This past Sunday, Justin focused his sermon on breaking down the points found in 2 Corinthians 4:4-18 . In this chapter, " God has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel. " Throughout our life, it's easy to name and fixate on all the troubles we deal with on a daily basis. However, this chapter tells us that what we see with our natural eyes is not what God sees. We need to trust and have faith in God in order to see with spiritual eyes and take in all ...
May 20, 2024•41 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a message derived from the first verse in the book of Job. In Chapter 1 verse 1, the Bible records that Job was “blameless and upright.” It was because despite the trauma and trouble Job experienced, he continued to cultivate his relationship with God. This is indeed a serious matter to God. In Psalms 50 he rebukes Israel because they have become rote in their sacrifices and religious rituals. God desired for them to come before him with a grateful heart, ...
May 07, 2024•45 min
In today’s world, the greatest celebrations occur around athletic events or entertainment venues. This should not be the case with Christians. Our greatest joy should be derived from experiencing the effects of a transformed life. This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff highlighted a familiar bible story known as the Prodigal Son. He contrasted the response of the father and the older brother upon the son’s return home. The father immediately began to prepare for a celebration. Luke 15:24 For this son of ...
Apr 16, 2024•31 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a rousing message affirming the necessity of practicing our faith in God. He referenced the story of Joseph and his desperate battle to fend off the advances of Potiphar’s wife as recounted in the familiar story in Genesis. God was with Joseph his entire life from betrayal by his brothers, prison and even promotion as a high-level official in Egypt. God gave him access to the “power” that enabled him to remain steadfast even in a foreign land. Like Joseph,...
Apr 08, 2024•42 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a profound Easter message about the necessity of following Jesus. We may not realize that sometimes, even though we profess to be Christians, our patterns of living are much different than Jesus and his Word. We are following someone or something else. This is why our relationship with God is lacking because “ followship begets fellowship.” Such was the case with the disciple Peter. Though his denial of Christ hindered their relationship, God knew he neede...
Apr 02, 2024•55 min
This past Sunday, Casey defined the word "blesing" and spoke about how we can recieve God's blessings in the present. A blessing is the flourishing and multipication of life. In God we see increase. In order to be positioned for a blessing, we need to be planted and rooted in Christ, be connected to Him to have discernment of what feeds you, and be consistent and faithful in Christ. Jeremiah 17:7 "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree...
Mar 18, 2024•53 min
This past Sunday, Paster Landon spoke about how as Christians, we believe that if we come to Jesus, we will have life later in heaven. However, Jesus' resurrection gives us hope in the present as well. God loves us for all of who we are, including our mess. We cannot continue to be bystanders in our own life. Jesus brings life, so we need to walk with him in the day-to-day to experience his love in the present.
Mar 18, 2024•45 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff delivered a profound message about our attitude in giving. He referenced the story of the widow that gave two mites--or what was considered a small amount of money. He admonished us to search our hearts as we pursue to give of our money, time, and talent. We should strive to give “all that we have,” today, knowing that our God will meet all our needs tomorrow. This woman moved Jesus deeply and he commented to the wealthy about her gift. Luke 21: 3-4 “Truly I tell yo...
Mar 05, 2024•51 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached a foundational message about understanding that God’s word is “alive.” He used the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her response to the angel’s message about her impending pregnancy. Mary accepted the word and began to walk in it. It is similar for us once we embrace that God’s word embodies Jesus. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word and word was with God, and, the word was God… 14 the word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. Once we acce...
Feb 27, 2024•43 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff preached a rousing message about understanding the very purpose for which we were created. God’s purpose is to love. Our purpose is to worship God and be his witnesses. As we endeavor to represent Christ, we sense his divine presence and know that we are not alone. God is with us. But, the question becomes, are we with God? How can we know that we are with God? One of the primary ways seems simple, but it is actually profound. If we know that God is with us and our ...
Feb 20, 2024•54 min
Pastor Jeff preached a challenging message on the life of John the Baptist. He explained that John’s primary aim was to advance the kingdom of God. Despite being around the same age as Jesus and having his own following, he constantly pointed people to Jesus, literally and figuratively. John 1:35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the lamb of God!” Scripture records that John’s disciples followed Jesus and spent that day wit...
Feb 08, 2024•49 min
Pastor Jeff continued our study of the book of Galatians, focusing on the iconic symbol of the cross. Paul, despite being known by some as “the second founder of Christianity”, said that his identity and reason for being was a direct result of the cross. While he was highly educated, rarely did he discuss his own accomplishments. He explains this in Galatians 6:14, writing, " May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to...
Feb 06, 2024•50 min
This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff continued the study of the book of Galatians. He talked about our daily quest to be known and accepted by men and society. This type of “pressure” often causes us to be bound. Our true freedom lies in striving to be known by God. One of the primary ways that we can be known by God is to practice righteous acts motivated by faith, hope, and love. Paul told the church at Thessalonica that they lived a life indicative of their commitment to Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3 ...
Jan 26, 2024•47 min
Pastor Jeff continued our study of the book of Galatians by emphasizing that our freedom in Christ is not based upon simple works or behavior. Today, people talk about and are judged by their "grind" or how hard they work to achieve goals, status, or amass wealth. While we understand that we must work to care for our basic needs, that work (wherever the Lord has placed you) should not feel like a grind. Plus, this working will not buy our salvation, nor will doing "good works." Ephesians 2:8 rem...
Jan 25, 2024•25 min
On this past Sunday, Pastor Jeff opened the year by introducing the book of Galatians. By recounting apostle Paul's conversion, he emphasized that we are to live free through our relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord. Galatians 1:11-12: I want you to know , brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. I did not recieve it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I recieved it by revelation from Jesus Christ. This freedom is activated by a clear testimony of our tr...
Jan 11, 2024•54 min
Pastor Jeff preached a timely New Year's Eve message on this past Sunday. He emphasized that we will need God's supernatural help or strength in order to be successfull in the coming year. The story of Sampson teaches us invaluable principles related to that power and strength. In Judges 16:28 after Sampson had been demoralized at the hands of the Phillistines, he prayed and asked God for strength to avenge his enemies. How was Sampson able to summon God's help during this dismal time? First, he...
Jan 04, 2024•51 min
Paster Jeff preached from a thought-provoking topic on this past Sunday. Have you ever thought about the fact that there must be a level of humility to have fiath in God? He recounted the story from Matthew Chapter 8 of the centurion's request for Jesus to heal his servant. While the man held a powerful office, he acknowledged that Jesus was more powerful and asked for help. Specifically, he told Jesus that he was not worthy to have him come to his house but if he would just "speak the word," hi...
Nov 10, 2023•46 min
Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He was led to remind us that no matter the circumstances in which you find yourself, God deserves your praise. Even in discouragement. Psalm 42:5 admonishes us to "..put our hope in God and yet praise him..." Additionally, if you are struggling to find legitimate reasons to praise Him, simply recall what he has already done in your life. Psalm 150:2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassin...
Oct 31, 2023•47 min
Brother Justin Carter delivered a powerful, essential word to us on this past Sunday. His scripture reference was James 5: 10-14 emphasizing the necessity of prayer. Prayer is not reserved just for times of trouble. As Christians we must pray all the time in order to know what God's will is for us. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. God even gives us the "how" for prayer: without ceasing, wit...
Oct 31, 2023•46 min
Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He highlighted Chapter 4 and the importance of seaking God's will for your life and walking in that trajectory as much as you can. Sometimes, we can know the right thing to do and make a conscious choice not to do it. James tells us in Chapter 4:17 " If anyone, then knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them. " This is because God has a specific plan and course for our life that is fa...
Oct 31, 2023•42 min
Paster Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. He highlighted Chapter 3 and the importance of what comes out of your mouth. In fact, verses 5-7 declare that our tongue can disrupt our entire life. James 3:7 It corrupts the whole body; sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. Therefore, one of our primary spiritual goals should be to "tame our tongue." Paster Jeff gave us the prescription. In order to clean up our langu...
Oct 12, 2023•51 min
Paster Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will recieve the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. This week Paster Jeff emphasized James 2:14-26 reminding us that true faith is demonstrated through our works. He enumerated four levels of faith: saving faith, genuine faith, rich in...
Oct 05, 2023•46 min
This past Sunday Brother Justin Carter blessed us with a stirring word originating from James Chapter 2. He referenced how Abraham enjoyed a deep relationship and true happiness because of his faith in God James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham beleived God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend. (NIV) This principle is true for us too. Proverbs 29:18-19 Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy ...
Sep 27, 2023•31 min
Pastor Jeff continued our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. Pastor Jeff emphasized that the crown is reserved for “those who love him.” It is a fact that those who love Him will experience trials and testing to prove our faith is genuine. When...
Sep 20, 2023•40 min
Pastor Jeff introduced our church-wide study of the book of James on this past Sunday. The overall theme for this study is derived from James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. We should all be striving to receive the crown of life which indicates spiritual maturity through obedience and endurance. Yes, there is a reward for those that remain true to the pr...
Sep 14, 2023•38 min
On Sunday, September 3rd, Sister Casey Sharperson delivered a message entitled "Turn Back" that explored the life of King Hezekiah. First, we were reminded to reflect on your history of faith - what is your testimony? How has God shown his glory in your life? Second, when you fall short, repent, and turn away from what is separating you from God (ie. sin). Third, request of God what ONLY He can do. Hezekiah did not receive a favorable health report. He turned his back from distractions and towar...
Sep 14, 2023•33 min
Pastor Jeff preached a relevant message for all on this past Sunday. It is so important for us to carefully consider the folks we allow in our inner circle. Such was the case with Moses. Yes, he needed help to lead God's people but not just any kind of help. His father-in-law Jethro instructed him to choose carefully. He said in Exodus 18:21 But select capable men from all the people -- men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain -- and appoint them as officials over thousands, hun...
Aug 30, 2023•39 min
Brother Justin Carter preached a powerful message on this past Sunday. The focus scripture was Lamentations 3:26 reminding us that " it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord ." Our lives are loud, distracting, and overwhelming. With all that is going on, we lose sight of God as we move from one task to the next. If we seek moments of quiet solitude, we can hear the voice of God. In these moments we can meditate on the things God has done in our lives, receive direction and clarit...
Aug 22, 2023•37 min
Pastor Jeff preached from the book of Colossians on this past Sunday about how to actualize the peace of God in your everyday life. Once we understand that God's peace is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that is not dependent upon circumstances, it will rule in our hearts. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15 The first step is to "let" God in our intimate spaces. He will not barge in, we have to let him come in or o...
Aug 16, 2023•44 min
Pastor Jeff preached about Moses and his intimate relationship with God on this past Sunday. He emphasized that this closenes gave Moses the credibility to ask God to relent. God was about to destroy the children of Israel after they made a false god of a golden calf. But then Moses prayed a "powerful prayer," reminding God of his promises to his people. Exodus 32:1(NIV) But Moses sought the favor of the Lord his God." Lord, he said. "why should your anger burn against your people, who you broug...
Aug 07, 2023•43 min
