness even during trials. This attitude of thankfulness, as exemplified by Daniel, leads to faithfulness and ultimately unlocks spiritual power and blessing. The sermon emphasizes that gratitude is a spiritual discipline that requires conscious effort, wisdom, and recognizing Satan's lies of scarcity. It encourages listeners to pray for discernment and to see God's blessings even in difficult situations. By cultivating a heart of gratitude, we open ourselves to the greater possibilities that God has in store for us and access the unlimited hope He offers.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger Smith explores Psalm 23, emphasizing the "Goodness and Mercy" of God as the source of hope in challenging times. He highlights how God, as our shepherd, provides, guides, and protects us through life's various seasons. Dr. Smith reminds us that God's provision may not always align with our desires, and His peace is not the absence of hardship but the assurance of His presence amidst struggles. He reassures us that walking with God leads to victory, even when facing enemies, and that our ultimate purpose is to glorify Him, fnding peace in His plan. The sermon culminates with the promise of God's unwavering love and presence, urging us to embrace the hope found in His constant pursuit and the eternal dwelling we have in Him.
In this sermon, Dr. Roger Smith explores Psalm 23, emphasizing the "Goodness and Mercy" of God as the source of hope in challenging times. He highlights how God, as our shepherd and provides, guides, and protects us through life's various seasons. Dr. Smith reminds us that God's provision may not always align with our desires, and His peace is not the absence of hardship but the assurance of His presence amidst struggles. He reassures us that walking with God leads to victory, even when facing enemies, and that our ultimate purpose is to glorify Him, finding peace in His plan. The sermon culminates with the promise of God's unwavering love and presence, urging us to embrace the hope found in His constant pursuit and the eternal dwelling we have in Him.
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