The Vine with Chris Green

What does it really mean to “show up” for worship?In this message, we explore the first part of Paul's teaching on gathered worship in 1 Corinthians 11. From head coverings to the Lord's Supper, Paul challenges the church not just on their behaviors, but on their posture—their mindset, their spirit, their honor for Christ and for one another.When the church gathers, we don't come as spectators—we come as the Bride of Christ, being prepared for the day of His return. To be “veiled in honor” means we are covered in Christ, set apart as holy, and called to worship with reverence, unity, and love.

Life can feel like a pressure cooker - full of stress, temptation, fear, and uncertainty. In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 10, we explore what it means to live faithfully under pressure while running with the gospel. The Apostle Paul reminds us that even when the pressure builds, God is faithful. He won't let us be tempted beyond what we can bear - and He always provides a way of escape.Whether you're battling anxiety, discouragement, or the demands of motherhood, this message offers hope, encouragement, and a call to center your life on the faithfulness of God.

The worst thing that can happen to a fighter is that he becomes civilized—and the worst thing that can happen to a church is that it gets comfortable.In this passionate, transitional message from 1 Corinthians 9, Pastor Chris calls the church to a life of gospel grit - because the gospel is worth it. Drawing from Paul's imagery of athletic discipline and inspired by scenes from the Rocky films, this sermon is a charge to live with urgency, purpose, and discomfort for the sake of Christ.- Why running hard means living a life poured out for the gospel- What it truly means to live free—and how that freedom leads us to serve- Why comfort is the greatest danger to the church in our generation- How the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25, The Message) speaks directly to playing not to lose- A powerful closing commission to take up the mission that no one else can carry but youIf you've ever felt like your faith has settled into safe routines, this message will shake you, encourage you, and remind you that you were never called to comfort. You were called to run.

In a divided world obsessed with being "right," how are followers of Jesus called to live? In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 8, we explore how secondary issues then and now threaten to divide the Church. Paul reminds us that "knowledge puffs up, but love builds up."Join us as we unpack the call to live the cruciform life - a life shaped by the Cross. Discover why it's not about winning arguments, but about asking, "What would love do?" Learn how true Christian maturity means laying down our rights, lifting up one another, and living with eyes shaped by the Cross.

What if the pressure to prove yourself was already gone?In this sermon, we explore what it means to live from victory - not for it. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:57–58, we confront the exhausting cycle of striving, performing, and hoping we're enough - and discover the freedom, confidence, and purpose that come when we live grounded in Christ's finished work. If you're tired of white-knuckling your way through life, this message is your invitation to breathe deep and walk boldly in a victory that's already won.

In this Palm Sunday message, Chris Green reflects on the contrast between what people expected from Jesus and who He truly is. Drawing from Zechariah 9:9 and John 8, the sermon explores how Jesus came not to conquer political enemies but to bring salvation and freedom from sin.Chris challenges us to consider our identity in light of Jesus' identity, and to remain rooted in His word despite cultural pressures to stay silent. The message reminds us that truth brings freedom—and that real discipleship means abiding in Christ and boldly living as children of God.

Sermon based on three-year lectionary series reading for April 6, 2025. On Tuesday of Holy Week, Jesus confronts the Pharisees, elders, and teachers of the law with a parable.

Is your relationship status shaping your identity—or is your identity shaping your relationships?In this message from 1 Corinthians 7, we explore how God's calling transforms every season of life—whether you're single, married, divorced, or “it's complicated.” The Apostle Paul speaks with honesty and wisdom into the messy realities of relationships, reminding us that our primary status isn't found on social media—it's found in Christ.Discover how to live with purpose, peace, and faithfulness in the situation you're in right now. Because no matter your relational status, one thing is true:You are called.

We often come to God's Word expecting it to be simple and clear—like a neatly rolled ball of yarn. But more often than not, it feels tangled. Our past experiences, cultural influences, and personal struggles can make the truth of Scripture hard to grasp. Especially when it comes to a word like "holiness".In this message from 1 Corinthians 6, we look at Paul's passionate call to a church that had become tangled in compromise. He reminds them—and us—that holiness isn't about being perfect. It's about belonging to God, moving in His direction, and reflecting His character.Here's the truth:Holiness is not about perfection—it's about possession, direction, and reflection.We belong to God.We are being transformed.We are called to reflect Jesus.And the good news? God isn't standing by, waiting for us to stumble. He's walking with us—picking us up when we fall, calling us to keep going. Holiness isn't a standard we have to reach. It's a journey we walk with a good Father who loves us enough to help us live like we're His.

Today we dive into how tangled things can get when trying to understand certain scriptures and concepts like sin. Just as a mess of yarn can be hard to unravel, our cultural experiences and personal histories can make biblical teachings feel confusing and overwhelming. The gospel's message of grace and the absence of condemnation for believers can help untangle these knots. By exploring Paul's letter to the Corinthians, the sermon challenges us to differentiate between tolerance and true love, encouraging us to intervene with grace and restorative action, rather than merely accepting or ignoring sin. The focus is on fostering genuine relationships within the church and embracing God's transformative love. Join us as we unpack what it truly means to live as God's people, set apart for His purposes, and learn how to navigate these complex issues in our daily lives.

In today's message, we're challenged to embrace the countercultural nature of following Christ. The apostle Paul's words to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 4 remind us that the wisdom of God often appears foolish to the world. We're called to be 'fools for Christ,' rejecting worldly measures of success and status in favor of humility, service, and love. This teaching invites us to examine our own lives: Are we trying to fit in with the world's standards, or are we willing to stand out for Christ? The imagery of living between two kingdoms - the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God - with the cross at the center, beautifully illustrates our daily spiritual struggle. As we navigate this tension, we're encouraged to follow Jesus boldly, even when it goes against cultural norms, and to 'own' our identity in Christ without apology. This message challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and embrace a life of radical discipleship that may not always make sense to those around us.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to reexamine our identity as followers of Christ. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 4, we're reminded that we are not owners, but servants and stewards of God's gifts. This perspective shift is liberating – freeing us from the judgments of others and even our own self-criticism. The core message is clear: our worth isn't determined by worldly success or personal achievements, but by our faithfulness to God. As we navigate life's challenges, we're encouraged to ask, 'Am I being faithful with what God has entrusted to me?' This teaching invites us to live for an audience of one – God Himself – and find true freedom in serving Him alone.

How do we build a life of eternal consequence? This powerful message challenges us to shift our focus from how we'll be remembered after death to how we're building towards eternity. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 3:10-23, we're reminded that Jesus Christ is the only foundation worth building upon. Everything else - success, relationships, worldly ideas of the 'good life' - is ultimately unstable. As we construct our lives on this unshakeable foundation, we're called to use materials that will endure: faith, love, and obedience. The imagery of gold, silver, and precious stones versus wood, hay, and straw invites us to discern between eternal investments and temporary fixes. Are we living with the 'day of Christ' in mind, when our lives will be revealed for what they truly are? This message urges us to leverage our time, relationships, and opportunities for eternal impact, challenging us to present our lives as a worthy offering to Christ.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to reconsider what true spiritual maturity looks like. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, we're reminded that our ultimate goal isn't just biblical knowledge or good behavior, but union with God. Notre Dame's reconstruction is an illustration of how we, too, have a 'blueprint' - not just to be rebuilt, but to be fully realized in Christ. We're encouraged to shift our focus from following human leaders to pursuing a deep, personal relationship with God. This message invites us to reflect on what we're truly becoming and challenges us to align our spiritual growth with God's original design for humanity - to bear His image and live in intimate fellowship with Him.

In this powerful exploration of 1 Corinthians 2, we're challenged to reconsider how true spiritual transformation occurs. The apostle Paul reminds us that it's not through eloquent speeches or human wisdom, but through the simple yet profound message of 'Jesus Christ and him crucified.' This passage invites us to reflect on our own faith journey - are we relying on human intellect and charisma, or on the raw power of the Gospel? Paul's vulnerability in admitting his weakness and fear serves as a powerful reminder that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. The demonstration of the Spirit's power is in lives changed by the message of the cross. As we contemplate this, we're encouraged to root our faith not in human wisdom, but in the power of God, allowing His transformative work to shape us from the inside out.

Have you ever felt inferior or out of place because of your faith? This powerful message explores the challenge of living as Christians in a world that often considers our beliefs foolish or antiquated. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, we're reminded that the message of the cross is 'folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God.' This scripture highlights a crucial truth: our confidence shouldn't come from worldly acceptance, but from our identity in Christ. We're encouraged to embrace a 'confident humility,' recognizing that God often chooses what the world considers weak or foolish to demonstrate His power and wisdom. This perspective shift can free us from the exhausting pursuit of fitting in or proving our worth to others. Instead, we're called to find our value and purpose in God's love and the transformative power of the cross.

In this powerful exploration of 1 Corinthians 1:10-17, we're confronted with the timeless challenge of unity within the church. Paul's urgent appeal to the Corinthians resonates deeply with us today. The message is clear: true unity isn't found in aligning ourselves with charismatic leaders or popular teachings, but in our shared devotion to Christ alone. We're challenged to examine our hearts and ask ourselves: Are we allowing lesser loyalties to overshadow our primary identity in Jesus? The call to 'agree' and be 'united in mind and thought' isn't about uniformity, but about centering our diverse perspectives around the transformative power of the Gospel. As we reflect on this passage, we're invited to reconsider what it means to be truly unified in Christ, setting aside the labels and divisions that so often define us, and instead embracing the radical oneness that Jesus prayed for His followers.

What defines you as a follower of Christ? In this sermon on 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, we're reminded that being a Christian is not about our programs, activities, or efforts—it's all about Jesus. Paul passionately reminds the Corinthian church of their true identity: they are sanctified, called as saints, and deeply loved by God. Despite their failures and struggles, God's faithfulness remains the foundation of their calling. Through this message, you'll be encouraged to embrace the grace that has already been given, trust in the God who sustains you, and live as one who belongs fully to Christ. If you need a fresh reminder of who you are in Him, this sermon is for you.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the incredible impact our personal testimonies can have in sharing our faith. The story of Paul's testimony before King Agrippa illustrates that even the most learned theologians rely on their personal experiences with God when sharing the Gospel. We're encouraged to recognize that sharing our faith doesn't require extensive biblical knowledge or perfect articulation - it's simply about sowing seeds and allowing the Holy Spirit to work. The sermon emphasizes that our testimonies are powerful weapons in spiritual warfare, second only to the blood of the Lamb. This insight challenges us to reflect on our own faith journeys and consider how we might use our stories to impact others. As we contemplate this, we're invited to see the hand of God in the 'coincidences' of our lives, viewing our experiences through a lens of faith that recognizes divine appointments and God's active presence in our daily lives.

Today we explore how our thoughts and words shape the way we see ourselves, God, and the future. Drawing from Romans 12:2 and the wisdom of both scripture and neuroscience, we'll see how God designed our minds as a canvas for His transformative work. Through the renewing power of the Holy Spirit, the lies that limit us are replaced with His truth, and a holy imagination is born—one that envisions a future filled with hope, faith, and purpose.Using a powerful visual demonstration with two canvases, we'll confront the words and beliefs that have held us back and replace them with God's promises and life-giving truths. Join us as we learn how the words we speak can create the world we live in and how a holy imagination can transform not only our lives but the lives of those around us. Tune in ready to reflect, renew, and imagine what's possible when your life is painted by God's hand.

Do you feel like life is just…ordinary? Like you're stuck on a road to nowhere, going through the motions without seeing growth or purpose? In this message, we'll uncover how God works powerfully in the seemingly mundane seasons of our lives, drawing from the quiet years of Jesus' life as described in Luke 2:52. Discover why the ordinary is often where God does His deepest work, preparing us for extraordinary moments ahead. This message will challenge you to embrace your current season with faith and trust that God is building something incredible beneath the surface.

What do we do when God asks us to trust Him with the impossible? Discover how Mary's journey to Elizabeth's house turned her fear into faith, her questions into worship, and her uncertainty into joy. This sermon explores the profound blessings of believing in God's promises and how we can experience the fullness of His life, even in the face of doubt.

What If Christmas Was Meant to Offend You?John the Baptist's opening words in Luke 3:7-14 are anything but cozy: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?” But what if these bold, shocking words are exactly what we need this Advent season? In a world where spiritual complacency can lull us into autopilot, John's confrontation is a wake-up call, cutting through our routines to expose the areas where we've settled for comfort over conviction. This sermon dives into why God's truth sometimes offends, how offense leads to transformation, and what it means to truly prepare our hearts for Christ's arrival. Don't miss this powerful message—it might just change the way you see Christmas.

In this Advent sermon, we explore the importance of listening to the right voice as we prepare our hearts for Christ's coming. We're reminded how easy it is to follow voices that mislead or distract us. John the Baptist's call echoes through time: “Prepare the way of the Lord.” This message isn't just about waiting—it's about realigning our lives, turning from the wrong paths, and making room for the hope and joy of Jesus' return. With urgency and promise, we're invited to live ready for the Lord's coming, knowing He is faithful to fulfill His promises.

This Advent marks the start of a new liturgical year and invites us to look beyond the chaos of the world to notice the signs of God's life and promise unfolding around us. Instead of being consumed by fear or despair, Jesus calls us to lift our eyes and see the hope of His kingdom breaking through, both in His first coming and His promised return. These signs of life aren't just in the world—they're in us, as we follow Him, love like Him, and live with His Spirit guiding us. Let's take this season to reorient our hearts, practicing the faithfulness of seeing His work and promises in every moment. The kingdom of God is near—let's live in light of that hope.

Today we're challenged to reconsider the origin story of everything in our lives. The parable of the minas in Luke 19 serves as a profound reminder that all we have - our talents, possessions, and relationships - are entrusted to us by God. Just as the nobleman in the parable gave his servants resources and a mission, Christ has given us everything we have and calls us to 'engage in business' until His return. This perspective shifts our understanding of ownership and purpose, urging us to view our lives through the lens of stewardship. How might our actions change if we truly believed that everything we have is a gift from God, meant to be used for His kingdom? This message invites us to examine our hearts and ask ourselves: Are we like the faithful servants who put their master's resources to work, or are we hiding our 'minas' out of fear or distrust? As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to live in light of Christ's eventual return, using all we've been given to honor Him and further His kingdom.

In a world of constant change, we find ourselves in need of spiritual recalibration. This message reminds us of our core calling as apprentices of Jesus: to be with Him, become like Him, and crucially, to do as He did. John 14:12 challenges us with Jesus' words: 'Whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater works than these.' This isn't just about belief, but about action. We're called to move beyond being mere 'hearers of the word' to become 'doers,' as James exhorts. By asking 'What Would Jesus Do?' in every situation and acting on it, we can participate in continuing Christ's work on earth, empowered by the same Holy Spirit that raised Him from the dead. This recalibration invites us to live out our faith boldly, trusting that God has equipped us for greater things than we might imagine.

In our spiritual journey, we're called to become like Jesus, not just to find our 'true selves.' This countercultural message challenges us to look upward rather than inward. The apostle Paul's words in Galatians 4:19 remind us that our goal is to have 'Christ formed in us.' This isn't about self-improvement, but about a profound transformation where we're reshaped into Jesus' likeness. We're invited to consider: are we actively participating in this formation process? The path of Jesus is presented as the way to become fully human, reversing the curse of Adam's fall. By 'putting on Christ,' we're not losing ourselves, but uncovering who we truly are meant to be. This journey of becoming like Jesus isn't about perfection, but about allowing God's Spirit to chip away at what doesn't belong, revealing the masterpiece He created us to be.

Chris explores the concept of "Practicing the Way" of Jesus, emphasizing that being a Christian is not just about holding beliefs, but about a way of living and being with Jesus. The focus is on the importance of abiding in Christ, which is made possible through the presence of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the challenges of staying connected to Jesus in a world full of distractions and highlights the importance of spiritual habits or rhythms as means of resistance against worldly influences.Key Points:- Being a Christian is about a way of living, not just holding beliefs- Abiding in Christ is essential and made possible through the Holy Spirit- Spiritual habits and rhythms are crucial for maintaining connection with God- The enemy of abiding is hurry, busyness, and distraction- Spiritual dry seasons are normal and can be opportunities for growth- The fruits of the Spirit are evidence of abiding in ChristScripture Reference:- John 15:1-5 (The Vine and the Branches)- Galatians 5:22-23 (The Fruit of the Spirit)

In this powerful message, we're challenged to reconsider our understanding of spiritual guidance and personal growth. The central theme revolves around Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to take up His yoke and learn from Him. This metaphor of the yoke beautifully illustrates how we're all carrying some form of life philosophy or worldview that shapes our actions and decisions. The key insight is that we're not choosing between having a yoke or not, but rather which yoke we'll bear. Jesus offers us His yoke - a way of living that promises rest for our souls and unforced rhythms of grace. This message encourages us to examine our current 'yokes' and consider if they're truly serving us well. Are we feeling weary and burdened by the expectations and philosophies we've adopted? Perhaps it's time to embrace Jesus' invitation and become His apprentices, learning to live freely and lightly under His guidance.

In this powerful message from our very own Eric Wadsworth, we're reminded of the transformative power of sharing our testimonies. The central theme revolves around the parable of the sower, but with a twist - we are called to be the sowers ourselves. This insight draws from various scriptures, including 1 Corinthians 3:6 and passages from Isaiah and Psalms, emphasizing our role in spreading God's word. The message beautifully illustrates how simple acts of sharing our faith experiences can have profound impacts, even when we feel our efforts are inadequate. It's not about perfection in delivery, but about allowing the Holy Spirit to work through our stories. This perspective is liberating, reminding us that while we participate in sowing, the work of salvation is ultimately God's. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to consider our own testimonies and the unique ways God has touched our lives, recognizing that each of our stories has the potential to be a powerful tool in God's hands.

Today we're challenged to embrace God's call with unwavering commitment, just as Elisha did when he followed Elijah. The story from 1 Kings 19 reminds us that true influence in God's kingdom often requires letting go of our past securities and burning bridges to fully pursue His purpose. We're encouraged to cultivate passion and enthusiasm in our faith journey, understanding that God's call always comes with His presence. This message urges us to view our entire lives as belonging to Christ, finding security in Him rather than worldly comforts. It's a call to live each day as an adventure for God, even in mundane moments, offering everything to Him. As we reflect on this, we're invited to consider: What is God calling us to let go of in order to move forward in faith?

In this powerful exploration of generational influence, we delve into the compelling story of Elijah and Elisha from 1 Kings. This narrative isn't just about two prophets; it's a timeless lesson on passing the torch of faith and leadership. We're challenged to consider our role in God's ongoing story - are we the Elijah, called to mentor and empower the next generation, or the Elisha, ready to take up the mantle of responsibility? The symbolism of Elijah's cloak represents more than just a physical object; it embodies the weight of God's calling and the trust required to walk in His ways. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to embrace our current season, whether it's nurturing others in their faith journey or stepping boldly into new responsibilities. The message reminds us that true influence isn't measured by our individual accomplishments, but by our ability to invest in and empower others. How can we, like Elijah, be willing to pass on our 'mantle' and trust God's plan for the next generation?

In this exploration of faith and deliverance, we dive into the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, drawing profound parallels to our own spiritual journeys. Just as God parted the Red Sea for the Israelites, He makes a way for us today through Jesus Christ.Our enemy isn't Pharaoh's army, but the slavery of sin. Our escape isn't through water, but through the cross.Baptism reminds us: • We're no longer possessed by sin, but children of God • We belong fully to Jesus - body and soul • Our salvation is complete and total"Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord." - Exodus 14:13

In this powerful exploration of Psalm 1, we're challenged to consider what it truly means to live a blessed life and become people of genuine influence. The passage paints a vivid picture of two paths: one leading to spiritual sedentarism, and the other to a life deeply rooted in God's Word. We're reminded that the company we keep and the counsel we follow profoundly shape our spiritual journey. The psalm warns against walking in the counsel of the ungodly, standing in the way of sinners, and sitting in the seat of mockers - a sobering progression that can lead us away from God's best for our lives. Instead, we're encouraged to find our delight in God's law, meditating on it day and night. This isn't about following rules, but about immersing ourselves in God's vision for our lives and the world. As we do this, we become like trees planted by streams of water - stable, fruitful, and flourishing in all seasons. This imagery beautifully illustrates how a life centered on God's Word leads to true influence - not through worldly tactics, but through a vibrant, unshakeable faith that stands out in times of trouble and bears fruit that blesses others.

Today we are challenged to recognize that God consistently works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. The story of Moses and the burning bush reminds us that age, background, or perceived inadequacies don't disqualify us from God's purposes. Instead, it's our willingness to 'turn aside' and make ourselves available that matters. When we say, 'Here I am, Lord,' we open ourselves to a transformative journey. The simple staff in Moses' hand became a powerful tool in God's plan, teaching us that what we have right now - our skills, resources, or even our limitations - can be used mightily when surrendered to God. This message urges us to stop being passive and embrace the adventure of following Christ, knowing that His presence goes with us always.

In this powerful message, we explore the transformative encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. The central theme revolves around truly seeing and beholding Christ, rather than merely looking at Him. We're challenged to consider whether we've allowed our own veils—be they shame, misunderstanding, or cultural barriers—to prevent us from fully experiencing Jesus. The story beautifully illustrates how Christ removes these veils, offering living water that satisfies our deepest spiritual thirst. As we behold Him in His salvation, friendship, and glory, we find freedom from shame and a new identity. This message encourages us to move beyond surface-level Christianity and into a profound, life-changing relationship with Jesus.

In this powerful message, we explore the transformative encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. This story from John 4 reminds us that God seeks authentic relationships with us, desiring that we come to Him in spirit and truth. The living water Jesus offers isn't just about surface-level change, but a deep, soul-quenching transformation that touches every area of our lives. We're challenged to consider: are we willing to let God's living water flow into even the most hidden, shame-filled parts of our hearts? This message encourages us to embrace vulnerability before God, knowing that His love and grace can redeem our past and renew our future.

We're invited to reflect on the profound difference between religion and relationship with God. The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well serves as a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey. Just as Jesus offered 'living water' that truly satisfies, we're challenged to look beyond the 'wells' of tradition, ritual, and religious identity that may leave us spiritually thirsty. The message encourages us to seek a genuine, transformative relationship with Christ rather than relying on external religious practices. This shift from 'religion' to 'relationship' promises a wellspring of spiritual fulfillment that bubbles up to eternal life within us. We're reminded that God is actively 'conspiring for our good,' setting up divine appointments in our lives, just as He did for the Samaritan woman.

We thank Eric Wadsworth for his heartfelt and thought-provoking message.

This message concludes a three-part series on the Parable of the Sower, focusing on how to respond when there's a gap between God's promises and our current experiences. The scriptures encourage us to "break up the fallow ground" by expanding our expectations and faith to align with God's promises, rather than settling for limited perspectives or explanations for why God's word isn't manifesting in our lives. Pastor Chris emphasizes the power of words and prayer in cultivating a harvest of faith and experiencing God's abundant promises.Key Points:- There is often a gap between God's promises and our current experiences- We should not try to explain away this gap or place blame, but instead "break up the fallow ground"- Breaking up fallow ground means stepping beyond our familiar boundaries and expectations- We can plow to the edges of God's promises through our words and prayers- God fulfills His promises by giving Himself, not just by sending detached blessings- Our church is not limited by its size or location, but empowered by God's promisesScripture Reference:- Mark 4 (Parable of the Sower)- Hosea 10:12 "Break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord..."Stories:- The story of the Brick Church in Etna discovering they owned more land than they thought, illustrating how we often live within limited expectations when God has given us more- The poem by Lawrence Tribble about one person awakening others, used to illustrate the concept of revival- The account of a church closing its doors permanently, contrasted with the promise of abundant harvest in the Parable of the Sower

We're revisiting the parable of the sower, exploring its deeper meaning in light of our current spiritual climate. The seed represents God's word, and we are all called to be sowers. But are we sowing effectively? The power lies not in our technique or the soil, but in the seed itself. This parable reminds us that revival is always possible, no matter how hostile the environment may seem. We're challenged to sow generously and confidently, trusting in the inherent power of God's word. The message encourages us to move beyond our fears and hesitations, finding boldness through prayer and the Holy Spirit's empowerment. Just as the early Christians faced opposition yet continued to spread the gospel, we too can overcome our doubts and play our part in God's plan for revival.

In this powerful exploration of the Parable of the Sower, we're invited to consider our own spiritual receptivity. The parable, found in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8, uses the imagery of seeds falling on different types of soil to represent how people respond to God's word. We're challenged to examine which type of soil we might be - the path where Satan snatches away the word, the rocky ground where faith withers under pressure, the thorny soil where worldly concerns choke out spiritual growth, or the good soil that produces abundant fruit. The message emphasizes that there's only one path to true spiritual fruitfulness: hearing and welcoming God's word wholeheartedly. This parable reminds us that our response to God's truth shapes our spiritual journey and potential for growth.

As we conclude our journey through Ephesians, we're reminded of the profound transformation that occurs when we embrace life in Christ. It's not merely about attending church or reading the Bible; it's a complete shift from darkness to light, discovering a new existence where everything is different. This new life impacts our internal selves and external relationships, touching every aspect of our being. We're called to recognize that we're citizens of heaven navigating through earthly kingdoms, engaged in a spiritual battle that goes beyond what we can see. The enemy isn't flesh and blood, but spiritual forces of evil. We're challenged to stand firm in the victory Christ has already won, equipped with the armor of God: truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God. Through prayer and perseverance, we're empowered to resist the enemy's schemes and live out our faith courageously.

In this powerful message, we're challenged to view our work as a sacred calling. Drawing from Ephesians 6:5-9, we're reminded that our faith isn't compartmentalized, but should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our workplaces. The passage, originally addressing slaves and masters, reveals a radical message of equality and mutual service that laid the groundwork for abolition. We're encouraged to do our jobs faithfully, work with integrity and sincerity, and approach our tasks as if God Himself is watching. This perspective transforms our 'occupation' into a 'vocation' - a divine calling where our work becomes an act of worship.

In a world marked by judgement and self-centeredness, God calls us to a radically different way of living - especially in our homes.As Paul writes in Ephesians, husbands are to sacrificially love their wives as Christ loves the church. Wives are to trust their husbands, knowing they seek their good. Children are to honor and obey their parents.When Christ is at the center, our homes become places of mutual love, respect and flourishing. Places that point to the beauty of the Gospel. In challenging days like these, we have to pay careful attention to how we "walk" - letting Christ transform even the most intimate spaces of our lives. It's there that legacies are made and the next generation learns what it means to follow Jesus."Have your heart right with Christ and he will visit you often. And so turn weekdays into Sundays, meals into sacraments, homes into temples, and earth into heaven." - Charles Spurgeon

Today's message explores what it means that Christ is the light shining in the darkness, drawing from John 1 and Ephesians 5. We are reminded that just as our eyes adjust to physical darkness and light, we can become too comfortable with the spiritual darkness of sin in our lives. Christ calls out to us to awaken from this darkness and come into his marvelous light. The message emphasizes that we cannot escape the darkness on our own; it is only through responding to Christ's call that we can leave behind the fruitless works of darkness and walk in the light of his presence. This call comes to us through God's Word, the Holy Spirit, and the Church. As we answer the call, we must deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ, allowing him to be the source of our new life. We're challenged to recognize Christ's call in our own lives, whether it comes as a gentle tug or an unsettling conviction, and to respond with faith and obedience.

You are a saint.Not because you're perfect, but because God has set you apart for a divine purpose. He has made you holy.Every morning, you have a choice: Will you put on your new self today? Will you let the truth that you are loved, chosen and empowered by God transform you from the inside out?A renewed mind leads to a transformed life. It starts with believing and internalizing who God says you are. You are not defined by your past mistakes or current struggles. Your identity is firmly rooted in Christ.So today, even if you feel unworthy, choose to "put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." (Eph 4:24)

In this powerful message, we are reminded of the profound unity we share as believers in Christ. Despite our differences, we are bound together by the seven 'ones': one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. Just as marriage takes effort, so does maintaining the unity of the church. We must lean on these unifying truths, especially when the effort feels overwhelming. The message also highlights how God's grace enhances our unique identities and gifts. We are called to use these gifts, such as those of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, to equip and build up the church in love. As we grow together in Christ, we experience the fullness of life and love that can only be found in Him.

Will you have Him - all of Him? In this powerful sermon, Chris reminds us that when we invite Jesus into our hearts, He doesn't come in pieces. We can't take only the parts of Him we like and ignore the rest. No, when Christ enters our lives, He comes to take up residence on the throne at the very center. He brings ALL of His power and ALL of His love. Power to heal and transform beyond what we can imagine. Love that surpasses knowledge - a relentless, undeserved, unconditional love. But we often resist surrendering full control, letting fear or unbelief hold us back from experiencing the incredible fullness of life with Him.