St. Andrew's Church

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesI. The Fall and the Corruption of Work (Genesis 3)Sin enters through Adam and Eve's disobedience.Consequences: shame, hiding from God, broken partnership.Work is cursed:Pain in childbirth and relational struggle.Toil and frustration in labor (thorns, thistles, broken systems).Humanity tried to do life apart from God — the result is broken work.II. Three Pitfalls That Distort Work1. Individualism – Caring Too Much About Ourselves in WorkLuke 12: The rich fool stores wealth and speaks only to himself.God is absent from his plans and gratitude.Diagnostic questions:Is God your reference point?Do you use work to serve others?2. Idleness – Caring Too Little About the Work Itself2 Thessalonians 3: warning against laziness and not working.Broader definition of work: includes unpaid, volunteer, home-based.Matthew 25: Parable of the talents — don't bury your gifts.Idleness can stem from fear, not just laziness.3. Idolatry – Caring Too Much About WorkWork becomes identity or self-worth.Examples: over-identifying with parenting, business success, or ministry.Signs of idolatry:Can't stop working.Refusal to rest or Sabbath.Reminder of 6+1 rhythm of work and rest from creation.III. The Way Forward: The Cross and the SpiritThe Cross: Where we bring our sin and receive forgiveness.The Spirit: Empowerment for change and restored partnership with God.Through the Spirit, we can:Reject the lies of individualism, idleness, and idolatry.Embrace a God-centered, Spirit-empowered vision for work.Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:What is one way you experience the distortion of work on a regular basis?To which of the pitfalls of work are you most susceptible?If you don't like your job, can you still honor God in it? How?If someone's work is raising kids, what might sabbath look like?Additional ResourcesThe Gospel at Work by Sebastian Traeger and Greg GilbertQuestions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon Notes“How can anyone remain interested in a religion which seems to have no concern with nine-tenths of his life?” — Dorothy Sayers1. God Is a Worker – And We Are Made in His ImageThe Bible opens with God working—creating the world (Genesis 1:1–2:2).As God's image bearers, we too are designed for creative, fruitful work.Work is not an afterthought or consequence of sin—it's part of our identity.2. God Made a World That Needs WorkGod created a good, but unfinished world—full of potential.Humans are commissioned to “fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28).We are called to develop culture, build communities, and steward creation.3. Work Has Inherent DignityWork existed before the fall—it is not a curse but a gift.All kinds of work (paid, unpaid, creative, routine) matter to God.Meaningful work is vital to human flourishing and reflects God's character.Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Describe your attitude towards your work (whether paid or unpaid, inside or outside the home).  Are you positive? Negative? Motivated? Bored? Delighted? Frustrated?Can a hobby be considered work according to Genesis 1-2? Why or why not?Is it easy for you to connect your faith to your work? In what ways might knowing God's original design for work from Gen 1-2 help strengthen that connection?Why is work important for human dignity?Additional Resources by Timothy Keller by Vern PoythressQuestions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().Audio & VideoYou can listen to the sermon by using the player below or via the St Andrew's Sermon Podcast on  and .

Bible Study: Acts 1:1-11

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Steve Wood ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon OutlineA warningA storyA patternA missionSermon QuestionsWhat three words does Jude use to describe the church in v.1? What do these mean?God saves us regardless of our state of life, yet cares deeply about transforming our lives. How do you hold those two together?Babel represents a reversal of our Edenic mission—and it continues in our world today. Rather than spread God's name across the earth, we localize God and "make a name for ourselves." How do you "localize" God — in your daily rhythms, your disposition at work, your relationships with family members, etc.?For Further StudyWhere to StartThe Bible Project, "The Book of Jude."Dig InDouglas Moo, 2 Peter, Jude, NIV Application Commentary (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997)Dick Lucas and Christopher Green, The Message of 2 Peter and Jude, The Bible Speaks Today (Downer's Grove: IVP Academic, 1995)Robert W. Wall, "A Unifying Theology of the Catholic Epistles," in Karl Wilhelm Nieburh and Robert W. Wall (eds.), The Catholic Epistles and Apostolic Tradition (Waco: Baylor University Press, 2009), 13–40Level UpRichard A. Bauckham, "James, 1 and 2 Peter, Jude," in D.A. Carson and H.G.M. Williamson (eds.), It Is Written: Scripture Citing Scripture—Essays in Honour of Barnabas Lindars, SSF (Cambridge: CUP, 2010), 303–17Jörg Frey, The Letter of Jude and the Second Letter of Peter: A Theological Commentary, trans. Kathleen Ess (Waco: Baylor University Press, 2018);James B. Prothro, "Revisiting Mercy in Jude: Intervention, Intercession, and the Intruders," Journal for the Study of the New Testament (Aug. 2016), 1–23.Robert W. Wall, "A Unifying Theology of the Catholic Epistles," in Karl Wilhelm Nieburh and Robert W. Wall (eds.), The Catholic Epistles and Apostolic Tradition (Waco: Baylor University Press, 2009), 13–40.Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon NotesTheme: Jesus restores us from failure not by ignoring our wounds, but by healing them — and then calling us back into mission.IntroductionComparison to military standards: Are we disqualified by spiritual failure?Jesus' mission continues through imperfect people.Peter's Failure and ShamePeter denied Jesus three times.Carries guilt, fear, and brokenness.Jesus Heals Through Painful RestorationJesus recreates the setting of Peter's denial (charcoal fire).Asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” — one for each denial.Calls Peter's love back to the center.Restoration to LeadershipJesus entrusts Peter with responsibility: “Feed my sheep.”Not just forgiveness — but restored trust and calling.Your past doesn't disqualify you from God's purpose.But healing may be needed first — emotionally and spiritually.Jesus exposes wounds not to shame, but to set us free.Leadership and mission flow from love for Jesus.Jesus wants you healed, free, and ready to serve.Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Why did John include the detail about the charcoal fire?Why is our love for Jesus important for service and mission (not simply his love for us)?Should trust be restored after forgiveness? When might that be important and when might it be problematic?Can you share about some way the Lord brought healing to your soul that helped free you up to serve him and others?Can a person offer healthy leadership without emotional and spiritual health?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesJesus gives his disciples responsibility and authority in his mission (John 20:21). John's epilogue (chapter 21) offers some important insights about participating in the mission through a fishing trip and breakfast on the beach.If you try to accomplish the mission of Jesus in your own power, you will come up empty (represented by the disciples' unsuccessful all-night fishing trip).Jesus is Lord of the mission, so listen to him (represented by the miraculous catch of fish at Jesus' direction).The mission is sustained through fellowship with the living Lord (represented by the breakfast on the beach: encountering Jesus in a new way and being fed by him).Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Review: What were some of the reasons Randy suggested that this fishing trip (though historical) is symbolizing mission?Define God's mission.  What's included? Can your work be part of God's mission - why or why not?How can we know if we're pursuing mission (variously defined) apart from Jesus? What might it look like to do mission connected to Jesus?Can you think of a time when you listened for the Lord's instructions in mission, ministry, even work? What was the result?What are practices that might help us see Jesus in new ways and receive spiritual nourishment from him?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon OutlineThe life Jesus givesThe community Jesus wantsThe way to a Jesus kind of communitySermon QuestionsWhat are the differences between bios, psychē, and zoē?What does the term "lifestyle savior" suggest to you? Can you spot any in your own life?What would it look like to take just one step deeper into life together with other apprentices of Jesus here at St Andrew's?Resources ConsultedDavid Ford, The Gospel of John (Baker Academic, 2021)Richard Bauckham, "The Lord's Day," in DA Carson (ed.), From Sabbath to Lord's Day (Wipf & Stock, 1999), pp.221ffRaymond Brown, The Gospel according to John (Doubleday, 1966)C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and Mere ChristianityQuestions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Steve Wood ().

Guest Preacher :: Chris Hancock

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon OutlineJesus asked the bystanders to remove the stone from the entrance of the grave of Lazarus.Jesus called Lazarus out the grave.When Lazarus was raised, Jesus asked the people gathered to unbind him from the grave clothes and let him go.Sermon QuestionsWhat are the stones that are keeping you in the grave of unbelief...?Have you experienced the new life Christ gives in the resurrection power?What are those things that are binding you to the grave clothes(your old nature)?How does the community's involvement in Lazarus' restoration challenge us to support others in our church or community?

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesJesus heals a man blind from birth. The religious leaders are upset because he healed on the Sabbath. A conflict ensues that reveals that the blind man has gained true spiritual sight through faith in Christ, while the religious leaders show their blindness through their refusal to believe, despite the evidence of the healing.Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Why is self-perception an important factor for seeing and believing in Jesus?What is a common example of self-perception in Western culture?For those who believe in Jesus, how can we exhibit both humble teachability and bold confidence in the gospel?What are pieces of evidence that led you to faith in Christ (or sustains you in your current faith)? Give examples of both experiential evidence (something that happened to you) and intellectual evidence (something you came to understand).What do we risk by putting our faith in Jesus? Can you give any personal examples of your faith costing you something?Why is worship this man's first response to encountering Jesus as the Light of the World? What does worship look like for you? Is it easy or hard for you to worship?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon OutlineJesus continues in His public ministry by preaching in the synagoguesHis reputation is growing and crowds gather to hear him speakThe Pharisees are jealous of Jesus' rising popularity and try to set a trap.The Pharisees bring forth a woman caught in the act of adultery and try to force Jesus into a no win situation.Jesus flips the script on the Pharisees, exposes the Pharisees for who they are, and offers mercy to the woman.Sermon QuestionsWhy were the Pharisees threatened by Jesus?  Whey were they jealous of this fellow Jew?What was the trap into which the Pharisees were trying to force Jesus?How did Jesus flip the script on the Pharisees?What was the brilliance in His response to the Pharisees?How is the beauty of the gospel displayed in this historical account?ResourcesHoliness by J.C. Ryle, referenced at the beginning of the sermon, is .Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Tim Winkler ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Isaiah 55:1-3; John 6:1-15Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Simon Guillebaud (simon@greatlakesoutreach.org).

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesJesus skillfully used questions to lead people into the Kingdom of God (that is, following him in a relationship of faith). In our passage he poses an open-ended penetrating question to a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years.  The question goes beneath his obvious need for physical healing to reveal a deeper need of healing for the mind and the soul.Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Describe a question that changed your life.What sickness of mind is this man experiencing?Have you ever experienced hopelessness in a situation you faced? What led to this feeling? How did you regain hope?What sickness of soul is this man experiencing?What does Jesus say to him in the Temple after his healing? Why is this urgent?Do you believe all people are sinful? How can we be healed of sin?Can you think of a time when God used an unanswered prayer to do a deeper work of transformation in your life?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon Outline Faith What is it? What do we need it? How does God grow it?Sermon Questions Define implicit faith and historical faith. What does these terms mean? Why does Jesus at first rebuff the man's request?Resources Consulted Gavin Dunbar, "Gesimatide" Martin Luther, Sermons for the Twenty-First Sunday after Trinity Chrysostom, Homilies on John Augustine, Tractates on John Terence Sweeney, "Learning to Love Someone Besides Yourself"Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon NotesA Relentless GodJesus stops at nothing to accomplish his thirst-quenching mission - geography, gender, ethnicity, religion, and sinA Revealing EncounterJesus reveals false sources of water to prepare us for the Living WaterA Refreshing SaviorThe Living Water is not a spiritual commodity, technique, or gift - but a person - Jesus himself (as well as the Holy Spirit - see John 7:39).Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:What are some common false water sources today? How are they spiritually detrimental?What are some barriers God overcame in your life to offer you his Living Water?For many people, God's relentless pursuit of us before we seek him is a source of comfort. Is it for you? Why or why not?Some have observed that God heals what he reveals. Have you seen that in your life?There is a rise in spirituality and spiritual practices. In what ways can these be helpful? In what ways can they distract from or distort the Living Water?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .Sermon OutlineThe twilight believer —Will he admit what he does not know?Will he relinquish control?Will he get low?Sermon QuestionsWhy does Jesus come "by night"? What clues does John give us?What do Nicodemus's first words to Jesus suggest about his posture towards the Lord?Recall the difference Sam explained between teachability and curiosity. How do you experience the "8-second itch" of curiosity in your life?Read Ezekiel 36:25–27. Name the distinguishing characteristics of the new birth.Name three friends who are "twilight believers" — people who harbor good will towards Jesus, but have not received him — whom you want to see come to faith in the next year. Pray for these people together, by name, in your life group. [Life group leaders, please allot time for these names to be lifted up.]Resources ConsultedRichard Bauckham, "Nicodemus and the Gurion Family," in The Testimony of the Beloved DiscipleDavid Ford, The Gospel of JohnLesslie Newbigin, The Light Has ComeDA Carson, John (PNTC)Craig Keener, The Gospel of JohnKarl Barth, The Christian Life §76.2Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker (SFornecker@standrews.church).

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon:.Sermon NotesIn Cana, Jesus performed his first miracle by turning water into wine. John calls the miracle a "sign" that demonstrated Jesus' glory.  It does so in at least three ways:The Glory of His PowerJesus, the one through whom all things were made (John 1:3), did a work of creative power out of nothing by changing water into wineThe Glory of His GospelFrom the symbols of the old covenant (stone water jars for ritual purification), Jesus pointed to the gospel, the new covenant relationship in his bloodThe Glory of His GraceThe volume of wine (120-180 gallons!) was a sign of the super-abundant nature of God's graceGod's grace is the unimpeded overflow of his own fullness available to us in Jesus (see John 1:14, 16)Sermon ApplicationDiscussion Questions:Where have you seen God's power at work in your own life or in the life of someone close to you?What were John's clues in this story that pointed to the new covenant relationship made possible by Jesus' death?Can you identify any patterns of striving, self-help, or success that are like the stone jars of purification - promising something they can't ultimately deliver (purification, right-relationship with God)?Read the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Luke 15. Compare the images of super-abundant grace in that parable to the miracle at Cana.What keeps us from experiencing the fullness of God's grace?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon Outline The gospel of John provides a unique perspective of the life of Jesus. While the perspective is fresh, the fundamental teachings regarding Christ are not. The primary points outlined in John 1:43-51 Jesus continues to gather His disciples. In this process, He demonstrates a personal and unique approach with each individual. Each person must confront two questions: 1) Who is Jesus? 2) What will you do with Him? Jesus performs a prophetic miracle during Nathanael's conversion. Jesus foretells even greater signs and wonders to come. Sermon Questions How did Jesus' approach with Philip differ from His approach with Nathanael? Why did the fact that Jesus came from Nazareth pose problems for Nathanael? What was significant about the early followers of Jesus being knowledgeable about the Old Testament? Are you noticing any patterns emerging in Jesus' approach to evangelism? Please explain. Why did Jesus reference Jacob's ladder, and why was that significant? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Tim Winkler ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Notes The question from Jesus - "what are you seeking?" Jesus' question invites us to a deeper exploration of desire and motivation which are important for a relationship with God from the heart The reaction of Andrew - "he brought him to Jesus" The first thing Andrew does is to share about Jesus and bring his brother to meet him The promise to Simon - "you shall be called Cephas (Peter)" Simon's new name is a promise, something he will slowly grow into Sermon Application Discussion Questions: Why is examining our desires an important part of faith? Do you agree that most people have a "subterranean river of desires" flowing deeper in their hearts? Or do you think people are generally aware of their innermost desires? If you felt less pressure to convince or convert someone, would that make it easier for you to share about Jesus and invite others to meet him? What are other barriers to bringing people to meet Jesus? How do we become a new person? How is Christian transformation different from the various types of self-improvement we encounter in the culture? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Notes John is the most personal of all the gospels, making it an excellent resource to help people experience a personal relationship with God. John calls himself "the disciple whom Jesus loved." John was the last gospel to be written down, allowing him decades to reflect upon his own encounters with Jesus. He not only records events but brings out their deeper inner meanings. In 1:18 (and really vv. 1-18), John lays out the foundational truth that will undergird his gospel. It is also the key to having a personal relationship with God. No one has ever seen God But Jesus, who is unique, himself God, and in the closest possible relationship with the Father, has made him known. Therefore, to have a personal relationship with God, we must know Jesus. He is the way God seeks to be known. In each personal story we will consider in John, we are encouraged to discover what God is like by watching Jesus. Sermon Application Discussion Questions: Would you describe your faith in God as personal? How would you define personal? Does having a personal faith in God also mean that it can be private? What's the difference between personal and private? Can someone have a personal relationship with God apart from Jesus? In 1:18, what does John reveal about the inner being of God? What role does the Holy Spirit play in a relationship with God? Sermon Series Resources Guided Reading Plan for John. If you start this plan on Jan 18th and read three chapters per week, you'll stay ahead of the preaching series. This will provide a solid foundation before hearing the sermon on Sunday. Bible Study on John by N.T. Wright. This is a great resource for individual study or Life Groups. It can complement the sermon notes and questions provided on the website each week. Overview of the Gospel of John from the Bible Project. This online resource gives a helpful overview of the structure and major themes of the book. Bible Speaks Today Commentary on John. This commentary series is accessible yet offers powerful insights and applications.  It is a great companion to reading John's Gospel on your own or with a group. Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ). .

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: ; Sermon Outline Inexpressible in love. Inexpressible in sacrifice. Inexpressible in result. Sermon Questions Have we personally received God's inexpressible gift in the person of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? Do we show gratitude in obedience and the way we live? How do we live out thanksgiving and gratitude for such a priceless and valuable gift? God gave us Jesus, are we giving ourselves to Him and His people? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Anthony Kowbeidu ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Outline Kneel before the King who (i) masters us more gracious, (ii) rivals us more masterfully, and (iii) wounds us more transformingly, than we could dare to imagine. Sermon Questions Who is the other figure in Matthew's Gospel who demands that someone fall down and worship him? (See Matthew 4:9.) Why is this scene significant for the story Matthew tells? The magi's gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh have long been understood to refer, theologically, to almsgiving, prayer, and fasting. How are you doing in offering Christ these gifts? St Augustine said, "Change of way means change of life." As you leave this study, you also go out — like the magi — "by another way." In what immediate ways will your life need to change? Resources Consulted Augustine of Hippo, Sermons on the Epiphany Juan de Maldonado, Commentary on the Holy Gospels (1595) John Boys, Workes (1629), on the Feast of the Epiphany (pp.630–35) Mark Allan Powell, “The Magi as Wise-Men: Re-examining a Basic Supposition,” New Testament Studies 46 (2000), 1–20. University of Notre Dame, "Royal Beauty Bright: Notre Dame Astrophysicist Researches the Christian Star"; George van Kooten et al (eds.), The Star of Bethlehem and the Magi: Interdisciplinary Perspectives from Experts on the Ancient Near East, the Greco-Roman World, and Modern Astronomy (Leiden: Brill, 2015), esp. chs. 2, 4, and 20. T.S. Eliot, "Journey of the Magi" and "East Coker" from Four Quartets Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon Outline With the angelic message delivered to Mary, this passage causes us to ponder the traditional Christmas themes of peace, joy, hope, and love from a fresh perspective. We recognize that because of Christ's birth, followers of Jesus are: Unworthy but blessed. Great sinners who have received even greater mercy. Seeing God move presently to restore His kingdom, but will someday see its complete fulfillment. Sermon Application How does this fresh perspective of Mary's canticle challenge our traditional views of peace, hope, love, and joy? Is God revealing areas of your life where you sinfully think more highly of yourself? Are there parts of your life you are not surrendering to God? How can you adopt Mary's spiritual posture in saying, “Yes, Lord, I will do whatever you say”, in every area of your life? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Tim Winkler ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Outline What story do we belong to? What does this story claim about us? What does this story require of us? Sermon Questions In your small group or on your own, rehearse the story of everything. What are its major movements, the "acts" in the biblical drama? Sam said that there is a pattern and a point to the biblical story. What were they? How do we see the appetite for power — expressed both among religious and irreligious people, especially amongst ourselves, corporately and individually — today? Are you a mountain or a valley? What challenge did you take away from encountering John the Baptist? Resources Consulted Alasdair Macintyre, "The Virtues, the Unity of a Human Life and the Concept of a Tradition," in After Virtue (Bloomsbury Academic, 2007), 237–61 C. Kavin Rowe, Christianity's Surprise: A Sure and Certain Hope (Abingdon, 2020) Lesslie Newbigin, "The Bible: God's Story and Ours," Reform (Jan. 7, 1990) Christopher J.H. Wright, Great Story, Great Commission: Participating in the Biblical Drama of Mission (Baker Academic, 2024) "Refugee," by Malcom Guite Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Notes Through the prophet Zephaniah, God commands his people to sing, shout, and rejoice (Zeph 3:14).  But why? What if things are hard? What if we feel we lack reasons to rejoice? Thankfully, God graciously reminds us of three reasons we always have to rejoice; three things that are true regardless of what's happening in us or around us. God has taken away the judgments against us (v. 15) The King is in our midst (v. 15) God rejoices over us (v. 17) Sermon Application Discussion Questions: Is God's judgment a concern for you? How does a sober recognition of the severity of God's judgment enable us to embrace an even greater rejoicing? What is one way you have experienced the presence of God in your midst? How did it impact you? Why is Zephaniah 3:17 called the John 3:16 of the Old Testament? Compare the two passages. How does Luke 15:10 and Zeph 3:17 help us better understand how God feels about us? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon Notes Adorned but Dead Outside In or Inside Out? Practical not Abstract Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Steve Wood ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Isaiah 40:27-31; James 5:7-11. Sermon Outline We are all waiting for something. What is most significant is not the waiting, but how we are waiting. Are we growing in patience, becoming more steadfast and content without grumbling? As we wait on the Lord, placing our hope in Him, the Lord strengthens us. (Isaiah 40:27-31) Just as the farmer waits for rain and his crops to grow, we must wait trusting God to yield eternal fruit in our lives. Sermon Questions 1. Isaiah 40:27:-31 describes hope in the Lord as the key to strengthening so that we can run the Christian race. Has your hope in the Lord been weakened by past hurt or disappointments? 2. What does the Word teach us as we shift our focus on trusting Him? 3. James 5:5-11 gives the analogy of a farmer waiting on the rain for the crops to grow. How can this be applied to our hearts? 4. Waiting requires patience and contentment. How do we cultivate these attributes Resources Consulted Andrew Murray devotional: Waiting on God

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Colossians 4:2–18; Luke 21:34–36. Sermon Outline Applying the Centrality and Supremacy of Christ: Prayer The Way The Christian life is a praying life (v.2) Watchful Thankful The praying life is a gospel life (vv.3–4) Apostle Paul, exhibit A The Wisdom The wisdom that comes from prayer transforms the way we view others. (v.5) The wisdom that comes from prayer transforms the way we invest our time. (v.5) The wisdom that comes from prayer transforms the way we use our words. (v.6) The wisdom that comes from prayer transforms the way we rank our priorities. (vv.4, 6) The Work Seven patterns for imitation. Act like the answer to your prayer. (vv.7–9) Pray for outsiders. (vv.10–11) Win the battle of the threshold. (vv.12–13) Grow heavenly-minded through suffering. (vv.14) Put your unchosen state of life at the disposal of God. (v.15–16) Execute every order you receive. (v.17) Keep the main thing the main thing. (v.18)   Sermon Questions Dick Lucas points out that Paul first teaches how to speak to God about people, then how to speak to people about God. What did you learn about each subject from this passage? Do you feel that you know in daily experience "the unsearchable riches of Christ" (Eph. 3:8)? Are you persevering in daily secret prayer? Why or why not? Did any of the seven patterns in vv.7–18 surprise or strike you? Which one? If you know and love Jesus, but are spotty at meeting with him in daily prayer, determine why that is. What needs to give way to make the space you need to seek the King's face? Resources Consulted Doug Moo, Colossians and Philemon, PNTC (2nd ed.) John Calvin, Commentary on Colossians (Baker) Karl Barth, The Christian Life H.C.G. Moule, Secret Prayer Paul Miller, A Praying Life and A Praying Church Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker (SFornecker@standrews.church).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Col 3:18-4:1, Matt 20:20-28. Sermon Series: Colossians Week 10: The Spiritual Uniform of Christian Virtue Week 9: Put to Death These Things Week 8: Raised with Christ Week 7: Self-Made Religion Week 6: Filled Full in Him Week 5: Gospel Servants Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Sermon Notes  “it is in the closest and most familiar relationships of daily living that the reality of one's Christian profession will normally be manifest, if at all.” - F.F. Bruce Paul's basic teaching to ancient households (those who know us best!) is to make Jesus the reference point in every relationship. Practically this means that in every relational encounter, we ask this question: "Lord Jesus, how do I relate to this person, in this moment, in a way that pleases you?" Paul also gives some specific instructions for various kinds of relationships: "Wives, honor and respect your husbands" "Husbands, love your wife with gentleness" "Children, love your parents through freely chosen obedience" "Parents, pursue patient relational investment" "Employees, work hard... for Jesus" "Employers/managers, you are accountable to the Lord" Sermon Application Discussion Questions: Read 1 John 4:20. How does this relate to the quote by F.F. Bruce above? Why is the marriage between two Christians not automatically a Christ-centered marriage? Practically, what might it look like to put Christ at the center of a marriage? Discuss this quote in light of Colossians 3:22-25 - "The only Christian work is good work well done. Let the Church see to it that the workers are Christian people and do their work well, as to God: then all the work will be Christian work, whether it is church embroidery, or sewage farming." (Dorothy Sayers, Why Work) In a relationship, if you feel like you're the only one "seeking to make Jesus the reference point" what might you do? What resources might you need? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester (RForrester@StAndrews.Church).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Series: Colossians Week 9: Put to Death These Things Week 8: Raised with Christ Week 7: Self-Made Religion Week 6: Filled Full in Him Week 5: Gospel Servants Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Week 2: Transferred to a New Kingdom Sermon Notes Uniforms matter. They indicate that the person wearing them is part of something greater than themselves, committed to a common purpose, mission, and way of living. Christians are part of a greater reality – the chosen, holy, beloved people of God. As part of his people, we put on the spiritual uniform of Christian virtue, characterized by loving relationships. Sermon Application Discussion Questions: What is significant about the words in verse 12 "chosen ones, holy, beloved"? How is Paul using them in a new way? Why is this important? Can a person have a healthy growing faith with little connection to a local church or group of other believers? Why or why not? Discuss a time when you had a conflict with another Christian. How did it resolve? Is the relationship stronger or weaker? Which inner virtue do you desire to see more of in your life? Do I need to feel like forgiving to authentically forgive another person? Can I forgive someone if they have not admitted they are wrong? Resources on Forgiveness How do I forgive someone who refuses to say sorry? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ).

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Series: Colossians Week 8: Raised with Christ Week 7: Self-Made Religion Week 6: Filled Full in Him Week 5: Gospel Servants Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Week 2: Transferred to a New Kingdom Week 1: To the Saints in Christ at Colossae Sermon Notes The Apostle Paul's definition of a Christian is someone who has participated spiritually in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; they have died to the old sinful self and received a new life and identity from Jesus. “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12 ESV) “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:3 ESV) But sometimes dead things don't stay dead! So Paul identifies three categories of the old sinful self that need to be put back in the grave: Unredeemed desires - not all desires are good. Some need to be "put to death," especially those desires that lead us into sin or selfishness. Sometimes we even make idols (little gods) out of our desires. Unredeemed speech - words can make or break relationships. And our words come from deep inside of us (Luke 6:45). So we must deal with anger, wrath, and malice against other people so that it does not come out in relationship-destroying words. Unredeemed social categories - we should not base someone's value or status on a social distinction like race, occupation, salary, or education. Paul indicates that status and value are determined solely by Christ. For those who are tired or discouraged from the ongoing struggle to put the old sinful self to death, take heart! Your efforts are not in vain. The Lord is renewing you into his image even when you cannot feel it. “and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.” (Colossians 3:10 ESV) Sermon Application Discussion Questions: According to Colossians 2:12 and 3:3, how might we define a Christian? Why is this important for Paul's moral instructions in 3:5 – 11? What are some ways that you can distinguish between a good desire and an unredeemed desire? Give an example of a desire becoming an idol. What is a healthy way to deal with hurt or anger towards another person so that it does not come out in relationship-breaking words? What is the difference between evaluating someone for a job or leadership position in the church and determining someone's value or status based on a social category? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ). Bonus Sermon Content If you would like to learn more about this week's passage, check out this bonus video below! You might want to open your bible to Colossians 3:1-11. Life Group leaders, this is especially for you! https://vimeo.com/1025216122?share=copy

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Colossians 2:16-23 Sermon Series: Colossians Week 6: Filled Full in Him Week 5: Gospel Servants Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Week 2: Transferred to a New Kingdom Week 1: To the Saints in Christ at Colossae Sermon Notes Sermon Application Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Steve Wood (SWood@StAndrews.Church).

Hear from Hebrews 3:1-6 to consider Jesus our apostle, high priest, and true hero of scripture.

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: . Sermon Series: Colossians Week 5: Gospel Servants Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Week 2: Transferred to a New Kingdom Week 1: To the Saints in Christ at Colossae Sermon Notes Where is true fulfillment found? Not in broken cisterns! Paul's warning – watch out for empty deceptive philosophies (V. 8) learn to recognize expressive individualism (see article) Paul's answer – in Christ (V. 9 – 10) Jesus, where the fullness of God dwells, fills us full! Something lost, something gained to find fulfillment in Jesus, you must "lose" your life (and certain dreams, desires, goals, and ambitions) to find fulfillment in Jesus, you need a relationship with the person of the Holy Spirit Sermon Application Discussion Questions: How does God define evil in Jeremiah 2? Discuss your answer in light of this quote by CS Lewis: “It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” – The Weight of Glory What are some broken cisterns in your life, past or present, that did not provide fulfillment? Can you identify some examples of expressive individualism at work in our culture today? Can Jesus be our source of fulfillment if he is not fully God? How can you discern the difference between a Holy Spirit given dream, goal, or desire and one that is more about you? Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ( ).

We're looking at 5 reasons the incarnation is vitally important to the believer from Hebrews 2.

Bible Study Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon Series: Colossians Week 4: A Place to Stand Week 3: Christ at the Center Week 2: Transferred to a New Kingdom Week 1: To the Saints in Christ at Colossae Sermon Outline What the Gospel Servant Does What the Gospel Servant Seeks What the Gospel Servant Needs Sermon Questions Why does Paul equate being a servant of the gospel with being a servant of the church (compare 1:23 and 1:25)? Consider the different ways the pattern of "teaching one another" appears in Scripture (e.g., by word spoken in season (Prov. 25:11); by example of faithfulness in their circumstances (1Thess. 1:5); by wise application for faithfulness in your circumstances (Col. 1:28)). How is this dynamic at work in your life? Some Christians have helpfully thought about running the race, Monday through Saturday, using the acronym "BLESS." Use Colossians 1:24–2:5 as a guide to thinking through the following questions, and how to respond in the coming week: Bless others — especially non-believers, those different from us, and the poor, at least three times a week. Whom can I tangibly bless this week? Listen to God in His Word and Spirit and to others, to understand their stories and our culture's story. One ears open to the Lord; one to the culture — always clear on the direction of travel! To whom should I intentionally listen this week? Eat with others, including unbelievers, believers, and the poor. With whom should I eat this week? Speak to God (prayer) and speak to unbelievers the story and message of Jesus (witness). With whom should I intentionally share the good news this week?Sabbath in rest, play, praise, and celebration. How should I rest this week? Whom should I invite to join me in that rest? Resources Consulted Doug Moo,  Colossians and Philemon , PNTC Paul Weston,  Humble Confidence and the Logic of Mission Janet Fairweather, "The Epistle to the Galatians and Classical Rhetoric: Part 3" (Tyndale Bulletin) Questions? Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ( ).

Thanks for listening to our sermon audio from September 29, 2004.