Migrated Media Library

Cloudy with a 100% chance of Fire

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

I am with you always, to the very end of this journey.
There has never been a more perfect and accurate forecast, "Cloudy with 100% Chance of Fire."

Light Ahead

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

When it's dark, you feel lost and you don't know which way to go, you can always know that there is "Light Ahead."

A Different Light

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A bright-spot in a very dark world"

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

You were once darkness. Now you are light! Now we get to be bright-spots in a very dark world!

We Need Light

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

When God says something, it has happen, just like when He said "Let there be light!" We need that light.

Light?

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feeling like you're in the dark?

Take a moment to think about light, what it means and what it means for the dark that you're feeling.

Godly Guidance

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Often when God gives us these choices, what God wants from us is trust. From there he would have us make a choice and move forward, trusting His "Godly Guidance."

Godly Guidance

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Often when God gives us these choices, what God wants from us is trust. From there he would have us make a choice and move forward, trusting His "Godly Guidance."

Step By Step

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Have big decisions ahead?

Dig into Matthew 2:19-23 and how God guides you "Step by Step."

Is This All In Your Head

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When Christmas seems like it's over so quickly, or that its a day where you've had all the special "feels" in the past but don't anymore, it can seem like it doesn't really play out in your real, everyday life. But when everything going on in Matthew 2:13-19 sinks into your head and your heart you can find a beautiful answer to the question, "Is This All In Your Head?"

Perspective

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

God looks things from heaven's perspective. He is the One who changes our perspective!

For God So Loved the World

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

All of this goes back to God and how much He loves us!

A Flashback Christmas

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What was God the Son doing before He became also fully human and was born on Christmas? Knowing that answer helps us better understand what happened at Christmas and what it all means for today!

Promised Star

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When we allow God to decorate our hearts, it doesn't matter who you are, God can make you a messenger of the incredible light that this star shines in our lives!

Here!

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

No matter where you are coming from this Christmas Eve, there is Something and Someone truly incredible right "HERE!"

A Real Christmas - Peace for the Broken

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

I don't think we'll fully understand the value of this gift until about 10,000 years from now, when we're still reaping the benefits of this gift!

Free From this Sinful World

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Our Savior came the first time to set us free from sin, our guilt and shame. We are looking forward to when He comes a second time to set us free from this sinful world!

Free From Temptation

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What is it that will actually set us free from temptation? Dig into Jude 24-25 and embrace how Jesus sets us "Free From Temptation."

Victory In View

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The battle is real. So is the victory. Embrace the freedom that Jesus is bringing to us and live with "Victory In View."

Free from the Curse of Sin

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Today might be the day when time gives way to eternity, we see our Savior return and we hear the promise come fulfilled "Today is the day you have been set free from the curse of sin!"

The Point of the Pain

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Even in the middle of the struggle, our experience can be different when we remember "The Point of the Pain."

Finally!

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

There is no way for us to comprehend but it would be good for us to try to imagine that day when Jesus brings back our freedom and we say "Finally!"

Life Is Looking Up!

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Let's be honest, we're surrounded by a lot of craziness in this world. But no matter what's going on around us, really, Life is Looking Up!

An Attitude of Gratitude

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Even when that attitude of gratitude has been missing in our heads and hearts, we have a God who still looks at us and says, "I love you."

Thankful for Everything?

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When tests have been coming at you from every direction, are you thankful for everything? James 1:2-4 can change the way you answer that question, filling you with perspective and encouragement whenever a test comes your way!

The Reign of Christ the King

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This special collection of sermonettes takes you through the life of Christ!

What Your Life Is Missing

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When the challenges of life meet the big story of God, encouragement and hope can actually come from those moments where we're reminded of "What Your Life is Missing."

Help Is...

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes help is...painful. Help may not always come like you ask, but help will come.

The Storm before the Calm

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

As we anticipate future events in our lives, whether positive or negative, one of the biggest challenges we face is the waiting.

Audio

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

My Worst Enemy

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus gave us the proof of His love, that no matter what challenge we face & what demon we might be running from, there's one enemy we can conquer, even if it is ourselves.

Are You Sure?

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What if the answer God wants to give us is bigger than the question we're asking? Dig into John 20:24-25 and transform those moments when you ask, "Are You Sure?"

Deliver Us from Evil

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We don't move an inch without our Savior running out in front of us!

Backstage Pass

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

A heavy dose of reality and incredibly encouraging truth, that's the behind the scene glimpse we get when we take a hold of this "Backstage Pass."

To stand against evil we must first get down on our knees

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Not only did our Savior conquer evil for us, He taught us how to stand up to it!

Go There?

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Some places & paths in life seem pretty dark and scary and yet they are exactly where God is calling us to go. As we dig into John 11:8, Jesus shines a light on every time we find ourselves questioning, "Go There?"

Gospel Conclusions-Static Peace, Dynamic Joy

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

You're walking out into a world where you are going to suffer, but what do we know? We have Gospel conclusions that we don't just hear, but believe and live!

Older, not Better

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

You might be older. You might be wiser but you are certainly not better.

Washing Up

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

At first glance it looked like the big miracle was giving a blind man his sight, but the bigger miracle was to give the man his spiritual eyes!

Puzzled

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When life is just a lot and things get complicated, bring the pieces to Jesus. He makes it so we can be beautifully "Puzzled."

Dangerous Words

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

From love and with faith let's speak some very positive "Dangerous Words."

IM possible

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

It's one thing to know that God can do anything. It's another thing to live it. No matter where we've been in our faith, we have a God who has done and continues to do the seemingly im possible.

Seeing Jesus

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In the middle of the chaos, where are you looking? Jesus is right there with you, do you see Him?

Never Lose Heart

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

So you're exhausted and it's not just because life is crazy, it's been rough. You may even be wondering why God has been relating to you the way He has. Jesus may not answer your questions the way you want, but He does give you what you need to "Never Lose Heart."

Half the Battle

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

There will be moments where you hear Jesus say, "Come."
When you do, may you let go, step out of the boat and walk on water!

Let's Go!

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Red Light or Green Light Faith?
The call of Jesus is not primarily about saying no to things but about saying yes to the life He has for us. Dig into Matthew 14:29a and hear Jesus say, "Let's Go!"

Followers of Christ Are Armed for Battled

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus doesn't just teach us about help, about hope, about peace, about new life, Jesus delivers it. Guest Preacher, Prof. Joel Russow, shares a message from Mark 9:14-27.

Miserably Saved

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Life is hard. But are we making it harder than it needs to be? Jesus has made it so we don't need to live "Miserably Saved."

Reaching the End of Your Rope

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes God lets us reach the end of our rope so we reach for the end of His. There we find both help and healing in the wings of our Savior!

Who Do You Think You Are?

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What's been holding you back from God and others has been healed. Jesus has transformed how we answer the question, "Who Do You Think You Are?"

When It's Hard to Trust

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When we hit these multilayered, confusing, challenging tests of faith, it's not about our doubts, it's about what we believe.

The Problems with Worry

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Worry has many problems. Thankfully, God has given us the one and only solution!

Don't Worry! God is Committed to You

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

God's Word is filled with His promises. He has redeemed us, summoned us by name, we are His!

Following Jesus - He Has the Words of Eternal Life

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Joel Russow's puts the well-known verse "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15, into context as we, by faith, follow Jesus - even in this fallen, broken world.

The Private Tests

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Our good and loving God gives us both wisdom and patience as we are called upon to exercise our faith, even in the most personal and private tests of faith.

It's OK to Ask How

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The impossible can always happen when God is doing the work.

Living Curious

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

A message of trust in God that He knows what He is doing whether we might think so or not.

The Greatness Code

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We're all captivated by greatness and in one way or another, want to experience something great. But what does true greatness look like, where does it come from and how do we embrace it? Dig into Malachi 3:10 and discover "The greatness Code."

Earning God's Respect

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Thank God our relationship depends on Him, and not us. But we have a part in this relationship too - He rescued us, so we not only say "thank you", but we want to show Him our love, trust and, most of all, our respect.

Your Move

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

With the thousands of decisions you make everyday, may you face your fear, figure them out, abandon your own strength and place your life in the hands of the all loving God!

Is It Destiny?

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We will encounter challenges in this life that lead us to feel uncertain about God's will. But, like Esther, God has placed believers in our lives who can more clearly see what our destiny is in these difficult situations.

My Big Fat Mouth

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Are there things that come out of your mouth, run through your mind or hang around in your heart that really shouldn't? We don't need to be afraid of those things when we realize how God responds to "My Big Fat Mouth."

The Right Question

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The next time you find yourself in a tough situation, maybe a Job moment, and you're dying to ask God a question, go ahead, ask the question. Just make sure you're asking the right question!

Big Boys (and Girls) Do Cry

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Only through the love and truth of the Lord are we blessed in this life. Until we rest in His eternal kingdom, may He teach us that it is OK for big boys, and girls, to cry out to Him in faith.

Help and Helplessness

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The same God who worked miracles in a small prayer from King Hezekiah is the same God who works through our prayers today. A message from Guest Preacher, Dr. Brian Klebig, from 2 Chronicles 32:20

Fighting Our Greatest Enemy

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Although we may be our own greatest enemy as we go our own way in this world, thank God that He is our Rescuer and our Savior!

Pray to the Lord of the Harvest for His Workers

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

As the busy-ness of life distracts us, may we never become blind to the people around us. May we see the crowd, as Jesus did, and share God's love and His forgiveness through Jesus with them.

Lifeline

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We have an awful sense of direction in life and unfortunately so often go our own way. Thankfully, our God lovingly and patiently reminds us that we have a "Lifeline."

The Scenic Route

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Detours can be difficult, frustrating and scary. But when we remember what we have seen from God all along the way, we'll be better prepared to embrace what's ahead. What's ahead is worth it, even if it means taking "The Scenic Route."

Fear vs Fear

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Is fear a bad thing or a good thing? There's a special kind of fear that actually defeats every other fear. Dig into Exodus 20:20 and see what happens with "Fear vs Fear."

The Choice is Yours?

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Seminary Student, Skyler Hepler leads us in a study from the book of Joshua reminding us of the choice we have between ourselves and what we think is right and our God who is always right.

Walk the Walk

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

As we walk the walk of faith, remember THIS life is not the destination, we are on the way to the promised land. And when we fail a test of faith, go to the cross. Jesus has paid for every fall we've made.

The Gospel is Bearing Fruit and Growing

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Does God's Word have impact? Jesus says, "Yes!" Don't go by appearances, like the scattered seeds or the tiny mustard seed. It is His word, His message, His voice. He is teaching us to trust it. Guest Preacher, Prof. Joel Russow shares a message from Mark 4:26-34.

Practicing Patience

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

There will be a day of freedom when we can see how the plans God had were so much better than the plans we had. Until that day, we have the opportunity to be practicing patience.

Not A Hostage

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

You may have been here before but you are not stuck here. Through Jesus, in this test you can embrace the freedom of knowing you are "Not A Hostage."

The First Test

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

God offers us the opportunity to become what He created us to be with each and every one of these tests, starting with the first.

The Opportunity of Your Life

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

There's risk...but it's worth it! Jesus gives you the ability to take hold of "The Opportunity of Your Life."

God's Plan to Save

Sun, 26 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We have reason to rejoice because, through Jesus, we are forgiven and He fights for us.

With Us

Sun, 26 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

It's one thing for us to want to be with our God. It's another thing for our God to choose to be with us!

Time To Clean House

Sun, 19 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

You and I are the Temple of God. It's not a bad idea for us to look around to take stock and see what kind of shape this house is in. Christian is not just something we call ourselves, it's who we are.

The Living Room

Sun, 19 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

It reshapes how you see yourself, your life and the world around you when you learn what God sees as "The Living Room."

A Love Like No Other

Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Every single one of us needs more of that kind of love, a love like no other.

The Heartbeat of God

Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Wherever you find yourself mentally, emotionally and spiritually today, there is One who is everything you need. Listen closely and hear "The Heartbeat of God."

Happy Death Day

Sun, 05 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Lord, would you not only remind me but empower me to live the life that You created me to live, for Your glory and our good. If that is our prayer, than we certainly have every reason to say "Happy Death Day."

When God Calls You Out

Sun, 05 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

There's already been a funeral for that. You can leave it behind and step into what's ahead "When God Calls You Out."

Confident Living

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

God asks us to trust Him all of the time. It's time that we to get to the starting line - and live confidently!

A Change in the Air

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Do you feel that? Something's different. Something is happening. It's impacting you and transforming how you live. Dig into Acts 20:24 and tune into "A Change in the Air."

Building a Better Life

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Have you noticed all the new construction? There's new growth all over the place! That's because the risen Jesus is "Building A Better Life."

The Jesus' Way

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Living the Jesus way - for today and for eternity!

Unstoppable

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When life turns up the heat and keeps coming at us, sometimes it can start to feel like hope is lost. Yet, when we dig into Ezra 9:9 in light of the resurrection, we can see that Jesus has given us a life that really is "Unstoppable."

Restoration

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Easter gives us new life! It's not just a one day event. We get to begin to embrace what it means to have "Newer Life" as well.

New View

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Does it seem like Easter has made you new, or do things seem the same? Whether we see it in the moment or not, the resurrection really has made you new and as we dig into 2 Corinthians 5:17 we can gain a "New View."

To Be Alive...

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Just because you're breathing, it doesn't mean you're really living. The Resurrection doesn't just mean that we'll breath again, but it makes it possible for us truly "To Be Alive..."

Now Serving

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What and who are "Now Serving" can literally give you new and renewed life. Learn how by digging into Jesus' Last Supper with His disciples as recorded in Luke 22:14-27.

Piety with a Purpose

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The more we give it away, the more we have....
...dig into Mark 14:3-9 and discover what is at the heart of "Piety With A Purpose."

The Heart of it All

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Are you really hearing what it is that changes EVERYTHING? Dig into Mark 14:3-9 and get to "The Heart of it All."

The Invitation

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What are they all about - this lesson, our worship, our lives as Christians? Dig into Luke 14:1-14 and embrace "The Invitation."

The Masks We Wear

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

We thank our Triune God for His words of life and of love - for they alone drive away all fear and help us to take off the masks we wear.

Being Mary in a Martha World

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Being Mary in a Martha world means that when the world around us operates in a system of false guilt, we have a Savior who says, "Not only are you good enough, but I came to make you perfect!"

Deep Clean

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

You might be looking good on the outside but how are things on the inside?
It's harder to look deep within but it's what matters most. Thankfully, Jesus brings us the "Deep Clean."

Faith Looks to Jesus

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Numbers 21:4-9
3.3.24 Message from Fort Atkinson
Guest Preacher, Prof. Joel Russ...

Ear to Ear

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

What you hear can have such an impact on you. But what's going on inside of you can have such an impact on what you hear. Jesus is speaking words of life to us and it makes all the difference "Ear to Ear."

What Is He Thinking?

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Do we ever really grow out of caring about what others think of us?
Whether it's the thoughts others have about us, the thoughts we have about others or the way we think about ourselves, there are much better thoughts that come from someone far greater for us to consider. Ask yourself, "What Is He Thinking?"

Like vs. Love

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Take a second look at how we interact with "those people", regardless of what they look like or the assumptions we've made about them. They are also lost children who need the love of our God. Love them, but also like them.

Supper with Sinners

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Our God not only invites us to sit down at the table with all the other sinners, but also encourages us to invite them to sit with us as well!

Reclaimed - Resetting the Table

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus is not afraid to be associated with anyone or anything. He meets you right where you are and them right where they are. He came that we might be reclaimed by how He's resetting the table.

The Value of Death

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Whether the calendar says Valentines Day or Ash Wednesday, we can celebrate the true holiday of God's love and how He brings value to death in order to give us our lives back!

Dying to Live

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

It's not about beating yourself up or sitting in sadness. It's about life. Embrace what the season is all about and see how in Jesus we are "Dying to Live."

It Is Good to be Here

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The God who was with Elijah would also be with Elisha - and is with each of us today! A message from guest preacher Prof. Joel Russow, from 2 Kings 2:1-12.

When Our Religion gets in the Way of our Faith

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In the final sermon in our A-Ha Series, we see God's glory in the transfiguration of Jesus. Today we see glimpses of God's glory in our lives and in His love for us - bless us to reflect His glory to a disadvantaged world beset with sin.

Jesus Cares about our Heads and our Hearts

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus certainly cares just as much about our heads as He does our hearts!

Not as Far as You Might Think

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When you're nowhere near where you want to be, feeling confused, disappointed, sad, angry or wondering what you did wrong, Jesus has some good news for you....
...what you're longing for is "Not As Far as You Might Think."

OUI (operating under the influence)

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

May we be an influence in the lives of those who need the truth of the love of Jesus while at the same time refusing to be influenced by the confusion and deceptions of the world.

Your Attention Please

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Yes it takes some thought, but once you realize what's been going on in your mind and in your heart and turn your attention to the One who changes it all, it's completely worth it! Jesus is calling for "Your Attention Please."

People Perspective

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Everyday and every interaction can be completely changed when you have this "People Perspective."

Fighting Impatience

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Even though we look forward to entering the kingdom of glory, God says "Just wait." He asked us to share the life-saving Gospel that has given meaning and purpose to our lives with others.

Underestimating Jesus

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

As amazing as it is that we know Jesus, it may be even more amazing to know that He knows us and that we never need to underestimate our Jesus.

Surprise!

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When you're in a place where you might least expect it, you can see Jesus!

The Epiphany of Our Lord

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Guest preacher, Prof. Joel Russow, shares an Epiphany message from Matthew 2.

Light vs Dark

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

When we find ourselves in dark places, God's answer may not be easy...
but it is powerful when we see in Jesus "Light vs Dark."

The Road Before You

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This new year, truly embrace what God has placed on "The Road Before You."

Big Plans?

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When making big plans for the future, make sure the biggest plan of all is to choose to submit every part of your plans to God's will and trust only in Him.

He Doesn't...

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Krause's Christmas Day message from Fort Atkinson campus.

The Christmas Spirit

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Whether you feel it or not, the same Spirit that was at work in the first Christmas story is at work in you today. You have the Christmas Spirit!

The Coming King

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

It might all look the same, but life really has changed because of "The Coming King."

Waiting Is the Hardest Part

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Son of God has made a promise to us. He will come again. Yes - Amen!

The End

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus has made a promise that stands not just for that day, but everyday until then. He is with us.

Seize the Day

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Embracing that Day transforms how you live today! Dig into 2 Peter 3:10-14 and see how God would have you truly "Seize the Day!"

Be Ready! Be Busy! Be Sheep!

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When thinking about what's ahead, don't lose sight of what God calls us to right now. "Be Ready! Be Busy! Be Sheep!"

The King Shall Come - Prepare to Meet Him

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Guest Preacher, Prof. Joel Russow, shares an Advent message from Mark 1:1-8. John the Baptist points to Jesus, the only solution to a world corrupted by sin, Who offers complete forgiveness.

The Lost Art of Listening

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When it comes to Jesus and His coming, may we especially practice "The Lost Art of Listening."

Rescue Realized

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

We are a people and a world in need of rescue. Thankfully Jesus came to do exactly that! Dig into Isaiah 51:4-6 and embrace "Rescue Realized"

Focus

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you come to those turning points where you can either follow your own will or God's, may you submit your will to His, stay focused on what Jesus has done for you and be with Him!

Because of Your Love

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus is calling you today. You can confidently respond, "Yes, Lord, I will follow, because of Your Love."

Why? Say Thank You!

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Saying "thank you" is more than just practicing good manners. It makes a real impact! Learn "Why? Say Thank You!"

Sometimes the Old Ways are Best

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Saying "thank you," from the heart, is not just the old way, it's God's way!

We Yearn for What will Be

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

How do we deal with grief? What about anxiety as we face death? We look to the hope only found in Jesus, our great Healer and Comforter!
Guest Preacher, Prof. Joel Russow at our Fort Atkinson campus

Light Switch

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you're in the dark where it seems like God is absent and not doing anything good, everything can change with the "Light Switch."

The Search

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You may not find what you've been looking for...
but you can find what you need. Look to Jesus in "The Search."

I Need a Sign

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The only sure thing we can count on is God's word. We don't need to stress out looking for signs. Jesus has already given us everything we need!

What Do You Need?

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You need help. What's holding you back from asking? Jesus is right here asking you, "What do you need?"

Mercy!

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus, who has the power to do what we need, also has the heart to do it for us. He gives to us His miracle of mercy.

No Turning Back

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Once you know the truth of God's Word, you know that it's not only worth dying for, but living for!

Have You Heard Enough?

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you're finding yourself confused or discouraged in your faith, remember what Jesus has said, remind yourself of what He has done and ask yourself, "Have You Heard Enough?"

Followers of Christ Have Powerful Allies

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

No matter what is happening in our lives and in our world, Jesus wins - through His life, through His death and through His resurrection! And because He wins, we win!

Jesus Heals a Short Man

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May God empower us to tell everyone we can that Jesus is waiting to come into their hearts and homes - just like Jesus did for this short man.

Meditating on God's Word

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Guest preacher Pastor Charles Degner takes us through a study of Psalm 1.

Crying Your Heart Out

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What's that around your heart? Sometimes we put up a barrier around our heart that keeps the Gospel message from really sinking in, transforming us and flowing into our lives. Thankfully, Jesus meets us right there and reminds us of how beautiful it can be to "Cry Your Heart Out."

Well?

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Some questions come from a place of feeling distant from God. When these questions are brought to Jesus, His answers can change everything!

Obstacle or Opportunity?

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In a world that loves to hate, only Jesus is able to build a bridge of love between God, us and each other!

Finding the Courage to be Honest with Ourselves

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

We often allow our hearts and lives to be ruled by fear. Don't just live, forgetting Who made us alive. Find the courage to truly live and enjoy the blessings He gives us. Live the truth and share that truth with the world.

The Power to Change

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Uncomfortable? Yes. Difficult? Probably. Worth it? Absolutely! Dig into John 3:1-9 where we gain insight to embrace and recognize "The Power to Change" in our lives.

Robbing God or Robbing Ourselves?

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

It's not really about what's been in our hands, but what is in our hearts.

Overflow - Living Out the Blessings of God

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Want to find out just what God can do with your life? Trust Him with it!

Blended - Good Things Gone Wrong

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Even good things can turn into a mess. Thankfully, Jesus sets everything right when life gets blended and good things have gone wrong.

Believers are Willing to Say Hard Things

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

We're willing to say those hard things because of God's love for us and ultimately for His glory!

MasterMind

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Making Decisions can be awfully hard! Not only do we struggle to know the best choice, but our minds are naturally mastered by some destructive influences. Thankfully, we have a God Who has overcome the sinful mind and has already begun to rewire the way we think and approach decisions!

Smarts or Hearts - Making Better Decisions

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Decisions not only have a major affect on us but on those around us. It makes sense then that we'd want to find the most efficient way to make Godly decisions. It turns out it's not either or. It's smarts and hearts.

Don't Drink the Poison

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

It's destroying you... and you don't even know it. There's something subtle but deadly going on in our lives. Thankfully, God's Word not only reveals the danger but meets us with the solution. We can embrace life when we hear God say, "Don't Drink the Poison."

Life Is a Battle, Fight!

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Instead of sinful pride, replace it with Godly confidence, thanking Him for our gifts and talents, and for those things which we, by His grace, accomplish in this life.

Is God to Blame?

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Blame Game comes naturally for us. Thankfully, because of Jesus, we're free to respect God, practice our faith and leave the blame game behind!

Catching Fire

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Dangerously Good & Powerful. A fire can be dangerous, not because it's inherently bad but because it's so good and powerful. What could happen to our lives when, through Jesus, we encounter our ultimately good & powerful God?

Contribute or Commit?

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May the Lord help us to treasure all the people in our lives - to do far more than simply be passive actors in the lives of others. May He help us to commit ourselves â€“ first to Him and then to each other.

Beat Your Chest in Confession

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

There are times in our live when we have to say "My bad!" What comfort to know that we have a God who has mercy on us and sent His Son to live the perfect life we couldn't.

Like Father, Like Son

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Seminary student Skyler Hepler brings us the message from our Fort Atkinson campus. Born with the inherited sinful nature of Adam, God's grace through Jesus Christ, overflows to cover every sin we commit.

Rise to Your Role

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Every day we face a turning point. Step forward in faith and see how God can bless you in this life before He hands to you the gift of eternal life - be encouraged to rise to your role.

Survival Skills

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Enemy Doesn't Always Look Like the Enemy. It may look harmless, but the enemy might actually be settling in right next to you. Detect the enemy. Take hold of the victory through Jesus and embrace your "Survival Skills."

Moldy Bread

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Trust God and His Word when making decisions. Everything the world offers is just moldy bread.

The Right Question

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Trade the negative of fear for the positive of faith!

Looks Can Be Deceiving

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The plans we have are no longer based around fear but around a sure and certain hope!

Jesus, The Friend Who Gives...

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you're weary because it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, you can find rest in "Jesus, the Friend Who Gives..."

What Did I Do?

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for freedom and confidence today, ask yourself...
"What Did I Do?"

Our Real False god (FA)

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Some masks & coverups are fun. Others are damaging.

Our Real False god (CG)

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Things we pursue for security's sake, like money, entertainment - or even family, can mask who we are. But God offers us a different covering - the white robe of righteousness. It doesn't cover who we are, but fundamentally changes who we are inside.

Our Wisdom, God's Wisdom, and the Wisdom of Others

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Throughout the Bible God redirects us from our own wisdom to seeking His wisdom. As soon as we look outside of ourselves we see that Jesus has risen, the tomb is empty and our eternity is secure.

Using Good Judgement

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Moses received wise counsel from his father-in-law in today's study of Exodus 18:24-26. Pastor Krause directs us to Solomon and the Book of Proverbs for some guidance in making good decisions.

What To Do When Faith Fails?

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

For when there's an enemy coming after you and an apparent dead end in front of you... Here's "What To Do When Faith Fails."

Practice Makes Perfect

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Don't look at the new problem as something you can't deal with. Recognize it as an opportunity to practice trusting God because "practice makes perfect"!

Live Courageously in Christ

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

God is greater than our hearts. God is greater than our burdens. Live courageously in Christ! Guest Pastor Prof. Joel Russow shares a message from Genesis 39:6b-10.

In My Hands

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

God has entrusted you with some incredible gifts. Ask yourself, what am I going to do with what God has placed, "In My Hands?"

One Plus One

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Like Jacob, God comes to us with His tremendously loving heart, allowing these turning points in our lives to teach us this truth, it's better to trust in Him than ourselves!

Calibrate Your Compass

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When life puts you in a challenging situation, what guides your next step? It's time to "Calibrate Your Compass."

Trust Fall Exercise

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you face that "turning point" moment this week, try this.... trust God!

Actually, We're a Lot Like Abraham

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In those moments where it's difficult to trust God, in more ways than one, "Actually, We're A Lot Like Abraham."

Who's Driving?

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You're turning red, heating up and feeling down.... in those moments ask yourself, "Who's Driving?"

Rule, or be Ruled!

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Krause kick-starts our new "Turning Points" Trinity season series with a study of Genesis 4:3-7.

The Day of Pentecost: Comforted by the Work of the Holy Spirit

Sun, 28 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Guest preacher Prof. Joel Russow shares a Pentecost message from Ezekiel 37:1-14.

The Fight to Flourish

Sun, 28 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

We all want to live a full, abundant life. But there's something that fights against us.
Dig into 2 Timothy 1:13-14 and embrace the victory God gives us in "The Fight to Flourish."

A change For Good

Tue, 23 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Something has changed. Your life is under a different authority now. Step forward and embrace what Jesus has done, how He has given you "A Change For Good."

Re-Genesis

Sun, 21 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Resurrection overcomes the power of the law, sin & death and puts us right back in the garden, to begin again!

Same, But Different

Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

As you sit at the empty tomb, God wants to not only look forward to the resurrection, but know Easter is at work in you right now!

The Final Say

Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When it comes to your life.... and this moment.... ask yourself, "Who has the final say?"

Seeing Easter in You

Sun, 07 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What you see when you look in the mirror is more than just a reflection of your appearance, it's an indication of the direction of your life. Dig into Romans 6:5-7 and begin "Seeing Easter In You."

A-HA

Sun, 07 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

With the help of the Holy Spirit we are now aware of how sin harms us and can leave behind the ways of death and embrace the blessings of this new life Easter offers us.

The Value of Death

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

We know what the resurrection means for the future, but what is it doing for me and in me right now?

It's raised me to new life but first, it teaches me the "Value of Death."

Death to Life

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When the ultimate bad thing is used to achieve the ultimate good...
...God works "Death to Life."

Fresh Start

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you've been trying to fix it, trying so hard to make things better, but nothing seems to work...
...the resurrection of Jesus means that right now you can actually have a "Fresh Start!"

Remade

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

God wants to remake you!

We Testify about the Power and Peace of Jesus' Resurrection

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

There is nothing in the world that offers what I can only find in Jesus - the promise of the resurrection, the promise that I am forgiven, the promise that this faith matters and has a foundation in truth.

Testify

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

No matter what lies ahead of you, the resurrected Jesus can empower you to boldly "Testify."

All the Words

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Some days change your life forever.
Some days change the world forever.
Easter is one of those days!

Love Means Freedom (FA)

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What makes Good Friday good?

Do You Hear That?

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The sounds of Easter mean something incredible for you and your life today. Have your mind and heart tuned into the meaning behind all you heard Easter Sunday with a study of Acts 5:17-20

Love Means Freedom (CG)

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What's been keeping you from all that God wants to give you? Good Friday is how God removed that barrier - because Good Friday is all about God's love, and "Love Means Freedom."

Love is Filled with Hope (FA)

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What you are hoping for in the future, actually transforms your life now! Dig into 1 John 3:1-3 and see the beauty of how "Love Is Filled With Hope."

Love Is Filled With Hope (CG)

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The hope of Palm Sunday - our hope is built on the love of Jesus for His Father as He does His Father's will. Our hope is built on the perfect love of God the Father, which enables us to do the one thing for which we were created - to be in a relationship with God and with each other.

Love Means New Life

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When life just isn't quite right...
Remember Jesus. Remember His love. Remember that "Love Means New Life."

Love Lives Forever (FA)

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Wouldn't today be a beautiful day if you shared with the people around you the one thing that not only touches our hearts, but makes this life and the next worth living? One thing will do that. The kind of love, God's love, that will last forever!

Love Lives Forever (CG)

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Will you lose everything that you love? It doesn't have to be that way. You can take hold of a life that really lasts because your God loves you and "Love Lives Forever."

Love Is Meant to be Lived (FA)

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What does God's love have to do with your life? Everything! Dig into 1 John 2:9-14 to see how "Love Is Meant to Be Lived."

Love Is Meant to be Lived (CG)

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Givers of light and love. That's our role. How do we get started? By receiving light and love from God Himself!

Love Hates Lies (FA)

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

God wants you to love the world, not for it's lies... but because you know the truth, and the world desperately needs it!

Love Hates Lies (CG)

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

God loves you too much to be okay with you settling for a fake life. Not only does He want you to have the real deal, but He is where you find real life.

Love Lives in the Light (FA)

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

"Lord, bring me into Your light, that I might experience Your life and Your love!"

Love Lives in the Light (CG)

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You're not really living if you're "living" in the dark. Thankfully, you can step out of the darkness because "Love Lives In the Light."

Love Means Returning to Dust

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The one thing you probably never thought to repurpose....

Watch this year's Ash Wednesday message to learn how God repurposed death because "Lent Means Love."

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Honor and Glory

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You are invited to participate in God's glory, not just in the future, but today! See what this glory looks like with a Transfiguration message from 2 Peter 1:16-18.

In Honor and Glory

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

It transforms the way you see yourself, your life and the world around you. Dive into the Transfiguration (transforming of appearance) of Jesus with a study of 2 Peter 1:16-18 and see Jesus revealed "In Honor & Glory."

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Discipleship

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Salvation isn't the end. It's the beginning! Learn how Jesus' glory is revealed in us, His disciples!

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Prophecy

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes we might wonder, "Where's the proof? Where's the evidence?" Listen closely to the Word of God and you will hear every prophesy and promise fulfilled!

In Prophecy

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You might not have expected this...
...and you certainly don't know what all lies ahead...
...but you can trust in the God who has the knowledge and ability to work all things for your good and His glory. Just remember how Jesus is revealed "In Prophecy."

Jesus' Glory Revealed by the Father

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Guest preacher, Prof. Sam Degner shares this Epiphany message from Matthew 16:13-17

By the Father

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What's shaping your view of Jesus? When we see Jesus revealed "By the Father," not only does it reshape how we view Him, but how we see our entire life of faith!

In Judgement

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

If you could see God's face in this moment, how would He be looking at you? You might be surprised and amazed by what you would see, because of what is revealed to us about Jesus "In Judgment."

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Judgement

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May the Holy Spirit keep us from making false judgements as we look at others, that we may be filled with His power to share God's message of love.

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Miracles

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The miracle of faith gives us our life back! Count your miracles!

In Miracles

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

You need a miracle. We all do. There are situations in our lives and in this world that we have no power to fix. But when you find yourself in the dark because you have no idea what to do, remember how Jesus was revealed "In Miracles."

Jesus' Glory Revealed in Baptism

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The more we recognize the Glory of Christ, the more we'll come to realize and appreciate that God's glory is meant to shine in our hearts! We begin the Epiphany season by seeing "Jesus' Glory Revealed in Baptism."

In Baptism

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When you're surrounded by darkness, it's amazing what light you'll find, when you see how Jesus is revealed "In Baptism."

A Glimpse of Hope

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When there's a battle before you and challenges around you, everything can change with just "A Glimpse of Hope."

Echoes of Christmas

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

What does Eve's temptation have to do with Christmas? God wants our affections directed away from false gods that make us happy for the moment to focus on Him, His love. He wants to give us a new heart this New Year.

Three Wise Gifts

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Presence (meet the King who gives us back our lives)
Presents (offer our greatest treasures to Him)
Pre-sense (listen to His warnings so we are safe in our faith)

Through Angel Eyes

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When you get a little older and roles change a bit, Christmas can look completely different. How, different then, might Christmas look from the perspective of the angels? What insights might they give us to the birth of Christ and what it means to the world? Get a glimpse of what Christmas looks like "Through Angel Eyes."

A Big Promise

Sat, 24 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God paid attention to every detail when He fulfill His promise to send a Savior. If He kept this big promise, know that He will keep all of His promises - to give us courage, to not let us fall, to guide us and to love us. Now and in eternity.

A New Life is Born

Sat, 24 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When Jesus was born, people were living ordinary, everyday lives. Except for Mary, Joseph and a few shepherds, no one else knew that the Savior had been born! When God comes into our everyday lives it doesn't look spectacular - it looks like love, it looks like resurrected lives, it looks like our forever, but also our today.

You Promised - Love

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

In the hard moments.... when it feels like too much....
...that's when love does it's best work. You can cast it all to God, because He has promised you "Love."

You Promised to Guide Me

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When you feel lost, you can move forward knowing that God promised "To Guide Me."

To Not Let Me Fall

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Our Big God doesn't just want us to trust Him with the big things. We can have faith that our Big God will come through in the everyday little things too!

Faith: That You Won't Let Me Fall

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When the path of life is shaky or there's danger around you....
...remind yourself, I can look to the One who has promised me "Faith: That You Won't Let Me Fall."

Courage (Fort Aktinson)

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

There is so much that the world is throwing at us. But in the face of it all, God, "You promised to give me courage!"

Courage (Cottage Grove)

Sun, 27 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When you're afraid to move forward....
or don't know what to do....
...there's God, who has promised to give you "Courage."

Not Thankful, Thankful

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Are there times in your life where you are not thankful? Maybe we all need a change in perspective!

Thank YOU!

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

I am thankful for YOU!

What Do You See?

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When you look at your life, it looks average. Jesus is IN the average - look for Him. When life doesn't make sense - look for Jesus there. And one day, we will see Jesus in all His glory - for eternity!

Nobody, Everybody, Somebody

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Ever feel like you're nobody, because you listen to the devil, the world or even what goes on in your own head? God's grace says you are His child, the empty tomb confirms His love for you! You ARE somebody!

Hope Restored

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It's hard, when you've lost something or someone important.
But Jesus has made it so you can live with "Hope Restored."

Redeemable

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

You may fall... but God can restore!

Prison Break

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It's time to break out of prison... the prison of fear!

Crazy Faith

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Hard to believe... and that's exactly the point! God has done and continues to do reality-rocking work. He's given us "Crazy Faith."

Ready or Not

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Opportunity is in front of you. What's your response? God can transform you and the world whether you're "Ready Or Not."

Reformation or Transformation

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

From the beginning, God has always wanted our hearts!

If

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A wall or a bridge. Everything changes based on the "If." Philemon 8-11 reminds us how we get to have a truly counter-cultural view of people and ability to restore relationships because of Jesus.

The Great Escape

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

An epic story of forgiveness, love and reunion. God is still working through us today for the good of His Kingdom and love for one another!

Be Extraordinary

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Now, restored by Your gift of faith, lead us to be so much more than the world tells us, or than we often tell ourselves. Make us warrior champions who, with Your authority, speak Your powerful truth to those who need it.

Sometimes Lonely, but Never Alone

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

People are feeling more disconnected than ever before. Thankfully, while you may sometimes feel lonely, you're never alone!

Friending

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Loneliness is real. But so is the power of "Friending!"

You Can't Cancel Real Truth

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God asks us to speak His truth with a loving and compassionate heart, much like our Savior did. His truth gives us life, it offers meaning and purpose to our lives and is meant to be shared with others.

God Bless

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

This one truth can change the way you see everything in your life! Dig into 1 Chronicles 4:10 to see how God created us to thrive and continues to work that we might have real, full, life!

Where Did That Come From?

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Pain - physical, emotional or spiritual - is a consequence of sin. Looking to Jesus and His cross, we have hope! Because of Jesus, we now have direct access to bring our pain to our heavenly Father, trusting that He will work these things for our good.

Making a Difference

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God designed us - recreated us through the gift of faith - to be in a helpful relationship with others, to make a difference in their lives. Not for fame or glory, but to show the love of Christ.

All In a Day's Work

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Reminder: You are truly amazing! God created you with a purpose for a purpose!

God's Dreams in Your Heart

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It's fun to dream about what you'd like to see happen in your life. But you know what's even better? Discovering what God has planned for your life! Dig into Exodus 35:30-35 to learn how to recognize "God's Dreams In Your Heart."

Overcoming Fear

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

We all know what it's like to be afraid. Thankfully, God makes it possible for us to be victorious "Overcoming Fear."

When God Calls You Out

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God encourages us to step forward and carry His name to those around us, even to people or places that may scare us. Embrace the challenge "When God Calls You Out"!

Influencers

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

There Is An Opportunity Right in Front of You! You don't have to go viral on the internet or be in a position of power to make an impact. God loves to work through people like us, right where we are, to carry out His work. He makes us "Influencers."

Reckless Love

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Before Jesus showed us the greatest example of reckless love by submitted Himself at the cross, He showed us how to love by running to sinners and the unclean instead of avoiding them.

Second Chances

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Holy Spirit has blessed us with faith, but spiritual apathy is a killer. Are we going to live our faith or let it die? Praise God, every day He offers us a second chance!

What Do You Think?

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Instead of answering... ask... "what do you think?"
It's amazing how much things can change when you approach them from God's perspective!

The Other Judas

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What if what you thought you knew was all wrong? Thankfully God is able to open our eyes to see Jesus clearly, like He did with "The Other Judas."

In The Shadow

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Even when it feels like there's a dark shadow over our lives of faith...

...Jesus is able to bring light "In the Shadow!"

Life or Death (You Choose)

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

There may be a time where you are faced with the challenge of laying down your life for another.If that time comes, remember, you are so valuable to God that He chose you!

Life or Death

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Just as God raised up Shiphrah and Puah to deliver Hebrew babies from the genocide planned for them, God raised up Jesus to deliver us from sin, death and the devil. Pastor Klebig takes us through a lesson from Exodus 1:16-18.

Wrangling Donkeys

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The next time God puts an opportunity in front of you, don't be afraid. Know you can do it! You can gain some confidence as you are "Wrangling Donkeys."

Them's Fightin' Words

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When the tension is rising....
...you may be exactly where God wants you to be! Spend some time in Mark 11:4-6 and see how we get to embrace a life of "Them's Fightin' Words."

Response-Ability

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It's natural to point fingers at others, but there's a better way! Because of Jesus, you can take hold of your "Response-Ability."

A Good Wife

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Abigail was willing to step in to rescue those who did not deserve it. A perfect example of what Jesus has done for us.

Silent Service

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

May we have humble heart to serve when called up, so that Your grace may work through us to be a blessing to others.

A Friend in Need!

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes as we face a world that seems to be deaf to the Word and ways of God, He blesses us with a Christian friend to walk beside us, just like Ittai walked with David in 2 Samuel 15:19-22.

Illogical Loyalty

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It may not make sense at first...
...but it makes all the difference in the world!
There's beauty & power to what may look like "Illogical Loyalty."

The Unknown Soldier

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

As we go about our week, God will present opportunities for us to make a difference in the lives of others. Like the unknown man in our lesson today, may our words and behavior affect their lives and, more importantly, their eternities for His glory.

Famous For ...

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What will be remembered? God doesn't need us to be famous but He's also not afraid to shine through us. Go ahead and use that spiritual gift having clear in your mind what God would have you be "Famous For..."

What Would You Say?

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When God calls you to speak or act, it might feel complicated or strange. But don't overlook the opportunity God has placed in front of you! In those moments ask, "What Would You Say?"

Little Brother

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Like Moses, we all have weaknesses. And, like Moses, sometimes we need a big brother. Thank God He sent us our true Brother in faith, Jesus Christ.

Everyone Matters

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

You, Yes You Matter! With God's people, it's not about 1 person or group. All of God's people are united and that means "Everyone Matters."

Pretty Ugly People

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

How does your standard for beauty, value and significance match with God's? God calls us into His upside-down way of living and to truly embrace being "Pretty Ugly People."

Heaven on Earth

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Right here, right now, you can begin to take hold of how God is making everything new!

Don't Forget

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Perhaps the best time to celebrate Pentecost is not on Pentecost Sunday, but in those quiet moments when we need to connect with God on a deeper level. To remember who He is and who He made us to be - brothers and sisters in Christ through faith.

The Value of Fear

Sun, 29 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Fear That Transforms Your Life
When we live with the fear that God gives us, it gives significance, power, boldness and so much more to our lives. Spend some time in Hebrews 12:28-29 and take hold of "The Value of Fear."

The Value of Forgiveness (FA)

Sun, 22 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

There's a bridge we often need to cross in order to really embrace life with other Christians, that bridge is forgiveness.

The Value of Forgiveness (CG)

Sun, 22 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Christ died on the cross so every one of our sins could be forgiven and to give us the ability to let go of the sins others have committed against us. There is only one way to be truly happy, truly free - practice the godly virtue of forgiveness.

The Value of Friendship

Sun, 15 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Friends... For Life!
We all want to live well. That means, we all need friends! Dig into Luke 7:31-35 to see just what God gives us through "The Value of Friendship."

The Value of Family

Sun, 08 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Messy Family? Join the Club! Your family is probably messy, just like every other family. When once again family is complicated or even painful, you can find comfort in knowing that Jesus has redeemed family because He has made us God's family!

The Value of Fellowship

Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Holiest Place on Earth. Because of Jesus, we are clean, pure and holy. So when Christians come together, it is a gathering of the presence of Holy God. The momentum of our world today is moving toward isolation. But God created us for community and connection. He wants us to know "The Value of Fellowship."

The Value of Faith

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Move, mountain, move!
When Jesus died and rose again, the biggest mountain we all face was thrown into the sea. When the Spirit gave us faith, the stone was rolled away from our hearts. We get to live a new life. Get ready to see those mountains move!

Easter People - The Value of 40

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

You're Different Now
On Easter we don't just remember an event that happened long in the past or something we're looking forward to happening in the future. Easter means that you are being transformed right here today. Because of Jesus' resurrection, we are now "Easter People."

The Value of 40?

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

On Easter morning, Jesus did not just defeat death - He conquered life! Let's live like our lives are just beginning.

Finally

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God will take any mistake we've made, any test we've blown, any sin that would send us straight to hell and, in His mercy, picks us up and says, "I have a beautiful, loving Shepherd who will lead you back into My presence".

Why

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Tonight, don't just remember that it's Good Friday. Cherish "Why" He died & "Why" this Friday really is good!

A Test of Courage

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Your problems might be bigger than you, but God is bigger than your problems!

How the Mighty Fall

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When you see your enemy, victory is in sight. Remember, "How the Mighty Fall."

Psalm 23:5

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Putting the Pieces Back Together

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes life is in pieces...
...and to make things worse...
...you know it's your own fault.
In those broken seasons, you can always look back to the One who is "Putting the Pieces Back Together."

Power of Compounding

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Even when our tests are compounded, God shows that He loves us so much that He compounds His promises - to give us a perfect scapegoat that takes away our sin and the perfect promise of a savior, our Savior, Jesus.

Psalm 23:4

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Memory Test

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God promises that He will lead you and He will guard your hearts. This week - believe God. Because He never goes back on His word!

The Bridge. Discover the Other Side of Your Story

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Remember...
...to step forward into what God has placed in front of you! God has given you "The Bridge" so you can "Discover the Other Side of Your Story."

Psalm 23:3

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

It is OK not to be OK

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Even as God's children, we will endure pain, suffering and grief. When we stop depending on ourselves we ultimately find true comfort in no other place than in the arms of our Lord, who whispers to us "It's OK to not be OK".

Good Medicine. Seeing God at Work in our Grief

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

So it got a bit emotional... and that's OK. A grieving season is a difficult season. But when going through this difficult process, we can find "Good Medicine. Seeing God At Work In Our Grief."

Psalm 23:2

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Wonderful Wait

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Waiting Is So Hard... Why?
God is at work in those times of waiting and gives us reason to embrace "the Wonderful Wait."

One of God's Greatest Gifts

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Often God can send tests to teach us patience, so we stop looking to ourselves and we are compelled to look to Him. He limits our tests to encourage us to look forward to something better, one of His greatest gifts - hope!

Psalm 23:1

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When It Just Keeps Raining

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

We are tested on a daily basis so we no longer focus on ourselves and our own strength but shift our focus to Christ and the cross - because He passed the test for us!

When it rains, it pours

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When the rain is falling and there's more on the way...
...there may actually be blessings coming and opportunity ahead! When going through a season of testing, keep your eyes open for what God may be doing because when it rains, it pours.

Tested (from Fort Atkinson)

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What do you think of tests?
We don't usually like tests. But sometimes a test sets us up for a beautiful new beginning. On Ash Wednesday we not only began a new sermon series, but began to see the beauty of how we have a Savior and a faith that is "Tested."

Tested (from Cottage Grove)

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

40. Testing. Jesus & You.
This Ash Wednesday we dig into Mark 1:12-13 where we see that we can pass the test because our Savior passed it for us!

What Amazes God?

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

We are willing to trust Jesus with our eternities, but when we are willing to trust Him with our earthly lives - it is glorious and we will amaze even our Savior Himself.

Hall of Faith

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Jesus-Astonishing Faith
You've been given a faith that astonishes Jesus, a faith that makes it possible for you to see the glory of God when you look at other Christians and even when you look in the mirror. Welcome to the "Hall of Faith."

Level Up

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What if, when it seems like there's no way to win, there's a new opportunity to see God's glory? Dig into Mark 12:13-17 and see Jesus "Level Up."

Amazing Love

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What could taxes possibly teach us about God's relationship with us? Plenty!

What Would Jesus Undo?

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Whoa! Flipping over tables and benches... stopping people in their tracks... apparently Jesus was awfully passionate about something happening in the temple! He's just as passionate about what is happening in our world and our lives today. Mark 11:15-18 clues us into how we can see God's glory by asking, "What Would Jesus Undo?"

NOTE: No sermon video from Fort Atkinson this week due to technical difficulties with the recording.

StorMe See

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

When the Storm Hits...
Sometimes there's a force against you making it nearly impossible to move forward. Sometimes the wind is so strong it feels like you're going to break. But in these moments you can ask, "What does God, in this storm, want me to see?"

Amazing Rescuer

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Life's storms - we all have them.
There is no better solution than to place our problems in God's hands and allow Him, in His wisdom and love, to send the kind of rescue we need.

Amazing Offender

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus can be offensive... in the best way!

With His words and actions, Jesus can be offensive to us. Through faith, however, we see the beauty of who He is and what He does for us!

Warning: Awkward Moment

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

"Life is one big awkward situation. The more you embrace it, the better it will be."
Okay, that may just be a goofy life motto that Pastor A lives by. Yet, Mark 6:1-3 can help us see the beauty of embracing the "Warning: Awkward Moment."

When Pigs Fly

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Impossible.... Almost
We might feel like we're beyond repair or like we'll never break free, but Jesus came to show us what happens "When Pigs Fly."

Amazing Mercifier

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

So Merciful!
As amazing as it would be to see Jesus drive out a demon, what is even more amazing is the mercy that He showed and continues to show us today!

Amazing Healer

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

As we wrestle every day with being sinners in a sinful world, Jesus comes and says "I have the cure and I want to heal you". But it doesn't start with our legs, it starts with our hearts. He came to forgive all of our sins.

Greater

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

As good as that was... what if there's more?

All those special ways that God comes through for us now are little glimpses of the healing that is to come!

Power. Authority

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Jaw Dropping

Jesus isn't just any teacher. He's the Key Piece to all the Scriptures. He gives the meaning and purpose to our lives. With that kind of authority comes real power. This lesson launches our new Epiphany series, "Hidden Glory." It might always be that easy to see, but when we're tuned in, we'll see Jesus' glory again and again.

Amazing Teacher

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Amazing!

When Jesus teaches, it's absolutely amazing! Pastor Krause takes us to an event recorded in Mark 1:21-28 where everyone is blown away by Jesus as He teaches. This lesson kick-starts our new Epiphany series "Hidden Glory." It may not always be easy to see, but when we're tuned in, we can see the glory of Jesus again and again.

Growing Up

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

God wants us to grow up and mature, like His own Son did. Humble and willing to submit to the Father's will, growing up spiritually. We can acknowledging that God gives us comfort and hope today!

Look At What's Growing!

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Normal Looking but Powerful! Growth might not look all that spectacular, but don't overlook what God is doing!

The Christmas Tree

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

It's not over yet! Whether your tree is already down or you'll still be celebrating for weeks yet, there come times for all of us where it seems like it's all over. But He is providing. He is preserving. He is giving you life!

1) When you look at Jesus' life, see that He entered into your story. Through faith, now your story is connected to His!
2) The evil powers in this world saw Jesus as a threat and so tried to kill Him. If He's our King, we can expect the enemy to be at work against us!
3) The Father watched over and preserved His Son Jesus. He does the same for us.
4) The hard truth is that we often act in ways that should cut us off from our God. But Jesus was cut off for us.
5) No matter how hard the enemy works or how bad we've acted, we can look to Jesus for life!

Deja Vu

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

We've been here before! Pastor Krause compares the history of God's chosen people, Israel, and the life of His Son. We see how God protects Israel and Jesus by sending them to Egypt. With this knowledge, we are encouraged to trust what He is doing for us today!

It's Official (x3)

Sat, 25 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Our study of Hebrews1:1-3 is structured into 3 "sermonettes" with a hymn sing between each. This video is of the entire sermon as we looks at the 3 offices of God's only begotten Son, Jesus, as the:
1. Prophet (not just relaying the word of God as the Old Testament prophets did) but He is the Word of God).
2. Priest (not giving sacrifices on behalf of others over and over) but as the perfect man and divine priest giving His life as the perfect sacrifice once for all.
3. King (not an earthly king ruling with laws and threats) but son of David, King of the Jews, ruling human hearts with love and mercy.

A Pixel Perfect Christmas

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Merry Christmas Eve! Pastor A shares a message from Colossians 1:15-20 to help us see clearly what took place when Jesus was born!

No Other Name

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

On Christmas Eve the familiar Christmas verse from Isaiah, Chapter 9, verse 6 teaches us why the Messiah, Jesus Christ, is described with these names and what they mean about His Character.

Deconstruction The Real Problem

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Contemporary songs tell us that "all we need is love" - but the truth of God's word tells us that what His children really need is peace! Peace between ourselves and a holy God, through Jesus' perfect life, His punishment on the cross for our sins and His resurrection.

What's Left?

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

So You Can Face Anything...
...no matter what challenge we face, we have exactly what we need because of "What's left" from Jesus!
1) Jesus lets go into our hands a special gift - peace!
2) Biblical peace is more than just the absence of conflict, it's the restoration of relationship. It means that now nothing is missing!
3) The peace that belongs to Jesus, the relationship and partnership with the Father, is now given to us.
4) Jesus' life didn't look all that peaceful according to the world's standards. But His Father was present throughout, carrying out His plan according to His purpose. That's peace!
5) We often pull back in fear from God. But because of the peace Jesus gives us, we can have calm hearts and step forward in faith no matter what we face!

Love Better

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

How to we balance our freedom in Christ with abstaining from a choice that may cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith? With humility and a Christ-like love!

Judging Us

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Challenging. But Good.
Evaluating our faith life can be challenging. It gets even harder when we consider how to relate with other Christians. But there is incredible encouragement and hope from the One who takes care of "Judging Us."
1) There are some things that are clearly black and white like the fact that Jesus is the only way to eternal life. But when it comes to applying our faith, things can get awfully complicated.
2) Even if an action is not wrong in and of itself, if we believe it is wrong and still do it, we actually judge against ourselves.
3) Two Christians can be in very different places in their faith. They can both bring glory to God while going in very different directions.
4) God calls us to lift up and encourage each other, including our fellow Christians who believe the most God-pleasing way is different than what we believe.
5) We are able to come together in love and humility because we all have the same problem = sin and the same solution = Jesus. He has reunited us with God and each other.

Losing Love?

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Are you dealing with this God's way? In a world that doesn't know how to disagree well, God has a different design.
1) Today's norm for how people who disagree interact is not very Godly
a. People are offended easily
b. People are quick to be outraged and angry
c. People often avoid difficult conversations while silently allowing negative feelings and self-righteousness to grow
2) Love is growing cold among so many because faith is fading
3) God would have us keep looking to Him to bring justice and to trust Him to make things right.
4) God has a design for how to interact with others. Let's follow it and trust God!
5) We interact with others based on how God interacts with us. He acts towards us in love!

What Are You Waiting For?

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Your Enemy Is Going Down!
When the enemy is fighting hard against you, "What Are You Waiting For?"

Never Lose Heart

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

This World Needs Some Love
God's love is meant to transform us so we love Him and others. In a world where love is lacking, this can be easy to forget. Take a look at what Jesus says about the need for love and how you can "Never Lose Heart" with this message on Matthew 24:12-13.

A Warm Love in a Cold World

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

A Strange Combination of Ingredients Can Make A Great Recipe!
With the beginning of the new church year we're at a time where this is a unique combination of ingredients: thinking about the end of the world + looking forward to Jesus' coming + Thanksgiving. This unique combo makes for a beautiful recipe in a messy world!
1) We can feel that there is a darkness in the world. But in Advent we focus on the light of Jesus coming!
2) When the world turned against Jesus, He lovingly humbled Himself in order to save the world!
3) On the cross an exchange took place. Jesus took on the cold sin of the world and gave us the warm love of God.
4) Even in a challenging world, we feast on God's mercy.
5) A Christian shows Thanksgiving by showing love and sharing the light of Christ!

The Rest of the Story

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Every decision we make comes down to one of two Hebrew words - CHA-REM (abandon my sinful way of thinking and my plans for my life) or KA-DOSH (give God my whole heart, fully trusting the promises He's made). Like God giving victory in Jericho, Jesus came and gave us the victory over sin and death - we get to live in the victory each day!

The Conquest (Israel)

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

His Victory. Your Hands.
God has won the victory and given it into your hands. It's time to take hold of it!
1) The battle isn't really ours. It's God's.
2) There's a sinister enemy in this world and in our hearts. We get to be part of its defeat.
3) God wins the victory and then places it in our hands. He invites us to join Him.
4) He didn't give us the victory so we could take part in things that are broken. We get to be part of making things right!
5) Jesus won it all by dying and rising. One day He will return when once and for all we see The Conquest

When The Door Is Closing

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

It's often said, "When God shuts a door He opens a window."
But what do you do when the door is closing? See how we get to live as people of hope by digging into what God does in the lives of Moses' parents in Exodus 2:1-3.

Sanctified Amram and Jochebed

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What's Your Crocodile? It's hard to let go and not be in control. But we get to trust God more than we trust ourselves!
1) Are we teaching those around us, including little kids, to live by faith or by fear?
2) The world around us tries to tell us that marriage and children aren't all that important.
3) God chooses who gets to live, not us.
4) Our fears can distract and divide us.
5) What's your crocodile? God is bigger than every fear, every crocodile in your way!

Sanctified Joseph

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Life is hard. Forgiveness is hard. As we study the life of Joseph, we see what he (and we!) can learn through hardship - 3 Godly life lessons:
1. Humility
2. Perspective
3. Freedom

Healing Hearts

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

If You've Ever Been Hurt By Someone, This Is For You. One of life's most difficult challenges is dealing with the ways people have hurt us. Thankfully, Jesus made reconciliation possible not just between God and us, but between us and others. He is "Healing Hearts."
1) When someone wrongs you, ask, "Am I in the place of God?" Then remind yourself what God's place is in all of this.
2) Christian forgiveness is not saying that the wrong someone did is okay or not a big deal. It means trusting that God is a God of justice who is setting everything right.
3) Our God is so big and so amazing that He can use the ways people break His world to bring healing to this world. That's what happened on the cross.
4) There is no wrong too awful that God won't use it to achieve something good.
5) There will be a day when your heart is completely healed and you are reconciled with others. The God who will heal you completely then is already at work in you now.

The Incredible Journey

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

You're Going Somewhere
God has called you out so you can step forward in faith. Like Abraham, you're on "The Incredible Journey."

Sanctified Abram

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Big Choices!
God has given you the opportunity to make choices and to trust Him as you step forward in faith!
1) God often doesn't take us where we're going immediately. It's a process. He is patient with us. Are we patient with God?
2) Along the way God gives us the opportunity to make sanctified choices.
3) We have more than the promises of God to rest on. We can hang onto the character and nature of God.
4) We are so quick to replace God's ways with our ways. We want God to follow our plan.
5) Fear is not defeated by our good plans but by God's presence.

oBEdient (Noah)

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Key to Significance
God worked through Noah to preserve humanity on the face of the earth. Talk about significant! What was central to Noah's life of significance can be central to ours as well. We are oBEdient.

Sanctified Noah

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Heroic!
We all love heroes. But it can be a tall order trying to live up to them! Jesus, however, makes us heroic like Noah!
1) Some might say that Noah wasn't all that heroic. He just followed directions. But humans are notoriously bad at following directions, especially from God!
2) God has given us very simple directions in the 10 commandments but none of us follow them.
3) Jesus perfectly obeyed for us. We are saved through Him!
4) As Christians we aren't afraid because we're wrapped in Christ. We're safe in the ark!
5) We get to do something Noah didn't. We get to throw a lifeline out to others so they can be saved with us. We get to be heroic!

Inside Out

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Where real living begins!

We know we've been given a new life in Christ and want to live that way more and more. Sometimes it goes well. Other times, not so much. Sometimes it's a combination of the both. That's why we need to remember how this new life works!

1) We need God to carve out a pure heart in us that can be in His presence and partner with Him. When He does, it changes everything about how we live!
2) Even though God has accomplished great things in us, we all have been guilty of doing what is in our own best interest, with a complete disregard for others. None of us deserve God's favor or His Spirit.
3) Jesus was forsaken by God so justice could be served for our sins. Because of Him, we can confidently look to our God to give us life.
4) We get to ask God to give us a like-new spirit, solidly filling up our spiritual lungs so we can live.
5) God can bring us out into the light of His salvation, the light of Jesus and give us a willing spirit to step forward into life!

A New Heart

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Our Sanctification series continues with a study Psalm 51:10-12.

Growing Up

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Our "Sanctification" Series continues with a study of Philippians 1:3-6.

God Exalts the Humble

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Team Work Makes the Dream Work

It's often the little things that really make all the difference. The little things begin with humility.

1) Biblical submission is not about being less valuable than another. It's about willfully submitting yourself to the direction of another.
2) There are little things that will creep into our hearts and take a position that belongs to God.
3) God didn't leave us alone to fight the battle in our hearts.
4) Jesus entered the game to be our substitute. Through His life, death and resurrection now no matter what your position, you matter.
5) God has made you valuable so now you can go and make a difference in someone else's life

Living In The Light

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Are you hiding in the dark?
Stepping out into the light can feel scary. It means being honest about how we fall short. It means looking to God to cleanse every part of us. But there is a beautiful new life that's been given to us when we are "Living in the Light."

Light of Light, Very God of Very God

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Light For You and For The World!
For all of eternity, God the Father & God the Son have shared a unique relationship. Now God extends an invitation to join in!
1. There's a challenge we all face as Christians. On the one hand, we're God's children. But on the other hand, there's a sinful nature within us that aligns with the devil.
2. Man-made solutions just won't do. The only way to resolve the problem of sin is Jesus.
3. God has chosen us and given us the gift of faith. He makes us born again.
4. Even in a sinful world, God has given us the power to be light and to show love.
5. This world matters to God and so God calls us to be lights in the world.

Tough Love

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Is God Against Me?
Sometimes it can feel like everything in life is going against you, even God. But when we face life gets tough, we have every reason to embrace the love our Father is showing us.

OK, Let's Try Again

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What Ever Christian Parent Wantsâ€¦
Above all, every Christian parent wants their child to be with God for eternity. Your Heavenly Father wants the same!
1) When life gets rough, we might sometimes wonder if God is angry with us but that couldn't be further from the truth! Jesus already paid for all our sins!
2) Living in this broken world, our default temptation tends to be to question if God really loves us and if He's really trustworthy.
3) God not only knows what is necessary to build up who we are now in Him, but also what is necessary to beat down the sinful nature that fights against us.
4) A parent who lets their child do whatever they want is NOT a loving parent. God IS a loving parent, offering the right correction.
5) Faith is like a muscle. When stretched and worked, it grows!

More Than Motions

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Transformed through Christ we embrace lives of love!
1. Be disgusted by what is evil.
2. Be glued to what is good.
3. Value one another with brotherly love.
4. Be "all in" for God!
5. Joyfully anticipate good things to come, even when you are under pressure, through continual prayer!

How Zealous is Your Love Life?

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Not Natural. But Good!
There are many things in life that are not natural to us but are good for us! Jesus changes us for the good!
1) If someone were to tell us that we need to do something, it shows that we haven't been doing it!
2) If someone were to tell us, "You need to be zealous" for something, it would make it almost impossible to do so because then we would be doing it out of obligation.
3) Thankfully, the directives God gives us begin with His mercy!
4) Jesus is more than an example. Our evil was glued to Him. His goodness is now glued to us!
5) As we pursue righteousness in view of Christ's mercy, it changes us!

Choices

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

We have something that this world does not have and desperately needs - God's promise that when we make the wrong choices in life of serving other gods and ourselves, His Son will rescue us and give us back the life we were created to have.

Your Choice. Today.

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

You Have A Choice!
Choices can be difficult. But you've been given an amazing opportunity with "Your Choice. Today."
1) Even though God has done so much for us, there's a part of us that will sometimes feel like it's bad to serve God. We need to be honest about that.
2) If it seems bad to serve God, we need to ask ourselves, "What other god will we serve?" You were designed to worship. You will serve something or someone.
3) Serving God is not primarily about what we do for God but trusting what God has done, is doing and will do for and through us!
4) Even our ability to choose to trust God today is a gift from Him. It's all about His power!
5) When we're faced with the choice to serve God or another, it's an opportunity to turn to the God who has rescued us, is here with us and will always come through on His promises to us!

Growing Conditions

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

God Wants You To Grow!
But how are your growing conditions?

1) We can't make our faith grow. That's God's job. But we can remove barriers to growth and turn to Him to grow us!
2) When we want something different than what God offers, we're not ready to receive what He's giving. What wrong thing do you want or want the wrong way?
3) When our faith lacks deep roots, the pressure of life can make our faith shrink away. What stops your roots from growing deep? Self-reliance? Independence?
4) Biblical anxiety is when our mind is pulled in a variety of directions. When this happens, our faith may survive but it's hard to produce much fruit.
5) God turns our hearts of stone into hearts of flesh. Spend time with your Father in prayer, look to His Word, Baptism and the Lord's Supper. See how much He can grow you!

Do The Math

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Once the Holy Spirit implants the precious seed of His Gospel of love in our hearts, there is also a part for us to do. To take part in the means of graces so our roots of faith deepen into good soil and produce a harvest of peace, trust in His perfect plan.

iNFLATE

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Don't Settle For Deflated!
When a balloon is deflated, you might still be able to kind of tell what it looks like, but you're not really seeing it as it's supposed to be. The same goes with our lives of faith. The Spirit fills us up so we can begin to see what we were meant to be!
1) We've been rescued from destructive thinking. Now we get to bring what's on our mind to God and have Him reshape our minds.
2) The Spirit fills us with the ultimate, all-in love of Jesus. Now we get to stretch that all-in love out to others.
3) The Spirit has built us into God's house. God lives in us and has chosen to partner with us through giving us opportunities to serve others.
4) Every one of us has a spiritual gift that is to be used to serve others. We can go all-in with these gifts because they come from the Giver, not just from us.
5) Our lives are all about Christ. He made us right with God. He sends the Spirit. He gets the glory!

Something Better

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The world's ways are not God's way, the world's ways are not what God had planned for our lives. God sees that what the world offers is a big lie - He offers us something better! And to prove it, He gave up everything for us - even His own Son.

Keep Trying

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Holy Spirit is the intercessor between us sinners and Holy God when it comes to sanctification. When we are struggling, God Himself knows exactly what we need. The day is coming when we get to live our lives the way we always wanted to - perfectly - so we are encouraged to persevere in our walk of sanctification - keep trying!

Who Knows?!

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

You Don't Have It All Figured Out. But He Does!
It's hard to admit, but we really don't know what we need. God knows and thankfully we can trust the Spirit to speak for us and to guide us every step of the way!
1) Waiting to open a gift can be hard, especially when you're expecting something good but don't know what gift is in the box. Living our lives of faith can be the same way. We don't know exactly what resurrection life is going to be like and we don't know what good plans God has for this life!
2) At the core of everything broken about this world is the thought that we know what's good for us, not God.
3) The Holy Spirit knows what this broken world and we, as broken individuals, long for. He joins us, longs with us and expresses what we need to the Father.
4) The Holy Spirit expresses what we long for in a way that perfectly matches God's desire for us and our lives.
5) God set us apart for Himself and is guiding us according to His plan! Trust the Spirit who knows what our need and trust God to lead your life in a way that is good according to His plan!

In Jesus' Name

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

How does prayer work?
1) Prayer comes from the new man in us. The old Adam is convinced he has it all figured out.
2) Prayer is possible only because Jesus' perfect life and innocent death torn down the barriers between Holy God and believers.
3) Prayer is prompted by the Holy Spirit working in our sanctified lives.
4) Prayer in Jesus' name is a humble prayer, trusting God to answer for the sake of our faith and our eternity.
5) Prayer is answered by God not because we make the request, but because He loves us.
6) Prayer works best when we begin to listen to God and quit talking.

Nemesis

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

You can't conquer it.
But it can't conquer Him.
Jesus is the NEMESIS of your NEMESIS.

Internal Challenges to Sanctification

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Take A Look Inside!
It's hard to look inside of ourselves. We might find something gross. But when we look inside, we can find the proper diagnosis!
1) People often say, "That just wasn't me." What we do often doesn't align with what we want to do.
2) There's a slave driver inside of us, preventing us from doing what we want to do.
3) Jesus has also planted Himself inside of us and He is perfectly. He and our sinful nature are completely at odds.
4) We get to walk with the cross of Christ. His cross crushes the old me so the new me can stand up tall.
5) God has this way of using even our weaknesses to draw us closer. When we lean on Him in weakness, He gives us strength!

Revolutionary

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus rescues us - so we can now stand firm to the end as we look forward to a total revolution. Because Jesus lived a perfect life, died and rose again - He will return to bring the evil of this world to an end.

External Challenges to our Sanctification

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Challenges - When living out our lives of faith (sanctification), we face challenges both from the inside and the outside. Thankfully, God prepares us to face these challenges and even uses them for His purpose!
1) Challenges come at us from the outside because the truth of God's Word is opposite of the ways of the world.
2) Because these challenges are going to come, Jesus tells us to be smart and pure in our thinking.
3) A cross is something we suffer because we believe the Gospel. There are various crosses we will have to bear.
4) When you face these challenges, don't worry. God will speak in you!
5) Sometimes the crosses make us stop and listen to what God has to say to us!
6) If Jesus is leading you then all this will work out according to God's will and plan. It's worth the fight!

Perfection

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Before & After
It's amazing the transformation that can take place between when a project begins and when it ends. God has promised that you get to experience the most incredible transformation, "Perfection."
1) Jesus rescued us to give us eternal life and to give us our lives back!
2) Death is scary because we weren't created to die. But God uses death to serve His purpose. When we die, the old sinful nature is stripped away.
3) We live knowing that life will not always be the difficult struggle that it is today.
4) In the same way our spirits are sanctified, our bodies will be sanctified. We will have a resurrected body like Jesus' resurrected body.
5) How would you live if you knew you couldn't die?

Victory View

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

How Do You See Yourself?
Jesus has transformed your future. That means you have a new identity, purpose and life now. You get to live with a "Victory View."

Progress, Not Perfection

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Because of what Jesus did on the cross for us, we are now perfect in God's eyes. As we live our lives here on earth, however, God does not look for perfection from His broken children, but gives us the opportunity to make progress in our lives of sanctification.

What Is the Destination?

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Let Go! Forward!
Sometimes we cling to things that really serve no purpose anymore. Consider what you need to let go of by answering the question, "What Is The Destination?"
1) There's something about humanity, where we have a difficult time letting go of things, even when they no longer serve any purpose.
2) One of the challenges to being a Christian is that embracing the hope of the Gospel means letting go of what we once held onto:
a. We no longer depend on ourselves and our own attempts to make things right. We trust in Jesus.
b. We no longer look to this world for purpose, meaning or contentment. We look to the life to come.
3) While it may feel scary to let go, our lives can be beautifully transformed when we focus on what's ahead!
4) Leave behind the rubble. Take hold of the beautiful future!

Independence Day!

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

When we try to control human beings to live under rules (laws) we find that instead of people's lives and hearts being changed they are filled with resentful and hatred and it further divides us. Living through faith in Christ is true freedom!

What If You Could Restart?

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Feeling Stuck or Bogged Down?
Sometimes as we strive to live our faith we can feel stuck or get bogged down? When something similar happens with our computer or smartphone, a reboot does wonders! So, "What if you could Restart?
1) While God's law is good, it actually held us captive because it kept showing how we have failed to be what we were meant to be.
2) When God's law meets our sinful flesh, it actually energizes our sinful desires. This works in a variety of ways.
a. Magnification:
i. We magnify what we think about. If we think about what not to do, we magnify what not to do.
ii. If we focus on the law which shows how we fail, we magnify our guilt and shame.
iii. If we focus on the law and are able to follow certain parts of it well, we are susceptible to pride.
b. Complication:
i. When we think too hard about what is meant to flow naturally, we make it complicated. Try thinking about breathing. It becomes difficult.
3) The problem with trying to overcome what's wrong in us by our own strength is that we're trying to overcome our sinful flesh with our sinful flesh.
4) But through Jesus' death, we died to that old way of the law, of sin and trying to do it ourselves. We've been restarted to live a new way!
5) We now live by the Spirit, the One who gives us faith to believe the promises of God. Believing the promises is eating the fruit that gives us a new life!

True North

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Is Your Life Heading The Right Direction?
We're bombarded every day with messages about what steps we should take next. How do we stay on track in our lives? Thankfully Jesus leads us "True North."

Sanctification Instead of Sin

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

An Epic Battle!
It might not have looked like it... no swords or shields... but in the wilderness, a battle took place between good and evil.
1) Jesus, being fully human, faced the same temptations we face. On the surface they might seem different. But at the root, they are the same.
2) The devil often doesn't start with luring us into actions. He plants a seed of doubt which leads to sinful actions.
3) The devil may try to get us to doubt God's Word, but Jesus kept going back to it and so should we.
4) The devil may try to convince us that we should give up because he's winning the battle. But Jesus won the war!
5) Jesus is exactly who He says He is. He overcome every temptation, died on the cross and rose again. Victory is ours!

How Wishes Come True

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

When we are truly in harmony with what God thinks, when we want what God wants, our lives touch others in the same way as God's love touches each of us.

Revive

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

This Is Refreshing!
Feeling tired and worn? Refreshment is waiting! Jesus makes possible today for you to "revive."
1) Trees are pretty amazing, aren't they? As long as they're planted in soil with the right nutrients, they can thrive in the craziest of conditions. So can we!
2) You might not have noticed, but trees are central to your story.
a. We were meant to eat from the tree of life.
b. Our fundamental problem is that we take from the tree that looks good to us instead of the tree of life.
c. Jesus, by dying on the tree, is the new and greater tree of life.
d. Jesus is the vine, you are the branches and in Him you bear fruit!
3) When you stay in Jesus and His words stay in you, God will give you what you want because now you want what God wants!
4) Slow down. Stay in Jesus and let His words stay in you. You are transformed and God is glorified.

We're at War!

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

There's a fight taking place inside of us. Join the fight because the war is won!
1) The powers inside of us are in conflict. One loves God while the other hates God!
2) The sinful nature always wants to do the wrong thing and is always working against us.
3) If the battle is so hard, we might sometimes wonder, "Why fight?" We fight because Jesus has won the victory!
4) Jesus gave His life so we could have our lives back!
5) Sanctification means that now parts of our lives display what God originally created us for. God empowers us to live for eternity and enjoy life now!

What Would You Do Differently?

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Regrets? We all have them.
Pastor Krause shares some amazing news from Romans 6:11-14. With God's gift of faith and our hope for eternal life, we are now empowered to live sanctified lives through Christ Jesus. We have a second chance - what would we do differently?

What Are You Standing Under?

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes we live under restrictions that do not exist and act like we're under the power of something that no longer is master of us. It's time to live free and ask, "What Are You Standing Under?"
1) Through faith in Christ what's true of Him becomes true of you. He died for our sins so you died to sin. He rose to new life. Now you have a new life!
2) Temptation to sin is not merely a choice between right and wrong. It's a power struggle. When you sin you allow yourself to come under the power of something other than God.
3) Naturally we're born under the power of sin, missing the mark of what we were meant to be, unable to live the life we were meant to live. But no longer!
4) You've passed from death to life. The life you were meant to live has been given back to you!
5) You're under grace. God delights in you and so He gives you gift after gift, forgiveness, faith, power, purpose, calling, confidence, life that never ends!

So... How???

Sun, 30 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

"That sounds amazing God! So... How??? How do I experience that? How do I live this out? How do I receive it?"

Lean into the question "So... How???"

If You Want to be Free, then You Have to Let Go

Sun, 30 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Let Go!
There are some things in life that hold us back when the solution is right in front of us. "If you want to be free, then you have to let go!"
1) God's Law is good, but when we look at it the wrong way, it enslaves us.
2) Letting go of the law doesn't mean we throw it all out. It means that because Jesus fulfilled the law for us, we are free to choose to live God's way.
3) Through faith our attitude and motivation now changes. We get to begin to live the way we were meant to!
4) It's a simple formula, but letting go is hard for us to do. That's why we go again and again to the Means of Grace where the Spirit works in us.
5) We tend to try to live good enough lives for Jesus, but the truth is that Jesus has made us good enough, now we get to live!

What the Spirit Makes Possible

Sun, 23 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

No Longer Depending On What Our Eyes Can See
Pastor Abrahamson shares a message from Hebrews 11:6. We get to live by faith and experience "What the Spirit Makes Possible...".

Sanctification: Not What but Why

Sun, 23 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The motivation behind what we do makes a major impact on what we do. That's why it's so important to consider "Sanctification: Not What but Why."
1) Having faith means that we've been given the gift of seeing things differently, seeing things God's way!
2) Our living God's way comes as a direct result of what God does for us.
3) When we were created, it was easy for us to serve God. Sin messed that all up. But God chose to restore that to us.
4) The Holy Spirit gives us the gift of faith in Jesus which means we have new life with God!
5) Sanctification, because it means living life the way we were intended to live, is a blessing to us!

Sanctification is an Action Word

Sun, 16 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

"Talking head" is an idiom describing a person who always seem to be informing others or sharing their endless insights, but in reality they never actually accomplish anything. In our study of sanctification we are starting to venture into the action part of the series, that living our Christian faith is just that - living it and not just talking about it.

Two Keys to a Joy Filled Life

Sun, 16 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Guest preacher Pastor Clark Schultz shares a message from John 15:9-17. His lesson is not directly from our sanctification series, but fits nicely as an application of our series.

God's Work Our Hands

Sun, 09 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

God has given a new life of purpose and significance. But it can be hard to live that way when it feels like the world is sucking the energy and power right out of us. Thankfully, God has given us Philippians 2:12-16a, the verses we studied this weekend as we celebrated Mother's Day and Confirmation.

Empowered

Sun, 09 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

You Are NOT Powerless Today!
With all the stress that life pours on us and all the challenges to our faith, we can feel overwhelmed or even intimidated. But never forget who's working in you!
1) Believing in Jesus isn't just about knowing that Jesus did something for you. It's about being united with Christ. His story is now your story!
2) Jesus has done all the work of earning our salvation. Now we get to take what we've been given and work it out into our lives for the world to see.
3) Anytime you live out your faith, it is a result of God Himself working in you. This power never originates from you. He is your spiritual energy.
4) When the power of God is at work in us, it means living differently than the world around us. When we embrace this challenge by the power of God, we'll shine like stars!
5) God's Word is our charging station. There we're reminded that in baptism we've been connected to Christ. In the Lord's Supper we partner in Him!

Alive To . . .

Sun, 02 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Who/What Is Shaping Your Life?
Where we find our identity, purpose and fulfillment drives our lives. Thankfully, we've been given the gift of Sanctification (In the Narrow Sense) which means we get to live with the identity, purpose and fulfillment that God created us to have!
1) As beings who were made by a Creator for a purpose to achieve something significant, our need for identity, purpose and fulfillment is written into our DNA.
2) When we search for our identity, purpose and fulfillment in something other than God, we'll always miss the mark of what we were meant to be. We're living as slaves to sin.
3) We were baptized into Christ we died with Him. When He rose we rose. We no longer belong to a way of life that ends in death. We have real life!
4) Through faith in Christ we have been declared right with God. That means we are alive to:
a. God, the One who created us to be walking pictures of Him (identity)
b. Purpose (you have been given a life that is truly awe-some as a part of His plan)
c. Fulfillment (you've been set on the path of life with real, eternal significance)

The Real Life

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

When you know the truth, you have a new life!
Study John 17:17 and learn how God gives us "The Real Life."

Sanctification in the Wide Sense

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Power of truth.
God's truth has given us life and changes our lives. Dig into how this works by looking at "Sanctification in the Wide Sense."
- Sanctification in the wide sense includes all that the Holy Spirit does in us.
- Sanctification in the narrow sense focuses in on the fruits of our faith.
- Once we lived in darkness and death. God's truth gave us life and called us into the light.
- God protects us from the evil one, keeping us in the faith by the truth.
- The devil is hard at work today attacking even the notion of absolute truth.
- Everyday we battle our sinful nature and face the difficulty of living in a sinful world. But God's Word has power and gives us life!

Sanctification is Not Equal to Justification

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

As we take the second step in our new series "Sanctification," an in-depth look at living our Christian faith, it's important to recognize the difference between Justification and Sanctification. Pastor Krause lays out the differences with the message "Justification is Not Equal to Sanctification."

What Did You Get?

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Gifts Are Meant to Be Enjoyed!
Gifts are pretty amazing! It's great simply to open up the gift and see what's inside. But there's a second part. A gift is meant to be taken hold of and enjoyed!
1) When Jesus rose on Easter Sunday, He brought us the greatest gift. Like any gift, it's meant to be enjoyed!
2) We've embarked on a special new series called "Sanctification" which is all about taking hold of and living in the reality of the gift we've been given!
3) Naturally we were all born spiritually dead, unable to fulfill our intended purpose or live according to God's design.
4) Through faith in Christ, we are declared right with God. Simply because God delights in us, He has given us the gift of life! (Justification).
5) Every gift is meant to be enjoyed. God made us alive and prepared good works for us to do so that we can take hold of this gift and really live! (Sanctification)

The Good Life

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

We all want to live a good life.
God wants that for us too!
But what does a good life really look like?
Embark on a life-changing journey with our new sermon series digging into "Sanctification" and embrace the gift God has given us in "the good life."

What Now?

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Tomb Is Empty - What Now?
So often reality doesn't meet our expectations, but the Resurrection actually exceeds all human expectations! So... what should we do now?
1) Sanctification takes place in us by the work of the Holy Spirit. We were spiritually dead but have been raised back to life!
2) Without Jesus not only are we not saved, we're not sanctified. It all goes back to Jesus.
3) Salvation is not sanctification. Sanctification only happens as a result of salvation.
4) God has saved us and now He gives us opportunities to choose to give Him glory in our lives.
5) When we look for the answer to the question, "What now?" the reality always exceeds the expectation!

Sticks and Stones

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

When the Son of God empowered His human body to come back to life it not only changed Him, but it changed us - for eternity! We have a living Savior. What God promises, he delivers!

Mind Blown

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Resurrection Is Real!
He is Risen. He is Risen Indeed! Those are such fun beautiful words. But even when we say those words, does the truth of Easter always sink into to our minds and hearts. This Easter season, may God bend our minds a bit with the truth of Easter!
1) Jesus finished the work of healing His world on Good Friday. He rested on the Sabbath. Easter morning was the time for new life to begin!
2) The empty tomb with an angel sitting in Jesus' spot left the women dumbfounded. But Jesus had prepared them for this moment.
3) We can see and hear what Jesus has done, and yet the truth of the event doesn't sink in.
4) But when we don't go running out to Resurrection, Resurrection came to us!
5) We live in a world where a man really died and then really rose, just like He said. Resurrection happened, is happening and will happen again!

Resting and Ready

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Jesus finished the task.
The work is complete.
You're invited to join Him "Resting & Ready." Our final Lenten text from Mark's mini-series is chapter 15:42-47.

Sometimes You Have to Get a Little Dirty

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Overlooked and Underappreciated
In the Passion History and Easter events, the burial of Jesus is often overlooked and underappreciated. But this event is powerful and gives us the boldness to get our hands a little dirty!
1) The God who created the earth was buried in the womb of the earth.
2) When we witness a baptism we actually step into the tomb of Jesus and are connected with the body of Christ
3) In that tomb we find the fullness of God in Christ and Christ is given to us. The dead body lying there of Jesus is a testimony of God's love
4) For Easter to mean anything, that death and burial needed to mean everything.
5) His death gives us courage to praise the God who laid down His life to give us life.

ELOI, not Elias!

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Failure?
The feeling of failure can be one of the worst feelings in the world. But this weekend, we study Mark 15:33-41; when it looks like failure - it turns out that God is up to something amazingly significant with "ELOI, not Alias!"

Let Go

Sun, 21 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Time to Let Go!
When we look at Jesus on the cross we see more than just a dark scene of suffering. We see God giving us every reason to "Let Go" with Him.
1) God doesn't make us do things His way. He will let us go our own way if we choose and will let us experience the consequences that come along with it.
2) The ultimate consequence of our going our own way was let go on Jesus instead of us.
3) Jesus let go of His final breath because He had exhausted the power of sin and paid the debt that we owed.
4) When Jesus let go of His life, everything that separated us from God was let go as well! He is now up close and personal with us!
5) We get to let go of doing things our own way, of thinking we know what we need and how God should work. We get to let go and let God do it His way!

Jesus Crucified

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Center of Our Story
What Jesus accomplished when He was crucified on the cross is at the center of all of history!
1) Jesus took the worst this world has to offer head on.
2) We were created to be in the image of God but sin disassembled us.
3) Jesus took on Himself the undoing of humanity that sin caused.
4) Jesus' greatest act of ruling occurred on that cross.
5) By not saving Himself, He saved us!

The People's King

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

More Than Relatable
Our God entered our story. He suffered alongside us and for us. He understands us and rescues us. He is "The People's King."

A Case of Mistake Identity

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Picture A Powerful King
If you were to picture a powerful king, you likely wouldn't picture the scene in the lesson we studied this weekend. But after studying Mark 15:16-20, we may begin to see things a bit differently.

Consider Your King

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

A King That Changes How You See Everything!

We all have expectations of how a king should look and what power looks like. But it's amazing how we can begin to see things differently when you "Consider Your King."

1) People expected Jesus to be a political leader who sought power like other kings. As such, when He was handed over to be crucified, they saw a failure.
2) We need to check our expectations of what our King looks like and how His power looks with Jesus Himself.
a. God can work through political nations, but Jesus refused to be a political leader.
b. Jesus did impressive miracles but in the hands of the soldiers it looked like nothing good was happening.
c. Jesus attracted crowds of thousands but then the crowd cheered for His death.
d. Jesus transforms us but His death on the cross took place because we needed Him to save us.
3) The One crowned with thorns is the King of Kings. The One who looked like a failure was winning the greatest victory. This changes how we see everything!
a. No matter what is happening in the world, the Kingdom of God is advancing.
b. No matter what is happening in our lives, God's purpose is prevailing.
c. No matter how impactful we seem to be at the time, God is working through us.
d. No matter how we're doing on the inside, Jesus came to rescue us!

I Rest My Case

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

How does it feel when someone accuses you of something? Pretty awful isn't it? Now consider how often we live like we're being accused. Whether it's in the ways that we suspect that people are unhappy with us or if it's simply the accusations that play in our own heads. But Jesus was also accused. When we look to His response and what He achieved we can have peace and confidence to say to our accusations, "I Rest My Case."

Misjudged

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Love Working Through Injustice
It's tough when we're misjudged by someone. But it was through the greatest act of injustice that we get to experience real love.
1) There is a strong desire for justice in our world today because God placed a desire for justice in our hearts.
2) We'll never achieve true justice by passing a law or digging deep down inside of us because we all have a flawed standard of justice.
3) If we're going to work for true justice we all need to also admit that we stand guilty of breaking God's law and God's world.
4) God tells us over and over again that His choice was to have the innocent One, Jesus, die in our place.
5) Only God can be real justice and through His justice, we are able to experience real love.

do You know me?

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

There may be times that we talk and act like we don't know Jesus. But Jesus has always known us. We are totally known and completely loved. It's amazing how everything changes when we ask Jesus, "do You know me?"

Mixed Emotions

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What A Change!
We can be all over the place when it comes to our faith, our boldness and our trust in God. But thankfully Jesus brings us the ultimate change whenever we experienced "Mixed Emotions."
1) If we're honest there are plenty of times when we deny Jesu with our words & actions or when we refuse to speak up when given the opportunity.
2) Thankfully, we’re not the main character in the story. Jesus is.
3) Jesus not only was willing to die for the sins of the world but God used something as simple as a roosters crow to change the trajectory of Peter’s life.
4) If God can use a rooster to save Peter, imagine what He can do for you!

It's the Little Things

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The next big thing might be really little!

Most people focus on the big things in life. Things like birthdays, anniversaries, even Valentine's day. But the little things matter just as much, sometimes even more. If you don't believe me then try sleeping with a mosquito in the room.

Often, we want God to show up in big ways. We want big changes, and even bigger miracles. However this week we celebrate Transfiguration Sunday by going in a completely different direction as we study Matthew 17:24-27.

This Doesn't Look Right

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

See How Things Have Changed!
God often works in ways that seem odd or surprising because He is making things different for us! We get to open our eyes and see how things have changed!
1) Sometimes church can just look like a place we go to and our faith can feel like an obligation. But that's not what God has in mind.
2) When Jesus did miracles He always did what He came to do, undo something broken by sin.
3) Jesus went to the cross in order to give us the inheritance that comes with being God's children.
4) Just like you don't have to pay to go to your father's house, you also have free access to God the Father's house! It's now your house!
5) You don't just go to the Father's house. Now the Father's house is inside of you. That means that everything God did in the temple, He does in you!

Open Your Eyes!

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Waters parting…
Storms calming…
Dead rising…
The people in the Bible saw some pretty incredible things. So do you. Where do we see these things? Let's study John 8:57-59 together to find out.

But... He Looks Pretty Normal

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000

See the Spectacular Today!
Seeing something spectacular isn't limited to those who lived in Bible times. We get to see it today!
1) When our expectations of what God is doing are misguided, we often end up looking for far less than what God is actually up to!
2) Jesus looked just like a normal guy because He was a normal guy. But He wasn’t just that. He's God Himself!
3) God's plan has always been to showcase Himself through normal people. In this normal looking guy named Jesus, the Divine is on display!
4) When you want to see something special, simply look at Jesus, what He's accomplished for and through you.
5) Your life might not seem all that exciting, but remember, Jesus looks pretty normal!

Appearances May Be Deceiving

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Looks can be deceiving. Thankfully what really matters isn't how things look on the surface!
1) It's not about what or how much we give, it's about what's going on inside of us.
2) God doesn't need anything from us for Him to be God. He simply wants our hearts.
3) God simply wants us to trust Him.
4) If God is first in our lives, everything else falls into place.
5) It's refreshing to stop worrying about appearances, to know that God isn't about looks, He's about hearts.

More Than Meets the Eye

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Settling For Surface Vision?
If you're only seeing what's on the surface, then you're missing out on a far greater view. This weekend let's refine what we see by studying John 7:21-24.

Look Deeper

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

See What's Really Going On!
Our perspective is often limited if we only see what's on the surface. We begin to see what's really going on and understand what we see when we "Look Deeper."
1) When we think we see the problem, we look for a solution to match. When our focus is off, so is our vision.
2) The special worship practices in the Old Testament were not about the practices themselves. They pointed to God's promise of healing. Jesus is the promise fulfilled.
3) It's hard to look deeper when we're convinced that the main problem is someone else and when our focus is on actions we see.
4) Surface is comfortable. Looking deeper is scary. But when we see the brokenness inside, we're ready to see the healer God provides.
5) When we see Jesus as the healer we need, it's amazing how much more we can see when we look deeper!

What Are You Seeing?

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Blurred Vision Meets A God Who Sees Perfectly!
We often struggle to see what God is really up to but God always sees exactly what we need and how it needs to be done. Take a look at how God works in our lives as we ask, "What Are You Seeing?"

A New Perspective

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Blessings in the Blurry
Something can be right in front of us and still we can't see it. Thankfully God can give us a new perspective!
1) People are often looking for the wrong kind of Messiah. Jesus didn't just come to make life a little better. He came to give us eternal life with Him.
2) When Jesus fulfilled a physical miracle, it showed that He was here to do a greater miracle.
3) Jesus knows that sometimes, if He were to give us full sight all at once, it would be too much for us. He knows what we need.
4) We're living in an awfully confusing time. When we find ourselves confused, it is an opportunity to trust God. Letâ€™s celebrate this opportunity!
5) When our vision is blurry, let's focus on what is clear. Jesus came to give us exactly what we need and continues to work according to His plan.

New Eyes

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What Eyes Are You Using?
A lack of vision can be dangerous, especially when it comes to how we see God, ourselves and our world. Thankfully, we've been given the gift of sight because Jesus gives us "New Eyes."
1) Lack of vision has been a problem ever since Adam and Eve took the fruit that "looked pleasing to the eye" rather than listening to God.
2) It's important to recognize that we live in a world of blindness and blurred vision.
a. Sometimes things that start off with right intentions, become misunderstood and misapplied and can actually blur our vision.
b. Our selfish ambitions can prevent us from seeing what is right in front of us.
3) Instead of talking about all the blindness out there, Christ would have us be honest about ways we've acted blindly.
4) Jesus gave a blind man the ability to see with His physical eyes. But the greatest miracle given to Him was the eyes of faith.
5) We get to leave the blindness behind and see what we know to be true. When we live by the light of Jesus it's then that we can be His lights in the world!

It's A Family Thing!

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Fully A Son. Free To Live.
So often we live like we're still under restrictions and slaves to our sin. But you've been set free. You are God's child. God wants us to celebrate that "It's A Family Thing!"

Welcome to the Family

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Stop Trying to Be What You Already Are!
We all have a list of things we think we need to do in order to be who we want to be. But God wants us to live in the reality of who we already are in Him!
1) God has been working throughout history in order to make us His children.
a. Instead of sending a Savior right away, in His grace He first gave the law to show us our need for a Savior.
b. He knew the perfect time and conditions for a Savior to enter this world.
2) God's Son became us, so we could become God's Son.
3) When God looks at You, what He sees is His perfect Son!
4) Being a good Christian is not an objective to be achieved, it's a position of authority that we've already been given and from which we live!

What You Got for Christmas

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Look At What You've Been Given!
No matter what was placed under your tree, you've received the most incredible gift at Christmas. Unpack your gift this weekend as we study 2 Corinthians 8:9.

The Christmas Treasure Quest

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rich Living!
There's a treasure that you don't need to hunt for to find. It came to you. Now the quest begins.
1) God's grace is not only His undeserved love for us, it's a beautiful trait of His character where He cherishes us and chooses to give us the greatest gift!
2) What if part of being truly rich isn't the acquiring money, a fancy house or expensive foods, but it's the lack of needing them?
3) What if a true treasure consists more of things like being loved and being able to love, having life and being full of goodness?
4) Jesus was willing to lack, to the point that He even died for us, so we might receive a treasure from God.
5) A gift is meant to be enjoyed, so let's live like we're overflowing with treasure. Let the quest begin!

Became

Fri, 25 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Merry Christmas!
On Christmas we celebrate so much more than great memories, but an actual event that changes everything today. Let's study together John 1:14 and consider what "Became" that day.

Impossible?

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Our Advent series ends with a message from Pastor Krause on Christmas Eve - "Impossible?", from Genesis 18:14A, "Is anything too hard for the LORD?"

A Greater King (FA)

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Who or what rules your life?
It's one thing to know Jesus is King. It's another thing to live that way. That's why we're so blessed to study Jeremiah 23:5-6 where we get to prepare our hearts for "A Greater King."

A Greater King (CG)

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The King We Really Need
For all the challenges in our lives and in this world, we need more than a regular king. Jesus is exactly the King we need!
1) God's people have often wanted a king that just makes things a little better now. But is that the king we really need?
2) A day is coming when a King will arrive that doesn't just make things a little better, but solves every single problem!
3) This year it seems like everything has gone off the rails and unfortunately, in many ways we've done it to ourselves.
4) Man-made solutions just don't cut it.
5) We don't need a good king, we need A Greater King!

A Greater Priest (CG)

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Unlimited Access!
In a season when we're longing for the people, places and activities that we love, Jesus gives us exactly what we need by being "A Better Priest."
1) How could sinful people be assured that they were on good terms with God, that His presence was there among them and that He was working for them and through them? A vital piece was the work of the priests!
2) The priests would bring sacrifices into the holy place on behalf of the people. These sacrifices would point to how God would bring justice for sin and create a way for us to be at one with Him.
3) Jesus is a greater priest because:
a. He is not limited by death. He is speaking to the Father on our behalf always and forever.
b. He gives us unlimited access to God. We can come into His presence again and again, knowing He is here with us and we will live forever with Him.
c. He not only brought a sacrifice before God, He was the sacrifice before God. He laid down His life so we could be set right with God once and for all.
4) In challenging seasons like we're in, we may long for what once was. But perhaps this is an opportunity to recognize that as good as those things were, they were limited.
5) Focus on something greater! No matter where you are or who you're with, you can come into God's presence right now. He is there with you and you will live forever with Him!

A Greater Priest (FA)

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Presence for You!
No, that's not a typo. This weekend is not about presents but about presence. Which actually might be what we want most during this crazy year after all. This weekend we study Hebrews 7:23-28 where we prepare to welcome the greatest presence of all through the "Greater Priest."

A Greater Prophet (FA)

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

We are constantly being bombarded with messages. We get to choose whether or not to listen. There is a better message from A Greater Prophet that we get to listen to again and again every day!

A Greater Prophet (CG)

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Can Anyone Actually Help Us?
With all the challenges in life, we may wonder if there's anyone who can actually help us, who can actually do the job. Thankfully, God has given us A Greater Prophet!
1) When God sends a messenger to us, He wants us to listen!
2) Whoever is called by God to speak on His behalf is to say nothing more or nothing less than God says.
3) Jesus not only spoke God's Word perfectly but embodied God's Word.
4) Jesus is the leader that actually leads us to the promised land, that actually solves the problems of life!
5) God is calling us to be His prophets to this generation, to speak the truth that there is a Greater Prophet who brings light into this dark world!

A Greater Glory (CG)

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Your Life Is About Something Greater!
What we prioritize in our lives says a lot about where we find our identity and security. Remember what your life is all about!
1) When we make ourselves number 1, it might seem like it will benefit us, but it never turns out well.
2) When we rob God of being first in our lives, we really rob ourselves.
3) God takes our lack of glory and gives us the glory of Christ.
4) We give God glory when we honor all that He's done and continues to do!
5) We reflect God's glory so all the nations can see what He has done!

A Greater Glory (FA)

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Something missing?
We just got done with one holiday that didn't feel quite right, and soon an even bigger holiday will present us with many of the same challenges.
2020 has been filled with strange and unusual circumstances leaving us all with that "something is missing" feeling. As we begin the season of Advent, as well as a new church year, God chooses to fill the gap with some great news. Our Advent series is called SOMETHING GREATER and our first lesson takes us to Haggai 2:6-9 with the theme "A Greater Glory".

When?

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

It's Good Not to Know!
If you've ever felt like it would be easier if God would just tell us when Jesus will return, you're not alone. But there is incredible blessing for us today not to know!
1) Rather than having us be ready on a specific day for Jesus to return, God would have us always be ready.
2) Part of being ready is not just being prepared for the day Jesus returns, but knowing that our personal last day could also come any day.
3) We often feel like we're most ready when life is going smoothly, but it's often in those challenging times when we're depending on Him that we're most ready.
4) God would have us be ready every day, seeing each day as an opportunity to glorify Him and serve others.
5) Perhaps our current situation with the virus, where we don't know when it will all be over, is a great opportunity to practice encouraging each other being ready for Jesus to return.

What Will It Be Like?

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

When there's something in our future that we've never experienced before, we can tend to get a bit nervous. If that's true with any unfamiliar experience, it can be especially true with something as different as the return of Jesus. But as we study 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, we find incredible encouragement as we ask the question, "What Will It Be Like?"

How?

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The end is near!
Sometimes I [Pastor Krause] wonder if the rest of the world is as interested in the end of time as Christians are. When I started actively looking to see how many apocalyptic shows and movies are out there I was blown away by how many there really are. Of course, many of them are about zombies. This weekend we tackle our second to the last nagging question about Judgment Day. Our lesson "How?" is from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

What Now?

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

It Matters Today!
We're looking forward to eternal life with Jesus. Someday He's going to return. But let's be honest, sometimes all that good stuff can seem really far off. It can be hard to see how it changes the way we live today. So this weekend, as we're nearing the end of the church year and turning our focus towards Jesus' return, we studied 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 by asking the question "What Now?"

How Does What's Ahead Change How I Live NOW?

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Not just someday...
We often talk about what we will experience as Christians "someday." But what we're looking forward to isn't just far off in the distance. It affects how we live today!
1) God's heart for us is that we be sanctified, not just someday but today! Jesus makes us pure and clean so that Holy God lives in us today.
2) At the front lines of the battle between who we are in Christ and who we were before is this question, "Who's in charge? My feelings or me?"
3) When we live by what we feel, we often overstep and contribute to the pain and death in this world.
4) God is the ultimate justice-maker. Jesus endured the justice our sins deserve so we now stand right with God.
5) If we're longing for the day when we live in a pure and holy place with God, why would we go back to impurity now? God's given you His Holy Spirit so you can live the life God has called you to!

Am I a Saint?

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Good Enough!
We often don't feel good enough. If left to ourselves, we wouldn't be. But God has completely changed everything for us!
1) If we're honest, we don't deserve to be glorified as an incredible people or Christians. None of us are good enough on our own.
2) The devil knows how to tempt each of us. We all have our weaknesses.
3) But God has taken us and is remodeling us, together with all the saints, into the most beautiful temple!
4) The love God has for us is beyond measure!
5) Through faith in Jesus you are now part of the family of God. You are good enough! You are a saint!

What does God think about me?

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

You? Holy?
If we were to look at God, we know we'd see One who is holy. But what does God see when He looks at us? This weekend we got to see ourselves from God's perspective as we studied Ephesians 3:14-19, as we continue our "Nagging Questions" sermon series.

Is It Worth the Risk?

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

RISKY - Faith can feel risky. Living your life according to something that you can't see, finding your purpose, significance and hope in something that you can't set your eyes on, can feel dangerous. So this weekend we wrestled with faith as we studied Hebrews 11:6.

Why Faith?

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

When your whole life is built on something that you can't see, it can sure feel risky. But when we explore how faith works we can begin to see why it's worth the risk.
1) Faith is not some power we work in ourselves, it's about who we've been persuaded to believe in.
2) Faith supports what we are expecting to happen. It's the proof that God doesn't need anything I see in order to create something good.
3) God delights in faith because it's through faith that we approach Him and experience the real Him.
4) If what we know about God was based on what we see, then what we believe about God would be limited by what we see.
5) Through faith we experience the God who is greater than what we see, who can make a way when we cannot see a way, who is giving us something better than anything we see in this world.

What Should I Think About?

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

So often what we focus on is not really who we are anymore. It's time to leave behind the old ways and focus on who we really are in Christ!
1) It doesn't take much to see that there's something wrong with the world. But just trying to reduce the evil is only treating the symptom.
2) The events of 2020 have dragged our focus to what's wrong in this world in a pronounced way.
3) When Jesus died everything that dragged us down died there with Him.
4) We've been raised together with Christ. Our resurrection is an accomplished fact.
5) If we are dead to things of this world and our life is now with Christ, why focus on the things of this world? Focus on your life!

Focus

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Think About It!
It's not just what you do and say that matters, God cares about what is going on in your heart and in your mind. When things are moving in the right direction on the inside, it's amazing the difference that can take place on the outside. That's why this weekend we're studying Colossians 3:1-2.

What Should I Say?

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Words -
I'm sure you have heard all the cliches: "you have two ears and one mouth, think before you speak, open mouth and insert foot here", etc. Why are there so many sayings about the words that come out of our mouths?
This weekend we studied a close companion to the nagging question we tackled last weekend, however this week we focused more on how we say something rather than what it is we say as we studied Ephesians 4:15.

Should I Say Something or Not?

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Not Just What, But How
Vicious. Whether it's campaign ads, social media posts or even things we say face to face, so often the words we say and hear can be downright cruel. But God gives us a better way.
1) Sometimes the best thing to say is nothing at all. But there are times where we are called to speak up.
2) When we speak up, it's not just about what we say but how we say it. It's not just what comes out of our mouths but out of our hearts.
3) When we speak lovingly to others, we are blessed as well!
4) Thank God He doesn't just speak truth to us, but His love!
5) Imagine how God could be glorified this week if we were to speak His truth in love to those around us!

What Is Love?

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Their Sin. Your Opportunity.
Sin isn't fun to talk about and it's challenging to deal with. But when a brother or sister in Christ gets caught up in sin, there's a special opportunity in front of us.
1) We all have the same root issue. We all have the same Savior. Through faith we are now one united family in Christ, empowered by the Spirit to live differently.
2) When a fellow Christian is caught in a sin, it's not time for us to point fingers, but to see someone who is in desperate need.
3) By the power of the Spirit, God would have the church collectively work together to restore what was broken.
4) When working to restore a fellow Christian, we depend completely on Jesus and the Spirit to repair them and to sustain us.
5) We get to carry each other's burdens and in doing so, live out the way of Jesus, the One who carried our burdens to the cross and to the open grave.

What Do I Do When They Sin?

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Sin, Them, and Me
Dealing with our own sin is challenging enough, but what about when someone I care about sins? Do I say something or do I just mind my own business? This weekend we dug into this challenging "Nagging Question" as we studied Galatians 6:1-2.

How Do I Have a Mountain-Moving Faith?

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Powerful Faith
Faith is powerful! But it's important to remember where that power comes from! Pastor Abrahamson takes us through a lesson from Matthew 17:19-20 as Jesus answers the question, "How Do I have a Mountain-Moving Faith?"

Just How Small Is My Faith?

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Faith Check-up:
How's your faith these days? Sometimes our faith can seem big. Other times it seems small. Sometimes our faith feels weak and other times it feels strong. This weekend, we'll dig into what makes for powerful faith by studying Matthew 17:19-20 with the sermon "Just How Small Is My Faith?".

What Is God Really Up To?

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

We've all heard it... We've probably all even said it... "God has a plan."
But let's be honest, sometimes it can be awfully hard to see how everything that is happening can be part of God's good plan. So let's clear up some confusion with a study of Jeremiah 29:11 as we answer the question "What Is God Really Up To?"

Does God Really Have A Plan?

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Klebig leads us through a message of hope in Jeremiah as we can be confident that God DOES have a plan for us as we go through our "Babylons".

How Big Is Your God?

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

There are some pretty big claims in God's Word - that anything is possible for those who believe and that if we ask anything according to His will, He'll do it. These claims seem so big that sometimes they can be hard to believe. So let's embrace the power of God with a study of Ephesians 3:20-21.

Will God Really Not Give Me More Than I Can Handle?

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

? What Now?
?? Ever have one of those days when everything seems to go wrong? What if one of those days turns into one of those weeks, or months, or even years?
Because we live in a sinful world we will always have troubles in this life. But what are we to do when it seems as if we face one crisis after another? This weekend we seek the answer to the next nagging question as presented to us in 1 Corinthians 10:11-13.

God, Can I Even Handle This?

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000

? What Now?
?? Ever have one of those days when everything seems to go wrong? What if one of those days turns into one of those weeks, or months, or even years?
?? Because we live in a sinful world we will always have troubles in this life. But what are we to do when it seems as if we face one crisis after another? This weekend we seek the answer to the next nagging question as presented to us in 1 Corinthians 10:11-13.

Why Don't I

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

"God, What's Going On?" "I Don't Get It!"
Sometimes our world is turned upside down and nothing seems right. Sometimes we can't see how God is doing anything good and can't make any sense of how God works. For those times, we have Job 42:1-6.

When Will I Finally Get God?

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Do you get it? It's good to try to understand life and what's happening in the world around us. But in times of terrible tragedy or loss, it can be extremely challenging when we can't seem to "get" what God is doing. For those trying times, Pastor Abrahamson helps us work through a study of Job, Chapter 42, as we ask "When Will I Finally 'Get' God?"

Do I Really Matter?

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Dirty birds. Growing up I [Pastor Krause] was taught that sparrows were "dirty birds". They got that nickname because they don't seem to have any redeeming value and when they finally fly away they leave a mess behind. But God sees the sparrows differently. In fact, this weekend's lesson teaches us they are a measuring device for our own worth. Together we discover our value to God as we plow through Luke 12:4-7 with the theme: "Do I really matter?"

What Is My Worth?

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The universe is so big and we are so small. What makes us special? Even though we are so small the truth is that we really do matter to God!
1) We tend to spend so much time worrying about what other people think but what really matters is what God thinks!
2) Every part of God's Creation is valuable because everything plays a part in His design.
3) If there were to be 1 thought that always crosses your mind before bed let it be this, "I matter to God!"
4) Every one of us and every person we encounter matters to God!
5) Maybe it's time to start believing that I am everything God says I am!

God, Why Won't You Answer?

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Hearing Check:
Most of us know by now that Pastor Krause is just a bit hard of hearing (that's why he asks people to repeat things when we are at worship). We can deal with a pastor who is hard of hearing, but what if it seems like God has that same problem? This week we forged on to our next nagging question having to do with God's response to our conversations with Him.
Message from 8.16.20 in Fort Atkinson.

Why Won't God Answer Me?

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

If God is Good, Then Why Do We Suffer?

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Ouch! When life is good and all goes as we want, do we question God? Usually we don't. Often, it is not until we find ourselves struggling, even suffering, that we wonder if God is doing His job? This weekend we looked at the opening verses of John chapter 11 to see if we can find any good in our moments of suffering. Pastor Krause asks the question: "If God Is Good, Then Why Do We Suffer?"
Message from 8.9.20 in Fort Atkinson

Can Suffering Be a Good Thing?

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Ouch! When life is good and all goes as we want, do we question God? Usually we don't. Often, it is not until we find ourselves struggling, even suffering, that we wonder if God is doing His job? This weekend we looked at the opening verses of John chapter 11 to see if we can find any good in our moments of suffering and asks the question: "Can suffering be good?"
Message from 8.9.20 in Cottage Grove

Why Would He Care?

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Feeling small? Worship!
When we're reminded of just how big the world is, we can start to feel pretty small. That's why this weekend we'll study Psalm 8:3-6 and ask a pretty important question...
..."Why Would He Care?"
Message from 8.2.20 in Fort Atkinson

Does God Care About...?

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000

When we're reminded of just how big the world is, we can start to feel pretty small. That's why this weekend we'll study Psalm 8:3-6 and ask a pretty important question...
..."Does God Care About...?"
Message from 8.2.20 in Cottage Grove

What Can't God Do?

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes we feel like giving up, like there's no hope for improvement. For every one of those times, we have the message of Jeremiah 32:27 that we'll be studying this weekend.
Message from 7.26.20 in Fort Atkinson

Help, Please?

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Feel Like Giving Up? Sometimes we feel like giving up, like there's no hope for improvement. For every one of those times, we have the message of Jeremiah 32:27 that we'll be studying this weekend.
Message from 7.26.20 in Cottage Grove

What If I Question My Faith?

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The world is dying, and Christians have been charged with taking the message of a Savior to that dying world. The challenges of being "in the world but not of it" can genuinely test a believer's faith, and can present a frightening time in the life of a Christian. What happens when we question our faith? For our place and God's role in this question, we'll be looking at Jude 22-23 and asking, "What If I Question My Faith?"

Is Religion Part of the Problem?

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Good or Bad? Is religion part of the problem?
There probably aren't many words today that carry more baggage than the word "religion." Some are proud of their religion. But some talk about having a relationship rather than a religion. Others say they are spiritual, not religious. Still others see religion as an archaic evil that needs to be done away with. Where should we be on the religion opinion spectrum? This weekend, as we continue our "Nagging Questions" sermon series we study James 1:26-27 and ask a very challenging question, "Is Religion Part of the Problem?"

Am I Really Free?

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Freedom is on everyone's minds right now. The Fourth of July is a celebration of our freedom as Americans, but at the same time the current circumstances are making us feel less free than almost any other time in our lives. The tension between our two realities begs the question of how free are we really? The Bible offers special insight into the strange nature of freedom and captivity, and the implications for our lives as we study this Sunday under the theme, "Am I Really Free?" We'll be looking to John 8:36 for the answer.

Can I Really Make a Difference?

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Butterfly Effect: You're probably familiar with this theory... a butterfly flaps its wings in some faraway land and it has an effect on the other side of the world. The same is true in a spiritual sense. As a Christian what you do today has an effect on others. You may not see it and you may not know exactly how, but the Bible teaches us it does. This truth helps to get us ready for our lesson this weekend and the next nagging question we tackle: "Can I Really Make a Difference". We study 1 Peter 2:10-11 for the answer.

Can I Really Know God?

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000

It's always fun to hear about a time when someone met a celebrity or maybe even knows them personally. Maybe part of why it's so fun is because celebrities can seem larger than life to us, like they almost aren't real people, like they almost don't exist in "real life." If people can feel that way to us, how much more God? This weekend, as we celebrate Father's Day we study John 14:5-9 and ask a life transforming question, "Can I Really Know God?"

What's My Purpose?

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Is something missing?
You know that moment...uncertainty, indecision, the uneasy feeling of not knowing for sure what to do. Life can be that way sometimes. Because of sin we often struggle to understand what He is doing in our lives at that very moment.

God created every single one of us for a reason and with purpose, even though God does not dictate exactly what we are supposed to do every moment of the day. This week's lesson is Ecclesiastes 12:13 and answers that nagging question "what's my purpose," and it offers application for every moment of our lives.

Is God Real?

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Go Ahead. Ask.
Let's Lean In Together!

We may try to ignore them, but the truth is, they are there, those challenging questions that just keep coming up. This weekend we begin a new sermon series, "Nagging Questions???" where we lean into some of life's biggest questions and go to God's Word for answers. This weekend we'll get started with a study of Romans 1:20 where we ask, "Is God Real?"

Have a Heart

Sun, 31 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

No one likes to deal with the delay or inconveniences of repairs or reconstruction projects. At times it can be frustrating. But the most important reconstruction project that affects our lives is the one going on inside of us - in our hearts. As we celebrate the festival of Pentecost, we consider the most important repair God is doing in our lives as we study Psalm 51:10. King David's prayer is also our prayer to "Have a Heart".

Above and Beyond

Sun, 24 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Do you know where you are?
Check out the view!
Imagine you've been given a weekend get-a-way at a beachfront home on the ocean. But when you're there, you just hang out inside and watch tv because that's what you normally do. Pretty lame, eh? Talk about missing out on an opportunity! Well, this weekend we wrap up the Easter season with a study of Ephesians 2:4-7 to help us take advantage of what we've been given, life that is "Above and Beyond."

Better Days Ahead

Sun, 17 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Did you know that the average thunderstorm in Wisconsin lasts approximately 90 minutes? So what? Well, we tend to think in terms of "forever" when we are in the middle of a storm and have little appreciation for its benefits until the storm passes. I [Pastor Krause] keep hearing all kinds of promises made by various leaders and businesses that soon things will be back to normal, that this will pass. Truth is, only God knows for sure. And only God can make the kind of promise we study this weekend as we look at James 1:12 with the theme "Better Days Ahead".

Living Legacy

Sun, 10 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The Greatest Gift. For You. For Her. For Them. For All.
This is a unique, but special weekend. As we celebrate moms, we come together to worship online and celebrate the greatest gift we've ever received and the greatest gift that will ever be passed on. Let's study 2 Timothy 2:8-10 and celebrate the "Living Legacy."

For You

Sun, 03 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Quarantine Accomplishments
I've [Pastor Krause] been reading about people getting a lot done during the virus quarantine: home projects or learning a new language. But I've also read some pretty humorous things too: getting caught having a Zoom meeting without pants and stores refusing to let people return thousands of rolls of toilet paper they obviously didn't need. What if I told you that your greatest quarantine accomplishment could be embracing the gift God wants to give you: learning to suffer well while trusting God's plans? That's our lesson this week as we study 1 Peter 1:18-21 with the theme "For You."

Finish to Start

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Nothing left to give? You're in the perfect spot! Some days, and perhaps especially during these challenging times, we feel like we have nothing left to give. We've reached the end of our strength and don't know how we're going to move forward. That is when we are perfectly positioned to experience the power of Easter. This weekend we continue celebrating Easter with the message "Finish to Start" from 2 Corinthians 1:8-9.

A Better Resurrection

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

So, how are you spending your days during the quarantine? We miss normal life, but don't worry because something better is on its way. And I'm not just talking about normal life. I'm talking about the next lesson of our Easter sermon season "Something Better". We will study Hebrews 11:35 as the author tells us about a "Better Resurrection".

A Better Story

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

What's your story?
No matter how your story seems right now, this weekend we celebrate that we our part of "A Better Story."

Sacrificed

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Good Friday really is a Good day! We journey with Jesus to the cross where we see Jesus win our freedom by being "Sacrificed."

Love Language

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

As we enter Holy Week, we begin a series of days where we see in action God’s love for us. This is the love we trust in and celebrate with our words!

Condemned

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

As we continue our "Ouch - the 7 Deadly Stings of Sin" midweek Lenten series we ask a very important question, Who Is Jesus? as we see that He was "Condemned."

What In The World Is Going On?

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Have you asked recently "What In the World Is Going On?" In this sermon we asked this very question to gain some much needed perspective on the current events by studying Romans 8:31-33.

Betrayed

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Our midweek Lenten series "Ouch-the 7 Deadly Stings of Sin" continues with a message from Psalm 41:7-9, where we see how Jesus absorbed the sting of being "Betrayed."

Are We Good?

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

We continue our "JUST in Time" series with a study of Romans 5:8-11. "Are We Good?"

Scorned

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

"Scorned" is the 4th lesson in the Lenten Mid-Week sermon series "OUCH - 7 Deadly stings of sin" in which we focus on seven different Old Testament passages and prophecies telling the world what God's own Son would suffer to pay for sin.

See the Time

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

What Time Do You See?
See the Season You You're
There are some events that change the way the world looks. There are some experiences that make you see something different. We may very well be living in one of those times now with the concern over COVID-19/coronavirus. But however the current concerns may or may not change the way you see the world, there is a far greater event that can change the way you see the world and make you see something different. This weekend we studied Romans 5:6 and learned about the special gift of how we get to "See the Time."

Pierced

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

What was broken has been mended.

The 3rd installment of our midweek Lenten series "Ouch: The 7 Deadly Stings of Sin" takes us to Isaiah 53:5, where we see how we are healed because Jesus was "Pierced."

Equal and Opposite

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

It is an epidemic!
Lately a lot of our Abiding Shepherd family has either been fighting illness or have had surgery of one kind or another. Fortunately, no one has contracted the coronavirus (nor have we begun to panic as if God were not in control). But we all are part of another epidemic known to us as sin.

This weekend we tackle the next lesson in our "JUST in Time" Sunday Lenten series. We dissect Romans 4:25 and see one of the laws of nature at work: "Equal and Opposite".

Forsake

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Sin Hurts.

In this sermon we consider the love our Savior has for us that moved Him to choose to be "Forsaken" for us. This is the 2nd installment in our "7 Deadly Stings of Sin" midweek Lenten series.

Faith or Works

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Are You Ok?
How Do You Know?
How do you know if you're doing ok? How do you know your life matters? How do you know if things are going to turn out alright? How do you know that you're part of something incredible? This weekend we begin our new weekends in Lent series "JUST in Time" with a message from Romans 3:28 about how you can know exactly where you stand, "Faith or Works."

Cursed

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

We begin our Lenten mid-week sermon series "OUCH - 7 deadly stings of sin" with a lesson from Genesis 3:14-19, "Cursed",

Lord, Open My Eyes

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Blindspot
The other day I [Pastor Krause] pulled the last can of soda out of the fridge. I went to the pantry to find some more to restock the fridge, but couldn't find any. I mentioned this to my wife who immediately found three six packs in the very place I had just looked. What's that about? Sometimes we can be looking right at something and still not see it. Not a big deal when it comes to soda, but very dangerous when it comes to our faith. This week we study our final Epiphany lesson and it is part of the Transfiguration account. We take a deep dive into Luke 9:29 and ask one thing of God - "Lord, Open My Eyes!"

Night Vision

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

I Can't Stand How Dark It Is!
Walk in the Light!
While the cold and snow during winter can be tough, the hardest part for many is the lack of sunlight. The days are short. The night is long. Darkness wears on a person. Dark places can bring fear, anxiety and pain to a person. But this weekend we study 2 Peter 1:19-21 where we learn how to walk firmly, full of hope and joy, with "Night Vision."

Honor

Sun, 09 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Significant.
You Are!
Sometimes we can get bogged down by the daily grind. But how differently you could carry your load if you saw how significant you are. This weekend we study 1 Peter 2:9-10 and celebrate how this life Jesus has given us is the most incredible "Honor."

Designed to Shine

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

I didn't know that, did you?

I recently ran across a website explaining the use for many everyday objects I did not realize. Without someone telling or showing you, there are certain design features we may overlook or never fully appreciate.

Our lives can be like this - certain design elements God wisely gave us that we have never fully realized. Our good works, our outward lives as Christians is one of these areas. This weekend we study the second part to Matthew's epiphany lessons to "LIGHT-en our load". The lesson is Matthew 5:14-16 and our focus will be: "Designed to Shine".

Focus

Sun, 26 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Can you see it?

With all our modern technology so many skills of the past are being lost. As an example, when we want a picture of something we pull out our smart phones and just snap away.

Lost is the fine are of focusing. In times past good pictures required the skill of understanding your camera, how it operated, and what exactly was need to get the best results. Could the same be true of our faith, both in the skills that are lost over time and the necessary steps to get the best results? Let's find out this weekend as we study Matthew 4:12-17. Our theme is "Focus".

Upgrade

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Running on an old version?
Is your system outdated?
It can be incredibly frustrating when we're stuck with a computer or mobile device that's running on an old version. It lags & doesn't work right. Could it be possible that some of our frustrations in life come because we've been trying to run on an old version of living? This weekend let's study together John 1:14-18 and learn how Jesus has given us a much needed "UPGRADE."

LIGHTen Your load

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Eureka!
Don't you just love those moments in time when everything finally comes together and you just get it? What about such moments when God connects all the dots and something we have been wrestling with, something we have been trying to get our heads around, suddenly the Holy Spirit shows us the light?
This weekend we began our Epiphany sermon series: "Light-en Your Load". Our first lesson is from John 1:1-14 and God shows us how just one day can make all the difference in our lives and in this world.

The Journey

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

The Journey Has Just Begun...
Where Are You Going?
Happy New Year! 2020 is here which means we've just begun a new year & new decade! What do the months and years ahead hold? None of us know for sure. But this weekend, as we wrap up the Christmas season, we study Matthew 2:23b and celebrate the One who joins us on and transforms for us "The Journey."

Tears of Sorrow to Tears of Joy

Sun, 29 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Sad Tears or Happy Tears? Maybe both!
Could These Sad Tears Also Be Happy Tears? Sometimes tears are from sadness. Other times they are from joy. But our God knows how to take sad tears and turn them into tears of joy.

Beginning to see Christmas in a new way

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Looking at the spirit of Christmas - past, present and future. A Christmas Day message from Pastor Krause

All I Want for Christmas

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Do you feel like something is missing in your Christmas celebrations? What so we really need this year?

THIS Changes Everything

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Nothing Will Be The Same!
Everything will be different!

THIS affects everything.
THIS gives you hope for the future.
THIS empowers you today.
THIS is what we're focusing on for our final "New Beginnings" Advent message. What is this? Find out while viewing this video and study Revelation 21:1-5.

I'm Forgetting Something

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

I forget...
The older I get (and yes, I am getting old) the more I seem to struggle to remember things. While forgetting things can sometimes be a problem, what if forgetting could be a good thing? What if there was something God actually told us we should forget? Our third Advent lesson “I'm forgetting something" teaches us about good forgetting as we study Isaiah 43:18-19.

It's a Beautiful Mourning

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

I'm Not Crying, You're Crying!
Either Way, Hope Is Here!
No one likes to admit their tears. We don't want to show our struggle. But not only can we be honest about our dark nights, we are empowered to say "It's A Beautiful Mourning." Let's study Lamentations 3:22-24 together this weekend and find out how.

Lets Begin Again

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Unkillable...

Have you ever had a tree or plant that you tried to get rid of but it just kept coming back? No matter what you used: a saw, poison, digging up the roots - it just could not kill it. I know, it is a weird analogy, but that's how God's promises are - unkillable. No matter how many times we doubt them, reject them, or walk away from them, God's promises are always there. This week we begin the new church year and the Advent season. We start our series "New Beginnings" with a lesson from Jeremiah 33:1-16 with the theme: "Let's begin - Again".

Transformed

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What Happened To You?
You've Changed!
When we go through a battle we come out changed. This weekend as we conclude our "I Quit! (spiritual warfare on a personal level)" series as we study Genesis 32:24-28 and celebrate how we've been "Transformed."

Expect More

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

You missed the point!
How many times have you heard a sermon on the feeding of the 5,000? Really, that many times - well get ready for one more. What if I told you that we have been missing the point of this miracle? While this miracle shows us God can provide everything we need, the truth it is about so much more than that. We will focus in on verses 16-18 of Matthew 14 with this thought in mind: "Expect More".

Give Up On YOUR god

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Just Give Up Already!
This Doesn't Make Any Sense!
Sometimes it's not just that life is really tough, but we actually hear voices saying we should give up on God. This weekend we have a challenging section of God's Word, Job 2:7-10, where you get the surprising encouragement to just go right ahead and "give up on YOUR god."

("Job" Video courtesy of The Bible Project and can be downloaded for free at www.thebibleproject.com.)

Principle of the Path

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

So Close! But So Far Away......
Ever start getting excited because you think you're close to your destination, maybe you can even see where you want to be, only to find out that the road to get there is closed? The let-down that comes after getting your hopes up can bring an extra dose of discouragement and frustration. This weekend's lesson gives us some much needed perspective, hope & encouragement for the journey as Genesis 40:14-15 & 23 teaches us the "Principle of the Path."

The Problem with Jesus

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000

You're being lied to!
Not sure if you caught that, but every day you are hearing a lie. No, I'm not talking about that political ad you just saw on TV, or the story your kid just handed you about how they didn't do what you just saw them do.
I'm talking about your life. Every day we hear two stories - one heavenly and one earthly, and one of them has to be a lie. Which one is the subject of our 20th spiritual battle lesson and it just so happens to also fall on the observance of the Protestant Reformation. We will study 2 Timothy 4:10 and our theme is "The Problem with Jesus".

Anger Mismanagement

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000

I'M ANGRY! I [Pastor Krause] was trying to find a good way to describe what we will be studying this weekend so I googled "anger" and the results kind of made me angry. Seems there is no perfect way to reference anger - I found one list identifying 4 kinds of anger, one says 7, one says 10 and another says 12 different kinds. Argh!

So I'm going to skip Google and go right to the expert, the man of our spiritual warfare lesson this week - Jonah. We will be studying chapter 4:9-10 with the theme "Anger Mismanagement".

Dear Church

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Church, Youâ€™ve Got Mail!
God Wants You to Knowâ€¦.

If God were to send a letter to the Church, what do you think it would say? Would it be a happy message? Would it be a challenging message? Would it be a message that changes your life? This weekend we hear a special message God brings to us by studying Genesis 16:7-10 with the message "Dear Church,".

Bend, but do not Break

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000

DEFENSE!
I [Pastor Krause] think it is a pretty safe guess that you all know I am a huge Packer fan. I am excited the Pack is off to good start this season. But I am a bit concerned how our defense has been playing, especially with Sunday's upcoming game against Dallas.

I hope the Packers prepare for the game with a philosophy this weekend's lesson teaches us about spiritual warfare. We are going to study another prophet who was at the point of wanting to quit. And so God taught Jeremiah to "Bend, but not Break".

You Are Stronger than You Know

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

How strong are you? Strength can be measured in any number of ways: the amount of weight that can be lifted, the ability to stay focused in difficult circumstances, and even good old fashioned horsepower. As important as it is to be strong while fighting our spiritual battles, the real question is how much strength do we really have? Our next "I Quit" lesson shows us a man who thought he was weak but in reality he was really just afraid. We study Judges 6:11-16 and hear God tell Gideon, and us, "You are stronger than you know!"

Faith Over Fear

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Fear or Faith – Which Wins?
It’s the Matchup of a Lifetime! Fear may be powerful. But is it really any match for faith? This weekend we step out boldly with a study of Matthew 14:29-31 to see that in Jesus, the result is always “Faith Over Fear.”

This Is Your Permission Slip

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

You're All Set!
Welcome to the Trip! God has given us a new life and incredible calling. But do we sometimes hold ourselves back? This weekend we study Judges 4:8-10 where we hear God say "This Is Your Permission Slip."

WEiRD

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

You're Weird! So I just called you weird. How do you feel about it? Before you answer, listen again to the message of Jesus with this weekend's lesson, "Weird (Because Normal Isn't Working)" from John 6:66-69.

IF

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What If?
Experience the Freedom of Opportunity! Today there are tasks, challenges and battles in front of you. You have to do them. Or do you? What "IF" you had a choice? What "IF" you said no to what's in front of you? What "IF" you said yes? This weekend we study Esther 4:12-14 as we embrace the freedom of having the opportunity to fight the battle in front us.

Intervention

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Is Your Worst Enemy Looking At You In the Mirror?
There's Victory Over the Battle Within!
It's easy to point fingers at others or the world around us. But sometimes the biggest attacks come from within. This weekend we studied Acts 2:37-38 to see how God gives us an eternity changing, life giving "Intervention."

Choose Your Battles Wisely

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The best time to win a spiritual battle is before it starts. Guard your heart! Our lesson comes from 2 Samuel 11:1. Let's strategize so we don't give up!

Alone or Lonely?

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Words mean things. I am not a fan of people misusing words. Brain Anderson, one of the Brewer's TV announcers, often misuses the term "anxious" when the word he really should use is "eager" - “ i.e. so and so is eager to get another at-bat.

Many people also confuse the words "alone" and "lonely". Alone means being by one's self while lonely is that feeling of being unwanted by others, maybe even feeling unloved. Our next "I Quit" lesson is another look at the prophet Elijah and his spiritual battle with loneliness. Our lesson is 1 Kings 19:14 and our theme is "Alone or Lonely?

Worth Less?

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Mixed messages--
Ever been in a conversation where a person's words do not match their facial expression, that is, they are hiding what they are really thinking and feeling?

Ever try to have one of those conversations with God where we put on a brave face outwardly, but inwardly we are "dying". Our next "I Quit" lesson takes us to another Old Testament great - Elijah. But, like us, Elijah had his bad days too. This weekend we studied 1 Kings 19:4 and our theme is "Worth Less".

When the Storm Isn't Really the Problem

Sun, 28 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The Weather...
There is one universal topic you can discuss with just about anybody - the weather. Either it is too hot, too cold, too dry, to wet, etc. Everybody has an opinion about the weather. But the real hot topic is storms. How much rain did we get? Is it going to snow? Did you hear that thunder last night? Storms always get peoples' attention, especially the big ones. But what about spiritual storms? How many of us discuss the spiritual storms we need to weather? This week we have that discussion with our next "I Quit" lesson: Mark 4:38 “When the storm isn't really the problem!"

Surround

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000

When all you see is trouble....
You've been there. You know the feeling - when it seems like everywhere you look there's another challenge, failure or threat - when the enemy is attacking from every direction. Now, we can lay our fears down through a study of 2 Kings 6:15-17 as God opens our eyes to see that He has chosen to "Surround" us.

Necessary Evil

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000

EVIL - How do you know for sure if a person is evil? And looks can be deceiving since we are unable to look into the hearts of others to examine if their motives match their words and actions. Often it seems we are unable to recognize true evil until it is too late, or so we may think. As we prepare for the next battle in our spiritual warfare on a personal level Jesus gives us a view of evil we might not ever considered. Our lesson comes from Matthew 13:24-30. And our study will be all about "Necessary Evil".

Why me?

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Problem Solving - Wouldn't it be nice if everything in life was simple, easy and fun? (That's the way it was supposed to be). But much like a muscle, without exercise, our faith would atrophy if everything were easy. And so God wisely allows challenges for our faith. Our next lesson in the "I Quit" series displays a challenge for the man whom this series is patterned from - Moses. Moses faced a big challenge and unfortunately he thought he had to face it alone - that became the real problem, the real spiritual battle Moses was fighting. Our lesson is specifically on Numbers 11:13-15 - but I'm adding verses 10-12 for a fuller understanding of the question on Moses' mind, "Why Me?"

Challenge Accepted

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000

I Dare You! Take Hold of God's Calling! Jesus has given us a life of eternal significance and limitless potential. What's holding us back from living that way? This weekend we study Exodus 3:11-14 and learn why we can boldly say "Challenge Accepted."

Not A Hostage

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What Is Controlling You? You're free to leave it behind! What if you're giving over control to something that has no business having power over you? This weekend step forward into the 2nd week of our "I Quit! (spiritual warfare on a personal level)" series with a study of Luke 22:3-4. It's time to recognize that you are "Not A Hostage."

Victory!

Sun, 16 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000

NO END GAME?
Imagine this: I ask you to help out here at church but give you no information about how long the job will last or even how to know if you are meeting expectations. My goal here is not to describe how some churches recruit volunteers. It is about defining details. This week we begin the Trinity season and our new sermon series "I Quit" (spiritual warfare on a personal level). There is no better place to begin than with the details of what spiritual victory actually looks like as we study Luke 10:17-20. Our theme is one, glorious word: "Victory!"

Baggage Check

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000

FORGOTTEN HOLIDAY - Do you have your celebration planned yet and did you invite the relatives? Did you purchase the appropriate flower display to properly represent this next holiday? It is amazing how Christmas and Easter are off the chart holidays on the Christian calendar. Even the world pauses a few moments to "celebrate" these big days. So why does Pentecost, the third major festival of the church year, receive so little attention and celebration? I'm hoping we can change that, even a little bit, this weekend as we study Joel 2:28-32. Our theme is "Baggage Check" (and other blessings of Pentecost).

You were made to...

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What did you lose? What did you gain?
What was lost has been restored!
There was a popular song lyric a while back that said, "We were meant to live for so much more, but we lost ourselves." Well, because of Easter, what was lost has been restored. This weekend we wrap up the Easter season by studying Romans 4:25 and taking hold of what "You Were Made To..."

New Normal

Sun, 26 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Because this is an expression that has been twisted and misused in recent times, allow me to define it for our purposes. The new normal is: the current state of being after some dramatic change has transpired. The new normal is what replaces what we previously expected. For instance, in high school I had a class to learn how to type on a typewriter. Now we do everything on computers - that is the new normal.
Easter presents us with a new normal for our earthly lives as we dig into our second last lesson of the Easter Epistles series from Romans 6:3-8.

Not What, but Why

Tue, 21 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. It's not just at New Year's when people resolve to change and start over. It seems whenever there is a new fad, a new diet program, or a new self-help process, people are compelled to change. So how's that working out for you? Maybe you are not one of the millions to start over and over, again. But maybe part of you is, or at least you have considered changing something in your life. What if I told you there is one thing that actually does change your life? I will tell you this weekend as we study 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 and see how Jesus' resurrection compels us to see life from a new perspective of "Not what, but why".

the UnWasted Life

Mon, 13 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What does a good life look like? God's answer to that question may surprise you. This weekend, as we celebrated Mother's Day & Confirmation, we studied 2 Timothy 1:8-11 and learn to embrace "The UnWasted Life."

Rejoy

Sun, 05 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000

There's a life that God created you to live. Sin broke it. But the resurrection restores it. Learn how the resurrection "rejoys" us with this lesson from 1 Peter 1:3-6.

The New You

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

How was your week? Easter was so much fun! But what about Monday? How about the rest of the week? This weekend's lesson, 1 John 3:1-3, frees you to admit that you don't see all the results of Easter just yet but that doesn't mean you shouldn't embrace "The New You."

What Do You See?

Sun, 21 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

An Easter message from an unlikely source, Revelation 5:11-14. "Worthy is the Lamb, Amen!" How does looking out at the world from inside the tomb change the way we view Easter, and our lives?

Love Revolution

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Look what HE started! Palm Sunday may mark the beginning of Holy Week, but this weekend we celebrate that Jesus started something that is still happening today. This weekend, as we wrap up our "Lent Means Love" series we celebrated that we are part of the "Love Revolution" with a study of 1 John 4:19.

Faith Wins Over Fear

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Fear verses Faith - Our "A Strange Kind of Victory" midweek Lenten series continues with a look at two men who overcame their fear and in doing so, helped set the stage for the greatest moment this world has ever known. Our study of John 19:38-42 shows us how because of the cross, "Faith Wins Over Fear."

I Love This

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

I'm bored! I [Pastor Krause] remember the days when I would complain to my mom that I was bored - often during the summer"". I usually did not like her response: "Well, there are weeds to pull out in the garden. You could go do that!" It's strange how easily we can grow tired of the wonderful creation and life our loving God has given us. What's the problem? More importantly, what's the solution? This weekend we get down to our second last lesson in our Lent Means Love series as we study 1 John 4:10-11. God looks at us and His whole creation and never grows bored with us. Instead, He simply exclaims "I Love This!"

The Not So Obvious Victory

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Sometimes we can get so caught up in the details that we can miss the beautiful big picture. Our "A Strange Kind of Victory" midweek lenten series continued with Pastor Krause taking us through a study of Luke 23:47.

Love Does

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Don't believe in love. Live in love. Love is not just an idea or some distant concept. Love is an active reality that we experience and live out. This weekend we continued our "Lent Means Love" series by celebrating what "Love Does" with a study of 1 John 3:16.

Paradise Wins over Prison

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Our Lenten series, "A Strange Kind of Victory", continues with a message from Pastor Abrahamson reminding us that Paradise awaits us, and the prison we sometimes feel here on this earth will come to an end.

Absolutely

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

How are you? Growing up we were taught that when we asked each other "how are you doing", we were supposed to care about and listen to the answer. Now it seems that phrase is just another way of saying "hi" because if you really want to know how someone is doing all we need to do is check out their social media status. This week we ventured into our third "Lent Means Love" study and worked our way through John's first epistle (chapter 3 verse 5). Our theme was "Absolutely" and that will make a lot more sense when you review the video. But let's just say it opens the door for us to consider who we are and who we want to be, but most of all, who Jesus makes us.

The Shepherd Wins Back His sheep

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What does the face of love look like? Our midweek Lenten series "A Strange Kind of Victory" continued as Pastor Krause took us through a study of Luke 22:61-62. In this lesson we learned about Peter's denial of Jesus and considered the loving look of Jesus as He went about the work of winning back His sheep.

Difference Maker

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What difference does Jesus make? Jesus isn't just some distant figure to believe in. What He accomplished on the cross really matters today and every day. This weekend our study of 1 John 2:1-2 involved a study of some crucial Gospel concepts that will us to see that Jesus is the ultimate "Difference Maker (Advocate & Propitiate)".

Scripture Wins Over the Sword

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Directions - do you read them or do you just go ahead and try to figure it out on your own?
For our 2nd installment of "A Strange Kind of Victory" Lenten series Pastor Abrahamson took us through Matthew 26:52-54. In this lesson we admitted the issues that come from acting out of our own expectations and saw the beauty of what happened when Jesus followed the plan laid out in Scripture. We now have the privilege to embrace the fact that "Scripture Wins Over the Sword."

Let There Be Light

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Have you ever noticed most people think they will be happy once they get something (like money or control) into their lives? But the not-so-secret "secret to happiness" is actually getting rid of, letting go of specific things in our lives. Another word for this is catharsis - "the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions". This week we begin our Sunday Lenten Series - "Lent Means Love". We will be working through a series of lessons from the first epistle (letter) of John beginning with 1 John 1:7. Our lesson theme is: Let there be Light!

God's Will Wins Over My Will

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

We begin our midweek Lenten series "A Strange Kind of Victory" with a study of Matthew 26:36-46. Pastor Krause takes us through an in-depth study of how "God's Will Wins Over My Will."

Unlearning Religion

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Are you religious?

That can be a difficult question to answer. This weekend we took hold of the fact that knowing God and being known by Him is so much better than any man-made religion this world has ever come up with. Our lesson, Matthew 23:15, encouraged us to spend some time "Unlearning Religion."

Viral Light

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

What makes a post go viral? Humor? Inspiration? Peculiarity?
This weekend we studied Isaiah 49:6 to look at the special gift God has given us, the "Viral Light" that is spreading throughout the world.

Facing Lions

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Someone is watching...
Big Brother, data mining, your personal information being sold to the highest bidder - seems like we are living in an age when just about anyone can find out just about anything on just about everybody. There is the old adage: "If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?" Our words, our actions, send quite a message. But what message? This week we study Daniel 6:19-20 and find the prophet Daniel's words/actions sent shock waves through an entire kingdom, even the world, as he found himself - Facing Lions.

So God Loves

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

TRUE LOVE -- If you were raised "in the church" you were probably taught to behave yourself. Obeying God's holy Law is a good thing, as long as the reasons for doing so are also holy. When we examine our own hearts we often realize we were taught to obey out of fear, or guilt, or even the desire to look good in the eyes of others. But what God wants from us is the is the very same thing He offers us - LOVE. This week we wrestle with true love as we examine God's love to the Gentiles in a lesson from Jonah 3:6-9 - So God Loves.

Remarkable

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Taken any big leaps of faith lately? This weekend as we study Ruth 1:16-17, we meet a special young woman in God's story named Ruth. As we study her life as a part of God's story, we get a beautiful reminder that God would have us experience life that is truly "Remarkable."

Reputation Ra-ehab

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

How's your reputation? This weekend we met a women with a pretty bad reputation. Her name was Rahab and she was a prostitute. But as we studied Joshua 2:8-12a we see what happens when God's reputation meets Rahab's reputation. We get to experience "REPUTATION RA/EHAB."

Many Other People

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

outside looking in...
...it happens. People form cliques or exclusive groups and it can make you feel like an outsider. In ancient times it was often rare for Gentiles to be accepted into Jewish circles, but sometimes God took matters into His own hands. This weekend we wrestled with a very unique group of Gentiles and saw how God brought them into His family. We studied Exodus 12:37-38 and got to know some Gentiles simply called "Many Other People".

Who?

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Wait, who? Have you ever been listening to someone tell you a story and then they suddenly drop in the name of a person you've never heard of before? This weekend you might feel a bit that way at first as we learn about Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18-20. Not only will you learn a bit about this intriguing character, but we'll celebrate that God chooses to give incredible honor to surprising people. This weekend as ask the question "Who?"

YOU want me to do what?

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

EPIPHANY - If your calendar is like mine, on Sunday, January 6 there is the word "Epiphany" (from the Greek meaning "appearance" or "manifestation", thus "to shine forth". 1/6/2019 makes the beginning of the next season of the church year often called "the Gentiles Christmas". Usually lessons focus on the visit of the Magi or Jesus' escape to Egypt, etc. However, this year we are going to trace the origins and steps of God reaching out to the Gentiles through various lessons of the Old Testament, including our introductory lesson of God calling Abram. Our text is recorded in Genesis 12:1-3 and out theme is "YOU want me to do what?"

What if?

Sun, 30 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

2019 -- What if you could see into the future? Would you even want to? And what would you do with that kind of knowledge? We close 2018 with a lesson from Revelation 2:8-11 where we see Jesus tell an early church what was in their future. Spoiler alert, it's not all good news - at least not from a human perspective. But that's the great thing with God, each day and every year is a chance at a fresh start to trust Him. Our theme, simply put, is "What if...?"

The King Is Here

Tue, 25 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

The Christmas Day sermon with sermonettes from Deuteronomy 17:14-20, 1 Samuel 2:9-10 and 1 Corinthians 15:25-27.

Shepherds Watch

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Christmas Eve sermon, a look at the birth of Christ through the eyes of the shepherds.

When Heaven Meets EArth

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

The End of The World - What's It All About?
As the conclusion to our Advent series "Christ is Coming," this Sunday we studied 2 Peter 3:10-18 and dug into what's going to happen "When Heaven Meets Earth."

Ready or Not

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Are you ready for __________?
Depending on how you fill in the blank, that question can either bring about excitement or fear. This weekend we'll study 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 with the theme "Ready Or Not" and embrace the excitement of being ready for Christ to Come.

HARPADZO the right kind of rapture

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

WE WIN!! What if we ran a race and we all crossed the finish line at the exact same moment? Wouldn't we all be the winners? I'm not talking about the kind of race where you don't keep score or everyone gets a prize just for showing up.

Finishing a race at the exact same moment is a good picture of what we wrestled with in our second installment of our Advent series "Christ is Coming". This week we wrestled with one of the most misunderstood concepts of the end times “the Rapture". What is it exactly? What does the Bible really say about the Rapture? We turned our attention to 1 Thessalonians 4:11-18 and our theme was the Greek word translated as "rapture" = HARPADZO (the right kind of rapture).

Why Wait?

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

I HATE WAITING! When I [Pastor Krause] am trying to find a sermon illustration to portray the struggle of waiting, I typically grab a picture of traffic on the Beltline. It works because most, if not all, of us have experienced frustration trying to get across Madison. It always seems the worst when I am running late or in a hurry. But the traffic isn't the problem. The waiting is. This weekend we begin our Advent study. Our seasonal theme is: "Christ is Coming" and all our lessons will focus on Jesus' second coming which highlights the necessity of His first coming. Our first lesson is from 2 Peter 3:1-9 and this weekend's theme is appropriately "Why Wait?"

Rewired

Sun, 25 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

There's something different about you...
When you were brought to faith, you were changed. Your life was given an incredible new meaning and a radically different purpose. This weekend Pastor Abrahamson wrapped up our "Christian Character(s)" series by digging into Philippians 2:1-4 and taking us to the core of how we've been "Rewired."

Thanksgiving...for everything?

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Krause leads us through a study of the principles and practice of thankfulness as we look at 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Satisfied

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

How did we do?
Have you noticed that almost every on-line business asks you to rate them as you complete your purchase or use their services? (Maybe churches should start doing this, but then again, I [Pastor Krause] am afraid some of the sermons I,ve preached wouldn,t rate very well). What if you were asked to rate your life? How many stars would last week get? As we near the end of our Christian Character(s) study we come to one of the more challenging characteristics for us as God's children - satisfaction. Are we satisfied with what God has given us? Do we long for more? This week we "take a bite" out of John 6:27 and "snack on" one, simple concept... "Satisfied?"

Perfect Timing

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Time Out! "Have you ever stopped to think about how much we are controlled by our schedules as well as our own concepts of time? Most folks live their lives ruled by the clock and the calendar (guilty as charged)." writes Pastor Krause. This lesson is about how God - as the creator of time - controls time for us. Ecclesiastes 3:1 teaches us how to trust in God's perfect timing.

Patient Perspective

Sun, 04 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Waiting..........
Waiting is hard to do, especially when that waiting involves enduring a difficult season of life. This weekend we studied Psalm 75:2 and gained some much needed "Patient Perspective."

All In

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000

No holding back. The love God has for you and wants to put on display through you is not partial, half-hearted or incomplete. This weekend we studied John 15:13 and celebrated that the love God has for us is "All In."

Just Christians

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000

"I'm not sure you heard what I said." What's the difference between mercy and grace, between justice and fairness, or between being oppressed and being poor? Sounds confusing, doesn't it? That's how the devil likes to work, he likes to make us question, doubt and confuse what we think we hear God saying. This weekend we listened more closely to what God says about the Christian characteristic of being just while at the same time being merciful. We studied Micah 6:8 and our theme was "Just Christian".

In The Center Ring

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Are you humble? Tricky question, isn't it? But what's even trickier is actually learning humility. This weekend we studied James 4:6 and discuss the battle for this crucial characteristic that takes place "In The Center Ring."

This Weary Heart

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000

There are times in our lives when we ask "Why do I even try?" Sometimes our lives of faith can become awfully discouraging, especially when we see how easy some non-Christians seem to have it. This weekend we studied Psalm 73:13-14 and discovered some perspective and encouragement for "This Weary Heart."

Flexible Faith

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Ever have one of those days when you plans change? Not only will people throw us a curveball when it comes to our schedules, but sometimes God does too. Instead of getting frustrated, a better response is to take a step back and look at the bigger picture - the eternal picture. This weekend we took a look at our next Christian characteristic, Flexible Faith, as we study Colossians 3:2.

Surveillance State

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Safe. Are there many more important words in our world today? This weekend, as we study our "Surveillance State" with a lesson from Proverbs 22:3, we'll discuss dangerous situations for our souls and look to the God who is our refuge and shield.

The Search: Finding God in Everyday Life

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Do you know what to look for? God is present and at work in every detail of our lives. This weekend we studied 1 Samuel 16:7 to gain some insight for "The Search: Finding God In Everyday Life."

When Love Speaks

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

I've heard that before...
Ever had someone make you a promise that sounds nice but you knew they wouldn't come through on? Have you ever made an empty promise? This weekend we studied Psalm 15:4 and learned about the importance of coming through on promises and the beauty of what happens "When Love Speaks."

Faith Outside the Box

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Stuck in a rut?
Everybody loves innovation, for example: cell phones, safety features on cars, dishwashers - for most of us these are things we could not live without. It took some "outside the box" thinking for people to come up with these great ideas. But what about our faith, do we like innovation there? What if God pushes us beyond our comfort zone, challenges us to think bigger than our own personal beliefs, or even tests us to the point where all we can do is finally let God lead us where we would not ordinarily go? This week we begin a new phase of our Christian Character(s) study as we begin examining a variety of Christian virtues. Our text is Romans 12:2 and the lesson is "Faith outside the Box".

Built to Last

Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What's the secret to a love that lasts? Laugh often? Communicate? Forgive? There's no such thing? This weekend we concluded the "Love" portion of our "Christian Character(s)" series, as we studied Proverbs 20:6-7 where we see how we get to experience love that is "Built to Last."

The Naked Truth

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000

SEX - It is a subject rarely discussed openly and honestly. In the sermon, Pastor Krause talks about it as we arrive at our third topic of love in the marriage relationship as a reflection of God's love for us. Our lesson is Hebrews 13:4-5 and our topic is "The Naked Truth". (P.S. the sermon is rated PG).

Relationship Goals

Sun, 12 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Marriage - What's the Point?
Romance? Companionship? Family? Pastor Abrahamson leads us through a study of Genesis 2:22-24 as we learn about God's "Relationship Goals" when it comes to marital love.

Love Is For Losers

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Relationships: Back in my day (Pastor Krause speaking) we didn't have fancy dating apps or computer programs to determine if a person was a good "match" with someone else in their system. Back in my day we asked a girl out and prayed to God she would say "yes". It is nice to know some things about relationships never change, starting with the relationship God chooses to have with us. This month we study our Christian character(s) from the perspective of the marital relationship - the one human relationship God uses to describe His love for us. We study Proverbs 30:18-19 and see that "Love is for Losers".

Love: It's Not What You Think

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What is Love?
Every time I hear the question "What is love?" I (Pastor Krause) immediately think of Chris Kattan and Will Ferrell bobbing their heads to the song of the same name by Haddaway. It became famous as part of the SNL "Roxbury Guys" sketches. (I'm guessing this ages me a bit!) It's not a very good picture of love as the lyrics go on to say "Baby, don't hurt me no more". We will get a better picture of love as we conclude the first part of our mini-series on Christian Character(s) related to the SHEMA, and as we get ready for the second part of the study looking at the marriage relationship. This week's lesson is Deuteronomy 10:12-13 and our theme is "Love: It's Not What You Think".

Soul Detox

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Get Healthy! There are plenty of strategies for getting healthy, avoiding certain foods, exercising, going on a cleanse. This weekend This weekend we study Psalm 42:2-3 and see where real health begins as God gives us a "Soul Detox".

Cut to the Heart

Pastor Krause — Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Heart Attack: Do you know what's happening if you have chest discomfort, pain in your upper body, shortness of breath, and you break out in a cold sweat and feel nauseated? You may have some kind of heart condition, maybe even a heart attack. Do you know the signs of a spiritual heart attack? Are you keeping spiritually fit so as to protect your heart? And what exactly does God mean when He tells us He wants our whole heart? This weekend we look at our next big word from the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:5) as we study the heart from Psalm 51:10. Our theme is "Cut to the Heart".

Prayer For Strength

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

The video prayer used in the 7/8/19 worship service has been made available for your personal devotions or to share with friends and family. Enjoy!

Muchness

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What did you think would happen? It always amazed me [Pastor Krause] as my sons were growing up and I would warn them about the consequences of their actions if they did not listen, that they would then complain about getting themselves into trouble. We're kind of like that with God. God prescribes a path for our lives here, we often don't listen, and then we complain when life takes a turn.This week we begin a new phase of our Christian Character(s) study. For the next 2 months we will be looking at some of the more intense directions God gives about being His children.This week we start with Deuteronomy 6:5 and look at the characteristic of "muchness".

New Direction

Sun, 01 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Rerouting. Ever been using your GPS, missed a turn, and then been chewed out by that little digital voice telling you to turn around? As frustrating as that little piece of technology can be, what a blessing it is that it stops us from going the wrong way! This weekend we studied 1 Corinthians 15:33 and learned how God will sometimes reroute us because He has given us a "New Direction."

Integrity

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Definitions - How would you define "integrity"? The most common definition I have heard is: "doing the right thing even when no one is watching". But is that the best we can do? This week we wrap up our quick journey through the book of Acts and our look at some of the characters of the early church. This week we view an episode in the life of the apostle Paul from Acts 24:26. Someone was watching as Paul practiced integrity, not just because it was the right thing to do but because of his faith in God.

A Go(o)d Heart (David)

Sun, 17 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Pastor Krause writes: As you know, last year one of my brothers died from a heart attack. This year another one of my brothers was hospitalized with heart problems. So you can imagine that I am trying to take better care of my own heart. God-willing, my heart will last for many years yet, but that is not my biggest challenge. I'm more concerned about whether my heart is good, spiritually. This week's lesson helps us wrestle with our hearts as we study our next Christian Character(s). Our lesson is from Acts 13:22 and it's about David and his Go(o)d heart.

You're Stronger than You Think (Stephen)

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000

How strong are you? That's a trick question because it all depends on how you measure strength. Some people can lift a lot of weight. Others can endure great pressure and seem to have endless stamina. What if we measured strength and power using a different scale? What if real power was measured in how we handle the challenges to our Christian character? This weekend we take a close look at our next series character - Stephen. Our lesson is from Acts 6:8 and our theme is "You are stronger than you think!"

Bold

Sun, 03 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000

When it comes to faith, are you as bold as you'd like to be? This weekend we moved forward into our new Christian Character(s) series as we looked at Acts 4:29 and discovered how the Holy Spirit gives us faith that is bold.

DOKIMOS

Sun, 27 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000

We introduce our "Christian Character(s)" Trinity Series today with a message about Dokimos. Our first lesson is Acts 5:3-4 and we get to know ourselves a little better as we dig into the choices made by Ananias and Sapphira. Our theme is DOKIMOS, by watching the sermon you will learn everything you should know about DOKIMOS.

What Just Happened?

Sun, 20 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What Just Happened?! Have you ever found yourself asking that question? Maybe you experienced a surprising event or maybe you suddenly realized something rather significant just happened. This weekend as we celebrated Pentecost, we had plenty of reasons to ask "What Just Happened?!" and celebrate the answer to that question with a study of Acts 2:36-41.

And You Are...?

Sun, 13 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Know Thyself - If you and I just met for the very first time, what would you tell me about who you are to help me to get to really know you? This weekend not only did we celebrate God's gift of mothers, but we concluded our Resurrection Question series with a lesson from Romans 1:1b-5a as we answer this question: "And You Are"?

What's the Goal?

Sun, 06 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000

This trial serves a purpose. This weekend we studied 1 Peter 1:3-7 where we gained some special motivation and insight for what God is up to right now in our lives as we answered the question, "What's the Goal?"

Why the Struggle?

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

The Struggle Is Real. Some days, some moments are great. But others, not so much. We all face a variety of struggles. This weekend looked to Philippians 3:7-11 to answer the question, if Jesus is raised, if Easter really did change everything, "Why the Struggle"?

My Life Changed When...?

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Do the math. What is one plus one? Easy, right? This weekend the apostle Paul gives us a simple math lesson regarding the resurrection. It is a simple equation but the answer means everything. Our next Resurrection Question is based on 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 as God has Paul provide the answer to the question "My Life Changed When"?

Is That Who You Really Are?

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

I am _______________. How we fill in that blank is important. That blank represents where we find our identity, worth and significance. This weekend we studied Romans 6:1-4 where we saw that Jesus not only changed everything for us, He changed us and gives us a new answer to the question, "Is that who you are?"

Are You Guilty of Believing the Resurrection?

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Proof... Many of us have lived our whole lives believing Jesus rose from the dead on Easter morning, and it is good that we do. But what if you just heard about the resurrection for the first time in your life? What if you had doubts? We look at the evidence of Jesus' resurrection by asking the question "Are You Guilty of Believing in the Resurrection?" Our lesson comes from Acts 24:17-21 as we continue on Easter series "Resurrection Questions!"

Isn't This The Sad Part of the Story?

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Spring. Family. Food. Easter morning is often one of those mountain top life moments. As we celebrated Easter, we looked to Matthew 27:51-53 where we embrace that Jesus doesn't just give us hope in the mountain top moments, but even when we find ourselves asking "Isn't this the sad part of the story?" Happy Easter from Abiding Shepherd.

Victorious Voice

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What does victory sound like? On Good Friday we studied Mark 15:37 & Luke 23:46 and listened to Jesus' "Victorious Voice."

Consider the Source

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What does real power look & sound like? As our "Look Into It" Lenten series continues, Pastor Abrahamson delivers a Palm Sunday message from Matthew 21:14-17. We see and hear children praising Jesus as King. The scene may be sweet & cute, but it actually showcases what real power looks & sounds like when we "Consider the Source."

Weeping Women

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Do we every find ourselves heartbroken over the bad things that we do and that happen in this world? We can be sure that God weeps even more over sin than we do because God loves us and knows the heart that our sin brings. Thankfully His love is so deep that He sent His Son to the cross to defeat sin and every tear that has ever been shed as a result of it. Consider our Savior's incredible love through the sound of "Weeping Women" as part of our "Sounds of the Passion" Lenten series.

Calling On The King

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

The 3 hardest words to say... No, it's not what you think. People say "I love you" all the time - some mean it, some don't. The three hardest words for us sinners to say is "I need help", whether we are speaking to others or speaking to God. We hate the taste of those words in our mouth, so we say them too seldom as we try to fix our own lives. What if God puts you in a place where you CAN'T help yourself? What if you can't survive without someone coming to your rescue? And what if just anyone won't do? This weekend we enter into the final phase of our "Look Into It" series as we study the first of two examples of Jesus as the Son of David. Our lesson is from Luke 18:35-43.

Hateful Hollers

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Our mid-week Lenten series "Sounds of the Passion" continues with the sounds of Hateful Hollers.

I Want to Believe But

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What makes you doubt Jesus? Do questions, accusations from non-Christians, or times when life doesn't make sense trigger moments of doubt? This weekend we studied John 7:25-31 and learned that Jesus' actions speak for themselves whenever we find ourselves saying, "I Want to Believe, But...".

You Need to See This

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Some things are so amazing you have to see it to believe it. Sometimes Jesus is like that. People struggled to believe Jesus was the Messiah unless they saw Him with their own eyes. As our "Look Into It" study continues we are going to look into what happened when Jesus met the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4:28-29 & 39-42).

Eerie Echoes

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000

What's your biggest regret? As we continue our Lenten series "Sounds of the Passion" we take a look at Matthew 27:3-5 and hear the "Eerie Echoes" that deal with our guilt once and for all.

Different

Sun, 25 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Do your expectations match God's promise? As we continued our "Look Into It!" weekends in Lent series we studied John 1:43-51 saw how God often shows up in ways that are "Different" than we might naturally expect.

Cock's Crow

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Does it sound like guilt or grace? As we continue our "Sounds of the Passion" Lenten series we study Mark 14:72 and learn how the passion of Christ turns what would normally sound like guilt into sounding like grace!

Searching For The Truth?

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Are you "Searching for Truth?" We begin our weekends in Lent series "Look Into It!" with a message from John 7:45-53 reminding us where to look for answers to all of life's most important questions!

Singing Psalms

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000

We begin our 2018 Lenten worship series "Sounds of the Passion" with our Ash Wednesday message "Singing Psalms" from Mark 14:26