This Sunday (Nov 18) I am going to speak about membership in a church, and whether it is necessary, helpful. Do I need to join a church in order to be a Christ-follower? What do you think?
Nov 13 — Jeremiah 2:20-37
Welcome to Nick Stevens, long-time member at Hope Church as well as Chair of the Hope Church Leadership Team. He will share his reflections on the readings from Jeremiah 1-6. SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 2:20-37 OBSERVATION: From verse 20 right through to verse 37, God gives example after example of Israel’s lack of regard for the God who saved…
Nov 12 — Jeremiah 2:1-19
Welcome to Nick Stevens, long-time member at Hope Church as well as Chair of the Hope Church Leadership Team. He will share his reflections on the readings from Jeremiah 1-6. SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 2:1-19 OBSERVATIONS: (Ver 1,2)The Lord has given Jeremiah more words to say in the hearing (city square?) of Jerusalem. (Ver 3-4) God recalls for his…
Nov 11 — Jeremiah 1:1-19
Welcome to Nick Stevens, long-time member at Hope Church as well as Chair of the Hope Church Leadership Team. He will share his reflections on the readings from Jeremiah 1-6. SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 1:1-19 OBSERVATION (ver 1-4) starts out with seemingly trying to give a very clear who, when, and where this is about right from the get…
Nov 10 — Acts 28:17-31
SCRIPTURE: Acts 28:17-31 OBSERVATION/APPLICATION: Paul starts with the Jews, like Jesus did, but also experiences the same response; a few believe but many do not. He witnesses to them from the Old Testament, trying to show them that what he believes is consistent with their beliefs, the hope of Israel. This is the last we hear…
More “What Is The Gospel”
I received a link to a website that addresses this very question, What Is The Gospel? Take the opportunity to explore further this foundational question. Thanks Brian! I hope to hear from more of you!
Nov 9 — Acts 28:1-16
SCRIPTURE: Acts 28:1-16 OBSERVATION/APPLICATION: The Lord provides. A warm reception, gracious hospitality and supplies for the journey. Christ-followers (“brothers”) in Puteoli, and more who traveled from Rome to meet Paul and escort him to the city. The Lord’s favour is with Paul, but not just for Paul’s comfort and ease, but for the Lord’s purpose. The…
Nov 8 — Acts 27:27-44
SCRIPTURE: Acts 27:27-44 OBSERVATION/APPLICATION: Once again I am struck by how calm and confident Paul is. In the midst of the storm, Paul leads them in a communion like meal, showing the others the grace and strength of God in Him. Th others are encouraged, not just by Paul’s courage, but by the calming presence of…
Nov 7 — Acts 27:1-26
SCRIPTURE: Acts 27:1-26 OBSERVATION/APPLICATION: This is a fascinating, well-written ‘play by play’ account of Paul’s journey to Rome. Paul doesn’t seem to be stressed by being sent to Rome. He does take the opportunity to say “I told you so” (v.21), but he encourages them to keep on hoping. Actually, Paul’s presence on the ship is…
Nov 6 — Acts 26:12-32
SCRIPTURE: Acts 26:12-32 OBSERVATION/APPLICATION: Here we see Paul’s evangelism skills in action. He speaks boldly yet graciously. He connects the coming of Jesus to the old covenant story of Israel. He highlights the need for eyes to be opened, repentance, turning from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to the power of God. He…