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
by designdesign | Aug 4, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” In Matthew 6:1-8, Jesus addresses Imitation vs Authentic Religion. This includes giving, prayer and fasting. Jesus reserved his harshest words for hypocrites. Hypocrisy is deceiving yourself, it is like wearing a mask. Others see what the mask portrays but you see the what’s behind the mask. When you perform a good deed, do you care who gets the credit? Jesus may have no tolerance for hypocrisy, but he has UNLIMTED GRACE for those who take off the mask. Now is the time to get real with God and get real with others.
by designdesign | Jul 28, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” In Matthew 5:38-48, Jesus redefines what true love is all about. A life marked by radical love – not self interest – is the essence of what it looks like to be a Christian. The PATH of radical love is proactive, showing love in the face of hate and injustice. The PRACTICE of radical love begins with understanding that we too were enemies (of God). This enables the Christ-follower to seek restoration, practice hospitality and pray for our enemies. The PURPOSE of radical love is to model God’s love, showing we are properly related to our heavenly father.
by designdesign | Jul 21, 2019
A message from the series “Summer on the Mount.” The scripture passage for this sermon is Matthew 5:27-32 in which Jesus addresses issues of the heart concerning marriage, lust and divorce. Pastor Nate explains the covenant design of marriage as it differs from the consumer relationship of marriage. We learn how the consuming desire of lust becomes a form of idolatry that requires “drastic spiritual surgery.” Jesus speaks to the concession of divorce in this passage, and we are reminded that marriage was originally intended to be a lifelong, covenantal relationship (Matthew 19:6). The topics of permissible divorce, remarriage and abuse are also addressed.
