by designdesign | Sep 8, 2019
A message from the series “Better Together.” All humans share the need to belong. Sociologists define healthy belonging as the convergence of four basic elements: security, authenticity, maturity and mission. The Church ought to be a place where people can find all these elements because Jesus Christ designed His church with healthy belonging at its heart. That’s why “Meaningful Membership and Community” is a core value at Brandywine Valley Baptist Church. This sermon explains why belonging can be such a struggle and how Jesus restores our belonging through a personal, relational God. Listeners are exhorted to invest in biblical community at BVBC.
by designdesign | Sep 1, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” Throughout the Sermon on the Mount Jesus has been asking “Will you follow me?” This sermon, from Matthew 7:13-27, looks at the broad road vs. the narrow road. It investigates three options: 1. My Way vs God’s Way 2. Deceptive Religion vs. Real Relationship (and signs of self-deception) 3. Hearing vs. Doing.
by designdesign | Aug 25, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” The scripture verses regarding judgment in Matthew 7:1-5 are often used in a way that does not reflect Christ’s intention. This sermon will address: (1) what judging is not; (2) how we judge wrongly; and (3) how we judge rightly. Pastor Nate explains how the ability to clearly see our own sin and to truly know the grace and mercy of God reflects the stages of spiritual maturity.
by designdesign | Aug 18, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” In Matthew 6:25-34 and 7:7-11, Jesus addresses the kind of worry that is a restless, anxious care about temporal things – the here and now. He speaks to the natural question: “If I choose God as my master and place my value and source of security in heaven, who will take care of my daily needs on earth?” Jesus gives three reasons why we should not worry: 1. God cares for his creatures, and we are of even more value; 2. He “dresses” the flowers of the field in beauty and cares even more for his children; and 3. Our heavenly father knows our needs. This sermon also addresses God’s promises, His values and steps to overcome worry.
by designdesign | Aug 11, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” In Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus redefines what it means to be wealthy. If we are to follow Him, our investments and wealth must be aimed at eternal things. Only heavenly treasure can provide security and permanence. How do we invest in heavenly things? We “store up heavenly treasure” when we live our lives with open hearts and open hands. This sermon addresses the challenge in and the solution for living according to this counter-cultural perspective
