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Emmanuel Presbyterian Church
Hosted by Rev. Charles Drew · EN
Browse and listen through our library of Sunday Sermons recorded at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church in New York City.
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Faith Practices
3w agoTap to summarizeAudio Recording Faith Practices Rev. Tim Chang Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: FWPSMActs 2:42-47 (ESV)42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.Sermon Outline1. A life of devotion[42] And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.2. A life of sharing[44] And all who believed were together and had all things in common. [45] And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.3. A life of witness[46] And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, [47] praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious God, we confess that the Christian life is full of challenges. There are so many things competing for our devotion, and we are not always committed to you. We have received spiritual blessings and abundant gifts, but instead of sharing, we often hoard. We struggle to bear witness to Jesus openly and hide out of shame and fear. Forgive us for not living in line with who you have called us to be. May the power of Jesus’ devotion to us, his generous sharing of all that belonged to him, and his beautiful witness of good news renew us and shape us according to your will.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Based on this passage, our church emphasizes five practices: fellowship, word, sacraments, prayer, mission. What’s the difference between merely valuing these practices and actually being devoted to them?Which of these practices feel most natural to you and which ones need more attention or take more effort on your part?What makes it hard for us to notice the needs of those around us, and perhaps even within our own church?In what ways is the call to generosity easy for you; in what ways is it challenging?The early church seemed to have a Christian identity in both public and private settings. To what degree is your Christian identity on full display?What are the obstacles to having “favor with all people” right now? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?
Transcribe →Gospel People
4w agoTap to summarizeAudio Recording Gospel People Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:7-18 (ESV)7 Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 9 and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.Sermon OutlineThe good news draws you in to the life of Christ where ordinary people are transformed by the extraordinary grace of Christ.1. Gospel Messagev12 …struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 2. Gospel Workersv10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabasv14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 3. Gospel Peoplev16 … also read the letter from Laodicea.vv7-9 Tychicus… that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your heartsvv12 Epaphras… a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you…v9 …with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother; v18 remember my chainsPrayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, full of glory and abounding with grace: thank you that you are so patient and merciful with us. We continue to try to make you more like us, yet resist your work to make us more like you. We are slow to believe and understand. Forgive us for not treating others consistently with the grace we have received. Forgive us for when we have strayed from faithfulness because we dreaded hardship or have been lured by what seemed instantly rewarding. We have lacked the humility and wisdom to embrace the call to be servants of Christ. Forgive every sin. Please continue the work of sanctification by the grace of Jesus Christ until we are brought to maturity and completion. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat value could there be in a book of the Bible ending with greetings between people we know little about? Why is that part of the Bible?If part of the work of the early Christians was to show how God’s will is made known in Jesus, what are we supposed to know? How does our understanding of life expand as we look to Jesus? What are some implications of our need to mature in Christ? What expectations or understandings follow from it?What value is there that the book of Colossians was written by someone who was in prison? What does it tell us about the one writing and the world in which he lives? How can we understand that Paul, John Mark and Barnabas had a strong disagreement even though they were leaders in the church? What are reasonable expectations for church leaders?What is the difference between the letters Paul wrote which became part of the New Testament and other letters he wrote (which we don’t have access to)?What value is there in Paul referring to himself and Tychicus as servants (slaves) of Christ? Why does Paul call Tychicus a fellow servant, Aristarchus a fellow prisoner, and Onesimus a beloved brother?Why is it important to see that the story of Jesus is not just about a man born in poverty who faced hardship and yet attained to being a king, but that he was a prince who willingly gave up everything and became a servant before these things? What does this imply about the identity, attitude and expectations of those who answer the call to follow him?
Transcribe →Humble Oversight
May 3Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Humble Oversight Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in Christ1 Peter 5:1-5 (ESV)1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. 5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”Sermon OutlineAs we help one another walk the path of following Jesus, some are entrusted with the responsibility of oversight (vv1-2)1. Motivationvv2-3 Not: under compulsion… for shameful gain…. domineering…But: willingly… eagerly… being examples to the flock 2. Qualificationv5 Clothe yourselves… with humility… v1 So I exhort… as a fellow elder and a witness…3. Rewardv1 a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealedv4 when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.Prayer of ConfessionOur great Shepherd: who is like you, who leads us on a path to glory but walks before us through suffering? Forgive us for all we have taken for granted. With pride, we have insisted on forging our own path. With fear, we have lacked faith to follow where you lead. With cynicism, we have used our energy to complain and resist, rather than walk with you. We are guilty of resentful compliance, seeking shameful gain, and domineering over others. Forgive these and all our sins. Thank you for Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, whose grace makes us wholeheartedly willing and ready, from now on, to live for him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you enjoy contributing to the church, or what forms of service are appealing? Why?Why is maturity needed for roles of oversight?Which corrupt desires do you recognize at work within you which effect choices you make regarding participation, leadership and responsibility? Is it possible to untangle corrupt motives from good desires? How do you move forward when you discern your motives are not pure?How can you cultivate good, God-honoring desires, to motivate you for your tasks outside of church? What does it look like to do work or pursue your interests along with people who may have similar goals but different motivations?What are you currently doing that feels like obligation or that you are compelled to do? How are you processing resentment? What can it look like to take ownership of what you choose to do?What can you infer about Peter, who writes because he is an Apostle, but makes his appeal as a “fellow elder”? What does this teach about Christian leadership?Is it wrong to be motivated by rewards? What role do rewards play in Christianity and how does it fit within a message of grace?How does grace provide intrinsic motivation to live a life energized for what is good?
Transcribe →A Leader Worth Following
Apr 26Tap to summarizeAudio Recording A Leader Worth Following Rev. Charles Drew Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Charles DrewSermon Series: Guest PreacherPsalm 45 (ESV)1 My heart overflows with a pleasing theme; I address my verses to the king; my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.2 You are the most handsome of the sons of men; grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever.3 Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one, in your splendor and majesty!4 In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness; let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!5 Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; the peoples fall under you.6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;7 you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;8 your robes are all fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia.From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad;9 daughters of kings are among your ladies of honor; at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.10 Hear, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear: forget your people and your father's house,11 and the king will desire your beauty.Since he is your lord, bow to him.12 The people of Tyre will seek your favor with gifts, the richest of the people.13 All glorious is the princess in her chamber, with robes interwoven with gold.14 In many-colored robes she is led to the king, with her virgin companions following behind her.15 With joy and gladness they are led along as they enter the palace of the king.16 In place of your fathers shall be your sons; you will make them princes in all the earth.17 I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore nations will praise you forever and ever.Sermon OutlinePsalm 45 blows like a fresh wind of hope into our gloomy social dysfunction, inviting our hearts to overflow with a pleasing theme (v. 1). 1. The Prince at the center of our hope Supremely attractive:v 2: The most handsome of the sons of men2. The Prince at the center of our hope His words: v 2: Grace is poured upon your lips3. The Prince at the center of our hope His character: vv 4, 7: In your majesty ride out . . . for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness; . . . You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. 4. The Prince at the center of our hopeHis victory: vv.4-5: In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness; let your right hand teach you awesome deeds! Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; the peoples fall under you. 5. The Groom10 Hear, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear: forget your people and your father's house, 11 and the king will desire your beauty.Prayer of ConfessionLord Jesus, you are the Father’s great gift to us. You speak words we don’t deserve but gladly receive, words of healing and forgiveness, words that fill us with hope, words that change our motivations and appetites. You love us and our world and have done and will do all that is necessary to reverse the damage that we have brought upon ourselves. You desire us, eager for us to love you back. Forgive our tepid hearts. Forgive our ingratitude. Forgive our failure to listen carefully to what you say. Forgive our distractedness, our convenient reconstructions of who you are, and our divided loyalties. Please do not give up on us. We need and want more than forgiveness. We want to be better people, more like you, more responsive to you and to each other. How grateful we are for your promise to finish what you have begun in us. Alleluia. Amen.
Transcribe →Using Time Wisely
Apr 19Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Using Time Wisely Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:2-6 (ESV)2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.Sermon OutlineHow do we make the best use of the time?Walk in WisdomTowards OutsidersSpeak GraciouslyPrayer of ConfessionOur wise God, full of grace and truth: we remember your mercy to us, showing kindness when we have not deserved it. We admit we need forgiveness. We have been fools, running after things that are of no use, with little control over our impulses. We have squandered the time. We have filled our time with things that are trivial, and things that are problematic. We have not stewarded our time to do what is good and honorable. Our words expose us: we grumble, gossip, boast and lie. We appeal to you for more grace. Pardon our sins, renew us, and show us the goodness of Jesus. May we do all things – in word and deed – for your glory. Amen.Questions for ReflectionDo you organize your time? If so, how? If not, how do you approach the use of time?Why is wisdom needed for setting priorities and making choices? What are examples of foolish ways of using time? Do you spend time doing things you don’t think you should? If so, why?What are examples of good ways to use time? Which of these good things do you not do enough of, and why?What values or priorities do most human beings share (or the people of New York City)? Are there any? What are some differences where Christians hold counter cultural values and priorities? Are there any distinctives of Christianity that you have trouble with?Why is there such an emphasis in the New Testament on what we say?If salt brings out the goodness of the flavor of food, how can your words be like salt? What are we being called to do (“let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt”)?When you look at Jesus, what do you see? Do you have trouble seeing his goodness? If so, why? How does seeing the goodness of Jesus have a transformative effect?What changes would you like to make in how you use your time? What do you want to do more of? What do you want to stop doing or do less of? How do you make these changes as part of following Christ (walking in him)? What can he uniquely add to help you better steward your time?
Transcribe →Prayer
Apr 12Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Prayer Rev. Tim Chang Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:2-6 (ESV)2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.Sermon Outline1. Be steadfast in prayer[2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 2. Be watchful in prayer[2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. [2] Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3. Be outward in prayer[3] At the same time, pray also for us[3] At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—[4] that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.John 17:20–21[20] “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”Prayer of ConfessionOur Heavenly Father, you are marvelous and yet you desire intimacy with us. You have given us prayer to know you. But our sin has twisted this gift where we seek things from you more than we seek you. You invite us to cultivate a preference for you, but we confess that we often have a preference for ourselves. Instead of your will to be done, we want our wills to be done. Forgive us. Thank you for Jesus, who prayed for us and gave up his life to restore us to you. Help us to enjoy your grace, to see your grace more clearly, and to share that grace with others. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul invites us to “continue steadfastly in prayer.” In other letters, he’s said, “pray without ceasing” and “be constant in prayer.” Where does prayer currently fit into your everyday life? What do you find enjoyable about prayer? What feels difficult? If you were to take inventory of your prayers, how much is asking God for things versus simply being with him? What might it look like to enjoy God more in prayer?What helps you notice God more? What makes it difficult? What might it look like to see your life through “grace-colored glasses”, where you notice more of God’s acts of grace around you? How would that change your outlook this week?In John 17, Jesus prays not only for his disciples, but for all who will follow him throughout time. How does it affect you to know that Jesus has already prayed for you? Who are 1-2 people in your life that God might be “opening a door” for you to share your faith with? What might be one small step you can take this week?What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?
Transcribe →Disbelieving for Joy
Apr 5Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Disbelieving for Joy Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: EasterLuke 24:13-49 (ESV)13 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. 18 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” 25 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.28 So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, 29 but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. 30 When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. 32 They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” 33 And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, 34 saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. 38 And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate before them.44 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”Sermon OutlineThe resurrection of Jesus is perplexing and our world is complicated, so it is worth asking what Easter is about if we want to experience the joy and wonder of it:1. Easter is about Jesus in our messy world.v21 “but we had hoped…” v26-27 “was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?”2. Easter is about a spiritual transformation where God reveals what brings us life.v16 “their eyes were kept from recognizing him”vv30-32 “he took the bread… and their eyes were open… ‘did not our hearts burn…?’” (vv34-35 - “he is risen indeed”)vv44-48 “he opened their minds to understand the scriptures…” 3. Easter is about God granting peace so we can have joy even while things are being worked out.v36 “Jesus himself stood among them… ‘peace’” v41 “they disbelieved for joy”Prayer of ConfessionOur life-giving God: even as we hear the good news with hope, we confess our unbelief. There are things we don’t want to believe, and there are things we don’t want to do. We admit the problem is deeper than we have discerned and we are guilty in ways we have not acknowledged. Forgive every sinful thought, word and action. We want the peace and joy offered to us in Christ, but our hearts are hard and our minds resistant to belief. We thank you that you are gracious, giving us what we have not earned, and generously granting life in such a costly way. Transform us so we see Jesus and that we come alive with new life in him. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat about life or our world doesn’t make sense? How do those things affect you?What about Christianity doesn’t make sense? What don’t you understand, or have trouble believing?What is the significance of Jesus’ death? What is the significance of his resurrection? How can anyone best learn and understand why he had to suffer and enter into glory?What keeps you from “seeing” Jesus? As you reflect on yourself, is there anything that may prohibit you from recognizing him, his presence, the meaning of his teachings or what he did?Have you ever had a spiritual experience where you sensed God’s presence or activity? If so, what was it like? What did you experience? What were the circumstances?If you begin to see how all things come together in Jesus, and that God and His plan are more remarkable than you could have imagined – what would you expect to experience?How does the gospel bring joy? What in the story of Jesus’ sufferings and glory can bring you gratitude, wonder, hope, or some experience of goodness?How can you deal with the questions you still have, or the confusion you still experience? What are healthy ways of trusting God, following Christ, and living faithfully even when it is hard, or you lose a sense of its purpose?
Transcribe →Redeemed Workers
Mar 29Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Redeemed Workers Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:22-4:1 (ESV)22 Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. 25 For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality.4:1 Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.Sermon OutlineColossians 3 contains a foundational principle that helps us as we strive to live wisely in our world.1. What is the principle?v23 “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (3:17)v24 “You are serving the Lord Christ.”2. How is it applied?v22 “Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters”4:1 “Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” 3. Why is it important?v23 “work heartily” v22 “not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.”v24 “from the Lord you will receive the inheritance”4. When do you draw on this?v24 “from the Lord you will receive... You are serving the Lord Christ.”Prayer of ConfessionOur sovereign Lord, who rules the heavens and the earth: have mercy on us. We have not done all things for your glory. We have not honored you from the depths of our hearts. We have sinned, having fallen for the lies of this world. Forgive our abuse of power, the arrogance with which we have looked down on others, and where we have harmed rather than protected. Forgive our rebellious spirits, all our selfish actions, and all the ways we have been hypocritical. We have not honored you with our work or the things you have entrusted to us. Release us from the power of sin and lead us in the way of freedom. May whatever we do, in word or deed, be done in the name of Christ, our savior and Lord. Amen.Questions for ReflectionHow are we to do “all things” in the name of Christ? Which parts of your life is Christianity obviously relevant to? Which parts of your life are hard to understand how it connects with following Christ?Who are some of the people whose approval you want or need? Why?What are some of the ways corruption makes its way into the work place? How can work be dehumanizing? What temptations do you face in the work you do? What, in your work, do you find most stressful?What can make work meaningful and rewarding?In an extremely corrupt work arrangement, like slavery, what options does a suffering worker have? What possibilities should Christians in those circumstances consider?Why is it important for people with power to understand they are accountable to Christ? Does this inspire you to better steward your power? Does it make you fearful? Why? How can it help workers to know that Jesus sees all that we do, cares, and will reward his followers?What does it say about Jesus that he took the form of a servant to free his people from their sin and misery? What does this reveal about God? What does it expose about the world?In your current work (whether employment or whatever you do), what limitations do you need to accept? What is meaningful? What is problematic enough that you should not ignore it? How can you make the most out of whatever opportunity you have?How do you need to follow Jesus in your current situation? Is there an opportunity to do something good? Do you need to draw on his strength? Do you need to repent of something? Do you need courage to make a decision? Pray about your circumstances and watch and respond as you go about this week.
Transcribe →Compassionate Roots of Evangelism
Mar 22Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Compassionate Roots of Evangelism Tim Craig Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Tim CraigSermon Series: Retreat 2026Matthew 9:35-10:15 (NIV)35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”10:1 Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.2 These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.5 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. 7 As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.9 “Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts— 10 no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep. 11 Whatever town or village you enter, search there for some worthy person and stay at their house until you leave. 12 As you enter the home, give it your greeting. 13 If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. 14 If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet. 15 Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty and most merciful Father; we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have left undone those things that we ought to have done; and we have done those things that we ought not to have done; and there is no health in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us. And grant, O most merciful Father, for your Son Jesus Christ’s sake, that we may hereafter live a godly and righteous life, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Transcribe →Flourishing Family
Mar 15Tap to summarizeAudio Recording Flourishing Family Rev. Tim Chang Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:18-21 (ESV)18 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.Sermon Outline1. Trusting God’s DesignGenesis 1Day 1: light/darkness >> Day 4: sun, moon, starsDay 2: sky/water >> Day 5: birds/fishDay 3: land/vegetation >> Day 6: animals/humansGenesis 1:27 – God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.2. Obeying God’s Calling[18] Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. [19] Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. [20] Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. [21] Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.3. Relying on God’s Power[18] Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. [19] Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. [20] Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. [21] Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.Prayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, your design for the world is good and orderly. You intended for flourishing and harmony, yet we have failed to live according to the callings you have given us. Instead of seeking the good of others, we pursue our own power and selfish ambition. Too often we allow others to struggle so that we might benefit. Forgive us for not trusting your design, following your calling, or relying on your power. Lord Jesus, you are the rightful head and authority over us. You gave up your life so that we might flourish. Help us to trust your leadership. By the power of your Spirit, make us people who seek the flourishing of others and bring honor to your name. Amen. Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?How does seeing creation as ordered and not random shape how you think about God?Why do you think people today often assume that hierarchy automatically means inequality? How can there be equality but difference?What parts of Paul’s teaching do you think would have felt counter-cultural then, and what parts feel counter-cultural today?How might the principles of this household code shape how the different generations in the church care for and relate to each other?Living out these callings often requires putting someone else’s needs before our own. Why do you think sacrificial love in relationships can feel so costly?Why is our relationship with Jesus essential for living out these roles well? Consider the qualifies that Paul uses: e.g. “as is fitting in the Lord” and “for this pleases the Lord.” What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?
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