Immanuel Church Wilmington Delaware

Ecclesiastes 1 We begin a new series on the book of Ecclesiastes entitled "Asking Questions? - Cling to Faith". We find the author searching for meaning in life. He reflects on the fruitlessness of much of life yet realizes that only God can fulfill us.  His frustrations with the sin and circumstances of this world cause him to groan for the day when God will make all things new. The book of Ecclesiastes then deals with the journey of faith. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Matthew 6:9-10 We explored God's plan to bring heaven to earth and to reconcile us to Himself by looking at what takes place in Scripture from Abraham to the end. Throughout history He manifested His presence through wind and fire. The wind and fire present at Pentecost began the time when God's presence came within us. We are now His image bearers to bring His message of reconciliation to the world. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Matthew 6:9-10 As we begin to end the current sermon series, we explore further the Lord's Prayer request that God's Kingdom be manifest on earth. The Bible begins by revealing God's heart. In Genesis Chapter 12, we see God's rescue plan to gather His people back to Himself. We are a part of that plan to see things made new, and we are given the message of reconciliation through the sacrifice of Christ. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Ephesians 1:3-14 Continuing the Series "Eternity is Now in Session", we learn that our identity is based on the fact that we are chosen and loved by God, and that we are adopted into His family. Once we receive His mercy and are empowered by His grace, we need to live like we're chosen, walk like we're redeemed and stand like we're sealed. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Ephesians 3:20-21 This sermon focuses on understanding the dynamic of the “flesh” and the deep work of God to purge us of sin so our wills may begin desiring the will of God.  Once we are saved from our sin, God begins to continually deliver us from sin. He puts heaven into us, so that our will becomes His will.  We study the examples of Peter and Zacchaeus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Luke 9:28-36 In Luke's account of the Transfiguration, we find that Peter and the disciples did not see the glory of Jesus until they were “fully awake.”  We looked at God's work in our lives to awaken us to His glory - and how we can recognize the work of His Spirit in our lives, that can awaken our hearts from its slumber. We cannot allow the clouds that enter our lives to shroud the glory of Jesus. He's always there. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Luke 8:4-15 Since our Livestream video did not begin until the end of the worship time, the worship is included here with the sermon. For listening to the sermon alone, go to 19:30 of the recording. Continuing the sermon series "Eternity is Now in Session", we looked at the meaning of salvation, and how we know if we're saved. It's salvation from every dimension of our lives that has been touched by the Fall, by the curse of sin. The end goal of God's work in our lives is to make us completely whole before Him. Fruit is expected from all who are saved. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Mark 1:14-39 God's kingdom is the reign of Jesus, the realm where Jesus' authority is acknowledged and obeyed. To seek God's kingdom is to desire Jesus' rule to be recognized in our life, in the Body of Christ, and in the world around us. The scripture in the book of Mark makes it clear that the Kingdom is now. We explored 8 aspects of God's Kingdom Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

John 17:1-3 This sermon acted as an overview of sorts for a whole new sermon series.  We dispelled three myths of heaven and eternal life and then looked at how Jesus defines eternal life.  Everyone passes on to eternal life or eternal death. Jesus makes it clear that eternal life comes when we believe in His sacrifice for sin and His resurrection, and that it begins immediately upon choosing to follow Him. We should live our lives with that revelation. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 27 & 28 As we conclude the study of the book of Acts, we find Paul teaching us to be content, even in the midst of adversity and suffering. Following God's will does not always mean that things will get better. However, even in the midst of sorrows and troubles, God still wants to use us. Compassion for others is not possible if we're only thinking of ourselves. Patient endurance opens us up to the work of the Holy Spirit.  Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 25 & 26 As we hear Paul give his testimony before Governor Festus and King Agrippa, we learn important aspects of a Spirit-filled life. We should be sustained by the hope from Jesus's resurrection and promise for the future. We must encounter Jesus through regular prayer. We must be obedient to God's call upon our life. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 23 & 24 After Paul's arrest, he finds himself having to defend the Gospel of Jesus. He recounts his testimony and accomplishments but points out that all changed after he accepted Jesus' sacrifice. He had experienced a transformation and was now choosing to follow God's plan. Our earthly attempts to find meaning in life will be unsuccessful without Jesus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 21 & 22 As we continue to follow Paul on his missionary journeys, we find him constantly seeking God's will for direction. Although he had troublesome times along the way, he found the Holy Spirit was always with him. As we seek to do God's will, we must commit to following Him, pushing aside all distractions, and making Jesus the head of all facets of our life. We can know His will as we use Christ as an example, follow the teaching of God's Word, and follow the Spirit's leading. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 18:18-19:34 As Paul and others continued to travel, ministering to many throughout the Mediterranean area, they found various groups who were following an incomplete or false gospel. Some like Apollos knew only some of the story. He was preaching only about repentance, until they taught him about faith in Jesus. The sons of Sceva tried to cast out demons without knowing Jesus and ended up being assaulted. Some had mixed in the beliefs of other gods, ending up with a false gospel. As Paul exhorted, we must declare the whole Gospel of God, grounded in Jesus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 17:1-18:11 As we follow Paul traveling from city to city, we find various responses to his ministry. In Thessalonica, he experienced hospitality, but also jealousy. In Berea, he found individuals who were eager to study the Scriptures. There was so much idolatry in Athens, many did not grasp the significance of the Gospel. When he reached Corinth, he was first confronted with verbal opposition and began to doubt his mission. However, he soon found faithful followers, and God encouraged him to continue to share the Gospel. May we also be faithful to spread God's message of hope. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 15 & 16 We first find the Church wrestling with doctrine, finding God's word and work, not man's understanding. The Holy Spirit then leads Paul and others to expand the Gospel mission to many lands. They learn to draw upon God's power, not their own. In the process, miracles occur and many are saved. The Holy Spirit is available to us as well, as we seek to follow Jesus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 11:19 - 14:28 In these passages, we find the early Church living on mission in the midst of opposition. As the Church grew, they also experienced persecution. James was killed, and Peter was imprisoned. Yet God manifested himself by freeing Peter from prison and performing miracles. Despite the opposition, Christians continued to pray and witness. In fact, prayer birthed a new missionary movement around the world. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 9:36 - 11:18 As we continue in Acts, we follow some of Peter's travels. After the healing of Aeneas and the resurrection of Dorcas, we find Peter praying, when he's presented with a vision from the Lord. At the same time, an angel of the Lord appears to a Roman centurion named Cornelius. Each man responded in faith and followed the leading of the Holy Spirit to meet each other. From that experience, Peter and the Church leaders realized that all the world could receive salvation through Jesus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 8 & 9 We look at 3 individuals who responded to God's call to follow Jesus in different ways. One asked "what can he do for me?" as he sought power and titles. Another responded with a zeal to follow him. And another, having run from him, surrendered to him fully. God is calling you. How will you respond? Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 6 & 7 As the early Church continues to grow, it faces conflict, yet the Spirit continues to work. They deal with ethnic tension and adapt to change by reorganizing their ministry, which results in growth and power. Many times, in our lives we need to step out of the box of familiarity, in order to experience God's work. We also read of the life and death of Stephen, a normal man who opens himself to the work of the Spirit. Although he ends up being a martyr for Jesus, he had favor with God and influenced many into the Kingdom. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 4:32 - 5:42 As the church experiences Spirit-filled generosity and community, greediness surfaces in the church. Ananias and Sapphira suffered the consequences of their deception. All that we have is God's, so we must beware of selfish motives in our giving.  As the church continues to live out their new mission, they experience difficult consequences of telling others about Jesus. Nevertheless, each time they were imprisoned, God set them free to continue to preach the Gospel. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 3:1 - 4:31 As we continue the study of Luke's account of the Early Church, we find Peter & John speaking to a crowd after a man that was lame since birth was suddenly healed. The crowd was amazed, and many became Christians. Peter made it clear that it was Jesus who did the healing. The religious authorities had them arrested, but they still shared about Jesus. After being freed, they met with other believers, prayed for more boldness, and received a new filling of the Holy Spirit. May we also experience the power of the Spirit and the power of prayer. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Acts 1 & 2 In the book of Luke, he recounts the life of Jesus and then continues to write about the Acts of the Apostles. At the beginning, the disciples and followers of Jesus were instructed to wait in prayer for further revelation. In these first two chapters, we find them persistent in prayer. Eventually, the Holy Spirit comes, the Church is unleashed, and all is made new. Waiting on the unknown is hard, because we don't have control. Nevertheless, in the waiting, there is training. The faith of the early believers was rewarded with power and transformation. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Joshua 1:1-9 We finished the mini-series with "Guts & Glory". When the Israelites were finishing their time in the desert and preparing to enter the Promised Land, the Lord gave a promise to Joshua, who was now leading after Moses death. God renewed His promise for their destiny in the new land. We learn from this passage the keys to moving from our deserts to our destiny: Know the Scriptures; Obey God; Be strong and courageous. If we believe in God, we must trust Him. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

James 1:2-4 This mini-series begins with "Conquering the Desert". We consider how the Israelites handled their time in the desert, on the way to the Promised Land, and how we should handle the deserts in our lives. They followed God as He led them and provided for them. Good things can still happen during the desert, when we led God do His thing. We need to learn from our desert experiences, and guard against a "wilderness mentality". The joy of the Lord can be our strength. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

1 John 4:9-13 God is love. He showed His love by sending His Son to live and die for us. As a result, we can know love by knowing God, not by listening to all the world's ideas of love. The more we seek to love like God, the more we experience His presence. We are called to live a life of love. Jesus is our example, and the Holy Spirit empowers us. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Luke 1:39-45 As evidenced in the incident when Mary met Elizabeth, the presence of Jesus brings joy. Later, when the angels declared His birth, it was with great joy. Sometimes we accept pleasure as being joy, when in fact, it is only temporary; whereas Jesus can give us everlasting joy. Joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Paul exhorts us to rejoice in the Lord always, for that is the source of spiritual strength. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

John 14:25-27 The prophet Micah, in chapter 5, prophecies of a Redeemer who will be born in Bethlehem and bring peace to the world. That peace comes when we allow Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to guide our lives through the Holy Spirit. We can have peace with God if we choose things of the Spirit, instead of things of the flesh. Then we can be ambassadors of peace to others. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Isaiah 40:27-31 We begin a 4-part Advent series. The Advent of Jesus is an Advent of Hope. As seen in the Isaiah passage, suffering can lead to bitterness, unless we surrender to God. Hope entered the world in Jesus. He is everlasting; He is Creator; He is powerful; He understands. You have not been ignored. Give up and put Jesus in charge. Don't walk alone. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Matthew 28:20b Concluding the series on the Great Commission, we consider the fact that He has promised to be with us always. In order to have an effect in this world, we need to spend time with Him. We need to be quiet enough to listen to Him, to know His love, to be like a child, and to work with Him. Allow Him to guide your day. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Matthew 28:19-20 As we continue the series on the Great Commission, we see that we are called to make disciples of Jesus. To make disciples of Jesus, as He instructed us, we must be disciples of Jesus. In Hebrew culture, young men sat under the tutelage of Rabbis, to grow in their spiritual walk.  To be a disciple of Jesus, we must ask ourselves: do we spend enough time with Him? Does our life look like that of Jesus? Do we do the things that Jesus did?  Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Matthew 28:16-28 This first of a 3 part series on the Great Commission, challenges us to go into the world in the authority given us from Jesus. God wants to use all of us. We are to be apprentices of Jesus as his image bearers. As we step out to influence the world with His resurrection life, our faith will be strengthened. Jesus makes us new. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Philippians 2:1-11 In his teaching about the Body of Christ, Paul makes it clear to the Corinthians that all believers are part of one Body, regardless of country, social status, heritage, etc. In seeking to embrace all peoples, we need to set aside our way, and seek Jesus's way, which is one of sacrifice. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Psalm 137 Continuing our "LIfe in Exile" series, we consider the struggle of the Israelites while in Babylon. They were nostalgic for their time in Jerusalem, when they felt God's presence and could worship Him freely, yet God was still with them. In the midst of our daily lives, we may yearn for "the good old days", yet we should have Kingdom-focused nostalgia. We must deeply desire God's presence with us today, not the circumstances of our past, knowing that is what brings the joy and peace we need, . Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Esther 4 As we continue the sermon series, "Life in Exile", we look at the life of Esther, as she faced a difficult decision to speak truth, despite the possibility of retribution and suffering. However, she realized that God had placed her where she was in order to fulfill God's purposes. In God's providence, we are given opportunities to do good. Although obedience can be costly, we must be honest about the opportunities God has given us. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Jeremiah 29:1-14 The prophet Jeremiah sent a letter to the Israelites held in exile in Babylon. He encouraged them that God would eventually bring them back to Jerusalem, but also gave instruction as to how to live in exile. They are encouraged to live normally, and to seek peace and prosperity in the city where they dwell. As our nation seems to drift further from God, we should still seek to be a positive influence of peace where we live, knowing that our citizenship is in the Kingdom of Heaven. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Ephesians 2:11-22 Immanuel Church and Epiphany Church Wilmington had a combined service, joining in worship, and then hearing a sermon on Unity by the two pastors. God desires to unite all things, so he has called us to live Spirit-filled lives in Him. By Grace, that unity gives access to all His benefits, including peace, security, prosperity, and facility. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

1 Timothy 2:1-4 As we conclude the series "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus", we consider when and how to stand for Biblical truth in the midst of a chaotic world. Although we should treat all people with grace, we have to be willing to speak the truth in love at times. Nevertheless, our primary responsibility is to  live out the Gospel of Jesus. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

1 Timothy 4:1-11 We continue "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus" by examining spiritual practices that can help us stay grounded in Jesus. These are things that can help us avoid being deceived by lies and false teachings.  1 - Know the Gospel; 2 - Take a Break and Rest Sometimes;  3 - Pray; 4 - Be Together (Community) Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Romans 14:1-12 As we continue "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus", we are reminded that Christians are united in Christ, so should not allow our political or social beliefs to affect our relationships with other believers. The early church was made up of individuals from all different political backgrounds, including the 12 disciples. For instance, Matthew, the tax collector, who worked for the government, and Simon, the Zealot, who had fought against the government. Don't let opinions divide. Be empathetic towards your church family. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

John 18:36-37 We begin a series on "Navigating Politics in the Way of Jesus". We'll be looking at five principles to guide our political engagement. The first one is remembering that our primary allegiance is to Jesus, not to any political party or nation. We looked at some political "religions" that are vying for our allegiance.  Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

As we continue to study various Psalms, we see David surrounded by enemies when he writes Psalm 3. The situation seems hopeless, but he recalls God's faithfulness in the past. As a result, he does not fear, but asks the Lord to continue to deliver him. May we always remember that "from the Lord comes deliverance" when we call on Him. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

In this Psalm, David reflects on the almighty Creator God, and then establishes how we can fellowship with Him. Everything belongs to God, yet He calls us to Himself, and provides the way to holiness through Jesus. He also fights our battles, and empowers us to be His hands, feet and voice in a lost world. We should draw on this strength and anointing every day. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Psalm 82 As we continue to study the Psalms, we find Psalm 82 speaking of the spiritual battle going on in the heavens. The demonic world (gods) directs unjust and wicked mankind. God defends the weak, poor and oppressed. The time will come when Jesus's victory over sin and death will be manifest, vanquishing the evil "gods" forever. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE

Psalm 1 The Book of Psalms opens with one that teaches us how to flourish in life. God's vision of thriving does not occur when we seek the counsel and guidance of this world. That's like a tree that fails to bear fruit, because it's planted away from water and the sun. However, those who delight in the Lord, and feed upon His Word, will thrive, just like the tree that is planted by water and exposed to the sun. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE  

As we continue our "Summer in the Psalms", we look at Psalm 19. In this Psalm of David, he begins by exalting Creator God, but also rejoices that we can know God by studying his Word. His statutes, precepts, commands, and ordinances guide our paths. He concludes by showing that we can not just know about God, but can fellowship and communicate with Him. Website: immanuelde.com Facebook: immanuelchurchwilmington YouTube: Immanuel Church Wilmington DE