Mitchell Berean Church - Podcast

Have you ever been in a situation where you were trapped? When I was a child I remember crawling under a shelf in the shape of an elephant. There was a cool “cave-like” feel to the space underneath, and I had ventured there many times before, but this time was different. I had grown, and when I twisted myself into the hole, I realized I was not going to be able to turn around and crawl out… Panic set in as I felt like I may never escape this.. At that moment our family dog stuck her head in the entrance hole, and began bearing her teeth and growling at me, as she could not see who I was, but I was in her favorite place… I knew I was a goner! I was trapped, with no way out, and the one opening I could possibly make it through was blocked by an angry animal… This is what Idolatry does to us. We seek some sort of feeling or experience that promises to be fulfilling, only to find that it was a lie to trap us in a painful, dangerous, and shame filled cycle of giving into our sinful nature. Idolatry is the root sin that leads to every other. If we don’t deal with it at the root, we will find it very hard to avoid the traps. The beauty of God’s word shows us a way of escape even when there seems to be none, and reminds us that God Himself is on our side! Even if it means discipline to correct us, exposure of our sin to bring light to our eyes, or stepping in to do what we cannot and freeing us. His way’s are always for our good! Join us for a service this weekend to look at the idolatry of Israel that led them to become captives, just in the same way we fall captive to sin today. THERE IS FREEDOM FROM IT IN CHRIST! See you Sunday! -Pastor Ben Key Verse: Romans 8:5 (NIV) - "Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49437895

A challenge we often face is the ability to focus on a target and hit it. We may be able to see the target, but there is a reason why competitions are held in accuracy. In the book of acts we have seen a target come into focus when it comes to Church Structure. How God planned, and designed the church to function for His glory above all else. As a church we want to walk in accordance with the word of God, that we in this local expression of the Body of Christ may bring Him glory, honor, and worship that is due His name. In Acts chapters 1-6 we see the gathering of the church in its original formation. From chapter 7-14 we see the spread of the church from the Jew to the Samaritan, to the Gentile! Just as Jesus proclaimed and called them to do in Acts 1:8. Finally we see the establishment of churches throughout the known world with structure, leadership and focus on the mission in Acts 14-28. Join us this weekend for this 10,000 foot view of the church in acts as we continue to grow as a local church! - Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49431691

Do you remember the joy of receiving a letter from a friend? There is just something about a personal letter in the mailbox to break up the constant barrage of bills and ads. It warms your heart, and connects you together in a way modern communication struggles to compete with. The Apostle Paul was used by God to write several letters to churches and individuals, and also to us! Four of those letters he wrote while under house arrest in Rome, and they give us a look at what is needed for spiritual health as believers. Theology matters. Doctrine matters. Fellowship matters. And Mission drives them all! Join us this weekend to see a picture of discipleship as we study together through the letters of Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, and Philemon where the call to biblical education and Christ centered community are clear. - Pastor Ben Key Verse: Colossians 2:6 - "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him," For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49428291

I just heard a story this week from one in our congregation who had a person show up at his door looking for answers. How did he know where to go? How did he know he would care? Because of the consistency of this person’s life AND his commitment to always speak the truth in love. While we don’t have control over a person’s reception of the message of the Messiah, we can sow seeds and pray diligently for God to do His work in the person’s heart to open their eyes. Then, when the person is ready, they know who to come to, and we can play a part in the eye-opening by sharing Jesus as the Messiah. We are wrapping up the final text of Acts this weekend. Paul is under house arrest and gathers the leaders and later a larger group of influential people. He spends an entire day trying to convince them of the kingdom of God and of Jesus the Messiah. Some are convicted, but still others are blinded. Paul didn’t pick and choose with whom he shared this truth; he shared it with everyone who showed up. Who is it that you can influence? Pray for opportunities — that God would open your eyes to when and where you should be speaking truth in love. Let’s be a church in which everyone humbly prays, “God, open my eyes,” then is ready to move as God leads. Key Scripture: Acts 28:30-31 - "He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49424177

We have an enemy. One who desires our demise, hates the image we are made in, and seeks to destroy us in whatever way he can. For many believers in Jesus today there is a blindness to this reality, and it is time we opened our eyes to the schemes of the devil. When we become aware of his attacks it helps us to see the powerful authority of Jesus, and our safety within Him. The attacks against us are not often the ones we want to claim. Flat tires, burnt tongues from hot coffee, and accidental auto-corrects are tough to blame Satan for, because in scripture we see him being much more cunning. Instead of just using frustrating inconveniences, he often uses distractions, half-truths, and manipulations through shame in order to bring us down. This is where our strength and ability is often weak, but our Lord who is with us is the strength in our weakness that we can boast in! Paul, coming to the end of his journey to Rome, could have easily been distracted by what were potentially attacks to discourage him. He was shipwrecked, snake bitten, and imprisoned. These struggles would take most of us out today! He also was seen as a god by people who worshipped many false gods. He could have easily bought into the lie for his own glory, as most people would. Instead we see Paul remain focused for the Glory of God. He did this because He understood the ever present truth that God had penned through him in Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Join us for church this weekend at Mitchell Berean as we step into the last chapter of our study though Acts. -Pastor Ben Key Verse - Acts 28:15 (NIV) - "The brothers and sisters there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49424175

"When life gives you lemons…” We all know the saying. It’s supposed to end with something like “make lemonade!”, but for many of us that is not the typical. We instead dwell in the sour and bitter taste of the struggle we are in. Why do we do this? Is it because we are too pessimistic and need an optimistic reboot? Maybe…but it is far more likely that we simply had the wrong focus before we got into the struggle. When storms of life rage against us, battering us with wave after wave of painful struggle we see the masks come off, and the truth about us revealed. Storms show our real character, our faith, and our priorities. This week as we study through Acts 27 we get to see Paul and Luke go through a literal storm that gives us great insight into the the typical reactions we have to struggle. We see fear, hopelessness, panic, and pride all rise quickly to the surface. We also see leadership, integrity, faith, and heavenly focus show up! In this contrasting reaction set we can find the right way for us and believers to walk through life’s storms. Join us for service at 8AM or 11AM to dive into God’s word together as a church family! See you Sunday! - Pastor Ben Key Verse - Acts 27:25 (NIV) - "So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me." For Scripture, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49414347

There have been so many views of Jesus developed throughout the year, yet most of them fall far short or are completely false. That is why it is so important for us to know the words Jesus himself spoke to describe who He is! There is no need for a guessing game, arguments, or stretches of the imagination to know Him. He has made Himself known clearly. Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God (Col. 1:15). He is God in flesh, who has dwelt among us (John 1:1-14). He is the Lamb of God who has taken away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He is the One through whom all things were made (John 1:3). Each of these statements of who Jesus is could be seem as claims from others about Him… So what does He Himself claim to be? John 14:6 tells us that Jesus claims to be “The Way, The Truth, and The Life”. This is a HUGE claim from Him, and if it is correct it changes EVERYTHING. Spoiler alert… It IS correct! Come and join us for one of our Easter worship services at MBC where we will look into who Jesus himself says He is! -Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 14:6 (NIV) - "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49414344

We serve a RISEN Savior! And for this reason we celebrate with gladness and joy. Yet there was a time when there was deep mourning over Jesus. His disciples, who were with Him for 3 years hid in fear. The women who followed Him stood in shock. The world itself grew dark and shook with grief as the wrath of the Almighty God was poured out on His perfect Lamb. As we come together for Good Friday, we remember the atonement for sin that Jesus made on our behalf at the cross. This image of Jesus brings to mind many differing views of Him. We have looked over the last 2 weeks at who the World says He is, and who your circle says He is. No we zoom in even more to ask the same question Jesus asked His disciples: “Who do YOU say that I am?” We all have versions of Jesus that we create in our minds, yet each of them truly falls short to the reality of Him shown in His word. That is the Jesus we need to seek. That is the Jesus we must know. Come worship with us on Friday at 6pm at the MBC Worship Center as we remember what Christ has done, and celebrate His finished work on the cross for us! - Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49414342

When we use our own unguided rationale which is influenced by our sinful, human nature, we end up with conclusions that are unholy, self-promoting and unbiblical. So when the world tries to answer questions about Jesus on their own apart from the Word of God, the conclusion they reach is misaligned with who Jesus actually is and the real reason why he came. Last week’s zoomed-out view studied 4 erroneous beliefs we see the world has concluded about Jesus. We’ll zoom in a little further on Sunday to look at what our circle, the people living around us, may think about Jesus and how we can direct their thinking toward truth. Or maybe some of us have been deceived. Pray that we can come to understand the real Jesus as He really is. This weekend, we will allow God’s word to answer questions about Jesus such as: Was Jesus fueled by selfish motives? Does Jesus really care what pathway to God we’re on? Is it Jesus’ primary concern that I receive whatever makes me happy? And what do I need to do to ensure I stay on Jesus’ good side? Let’s point well to Jesus together! The real Jesus of the Bible. Key Verse - John 5:30 “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49414340

"Who is this man?” The disciples of Jesus, Jewish leaders, and crowds of people all asked this question. Jesus was mysterious even to those who were with Him, and yet billions of people have followed Him for the last 2000 years. Why? Why would so many follow someone that seems so confusing, controversial, and even crazy to some?! These same questions are being asked today all over the world, and throughout the month of April we as a church will be looking at the truth behind so many of the views of Jesus. We will start with the world’s views, then zoom in to the views of your circle of influence. Coming in closer we want to ask the question of who YOU say Jesus is. Then on Easter we will see who Jesus says He is. As we look through 4 different views of Jesus from around the world this weekend, I pray that you will consider where your heart has been, or is, on these ideas. Each one tends to present a compelling case, and some are believed by billions of people. But each one also is false. I am excited to dive into God’s word together in this series, and invite you to join us this weekend as we look at Jesus the Prophet, The Moral Teacher, The Enlightened Master, or even The Non-existent. See you Sunday! -Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 7:34 (NIV) - "You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49408639

In life we are taught to jump at the opportunities that come. “Opportunity only knocks once.” we are told. This can be a dangerous way to live, as not eery opportunity is the best thing for us, or even more specifically, in agreement with God’s will. There are opportunities, however, that we as believers are supposed to jump at. The opportunity to share the Gospel! In this week’s section of Acts we find Paul presented with three opportunities before eh rulers of the both Jews and Gentiles to give the truth of the Gospel, and he takes them! Rejecting his own opportunities to defend and escape for himself, he instead focuses on the purpose to which he had been called by Jesus. Paul wasn’t the only one who faces opportunity.. The people who hear the Gospel from him also have an opportunity. How do they respond? Well… not great… These same responses are seen to this day when Gospel opportunity comes up, and we as believers need to be ready to walk with people through them. Join us this weekend as we finish our look at Paul’s defense in Acts 24-26, and see how important it is for us to answer when the right opportunities knock. -Pastor Ben Key Verse: Acts 26:29 (NIV) - Paul replied, "Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387603

All of us who have placed our faith in Jesus have a story in common. It’s a story that includes our life before Jesus, then what Jesus did to bring us to Himself, then an after-Jesus ending that is still being written and will be fulfilled in eternal life in Heaven. It’s an exciting story that shouldn’t be kept to ourselves. When we bury our story, how does God get the glory for the redemption He accomplished in our life and how does the world hear the message of hope so they can enter into new life? As we look at Acts 22-23 this weekend, we see Paul not shying away from telling the shameful things he did before Jesus but rather using these things to show his need for a Savior. He gives God credit for intervening and changing the course of his life. Jesus himself then ministers to Paul after his testimony and encourages him to “[t]ake courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome” Paul is just telling his God story and testifying about God, then he is entrusting the results and his future up to God - he is commended by Jesus Himself for doing this! We are so tempted to try to orchestrate everything going on around us rather than trusting God and walking in simple obedience to what he has called all believers to do. Can we take that next step of faith together as a church family and walk into what God has for us, even if it means we don’t know what that exactly looks like? We will be faithful to God’s call and will watch for what He does. We will trust Him and His plan for us and tell of all He has done in the meantime! Key Verse: Acts 23:11 - The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387601

For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387598

This has been a heavy week. I think of my good friend Colleen Howard and her recent passing, and I cannot help but be full of joy and conviction. Joy at the fact that we have a home prepared for us in Heaven by a Savior who was willing to stay committed, whatever the cost, to the mission He was on. Joy that Colleen knew Jesus well, walked with Him in life, and now knows Him in greater ways than I can understand. Conviction because of the example set by Colleen and many others who have lived lives committed to Christ and His Cause. I think of my own walk and desire a deeper commitment, connection, and purpose to drive me. The Apostle Paul was one of these people, and as we look at Acts 21 we can see his unwavering commitment to Christ, His Cause, His Church, and His Cross. The surpassing value of knowing Christ drove Paul to be willing to lose everything and take hold of the treasure of Jesus. This weekend, my prayer is that we as a church can take steps towards this same heart. Committing ourselves more fully to the One who has given all for our sake. Praise God for Jesus! Praise Him for His forgiveness and grace! Praise Him for His promises we can stand firmly on! Praise Him for the truth of the Gospel, and the hope we have! Let that be the cry of our hearts, echoing the “great cloud of witnesses” who have led by example with lives that truly proclaim “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Join us this weekend for one of our worship services at 8am or 11am. Cannot wait to connect with you MBC Family! -Pastor Ben Key Verse - Acts 21:13 - Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387596

My family just watched the movie, “The Princess Bride,” recently. (It was the first time Christina had seen it… can you believe that?) There is a scene in which Westley and Buttercup approach the Fire Swamp. Despite rumors of no one ever surviving the forest due to random bursts of flame, hidden quicksand and R.O.U.S.’s (look it up), Westley neared it confidently. His state of mind remains unfazed as each obstacle comes, and he cares for Buttercup through every trial, talking casually while the forest throws its best challenges to ensnare them. I imagine this mentality in Paul as he receives insight from the Holy Spirit that there is trouble awaiting him ahead. Why does he keep going when this is revealed to him? Because the larger gospel mission to which he has been called bears much more importance. He even states that he doesn’t even value his own life that much, saying, “I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” Do you see that Paul’s perception of his value in life that propels him forward comes from the purpose God gave him? Some of us are pursuing things that we think have value but will leave us empty. Is growing your business something that you think will increase your value? It won’t. Is getting yourself navigated into the right social circles what you value? Let me tell you, it isn’t worth much. There are so many other things that we are pursuing, but the only thing of worth is this: accomplishing the purpose for which God put you on earth. When we discover that God-given purpose, then we can walk through life’s flames and hidden quicksand with a confidence that is out of this world — because it truly is from out of this world. As Paul encourages the church leaders in this passage, he confidently states that his conscience is clear because he did not withhold teaching about anything; he had taught them the whole counsel of God and has no regrets about running his race well. Let’s live with purpose and on purpose, completing the task(s) to which God has individually called us so we can state with confidence that our conscience is clear before God. That is finishing the course well. For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387571

Have you ever experienced something powerful? Like the crashing waves of the ocean, or the wind of a building thunderstorm, when we come across something powerful it can cause many different reactions. In the same way, the power of God displayed through the life and work of Jesus and His followers causes many different reactions and responses from the surrounding world. In acts 19-20 Paul is used by God in Ephesus to display His power. Power to heal, unite, save, redeem, restore, and protect. All of this display is not simply a flex, but God working to bring the truth of the gospel to unreached people all across the known world. This same power is still at work today in and through His body, the Church. We must grow in our trust, humility, reverence, and fear of God as we walk with Jesus. Join us this weekend as we grow together through the study of God’s word, and the impact of the Gospel! -Pastor Ben Key Verse: Acts 19:20 (NIV) - "In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49387567

I cannot think of a day that has gone by where I myself, or someone around me has not mentioned the idea of giving up on something. Not because we’re all quitters, but because it is a constant temptation we all face as people! The easy thing would be to walk away when things get difficult or uncomfortable. On the other hand though… what do we miss out on if we give up? What else does God have planned for us if we persevere? It is time for us as a church to find out the answer to those questions! To persevere in our personal and cooperate walks with Jesus, willing to face trials, persecution, struggle, or anything else because of the great reward that we have in Him! As we study Acts 18, I pray you will see the purpose of walking in trust of God, as He often calls us into situations that are not the easiest. Situations that require us to stick with it even in the face of adversity. Galatians 6:9 is the call on us: ”Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Join us this Sunday for a worship service, and let’s learn to persevere together! -Pastor Ben Key Verse - Acts 18:10 (NIV) - "For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49381779

Reactions control us. Whether we are the one reacting, or someone else, the thought of a bad reaction will keeps us from saying, doing, or experiencing so much in life. There may be good reason for some things to not happen, but when it comes to sharing our faith we need to be able to overcome fear of reactions and take action steps for the sake of the lost. Paul in Acts 17 continues his missionary journey, boldly proclaiming the truth about Jesus even in the midst of some interesting responses from mobs, religious groups, and political establishments. As Paul focused on the mission, God brought the fruit. People from every place responded to the Gospel and joined the growing movement of Jesus followers. We as believers today have much we owe to the movement happening in this chapter of Acts, as the boldness of Paul fueled the spread of the Gospel in Europe, eventually bringing the truth to us. The work is not finished, and we have been invited in to continue the movement of Gospel expansion today. Our reaction to this invite matters. Join us this weekend for one of our worship services as we work together to grow in boldness with the Gospel! -Pastor Ben Key Verse - Acts 17:22 - "Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49381777

All of us have likely experienced a locked door. It can be humorous, frustrating, comforting, and confusing depending on the circumstances. Spiritually there are times where we find what seem to be closed doors. Moments and opportunities we hoped would come, but God seems to have other plans about. When these closed door moments happen, what is your typical response? Obedience and patience? Frustration and confusion? Whatever it is, my prayer is that we as believers can learn to trust God in His good pleasing and perfect plans. Paul and his ministry team faced a solidly closed door in Acts 16, where they tried to enter Asia for ministry, but God needed them to go to Europe. I am sure there was frustration and confusion for Paul, but because of his trust of God it was made clear pretty quickly that God wanted to move in another direction. This direction was full of open doors for ministry that sparked movement and encouragement into the church even to our current time. When God says no, listen. When God says go, listen. When we listen it is AMAZING what He will do. Join us this weekend for one of our worship services as we look deeper into the journey of the Gospel through Acts, and how we continue that journey today. -Pastor Ben Key Verse: Acts 16:31 (NIV) - 'They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”' For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49379530

One of the most difficult things for people to understand is when they or someone close to them receives something for free. Especially something that they clearly do not deserve. It makes us uncomfortable, confused, and even ashamed at times because of the reality we know, that we could never earn or deserve what we’ve received. In the early church there was a great struggle that arose because of this very situation. The Gentiles had received salvation, but they hadn’t gone through the same grueling process that the Jewish believers had. Some from among the Jewish believers were having a very hard time accepting that salvation could be as easy as Jesus said, and they began to teach something called legalism. Legalism is an idea that there needs to be something else I do in order to help pay for my sins. Something I need to add in order to make it real or official. Jesus did not pay only part of the bill… He paid it all, in full! And not just for your table, but for the whole restaurant! There is no need to add legalistic requirements to salvations, because every legal requirement was met in Jesus’ death. Every victory was won at His resurrection. Everyone who trusts in Him alone has eternal life. Join us this Sunday at 8am or 11am as we dive into Acts 15 together and see how the church, and we, should respond to legalism. -Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49377353

Life can be a roller coaster. If we have no plan or objective in our life, then we have no choice but to follow our feelings and impulses to make ourselves more comfortable and surface-level happy. But when we embrace the mission that God has given to us, He supernaturally gives us a steadfastness to remain focused on the things of eternal importance. In Acts 14, the highest of highs are experienced through miracles of God while at the same time the lowest of lows are seen in undermining and even murder. Through it all, the apostles stay focused on the mission and return home from their first missionary journey with testimony of all that God had done in the region. Are we reacting inconsistently to the circumstances around us or are we focused on the mission God has for us? Let’s stay on mission individually and together and watch what God does as we point to him! For Scripture, notes, upcoming event, & more: http://bible.com/events/49369505

When you’re sent to do something you feel unqualified for it can be overwhelming, frustrating, or straight-up terrifying. No one likes to go into something sure of their inevitable failure! In the Bible we can see that Jesus has called us as followers of Him to make and multiply disciples. To go into the world as witnesses of His Gospel. To represent the values of His Kingdom as ambassadors of reconciliation. We don’t always feel qualified for this, but that is why God has gifted His Church with the tools needed to equip you for the work He calls you to! In Acts 13 we see Saul and Barnabas sent out on the mission they had been called to. It wasn’t going to be easy, but they were obedient and went, having been equipped by the church, called by God, and filled with the Holy Spirit. As a church we have the wonderful privilege of sending out into the mission field some who we have had a role in equipping this weekend. We send them out on the same mission we are on as a church, and excitedly watch to join into the celebration of fruit, and encourage them along the way. Come be a part with us this Sunday at 8am or 11am as we study the word, and commission Luke and Sara Worden as missionaries sent from MBC! - Pastor Ben Key Passage - Acts 13:1-13 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49367386

The life of a disciple of Jesus is not “like” a war, it is a war. We will be tested and tried and will either end victorious or as a casualty. The stakes are high each and every day, but Satan and the flesh have a way to make our life not seem quite so urgent and not quite so important. Come join us as we look at Acts 12 and how our current war will test us with persecution, people pleasing, and attack our purpose. It is bitter sweet to be preaching my last sermon while on staff at MBC, but praise God for the great things He is accomplishing at Mitchell Berean. See you this weekend! - Pastor Luke “You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭3‬-‭4‬‬‬ (NKJV) For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49367376

In our Christmas series leading up to this week we heard about the prophecies Jesus fulfilled. This week we'll discuss the reliability of those Scriptures and the benefits of studying the Bible. We invite you to join us in 2025 to complete a reading plan that will take us through the whole Bible in one year. Key Passage: Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ - “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.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49357696

Christmas is one of our favorite times of year! We celebrate the coming Messiah, enjoy(mostly) time with our families, and give gifts to one another that represent joy and love. It truly is a wonderful time! The first Christmas, however, was not so wonderful for everyone. There were many different reactions to the birth of Jesus, and while some were positive, many were very against Him. Apathy, fear, anger, and scheming on one side met by rejoicing, praising, seeking, and sharing on the other. What has been your response to Jesus? Do you find yourself reflected in one of those responses? Jesus was not just promised to come in Bethlehem, but also promised to come again. We have time now to consider our response to who He is, what He has taught, and what He has done, but that time grows shorter every second leading to His return. The gift of life through Him is free. The choice to accept it or not is yours. What is your response? Join us at 2pm or 4pm on Christmas Eve as we celebrate Jesus’ birth, and look ahead to His return! -Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49357690

When we think about Christmas our tendency is to find glory in the story, and miss the true glory of the Savior! The prophecies spoken about Jesus’ birth in the Old Testament often come with dual meaning. Sometimes there is an imagery angle in an Old Testament character like Moses, Joshua, or David, but also point clearly to Jesus. Other times there is a prophecy that is fulfilled not just by one moment in Jesus’ life, but by several moments and characteristics seen in the Savior. This week as we look into the prophecies declared fulfilled in Matthew 2:19-23 my hope is that we as a church can direct the glory in our hearts back towards the one who truly deserves it. The despised and rejected one. The new shoot rising up from the death and decay of Jesse’s lineage. The hope for the hopeless. Jesus the Nazarene! Join us this Sunday at 8am or 11am for one of our worship services! - Pastor Ben Main Passage: Matthew 2:19-23 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49357687

Elohim, El Shaddai, El Elyon, God of Isra-El became Immanu-El by coming to earth over 2000 years ago. Prophesied some 700 years earlier, God through the prophet Isaiah predicted the Messiah’s birth, that God would be with us. Matthew 1 quotes Isaiah’s foretelling in verse 23: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name ‘Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).” We as God’s people realize that God’s presence is among us now because of the redemptive work Jesus accomplished on the cross. We are grateful that we do not serve a distant god, but a God who is with us and intimately acquainted with all our ways. Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49357682

As we celebrate this Christmas season, we are diving into a series called “As Promised.” Last we discussed the promise of a conquering King, but this week we will look at the Kings heart. How does God view disaster, loss, pain, and suffering? When things seem to be promising, yet take a turn for the worst, do we have a King who cares? Key Scripture - Hosea 13:14 - “I shall ransom them from the power of Sheol; I shall redeem them from Death. O Death, where are your plagues? O Sheol, where is your sting? Compassion is hidden from my eyes.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49354326

Every Christmas we get reminded about “the reason for the season.” Simply put, we celebrate Christmas because of Christ! However, the more you look at “the reason” the more miraculous it becomes. Did you know Jesus fulfilled over 300 prophecies? Many of these prophecies began taking place during the time of His birth. Prophecy is more than a foretold event. Rather prophecy is a revelation of God’s heart and will. Prophecy is more than simply evidence that Jesus is the Messiah, but in addition, prophecy reveals to us who the Messiah is and who we are. This is why we are so excited for our next series “As Promised.” We are going to discover more about the nature of Jesus, the nature of man, our purpose, and how we can practically live out “the reason for the season.” Come join us this week as we discover the fulfilled promise of an awaited king born in a little town called Bethlehem. Key Scripture - Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. Isaiah 9:7 ESV For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49329810

It can be difficult for us to trust God when He works in mysterious ways. The Jewish believers of the early church felt this and struggled heavily with the ways God chose to move among the Gentiles. As they worked on understanding and accepting the direction God was leading in Acts 11 He just kept moving forward! There is truth to understand that nothing will be able to hinder God’s plan from being accomplished in His timing, and for His glory! His word and character help us to trust in the midst of confusing movement, but, like the Jewish believers we see throughout the New Testament, we don’t always take the help they offer… If you’ve ever found yourself in a place where God was doing something, but you were not aware, ready, or comfortable with how He was doing it you will find good company in the beginning of Acts 11. The call to us as believers is to still find ways to trust and praise God as He moves, because when we do we witness Him going far beyond what we could ask or imagine. The book of Acts started with Jewish Followers of Jesus, but at this transition point we see the explosion of the faith in the Gentile world. It was among the Gentiles even that the term Christian was first used to describe the followers of Jesus. God truly works in mysterious ways, but we can always trust that His plan is "good, pleasing, and perfect.”(Rom 12:2) Join us this weekend for our Celebration Sunday happening at the Weborg 21 center in Gering! One service at 11am followed by our annual Chili, Soup, Cinnamon Roll, and BBQ Meat Competition! God has given us much to celebrate, so come have a great time with us praising Him! -Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49329809

Have you ever come to a moment in your life where the plans, ideas, and hopes you had moving forward all shifted into something unexpected? The early church in Acts came to many moments like this, but none ended with more impact than the salvation of the house of Cornelius. These gentiles were the opening of the tap that led to a flood still raging to this day. As a church we have to ask the question of our own community; “Who is truly unreachable with the Gospel?”. The answer is simple, but the implications change everything! Join us this weekend for a dive into the word, worship, prayer, and focus on the call we have as the Body of Christ! -Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49329808

This weekend we look at the conversion of Saul, who later calls himself the “foremost of sinners.” The last we heard of him, he had aided and agreed with Stephen’s stoning. What an enemy of the church! But not for long. God had a masterful plan for Saul’s life to bring him into the light, both literally and spiritually. Let’s celebrate the miracle together that God redeems even the worst of sinners and commit to carry that message to everyone we encounter! Key Scripture - Acts 9:22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ. For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49329807

Whose kingdom are you building? Difficult times, especially unexpected times, tend to reveal our motives and purpose. Is our life fully devoted for the purposes of Christ? Or are we set on pleasing ourselves? Sometimes this can be tricky to discern. We are good at deceiving ourselves. Thankfully, God allows challenges, the unexpected, and failures to help expose our hearts so that we are aware of whose kingdom we are really building. Come fellowship with us as we study Acts chapter 8 and how intense persecution and the unexpected revealed the mission of the church. Key verse - Acts 8:4 “Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49329805

For centuries the nation of Israel, God’s chosen people, walked in ways that were not with God. They had a good image going for being very spiritually rich, and full of devotion to God, but it was surface level at best and down right corrupt at its worst. This week as we look into Acts 7, Stephen gives a sermonette to the religious Jews who were accusing him falsely, about this very reality. They had lost their way. They had forgotten their founding faith, worshipped wrongfully the idols of the surrounding cultures and self, and rejected the redeemers God had sent them again and again to draw them back to Himself. We as Christians today aren’t often much better… We walk in surface level religion instead of true faith. We worship whatever promises to fulfill us, abandoning whatever may get in our way. We often live lives that believe we can take care of ourselves instead of trusting in the Redeemer. This is a culture for the glory of me rather than the glory of God! We as believers should be living lives of faith, worship, and trust that point the watching world directly to the Savior, Jesus. Join us this weekend as we continue our series in the book of Acts! -Pastor Ben For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49323817

Have you ever been in a situation where there was a good thing you jumped at doing, only to find out later that a greater opportunity was missed? Sometimes this happens in our lives, and we have to walk with wisdom and discernment to not abandon the great for the good. It’s HARD though! We love to do what is good! It feels good, looks good, sounds good… Nobody will question us for doing good! The reality the early church faced in Acts 6 was one where doing what was good could cause them to abandon the greater calling. No one would have questioned them. Nobody would have felt anything but cared for. Wisdom comes in and we get to se an incredible moment of leadership willing to risk everything for the greater calling upon them, and us as The Church. Join us this weekend to take a deeper dive into the Word and see how sometimes the “good” thing isn’t the right thing. -Pastor Ben Passage - Acts 6:1-15 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49323813

Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” The first thing we see in Acts 5 the result of a lack a reverent fear of the Lord, and God’s immediate judgment on this requires the life of two offenders. The result is a wide-sweeping reverential fear across the whole of God’s people. In contrast to the irreverent behavior of these two at the beginning, we see the boldness of the Apostles as they share the gospel confidently in the midst of opposition. It is here we see their fear of the Lord played out as they all say, “We must obey God rather than man.” God sees our hearts and knows if we are completely sold out to him or if we are holding back a portion for ourselves. God also calls us to fear and obey him no matter what the earthy consequence may be. This purity before God and confidence in Him led to continued growth of the early church, both numerically and spiritually. Acts 5:29 - But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49323811

Feeling exhausted? At the end of your rope? Having a hard time believing God can provide a breakthrough? These are common challenges that face every follower of Jesus. We need more than good intentions, some Bible knowledge, and a weekly gathering to live a victorious Christian life. We are in a war and we need power! The early church lived in the power of the Gospel, but how? It was not through complexity. It was not through big conferences with keynote speakers, great food, and awesome music. It was through suffering, serving on the front lines, and a deep, intimate, and life-altering encounter with a Person, Jesus Christ. How was the early church able to endure so much with such great effectiveness? Acts chapter 4 provides great encouragement on how we can find hope, boldness, and the power to have victory in the spiritual war that we face. Key Scripture - Acts 4:19-20: But Peter and John answered them, “whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49323810

Signs of the Holy Spirit’s arrival continue to be seen as we take a look into Acts 3. In this chapter, we see a man who had been lame from birth called to stand up and walk, and he does! But this isn’t the only miracle in Acts 3. Have a look at Peter’s boldness! This is the same man who denied Jesus three times on the night of His betrayal, and now he is drawing others’ attention to their denial of Jesus and need for repentance and belief in Him for eternal life! For us to be on mission as a church, we need to be looking to help with the physical needs of others and remembering their greater need of a Savior in Jesus. Let’s learn from Peter’s example of being bold in the Spirit and clearly articulating the gospel to those in spiritual need. Acts 3:6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49316665

When my wife and I got married and formed the initial framework of a new family we began to identify values that focused us. Shifting from the life of a single adult to a married couple means new values towards new purposes. Once we started having kids and the family was growing those values became all the more important for us to hold to and keep focused on! In the early church we see values come in quickly that identified them as followers of Jesus, united them as one body, and launched them forward towards the mission. The Church today is called to be driven by the same values towards the same mission, but are we? Join us this weekend to dive into the next part of our series through the book of Acts, “A New Tribe”. -Pastor Ben Main passage: Acts 2:42-47 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49315845

In Matthew 16:18, Jesus promised to build His church, His "ekklesia," a term meaning a "called out group" or "movement" rather than a mere physical building or a social club. This "ekklesia" refers to a community dedicated to a divine cause. Jesus' intent was to establish a movement with a mission to glorify God by reaching every nation. This purpose is highlighted in Acts 2:1-41, where the diverse language groups gathered in Jerusalem witnesses the birth of a new community—the Church. This new movement, birthed at Pentecost, signifies a shift in God's plan for humanity. Instead of a single nation, God now seeks worshipers from every tribe and tongue, uniting them in Christ through the Holy Spirit. Rev. 5:9-10 The Church, therefore, is not just a building or social organization but a global, transformative body empowered by and indwelt with the Spirit and committed to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. This mission is anchored in the resurrection of Jesus, who promised that belief in Him leads to eternal life. The Church's role is to boldly declare this message and live out its divine mission and empowered by the Holy Spirit, to make disciples who will make disciples and change the world. For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49314995

Have you ever been in a new place and felt lost? We can study maps and pictures, but the real thing is often different than what we can visualize through graphics. Or perhaps you have helped start a new group, organization, or club. Whenever a new group forms there is excitement and often times some confusion. What should we do? How should we do it? In Acts chapter 1 we see A New Tribe forming. The mission and even locations that the New Tribe is given are given are new. They have never done this before. Yet they have peace and direction because of the Word of Christ. He did not leave the New Tribe directionless to figure things out on their own. Rather He gave them the Truth needed to be established in God’s love and purpose. Come join us this Sunday as we study how the “New Tribe” navigated their new beginnings. Key Verse - Acts 1:2 "until the day when He was taken up, after He had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen." For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49299630

People are meant for relationships. We see this as people are drawn to various kinds of communities. Community can provide a sense of identity, belonging, and simply being involved with something that is bigger than yourself. This can come by way of sports teams, a job, a hobby, community support groups, home school groups, AMWAY groups, etc. Yet there is something that separates Christian community, or at least should. Christians are not connected based on ethnicity, economic status, political bend, shared interests, a set of morals, or even a common goal. Christians are connected based upon a Person, Jesus Christ. Jesus gives us His Spirit that connects us at a deeper level than anything else on this planet can. Our fall series will take us through the first 11 chapters of Acts as we look at how “A New Tribe” was birthed. How God developed a unique community by the Person of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the truth of God’s Word. Come join us this Sunday at 8 am as we look at an overview of the Book Acts chapters 1-11. - Pastor Luke Worden Key Verse: Acts 9:31 "So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied." (ESV: Fall Campaign Memory Verse) For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49299629

Have you ever been on a mission? Maybe you've served in the military and have been sent on missions full of intense complexity. Maybe your mission has looked more like having to find the correct brand of almond milk from the grocery store. Either way, mission demands a certain mindset. A laser focus on what you set out to accomplish, and a passionate loyalty to see it through to the end. This attitude of mission is exactly what we as believers in Jesus are called to carry every day. The intensity is high because the stakes couldn't be higher. People every day are dying, separated from the One who can bring them hope and life. As the Church we are called to carry the powerful message of the Gospel, to make disciples, and to lovingly care for each other as we push one another on to see the mission accomplished. I will be honest with you... It's not an easy thing... But you were made for it!  Join us this weekend to finish up our "Seeing Clearly" series with a deep look into the mission before us. - Pastor Ben Main Passage: Matthew 28:18-20 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49299627

Have you ever heard the statement that Jesus talked about money more than any other topic in the Bible? This is commonly stated, but is not exactly true. Jesus did talk about money a lot, but He usually was not really talking about money. He was usually using money as a topic to take a look at a deeper heart issue. We all know that money can have a way of dominating our life. The stress of not being able to pay bills, buy the things we want, afford a lifestyle that is comfortable, or the constant desire to buy something new. We live in a country with a debt crisis at the national level and on the personal level. So what does God say about money? Come join us this weekend as we study how our outlook on finances can have a major impact on our relationship with Christ. Key Verse - 2 Corinthians 8:9 (ESV) - For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49299624

God is the designer of pure, intimate relationship. The character of the Triune Godhead reflects it, His closeness to Adam signifies it, the design of Eve reinforces it, and Jesus’ love for His bride, the Church, proves it. If close relationship is God’s character and design, let’s look at what He has to say about it! Key Verse - 'However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.' Ephesians 5:33 (ESV) For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49296461

"Mental health is a growing topic of discussion not only in our community and country, but around the world. Youth suicide rates are increasing, diagnoses of mental illness is increasing, and hopelessness is increasing. What is going on in our world? Is it a physical problem? Is it a spiritual problem? Is it both? This week we will be diving into a biblical view of mental health. We will briefly break down some of the physical components of mental health, and then take a dive into the spiritual foundation of having a healthy mind. I have gone down this road myself in my own battle with anxiety and depression. Through reading the book of Habakuk and great pastoral counseling I found peace in the Fear of the Lord, Faith, and Rejoicing in the trial. Come join us this week for a time of teaching, fellowship, and worship!" -Pastor Luke Key Passage - Habakuk 3:17-19: Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail, and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places. (ESV) For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49290704

What is important in life is not knowing when Jesus is coming, but how you live in light of his coming! Scripture: Matthew 25:1-13 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49277039

We all know what it’s like to prepare for something. Whether that was a sporting event, a project for work, marriage, or becoming a parent. How did you know you were ready? Or were you ready? Or maybe you were ill prepared? Being “ready” is an interesting thing, because no matter how much we prepare we may still “feel” unprepared. Yet Jesus says we must “be ready” for His return. Come join us as we explore what Christ intends as He calls us to “be ready.” Key Verse - “But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Matthew 24:43-44 For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49277037

We have been graciously overpaid to enter the field and work for God! As much work as we think we have done or could do to earn what God has given to us, our labor will never measure up to what He has graciously promised to us. This changes our motivation to be about His work. We do not serve God to earn a wage, because the wage we earn for our sin is death. But we serve Him with thanksgiving for what He has already unfairly (praise God!) paid out: His shed blood and a promise of eternal life. Matthew 20:14 - Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49277036

Have you ever been in a conversation and realized the other person was hearing you but not listening? Or maybe you had been hearing someone speak and then realized you couldn’t remember anything that they said? Welcome to human nature! It is our natural instinct to be bad listeners. In fact, while finishing my Masters degree I found an incredibly interesting study that detailed how almost all pastors said they were good listeners. Yet when their congregation was interviewed most pastors were discovered to be very poor listeners. They were quick to interrupt and quick to assume they had the right answers before carefully listening. Jesus did not need a psychological study to know this about human nature. In the parable of the sower we find that our bad listening skills often translate to Gods Word. This leads to deadly spiritual behavior. Come join us as we study the famous “parable of the sower.” May God give us ears to hear! - Pastor Luke Worden Key Scripture - ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭ “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.” 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 ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.’ But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49277035

It seems like every time we turn the news on, we see some sort of battle or protest in regard to Israel. What is the conflict all about and more importantly, what does Gods word say about it? This Sunday we will dive into a brief summary of the conflict and a more in-depth look at what Gods word says about the Land and the people of “The Land.” Genesis 12:3 - “And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.”” For Scripture, notes, upcoming events, & more: http://bible.com/events/49277034