Refuge City Church

Series: Genesis Sermon: The Lion of Judah (Genesis 49) What if the choices you make today could echo through generations—and even point to the Savior of the world? In this sermon, we explore Genesis 49, where Jacob delivers prophetic blessings to his twelve sons, shaping the destinies of Israel's tribes. From Reuben's fall due to reckless actions to Judah's rise as the line of the Messiah, this sermon uncovers timeless truths: our actions carry consequences, God offers redemption from our past, and godly character yields eternal rewards. Hear how Judah, despite his failures, becomes the forebear of Jesus Christ—the Lion of the tribe of Judah—and how Joseph's steadfast faith leaves a lasting legacy. Join us as we unpack these ancient words, challenge ourselves to live with eternity in view, and marvel at the thread of grace that leads to the King whose kingdom never ends.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Passing Your Faith (Genesis 48) In our sermon "Passing Your Faith," we get into Genesis 48, where Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, offering a powerful example of passing faith to the next generation.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Forgiveness and Reconciliation (Genesis 45-47) In this message, we unpack chapters 45-47, looking at the climactic moments of Joseph's remarkable story. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and risen to power in Egypt, Joseph now reveals himself, sparking a chain of reconciliation, reunion, and relocation. Discover how God transforms brokenness into blessing as we explore: Reconciliation (Genesis 45:1-24): Joseph forgives his brothers, showing the power of grace and the steps to restore fractured relationships. Reunion (Genesis 46:1-34): A tearful embrace reunites Joseph and Jacob, proving God's faithfulness over decades of separation. Relocation (Genesis 47:1-27): Settling in Egypt, Joseph's family thrives under God's provision, even in a foreign land. Through practical applications, we are challeneged to embrace forgiveness, pursue reconciliation, and trust God's provision in uncertain seasons. Are you holding onto a grudge? Is there a relationship needing healing? How can you step forward in faith today?

Series: Genesis Sermon: A Test of Loyalty and Sacrifice (Genesis 44) Genesis 44 is a gripping story of divine providence, where God uses a hidden silver cup to test Joseph's brothers, turning their past betrayal into a pathway for redemption. Witness Judah's transformation—from selling Joseph into slavery to offering himself to save Benjamin—and discover how God reshapes guilt into grace and selfishness into sacrifice. Through trials, confession, and costly love, Genesis 44 reveals God's hand in our lives, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. Reflect with us on how God's tests grow us, how confession frees us, and how love transforms us.

Purpose of the Prison (Genesis 40-41) Join us with this sermon on Genesis 40-41, "Purpose in the Prison," where we unpack Joseph's incredible journey from the depths of betrayal and imprisonment to his rise as Egypt's second-in-command. Through Joseph's story, we see how God leads us through our lowest moments to prepare us for His greater plan, shaping our hearts, teaching us trust, and positioning us for redemption. From forgotten prisoner to Pharaoh's right-hand man, Joseph's life shows God's sovereignty, His power to use anyone, and a stunning foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and victory. Join us to find hope and purpose in your own "prison" moments!

This message explores the refrain that defines Joseph's life—"The Lord was with him"—from his rise as a trusted overseer to his resistance against temptation and his unjust imprisonment. Discover four powerful reflections: how God's presence fosters humility in success, sustains us through unchanged circumstances, strengthens us against temptation, and assures us we're never alone. Join us as we unpack how Joseph's faithfulness fulfills God's promises to Abraham, blessing even the Egyptians around him, and learn how the Lord's steadfast presence empowers us in every season of life.

In this message, "Which Jesus?", we journey through the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Drawing from John 18:33-40 and John 19:1-3, we explore the pivotal moments that define our faith: Pilate's haunting question, “What is truth?”; the crowd's choice between Jesus Christ and Jesus Barabbas; and the hope ignited by the empty tomb. In this message, we'll unpack: What is Truth? Pilate's cynicism meets Jesus' claim to embody truth in a world that often shrugs at absolutes. How do we find truth in a culture of “my truth” versus “your truth”? Which Jesus? The crowd chose Barabbas—a murderer promising earthly freedom—over Christ, who calls us to die to ourselves. Which Jesus are we serving today: the King of the Bible or a convenient counterfeit? Resurrection Hope. The empty tomb doesn't erase pain but fills it with purpose. From Joseph of Arimathea's courage to Mary Magdalene's awe, we see a hope that transforms fear into bold faith.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Remain Faithful (Genesis 36) What are you building your life for—temporary success or God's eternal kingdom? In this sermon from Genesis 36, we dive into the story of Esau, a man who traded God's promises for earthly greatness. From marrying into pagan Canaanite cultures to leaving the Promised Land for Seir, Esau chased wealth and status, only to leave a legacy that faded away. Esau is a warning to all of us—will we remain faithful to our own cause or the cause of Christ? Thankfully, there's a better way. God calls us to a faithfulness that echoes beyond this life. Even when the path is tough—when we're tempted to trade our birthright for a fleeting bowl of stew—Christ offers us a purpose worth pursuing. This sermon reminds us that true greatness isn't measured by what we accumulate, but by who we belong to and what we live for.

In the World, Not of It | Genesis 34 How do we live in the world without becoming like it? In this sermon on Genesis 34, we explore the stark difference between revenge and justice, the dangers of passivity, and the call for God's people to be set apart. • Revenge vs. Justice – The sons of Jacob sought revenge, but their actions were disproportionate and unjust. What does the Bible say about true justice, and how should we respond to wrongdoing?• The Danger of Passive Leadership – Jacob's failure to protect his daughter Dinah led to devastating consequences. What can we learn about the responsibility of fathers and godly leadership?• Living in the World Without Becoming Like It – Jacob's compromise in settling in Shechem instead of Bethel had serious repercussions. Are we compromising in our walk with God? Join us as we unpack these powerful lessons and discover how God's mercy and justice guide us to live faithfully in a fallen world.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Wrestling with God - Genesis 32 In this message on Genesis 32, Wrestling with God, we dive into Jacob's all-night struggle with the mysterious man who turns out to be God Himself. Witness how Jacob's battle, marked by persistence in prayer and the breaking of his self-reliance, leads to a radical transformation—from a cunning deceiver to Israel, one who strives with God. Discover why sometimes blessings come from actively wrestling with Him in our moments of desperation. Learn how God uses our struggles to change us and draw us closer to His heart.

Series: Genesis Sermon: When the Tables Turn (Genesis 29-31) In Genesis 29-31, we witness a powerful theme: what we sow, we reap (Galatians 6:7). Jacob, the deceiver, is deceived. Rachel and Leah's rivalry exposes the dangers of seeking approval from man instead of God. Through it all, God remains faithful, working even through human weakness to fulfill His purposes. • Jacob's marriages & deception by Laban• Leah's longing for love & Rachel's struggle with envy• God's providence in Jacob's prosperity & return to Canaan• The consequences of doing things our way instead of God's way Are you trusting in God's plan, or striving in your own strength? Let's dive deep into these truths together.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Faith, Doubt, and God's Promise (Genesis 28) In this message, we dive into Genesis 28, focusing on the life of Jacob and his transformative journey. We talk through the background context from Genesis 26 and 27, discussing Jacob's departure from Beersheba to Haran and his profound dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth. By analyzing Jacob's initial partial belief in God's promises and his later full commitment as seen in chapter 35, this message correlates Jacob's experience with our own journey of faith, doubt, and the realization of God's unwavering promises. Join us for an insightful study on how God's faithfulness transcends our doubts and shortcomings.

Series: Genesis Sermon: A Dysfunctional Family (Genesis 27) Even when families are a mess, God is still in control! Genesis 27 tells the story of Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Esau – a family filled with favoritism, deception, and broken relationships. But even in the midst of their dysfunction, God's sovereign plan unfolds. Discover how God uses imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will. This sermon pulls out key lessons from Genesis 27, including: The dangers of living by your senses instead of faith. The importance of trusting God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense. The consequences of our choices.

Series: Genesis Sermon: God with us (Genesis 26) In this message "God With Us," we dive into Genesis 26 to explore the powerful truth of God's presence in our lives. Through the story of Isaac, we uncover three divine declarations: "I will be with you," "I am with you," and "We see plainly that the Lord has been with you." These promises remind us that even in times of uncertainty, failure, and struggle, God is unwaveringly present. Join us as we examine how Isaac's journey—facing famine, fear, and opposition—mirrors our own challenges today. Despite his mistakes and moments of doubt, Isaac thrived because God was with him. Through this passage, we'll reflect on the importance of prayer, worship, and stewarding God's blessings in our lives. If you've ever felt distant from God or wondered if He sees your struggles, this message will bless you. Let's walk through Genesis 26 together and rediscover the life-changing assurance that God is always with us.

Series: Genesis Sermon: God's Sovereign Choice In this message, we dive deep into Genesis 25 to explore what it means to trust in God's sovereignty. Drawing from the story of Isaac and Rebekah, we examine the test of waiting on God—even in seasons of barrenness and uncertainty—and learn that His delays are not denials. We see how God's promises persist despite human circumstances and how the lives of Isaac, Jacob, and Esau challenge us to value our eternal inheritance over momentary satisfaction. Through the narrative of Jacob being chosen over Esau—despite cultural expectations—we discover that God's choices are based not on our works, but on His divine purpose. This message is a call to deepen our view of God, letting it shape every aspect of our lives—from prayer and perseverance to the way we value God's blessings.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Trusting God in the Journey of Life (Genesis 24) In this message,, we dive into Genesis 24 to uncover powerful lessons on trusting God throughout every season of life. Discover how Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promises set the stage for a divine plan, and hear how his servant's prayerful journey led to the providential meeting of Isaac and Rebekah. We explore what it means to trust in God's guidance in our families, marriages, and everyday struggles—even when life feels uncertain. Tune in for practical insights on leaning on God's sovereignty, embracing His perfect timing, and experiencing His provision through prayer. Let this message remind you that when we trust in the One who holds all things, our lives are forever transformed.

Series: Genesis Sermon: A Glimpse into the Eternal Promises of God In this sermon, "A Glimpse into the Eternal Promises of God," we explore Genesis 23, a chapter filled with profound theological significance. Through the death of Sarah and Abraham's purchase of a burial site in Canaan, we witness a powerful testament of faith, hope, and the enduring promises of God. Discover: The covenantal significance of the Promised Land. How Abraham's faith points to our ultimate home in heaven. Why fixing our gaze on eternity transforms our grief, joy, and daily lives. Let this message remind you of God's unwavering promises and inspire you to walk by faith, not by sight, just as Abraham did.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Provision in the Testing (Genesis 22) In Genesis 22, Abraham faces the ultimate test—God calls him to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. This gut-wrenching moment wasn't meant to harm but to refine Abraham's faith. In this sermon, we explore how God's tests in our lives are opportunities to trust and obey, even when the path seems uncertain.

Series: Genesis Sermon: God's Promise Fulfilled: Lessons from the Birth of Isaac (Genesis 21) In this sermon, we look at Genesis 21 and discover the incredible attributes of God as revealed through His interactions with Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael. From God's faithfulness in fulfilling the promise of Isaac to His sovereignty over impossible circumstances, His compassion in meeting Hagar in her despair, and His eternal nature as the Everlasting Lord, Genesis 21 offers profound truths for our lives today. Even amidst human failings and seasons of waiting, God's promises never fail. This chapter reminds us that God not only works in the past and the future but is also faithful in our present struggles. Join us as we explore: * The joy of God's fulfilled promises. * The trustworthiness of His sovereignty. * The comfort of His compassion. * The everlasting hope found in His character. Whether you're waiting for a breakthrough, navigating hardships, or simply seeking encouragement for the new year, this message will strengthen your faith and deepen your trust in God.

Series: Genesis Sermon: God's Sovereignty Over Our Failures (Genesis 20) In this message, we dive into Genesis 20, a story filled with human weakness and God's unwavering control. Through Abraham's recurring sin, a foreign king's surprising righteousness, and God's ultimate faithfulness, we are reminded that even in our failures, God is sovereign and in control. No matter the chaos or mistakes, God is at the wheel, directing the story for His glory and our ultimate good.

Series: Advent Sermon: Advent of Love - 1 John 4:7-11 In this message, we look at 1 John 4:7–11 to explore the transformative power of love—not as the world defines it, but as God Himself embodies it. From the culture's mantra of “love is love” to the profound biblical truth that “God is love,” we'll uncover how God's eternal, sacrificial love redefines everything. Through Christ's incarnation, death, and resurrection, we see love manifested as more than emotion or preference—it is the unmerited grace that changes hearts and calls us to love one another in radical, selfless ways. Join us as we consider the Source, Manifestation, Definition, and Command of love, reflecting on how Advent points us to the ultimate expression of God's love breaking into a broken world. Whether you're seeking hope, healing, or a renewed perspective this season, this episode is for you.

Series: Advent Sermon: Advent of Joy (Luke 2:8-14 Discover the true meaning of joy this Advent season as we dive into the message of Luke 2:8-14. In this sermon, we explore how joy isn't found in fleeting circumstances or material things but is rooted in the eternal reality of God's faithfulness through Jesus Christ. Learn how: God uses the unexpected to reveal His glory, as seen in the shepherds. The message of great joy transforms hearts and calls us to share it with others. Joy endures beyond trials when we know Christ is with us. Find hope, peace, and a deeper connection to the joy of the Lord this Christmas.

Series: Advent Sermon: Advent of Peace (Ephesians 2:13-22) In this week's Advent message, we explore Ephesians 2:13-22, where Paul reminds us that Jesus is our peace. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus tore down every wall—be it sin, hostility, or prejudice—reconciling us to God and each other. Peace isn't just a feeling; it's a person. And this Advent, we celebrate the Prince of Peace who invites us to experience a real, lasting peace that transforms hearts, relationships, and communities. What barriers in your life need to be torn down? What hostility can Christ replace with His reconciling love? Let's reflect on how the cross brings peace to every broken corner of our world.

Series: Advent 2024 Sermon: Advent of Hope – Isaiah 9:1-7 Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation as we reflect on the first coming of Jesus in Bethlehem and eagerly await His glorious return. In this message, we focus on the theme of hope—not mere wishful thinking, but a confident expectation rooted in God's promises. Isaiah 9:1-7 offers a powerful prophecy of the coming Messiah, a light breaking into the darkness, and a King who brings wisdom, strength, peace, and eternal love. Discover how the hope of Christ transforms despair into joy, weakness into strength, and brokenness into redemption. Join us as we explore: The Great Reversal: God's power to turn gloom into glory. The Light in the Darkness: Jesus, the light of the world, shines in our darkest moments. The Names of the Messiah: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace—and what they mean for us today. Living as Hope Bearers: Sharing the transformative hope of Christ with a world in need.

Sermon: Strength in Weakness Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 In this message,, Strengthen in Weakness, we explore the profound truths of 2 Corinthians 12:10, where the Apostle Paul declares his contentment in weakness, insults, and hardships. Using the contrasting imagery of mountaintops and valleys, we reflect on the spiritual vantage points in life—times of glory and times of struggle—and how God uses both for His purposes. We unpack the mysterious "thorn in the flesh" that Paul faced, looking into its role as a reminder of God's sufficient grace and severe mercy. This sermon encourages us to see trials not as defeats but as opportunities for God's strength to shine. Whether you are currently in a valley or know someone who is, this message offers hope and guidance to persevere with contentment and joy.

Sermon: Strengthened by Grace Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:1-12 In this message, we explore 2 Timothy 2:1-13, a powerful passage where Paul imparts timeless wisdom to Timothy. Just as Timothy faced challenges in a turbulent world, we, too, must be strengthened by God's grace to endure life's battles. Through vivid analogies of a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer, we learn to persevere with discipline, avoid the enemy's schemes, and embrace the hard work of faith. Discover how to draw strength from Christ's grace and find courage in God's unwavering faithfulness. Join us as we unpack how to stay focused, fight the good fight, and remember the faithfulness of Jesus in every season of life.

Yet I Will Rejoice Habakkuk 3 Habakkuk's song in chapter three transitions from questioning to worship, marked by "Shigianoth," indicating emotional praise. Despite foreseeing destruction, he chooses to celebrate God's historical faithfulness, like the Exodus, as a foundation for his trust. This worship amidst fear shows a shift from despair to a resolute joy in God, not in circumstances. Habakkuk's commitment to rejoice in God, even with the threat of total loss, underscores a profound faith that finds joy in God's unchanging nature, encouraging believers to maintain hope in divine love despite adversity.

The Justice of God Habakkuk 2 In this sermon, we explore the profound theme of divine justice from Habakkuk 2, where God's response to evil is both a promise and a warning. God instructs Habakkuk to write the vision plainly, ensuring it is understood that justice, though seemingly delayed, will come. The sermon contrasts the proud, who amass wealth unjustly, with the righteous who live by faith, underscoring that God's justice addresses all forms of human sin and greed. It delves into how God's wrath is not mere anger but a deep, loving response to protect His creation from the ravages of sin. Pastor Matthew highlights that while God is slow to anger, He is also just, promising that every act of injustice will be met with divine retribution. Through Christ, we see this justice intertwined with mercy, where sin's punishment is borne by Jesus, offering forgiveness to those who repent. Ultimately, the message is one of hope for the oppressed and a call to repentance for the sinner, reminding us that God's justice and love are two sides of the same divine coin.

In this sermon, How Long, Oh Lord?, we dive into the burden of Habakkuk, the praying prophet, who asks God the hard questions we all face when the world around us seems consumed by evil and injustice. As Habakkuk cries out in distress, witnessing the collapse of his society and questioning God's silence, we explore the relevance of his ancient struggle to our modern world. How do we respond when life is dark, when evil appears to win, and when God seems distant? In this message, we examine how the prophet's raw honesty with God points us towards faith that wrestles, questions, and ultimately leans in, rather than walking away. This is a journey through Habakkuk's deeply personal conversation with God, setting the stage for how we too can engage with God in our pain and confusion.

Pastor Dan explores the reasons for attending church and the importance of community, using reflections from Acts, Corinthians, and Exodus. He emphasizes the collective responsibility of Christians to support each other, meeting both spiritual and practical needs. Through biblical examples and personal insights, we explore the principles of Christian generosity, the identification and use of spiritual gifts, and the essential role of the church in addressing community issues. We are reminded that the church is not a building but a community of individuals called to serve and uplift one another, inspired by the early church's practices of communal support and daily distribution. Join us as we uncover how to live out our faith by embracing and utilizing our God-given gifts for the benefit of all.

Sermon: Engaging the Unwanted Scripture: Luke 10:25-37 In this sermon, "Engaging the Unwanted", we explore how the Gospel calls us to stand for the most vulnerable in society—those whom the world often deems unwanted. From the unborn baby in the womb, to the children caught in the horrors of sexual exploitation, and those marginalized by society, we are challenged to engage with compassion and mercy. Based on Luke 10:25-37, the story of the Good Samaritan, we learn how Jesus reveals the heart of loving our neighbor and standing for justice. As Christians, we cannot ignore the cries of the unwanted lives around us. We are called to act—to love, protect, and show mercy to the most vulnerable. This message also dives deep into the intersection of faith and politics, urging believers to not only defend biblical values but to take action for the oppressed and marginalized, from the unborn to the exploited. It's a call to stand up for life, for justice, and for mercy in a culture that often devalues human life. Watch this sermon and discover how we, as the church, can respond to God's command: "Go and do likewise."

eries: Faith and Politics Sermon: Citizens of the Kingdom and the USA In this sermon, Pastor Matthew dives deep into Philippians 2:1-11, exploring how Christians can navigate the tension between being citizens of the Kingdom and the United States. Discover how to live a life of selfless unity, serve others like Jesus, and live sacrificially for the glory of King Jesus. This message challenges listeners to examine their own hearts and consider how they can more fully embrace their citizenship in the Kingdom of God. Ultimately, Paul's language was clear defiance to the Roman Empire. Saying Jesus is LORD or YAHWEH was a hit to the popular saying that Caesar is Lord. How does this help us navigate the tensions of being Christians in the USA?

Shane Rosenthal is the founder and host of The Humble Skeptic podcast. He was raised in a Jewish home but became an atheist at a young age. Some years later, he ended up losing faith in atheism and converted to Christianity. Shane helps us think through the question, “Is Faith Blind?”

In this sermon, we look at the challenging intersection of faith and politics, exploring Romans 13:1-7 and its implications for Christians navigating government authority. When the church and state collide, how should believers respond? We discuss that our ultimate allegiance is to God. From civil disobedience to the role of government in restraining evil, we explore the tensions of living as Christians in a broken world.

Series: Faith and Politics (Matthew 5:13-16) In this sermon titled "Faith and Politics: Salt and Light in America," we explore how Christians can effectively engage the culture and bring true transformation to a nation that seems divided and in turmoil. Drawing from Matthew 5:13-16, we uncover what it means to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world—called to preserve righteousness, dispel darkness, and reflect the love of Christ. What is our role as believers in today's political climate? How can we stand for righteousness, vote biblically, and encourage others to do the same? Pastor Matthew challenges us to be agents of change, actively influencing our surroundings with the Gospel, while keeping our eyes fixed on Christ. Join us as we dive deep into how faith intersects with politics, and how we, as Christians, are called to use our voice, our vote, and our actions for God's glory in the public square. Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:13-16 Key Points: Be Salt: Influence and preserve culture through the Gospel. Be Light: Reflect the love of Christ and bring hope to others. Stand for righteousness in your daily life and through voting. Pray for our leaders and our nation.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18-19) In this timely message, we look into the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 18-19. This story is more than just a tale of ancient cities; it's a mirror reflecting God's view on sin, justice, and His love for humanity. 4 Key Questions Explored: Did this really happen? We explore archaeological evidence that supports the biblical narrative, including findings of extreme heat and destruction that align with the Genesis account. Why did it happen? We examine the root sins of Sodom and Gomorrah—sexual immorality, pride, and neglect of the needy—and why these actions provoked God's wrath. What does this say about God? Discover how God's justice and love are intertwined, showing that He is serious about sin and righteousness. What does this mean for us? The lessons of Sodom and Gomorrah are a warning for our time, urging us to turn from sin, live with integrity, and be salt and light in our communities. God's message through Sodom and Gomorrah is clear: He is a God of justice who does not tolerate sin but offers grace through repentance. Watch now to learn what this ancient story means for our lives today.

In this message, we explore the concept of “Covenant” in Genesis 17, where the word appears 13 times, highlighting its importance. This passage dives into God's covenant with Abraham, a unique relationship that shapes his destiny and the future of his family. This covenant isn't just a contract—it's a binding commitment, reflecting God's steadfast love and faithfulness. We'll see how this covenant foreshadows our relationship with God through Christ and how signs like circumcision and baptism symbolize deeper spiritual truths. Join us as we uncover how walking with God, committing to marriage, and raising children in faith are central to His plan.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Stick to the Plan (Genesis 16) In this message from Genesis 16, Sarai, struggling with her inability to bear children, devises a plan to have Abram father a child with her servant Hagar. Despite God's promise of a son, Sarai's impatience leads her to take matters into her own hands, resulting in a complicated and painful situation. Hagar conceives, and tension arises as she looks down on Sarai, leading to conflict and Hagar fleeing. However, God intervenes, blessing her and instructing her to return. Hagar acknowledges God as the One who sees and hears her. In this sermon, Matthew highlights the consequences of abandoning faith in God's plan and attempting to achieve His will through human means.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Faith Alone - Genesis 15 In this message, we see how Abram is living between God's promise and its fulfillment, needing reassurance of God's presence and reward. God's response to Abram emphasizes that He is enough, both as protector and provider. Will we trust in God's sufficiency, even when His promises seem distant? Key Points Covered: God is Enough: Like Abram, we must recognize that God is our sustainer and reward. Abram's faith in God's promises exemplifies a trust that goes beyond material blessings. Limited Perspective: Abram could only see his current reality—childlessness and uncertainty—but God had a greater plan. We are reminded to trust in God's eternal perspective, even when we face difficulties and unanswered questions. Look to Jesus: Abram's faith was counted as righteousness, and this pivotal moment foreshadows the righteousness we receive through faith in Jesus Christ. The cross is our assurance that we are made right with God.

In this message by Pastor Dan Busch, we unpack various 'puzzle pieces' of biblical context, ultimately conveying the message of victory through God's sovereignty. This message encourages believers to recognize their priesthood in Christ and challenges viewers to reflect on their faith journey.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Build an Altar (Genesis 12:1-9) In this message from Genesis 12:1-9, "Build an Altar," we look at the significance of God's call to Abram to leave his home and journey to an unknown land. Despite the historic events of recent years, none compare to the cosmic impact of God's promises to Abram. These promises, which include blessings and a great nation, emphasize God's sovereign purpose and the hope of redemption. Through Abram's story, we learn the importance of faith, obedience, and worship in response to God's unwavering faithfulness.

Sermon: He Has Overcome Scripture: John 16:33 In this message, we focus on John 16:33, emphasizing that Jesus offers a unique peace found only in a relationship with Him. This peace, unlike the world's, signifies wholeness and endures through life's chaos. Matthew explains that while the world guarantees tribulation, Christians can be courageous because Jesus has overcome the world. This message is a reminder of Jesus' victory over sin and death, His Spirit dwelling within us, and our call to stand firm and praise Him for His overcoming power.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Drunk, Naked, and Redeemed from Genesis 9:18-29 After Noah becomes drunk and naked in his tent, Ham sees him and fails to cover his father's shame, unlike his brothers Shem and Japheth, who respectfully cover Noah. This act of disrespect leads to Noah cursing Ham's son, Canaan, indicating a future conflict between their descendants. The curse reflects a broader theme in Genesis about blessings and curses affecting entire generations. Additionally, the story parallels Adam's fall, highlighting human sinfulness and the continuous need for redemption. Ultimately, this narrative underscores the promise of hope and blessing through God's grace, despite human failures.

Series: Genesis Sermon: A Flood of Judgement and Mercy (Genesis 6-9) In this message, "A Flood of Judgment and Mercy" Matthew talks about the duality of God's nature: His boundless love and His just judgment. We often cherish the concept of a loving God, yet struggle with the idea of His judgment. Discover how sin's corruption pervades humanity, leading to God's righteous judgment, exemplified by the flood. Yet, amid judgment, God's mercy shines through. Learn about the significance of Noah's ark as a refuge and how it prefigures Christ as our ultimate place of salvation. Embrace the message of hope and redemption offered through Jesus, the door to true rest for our souls. Join us and find your place in God's ark of mercy today.

Series: Genesis Sermon: God in the Genealogy (Genesis 5) Often overlooked due to its genealogical nature, Genesis 5 uncovers profound insights into our humanity and God's unwavering character. This passage reminds us of the recurring theme of human depravity and the contrast of God's persistent goodness and faithfulness. Despite humanity's failings, God's promises and patience endure, as seen through the lives of figures like Seth, Methuselah, and Enoch. This sermon challenges us to recognize our purpose in God's design, urging us to live for His glory and find true freedom in Him, even amidst a world that tries to mold us otherwise.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Life Outside of Eden - Genesis 4:1-17 Genesis 4 reveals the stark contrast between righteous and sinful behavior outside Eden. This juxtaposition of Abel's accepted offering with Cain's rejected one, followed by Cain's murder of Abel, highlights the deep-seated human struggle with sin and the importance of the heart's condition in worship. Cain's anger at God's rejection of his offering underscores his lack of humility and self-examination. Despite Cain's grievous sin, God's response illustrates His merciful nature by sparing Cain's life and offering protection, despite the absence of Cain's repentance. This message urges us to live humbly, stay vigilant against sin's encroachment, and continually seek God's mercy. Ultimately, it points to the gospel's good news, where God's mercy is fully realized through Jesus Christ's sacrificial atonement, offering redemption to all who trust in Him.

Series: Genesis Sermon: Redemption (Genesis 3:14-24) Adam and Eve's realization of their nakedness and shame leads to God providing garments of skin, symbolizing the first act of redemption through sacrifice. In this message, Dan emphasizes the dual nature of God's justice and love, illustrating this with stories from the Bible, such as Noah, Abraham, and Joseph, to highlight God's consistent pattern of redemption. Through these narratives, we explore how God's justice demands consequences for sin, yet His love provides redemption and grace. The ultimate expression of this love is found in Jesus Christ, who embodies the perfect balance of justice and sacrificial love.

Series: Genesis Sermon: The Fall - Genesis 3:1-19 Genesis 3 reveals the tragic account of humanity's fall. In this pivotal chapter, we encounter the serpent's cunning deception of Eve, leading to disobedience and the introduction of sin into the world. The consequences of Adam and Eve's actions reverberate through history, affecting all of humanity. Despite their attempt to hide from God, they are confronted with their guilt and shame. However, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope as God promises a Redeemer who will ultimately triumph over sin.

Series: Genesis Message: "The Beginning of Marriage” from Genesis 2 In this sermon, Matthew examines Genesis 2:15-25, exploring the beginning of marriage. This passage explores the importance of understanding marriage within the context of God's plan for humanity. This passage gives us a blueprint for God's design, urging couples to honor and respect each other, revisit their commitments, cultivate oneness, and demonstrate and appreciate vulnerability. Ultimately, the mission of marriage is to reflect Christ's love for the church, living out your marital vows in a manner that glorifies God.

Series: Genesis Sermon: In the Image of God - Genesis 1:26-28 In this message, Matthew explores the theological significance of being created in the image of God, emphasizing that while humanity is not divine, it is uniquely created by the Creator with purpose, worth, and dignity. We go through various implications of this truth, including our responsibility to God, the value of every individual regardless of circumstances, and the divine purpose of human relationships and sexuality. Ultimately, this message shows us a powerful reminder of the need for Jesus in our lives to restore what has been broken by sin and enable us to fulfill the purpose for which we were created: to know Jesus and make Him known. Through a blend of theological insights and personal reflections, this episode challenges listeners to consider the profound implications of being made in the image of God and the transformative power of the gospel in our lives.

Series: Genesis Scripture: Genesis 1 Sermon: Formless and Void