For some, the wonder of Christmas may wear off over the years as they revisit the familiar story that Jesus was born in the lowly stable in Bethlehem. But when we identify the theological realities that were at work when God sent his Son into the world, it can help us gain a fresh perspective on the wonder of Christmas. In this message, we explore the wonder of Christmas by recognizing Jesus is the key to God’s eternal plan of redemption. 

When we approach a holiday of Thanksgiving, it’s valuable to know that the Bible makes the case that believers in Jesus should be more thankful than anyone else. That’s true in all of life. And it’s true even when circumstances would initially seem we don’t have a lot to be thankful for. Join us for this study in God’s word as we develop a theology of thankfulness.

We live such fast-paced lives that when we finish one thing, we often just move on to the next thing without reflecting or taking note of what we’ve just done. However, as we conclude our study of John’s gospel, we’re going to take the time to review it and reflect on lessons God taught us through our study. As we do this, we share the mindset of the worshiping psalmist who wrote, “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” (Ps. 77:11)

Some people have certain expectations of what it’s going to be like to follow Jesus. But when their expectations aren’t met, they may turn back and stop following him. In the conclusion of the gospel of John, we learn from Jesus and John’s own comments what disciples should expect as they follow Jesus. Knowing these can help people continue walking with Jesus for their entire life.

We live in a label obsessed culture. There are useful labels that inform us on what is in our food and there are unfair and misleading labels that we tend to give ourselves or others. We exist in an environment that wants to know “how we identify” or what is our preferred pronoun. Our challenge as people created in God’s image is to somehow let His character mark us to the extent that He identifies himself in us. We’ll find out how to do that this Sunday.