New Beginnings Church, Lynnwood

"A lesson about how our union with Christ frees us from sin's dominion and empowers us to live a new life of obedience by the grace of God." The sermon, drawn from Galatians 2:17–21, powerfully defends the gospel of justification by faith alone against the charge that it promotes sinfulness, clarifying that true freedom in Christ is not license to sin but liberation from the law's condemnation and the power of sin. It emphasizes that believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection, resulting in a new nature that hates sin and delights in God's will, making holy living not a legalistic obligation but the natural outflow of faith and love. The passage dismantles the misconception that grace encourages lawlessness, showing instead that grace both forgives sin's penalty and destroys its dominion through the transformative power of union with Christ, who now lives in the believer. The sermon concludes with a solemn warning: to add works to faith is to nullify Christ's sacrifice, making His death unnecessary and blaspheming the Gospel, and thus calls all to live not under fear of the law, but in joyful, loving obedience to the One who died for them.

A lesson on the absolute sufficiency of Christ's righteousness for our justification, received by faith alone apart from works of the law. The sermon centers on the foundational Christian doctrine of justification by faith alone, emphasizing that no human effort, law-keeping, or moral achievement can make a person right with God. Drawing from Galatians 2:15–16, it argues that salvation is not earned through works of the law—such as obedience to Jewish ceremonial or moral codes—but is received solely through faith in Jesus Christ, whose perfect righteousness is imputed to believers. The preacher underscores the impossibility of achieving righteousness through human effort, highlighting the fallen nature of humanity and the holiness of God, which demands perfect conformity to His law. In contrast, the gospel offers freedom: Christ's active and passive obedience are credited to sinners, enabling them to stand justified before God not by their own merit but by grace alone. The sermon warns against any addition of works or obedience to faith as a means of justification, affirming that such additions undermine Christ's finished work and distort the true gospel, which is the cornerstone of the Church's existence and the source of lasting assurance and joy.

a lesson on seeing the good things in life as gifts from God to be enjoyed in the proper context and as things that point our hearts to Him. The sermon, drawn from Ecclesiastes 2:1–11, presents a sobering exploration of the futility of seeking lasting meaning and fulfillment in worldly pleasures, possessions, and accomplishments, as exemplified by King Solomon's exhaustive yet ultimately empty pursuit of hedonism. Through a vivid recounting of Solomon's experiments with laughter, wine, grand building projects, wealth, and sensual indulgence, the preacher illustrates how every earthly endeavor—however noble in itself—fails to satisfy the deep longing of the human heart when pursued apart from God. The central message is that while these things are good gifts from God, they become idols when they are elevated above Him, leading only to emptiness and a deeper sense of dissatisfaction. The sermon calls listeners to recognize the vanity of life under the sun and to redirect their hearts toward the eternal joy found only in a relationship with Christ, who alone satisfies the soul's deepest longings. Ultimately, it is a call to reorient life around God as the true source of meaning, contentment, and lasting joy.

This sermon, from Galatians 2:11–16, emphasizes that the doctrine of justification by faith alone—central to the Reformation and the very heart of the gospel—must be defended with unwavering courage, even against prominent figures like Peter. Drawing on the historical confrontation between Paul and Peter in Antioch, the preacher illustrates how fear of man, even among true believers, can lead to hypocrisy and compromise, undermining the gospel's unity and purity. The message is clear: while Christian love and peace are vital, they must not come at the cost of doctrinal integrity, especially when the gospel itself is at stake. The sermon calls believers to emulate Paul and Luther by standing firm in truth, even when unpopular, recognizing that such stands are not divisive but essential for preserving the gospel's integrity. Ultimately, it affirms that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, and that any deviation from this truth distorts the very foundation of Christian faith.

A lesson on prioritizing the truth of the Gospel over unity, knowing that if we prioritize unity over truth, we'll have neither truth nor unity. The sermon centers on the necessity of preserving the purity of the gospel, drawing from Galatians 2 to affirm that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone—never compromised by human works or traditions. It uses the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge as a metaphor for how unity without truth leads to spiritual ruin, illustrating how Paul's journey to Jerusalem with Titus—his uncircumcised Gentile companion—proved that the gospel must not be altered, even for the sake of harmony. The passage underscores that true fellowship is rooted in shared allegiance to the apostolic gospel, not human agreement, and warns against modern distortions like legalism, easy believism, or works-based justification, all of which undermine the cross. The sermon calls believers to guard the gospel with vigilance, rejecting any addition to Christ's finished work, and to cherish unity only when grounded in the unchanging truth of grace, for it is the power of God unto salvation.

A lesson on the way that the Gospel redirects our life in Christ, transforming us from sinners into saints who desire above all to obey and glorify God in Christ Jesus. The sermon centers on the divine origin and unchangeable nature of the gospel, as defended by Paul in Galatians 1:11–24, emphasizing that the gospel is not a human invention but a revelation from Jesus Christ, authenticated by Paul's radical transformation from persecutor to apostle. It contrasts the true gospel—rooted in God's sovereign grace and received through divine revelation—with man-made religions and cults that distort salvation by adding human works, thereby undermining the sufficiency of Christ's atonement. Paul's testimony, from his zealous persecution of the church to his Damascus Road encounter and subsequent three-year preparation in Arabia, illustrates how genuine faith results in a complete inward transformation that inevitably produces outward obedience and a life devoted to glorifying God. The sermon underscores that salvation is entirely God's work—from election before creation to final glorification—highlighting the believer's identity not in past failures but in Christ's righteousness, and calls both unbelievers and believers to rest wholly in the gospel's power to redeem and transform.

A lesson on the futility of searching for meaning or significance in the things of life without God. The sermon, drawn from Ecclesiastes 1:12–18, centers on the futility of seeking life's meaning apart from God, using King Solomon's exhaustive pursuit of wisdom as a profound illustration. Despite possessing unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and power, Solomon concludes that all human endeavors under the sun—without divine revelation and grace—are ultimately 'vanity and striving after wind,' revealing the inherent brokenness of creation and the limits of human reason. The passage underscores that wisdom, without God, increases sorrow rather than alleviating it, as it only heightens awareness of life's suffering and disorder. The preacher emphasizes that this despair is not a call to despair, but a necessary confrontation with the reality of sin's curse, which only Christ's redemptive work can overcome. Ultimately, the message is one of grace: true meaning, joy, and restoration are found not in human effort, but in Christ, who alone straightens what sin has bent and fulfills the longing for purpose that all humanity instinctively feels.

A lesson on the offensive nature of the Gospel, and the temptation to change the message for the sake of pleasing men. The sermon emphasizes the critical importance of prioritizing God's approval over the consensus of the world, particularly when it comes to upholding the purity of the gospel. Drawing from Galatians 1:10, the message highlights the exclusivity of allegiance—either serving God or serving man—and cautions against the temptation to compromise biblical truth to gain acceptance. It underscores that true servanthood demands unwavering faithfulness to Christ, rejecting the notion that works or human consensus can contribute to justification, and instead embracing the grace and righteousness secured through faith alone in Jesus Christ.

A lesson on the danger of false teachers infiltrating the church, who distort the gospel, and whose end is the condemnation of their own soul and any who would follow them. The sermon emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to the true gospel of Jesus Christ, warning against even slight deviations that can lead to eternal condemnation. It cautions against being swayed by charismatic teachers or seemingly orthodox messages that add works or other requirements to faith alone, highlighting the danger of embracing false gospels that distort the message of salvation through grace. The preacher underscores that the gospel is a non-negotiable truth, and any departure from it, even if presented by an angel, is a grave error, urging listeners to steadfastly believe in Christ alone as the sole basis for justification and to reject any alternative message.

A lesson on what the Gospel is and why it must never be tampered with or altered. The sermon emphasizes the centrality of the gospel of grace, highlighting Jesus' willing sacrifice and resurrection as the foundation for salvation, not human effort or adherence to the law. It warns against the dangers of compromising this message with philosophies that blend faith and works, particularly those that undermine the complete sufficiency of Christ's atonement. The speaker underscores the importance of recognizing the gospel as God's initiative, a message that liberates believers from sin's power and ultimately glorifies God, urging vigilance against subtle deviations that threaten the purity of this essential truth and the Gospel message, which alone has the power to save.

A lesson on finding true lasting meaning, fulfillment, significance, and joy in life. The sermon explores the inherent vanity of earthly pursuits, drawing from Ecclesiastes to highlight the fleeting nature of life and the ultimate futility of seeking fulfillment in material possessions, achievements, or even legacy. It emphasizes that while human experience is marked by cyclical patterns and a constant desire for novelty, true meaning and lasting satisfaction are found not in chasing worldly things, but in turning to God and embracing the promise of a new creation through Christ, who offers a perspective that transcends the limitations of the temporal world and provides a foundation for genuine contentment and purpose.

A lesson on living a life that leads to life and salvation, and a warning against the things that would lure a person to the broad road. The sermon emphasizes the critical importance of discerning truth and aligning one's life with Christ's teachings, warning against the allure of false prophets and the deceptive promise of self-righteousness. It underscores that true salvation is found solely through faith in Christ, not through works or worldly wisdom, illustrating this with the analogy of a house built on rock versus sand. Ultimately, the message calls for a commitment to the narrow path of obedience, recognizing that eternity hinges on making the right choice between the broad way of lawlessness and the life-giving path of faith in Christ alone.

A lesson on the importance of prayer as a means of receiving the sustaining, nourishing grace that we need for the Christian life. The sermon emphasizes the centrality of prayer in the Christian life, drawing from the Sermon on the Mount and the teachings of historical figures like Martin Luther and Thomas Watson. It highlights the importance of approaching God with confidence, recognizing His sovereignty and willingness to provide grace, not as a means of manipulating outcomes, but as a pathway to aligning with His will and growing in Christ-likeness. The message underscores that persistent prayer, rooted in a humble understanding of human dependence and God's boundless generosity, ultimately leads to a life of love and service to others, reflecting the divine character revealed in Jesus.

A lesson on confronting a brother or sister who is in sin in a way that leads to restoration of fellowship. This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-examination and discernment in Christian life, warning against hypocritical judgment and urging believers to prioritize personal holiness before attempting to correct others. Drawing from Matthew 7, the message highlights the absurdity of focusing on minor faults in others while ignoring significant sins in ourselves, advocating for a balanced approach to confronting sin with gentleness and wisdom, and ultimately protecting the integrity of the gospel by strategically engaging with those receptive to its message while withdrawing from those who persistently reject it.

The sermon addresses the pervasive issue of anxiety in contemporary society, tracing its roots to a cultural shift away from God and a loss of confidence in reason, exacerbated by technology. It refutes the notion that worry can add anything to one's life, instead emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's providential care and seeking His kingdom above all else. Drawing from nature and Scripture, the message encourages listeners to relinquish control and find solace in God's sovereignty, recognizing that He faithfully provides for all needs, ultimately freeing them to live a life that glorifies Christ.

The sermon examines the dangers of prioritizing earthly possessions and anxieties over a steadfast devotion to God, drawing from Matthew 6. It cautions against storing up treasures on earth, vulnerable to loss and corruption, and instead encourages investing in heavenly treasures—righteous deeds and spiritual growth—that endure eternally. Through the illustration of a sports card collector and the parable of the rich young ruler, the message underscores that true wealth lies not in material accumulation but in aligning one's heart and priorities with God's will, ultimately warning against the illusion of treasure and the necessity of single-minded devotion to Christ.

A lesson on the effects of sin, and God's mercy to cleanse and turn us from it, for His glory. As we conclude our study through 2nd Samuel today, the book ends with a fitting message: the cost of sin is great, but God's mercy is greater. His judgement reveals our sin, but His mercy invites our repentance, worship, and praise. The sermon concludes a study of 2 Samuel, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than relying on human understanding, echoing Proverbs 3:5-6. It highlights David's example, acknowledging his imperfections while showcasing his reliance on God, and contrasts this with Saul's disobedience. The narrative underscores God's sovereignty, even in judgment, and celebrates His mercy, offering forgiveness and reconciliation through a mediator, ultimately pointing to Christ's atoning sacrifice and inviting listeners to embrace God's grace and find joy in fellowship with Him.

The sermon explores the consequences of misplaced trust, using the story of King David to illustrate the importance of relying on God rather than human understanding or statistics. Drawing parallels to historical events like the Protestant Reformation and Bloody Mary's persecution, it emphasizes that even in judgment, God reveals mercy and sovereignty, calling believers to entrust themselves to His promises. The message highlights the necessity of humility and repentance, acknowledging that while sin may bring temporal consequences, God's grace and the sacrifice of Christ offer forgiveness and restoration, ultimately urging listeners to seek God's will and live in light of His unwavering love and faithfulness.

A lesson on trusting in God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, and finding our hope in that rather than anything else. The sermon explores David's final words, emphasizing the importance of hope and trust in God amidst life's uncertainties, particularly when facing mortality. It highlights David's humble beginnings and God's sovereign choice of him, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God's covenant promises and the ultimate source of hope and righteousness. The message underscores the necessity of faith in Christ alone for salvation, contrasting the secure hope of those in covenant with God with the impending judgment faced by those who rely on their own works, urging listeners to embrace God's grace and find assurance in His unwavering faithfulness.

A lesson on the blessings, benefits, and motivations for fasting to the glory of God.

A lesson on our need to look to Christ for salvation, and how God provides all that we need to live the Christian life.

a lesson on seeing God as a Savior and Deliverer who rescues His people in Christ Jesus in accordance with His steadfast love.

A lesson on God's faithfulness to providentially accomplish His purposes through His servants, even against giants that seem overwhelming. As we continue in our study through 2nd Samuel today, we continue observing the epilogue which highlights David's life of continual warfare. In a period of weariness for himself and his men, they had to face multiple incursions against literal giants in some cases. Recall how Goliath, just one giant, struck such fear into the hearts of Israel. Nevertheless, God provided the grace, strength, and skill for victory through His servants. In the very same way, we live our Christian walk by grace as well. In and of ourselves we are utterly unable to win the battle against the flesh, the world, and the devil. But even against such mighty foes, God's grace is greater. And because His Son has overcome them all, we have victory through Him by faith. So keep your eyes on Him, and you will walk in victory.

A lesson on the seriousness of covenants, and the high cost of atonement. As we continue in our study through 2nd Samuel today, we encounter an epilogue which takes place outside the main account, wherein we witness the effects of a covenant Saul broke between Israel and the Gibeonites, which brought God's reproach upon Israel. It was up to David to settle the account; the cost of atonement being the death of seven of Saul's descendants. The lesson to gleam from this difficult passage is that God takes covenants seriously, and that the cost of sin and breaking of oaths is very high. But unlike us, God keeps His covenants perfectly and faithfully. And He Himself restores mercy through costly atonement, by the blood of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

A lesson on our need for God to protect us from the snares and temptations of the evil one.

A lesson on the importance of humility in the Christian walk, particularly when differences and conflicts arise, and the importance of living out the peace that we have in Christ.

a lesson on the way that Christ reconciles sinners to God: by seeking them out and pouring out His grace upon them.

A lesson on managing our lives wisely by obeying God's commands, entrusting all things into His hands, and treasuring His word in our hearts that we might feel and reason rightly.

A lesson on the sure hope we have to obtain an eternal inheritance and resurrection because of the finished work our Lord Jesus Christ, who died and rose again to save sinners like us.

A lesson that reminds us that God is sovereign over our trials, able to confound, influence, and even over-ride the decisions of man as a means of carrying forth His sovereign plans.

A lesson that reminds us of our need to come to God in daily prayer, looking to Him and relying on Him to provide our daily sustenance - both physically and spiritually.

A lesson on trusting in God to work out His glory and our good, even amidst the most tumultuous circumstances.

A lesson on trusting in God's sovereignty over our trials, and leaning on Him by faith to see us through the storms of life, according to His will.

A lesson on the dangers of pursuing greatness by the world's standards, and a reminder of Christ's words: "It is not this way among you" (Matt. 20:26).

A lesson that warns us about acting in haste to reconcile and restore in the absence of true repentance.

A lesson on praying to God as a Father who loves to bless us, in eager anticipation of the fulfilling of His plans and purposes for human history.

A lesson on trusting in God's promise to vindicate His people, rather than taking matters of justice into our own hands.

a lesson on the foolishness and the consequences of neglecting to train our children in the ways of God.

A lesson on how we should respond when God's answer to our prayers is "no."

A lesson on praying with the right motivation: to God, for God, through Jesus Christ as our Mediator, by the Holy Spirit.

A lesson on the way that God's grace toward us sometimes means being disciplined as a means of bringing about true repentance.

A lesson on the way that sin always takes us further than we initially think that it will. While it often initially gives the illusion of being something we can control, it has the ability to draw us deeper and further into sin than we ever could have predicted if our pride isn't kept in check.

a lesson on the deceitfulness of sin, the sinful desires that remain within us, and the God's means that God has ordained for forgiving those who sin against Him.

A lesson on giving unto God in a way that results in God being pleased and in the unbelieving world giving glory to God.

a lesson on desiring and pursuing God as our top priority in life, knowing that only His love for us in Christ Jesus is worth more than life itself.

a story that illustrates the foolishness and the consequences of rejecting God's kindness, which is intended to provoke our repentance, in Christ Jesus.

A lesson in which the Gospel is clearly illustrated and foreshadowed by the story of a king who was faithful to his covenant promises and a crippled man who was born at enmity with the king and could do nothing to change his condition.

a lesson on looking to Christ our conquering Warrior-King who has defeated death and sin for every helpless sinner who believes on Him.

A lesson on what we have to be thankful unto God for, and how to pray with thanksgiving.