When we read the story of Exodus, we see a picture of God’s heart for freedom. The Israelites were trapped in slavery, and God sent Moses to lead them out. Pharaoh’s pride led to a series of plagues, ending in the death of every firstborn in Egypt. But God made a way out for His people: by painting the blood of a spotless lamb on their doorposts, death would pass over them.

Before this moment, God made a powerful promise in Exodus 6:6-7:

“Therefore, say to the Israelites: ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God...”

Every Passover, every year, these four promises are remembered, through the drinking of 4 cups

 Cup 1 – Sanctification

“I will bring you out”

Jesus calls us out of sin and into life (John 17:14-19)

Cup 2 – Deliverance

“I will free you”

Jesus breaks the power of sin over our lives (Romans 6:6-7)

Cup 3 – Redemption

“I will redeem you”

Through His blood, we are redeemed (1 Peter 1:18-19)

Cup 4 – Praise (Fulfillment)

“I will take you as my people”

Future: Wedding Supper of the Lamb (Rev. 19:7-9)

When Jesus shared the cup at the Last Supper in Matthew 26:27-29, He said He wouldn’t drink again until the day He drinks it new with us in the Father’s kingdom. That Fourth Cup—it’s still waiting for us. But while we wait, we testify. We share what He’s done. We were blind, but now we see. We don’t live like He’s still on the cross but we live in the power of the empty tomb.

Spiritual thirst is real and affects many Christians. In this sermon, join Ps Tammy as she teaches us on how to stay thirsty for God and not be saturated by the things of this world. 

In Isaiah 55:1, God calls out: "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!" Just like a marathon runner who loses the feeling of thirst after extreme exhaustion, we can become numb to our spiritual need for God.

On the cross, after enduring unimaginable pain, Jesus finally spoke: "I am thirsty." (John 19:28-30). Why did He say this? His thirst wasn’t just physical—it symbolized the deep human need for connection with God.

🔹 What makes us lose our thirst for God?

Lack of connection with ourselves – Toxic relationships, stress, social media, and busyness can make us seek the wrong things for fulfillment. (Luke 22:42)

Saturation by the world – When we fill ourselves with worldly distractions, we struggle to absorb God’s presence.

Shutting down – Disconnection leads to spiritual numbness, but Jesus never shut down—He remained fully present even in suffering.

Lack of connection with others – Hurt, disappointment, and compassion fatigue can distance us from people and the Church. Yet, even on the cross, Jesus cared for His mother and John (John 19:26-27).

Lack of connection with God – Trauma and suffering, like Jesus’ journey to Golgotha (John 19:17-18), can make us feel disempowered and vulnerable. But Jesus never let suffering disconnect Him from His Father.

Jesus thirsted because He stayed connected—to Himself ("I thirst."), to people ("John, here is your mother."), and to God ("Into Your hands I commit my spirit."). He fulfilled His purpose, declaring "It is finished!"

Just like in a marathon, where pushing through exhaustion leads to the finish line, we must not let anything quench our thirst for the One who truly satisfies. Stay connected. Stay thirsty for God.

On this International Life Child Day, join Pastor Bruce as he teaches on the importance of taking Jesus’s hand like Peter and allowing Him to be our guide. Celebrate International Life Child day with us as well. Visit our website for more info:  https://lifechild.org.za/ 

Lamentations 3:22-24 (NKJV)

"Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'Therefore I hope in Him!'"

One of the most powerful moments in the Gospels is Peter stepping out of the boat in faith toward Jesus. When fear caused him to sink, Jesus immediately reached out and lifted him. How often have we felt like we’re sinking—before Christ and even in faith? Yet, in His mercy, He takes our hand.

Romans 5:8 (NIV)

"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

He lifts us from despair and sets us on solid ground.

Psalms 40:2 (NKJV)

"He brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps."

The right hand of God represents:

Power, trust, and security

Rescue, victory, and favor

Strength, authority, and promise

Jesus now sits at the right hand of the Father, and He calls us to extend our hands to others.

Acts 3:6-8 (NLT)

Peter, taking the lame man by the right hand, lifted him up—and he was healed!

We are saved by faith and led by faith. Jesus was always the first to reach out—so let’s be His hands and feet in the world.

As we continue with our vision for the church this year, join Pastor Desiree as she teaches us on the importance of having a friendship with our community but not conforming to the things of this world and the importance of sharing the gospel.

The world is our mission field, and we are called to reach people everywhere with the love of Christ. As a church, we have seen God expand our influence beyond our city and into nations. This is our mandate from Scripture.

In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commanded us to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them with the assurance that He is always with us. God has given us the authority to bring people to freedom in Christ.

From Ephesians 1:17-23 we learn that have the same power that raised Christ from the dead. Colossians 2:15 teaches us that Jesus triumphed over all spiritual forces, and Ephesians 6:12 tells us that our struggle is not against people but against spiritual forces. We must understand this authority to bring healing, deliverance, and transformation to our communities. Jesus demonstrated this by speaking healing, casting out demons, and commanding miracles. We are called to do the same.

In Matthew 10:8 Jesus told us to heal the sick and cast out demons and in Acts 3:6 we read how Peter commanded healing in Jesus' name. Mark 16:17-18 teaches us how the signs and wonders follow those who believe. We don’t ask God to do what He has given us the power to do! Through faith, obedience, and the Holy Spirit, we can impact lives just as Jesus did.

2 Corinthians 5:14-19 shows us that Christ’s love compels us to bring others back to God.

Biblical reconciliation means restoring peace between God and people. We must not judge from a worldly perspective but see others through God’s eyes. Jesus befriended the Samaritan woman at the well, using a word of knowledge to reveal truth (John 4). Her encounter led many in her town to believe. Like Jesus, we are called to step into places and share the Gospel with boldness.

Romans 10:14-15 shows us that people cannot believe unless someone tells them.

Our community is waiting for us to step into our God-given authority. We must:

- Be bold in sharing the Gospel.

- Be filled with the Spirit and use the gifts He has given us.

- Be willing to cross cultural and religious divides.

YOU AND I ARE THE ANSWER TO THE HOW

In this sermon, join Ps Grayson Jones as he teaches on how we can overcome many things through love. Join us as he teaches on how we should love and how love can overcome a multitude of sins.

In this sermon, join Ps Bruce as he teaches on how we can grow in our friendship with the Lord and how that can translate into friendship with others.

God's desire for a relationship with us is not based on obligation, religious duty, or transactional exchanges. Instead, He has always pursued us with a consistent, unwavering desire for true friendship. Throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Malachi, through the stories of the patriarchs, judges, kings, and disciples, we see God persistently providing ways to engage with His people. He continually leans in, drawing near to us, inviting us into deeper communion with Him.

John 15:15 reminds us of this invitation:

"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."

In Revelation 3:20, Jesus extends a personal invitation:

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."

Even with this invitation, the choice remains ours. Will we accept His outstretched hand? More importantly, which is harder: saying yes to this friendship or truly walking in it?

As Christians, followers of Christ who have accepted His invitation, we can sometimes drift into a pattern of transactional prayer. Life gets busy, and our prayers may sound like: Lord, help me today. Heal this person. Protect my kids. While these are valid petitions, they only scratch the surface of what true friendship with Christ entails.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 instructs us to:

"Pray without ceasing."

This doesn’t mean simply repeating requests endlessly, it means engaging in an ongoing, dynamic conversation with God. Prayer includes:

- Praising Him

- Petitioning Him like Jacob

- Confessing our darkest thoughts

- Offering thanksgiving

- Asking: God, what do You want to say to me today? What do You need me to do? Where are You leading me?

- Giving Him space to respond.

Psalm 46:10 encourages us:

"Be still, and know that I am God."

1 Kings 19:11 illustrates how God speaks:

"The Lord said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.'"

A key barrier to deeper friendship with God is trust.

We struggle with trust in our relationship with God too. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Even when we desire to trust, doubts creep in: What if God doesn’t come through this time?

Yet, Psalm 9:10 reassures us:

"Those who know Your name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You."

Trust grows in any relationship through vulnerability that is reciprocated and protected. Just as marriage thrives when trust is built, so does our relationship with God.

Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of friendship: John 15:13:

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."

The disciples were meant to see the cross and think: I understand now. He took my place under God’s wrath because He views me as His treasured friend.

Friendship with Christ is a gift beyond comprehension. There is no greater compass for life than walking in friendship with Jesus.

In this sermon, join Ps Anthony as he teaches on life before Christ’s birth and how humanity struggled and why we need a savior. Jesus’s birth brought about our redemption and salvation.

As Christmas, the celebration of Christ's birth, approaches, over 2,000 years have marked this day as a remembrance of God's intervention and reconciliation with His creation.

2 Corinthians 5:17-19 reminds us that in Christ, the old is gone, and the new has come through God's reconciliation. But before Christ's birth, the world faced deep darkness:

Darkness

Isaiah 9:1-2, 6-7 prophesied the coming of a great light in the midst of darkness. John 1 confirms that Christ, the true light, entered the world to overcome the darkness. Even in the darkest seasons, God’s light shines.

Spiritual Silence

For 400 years before Christ, God's voice was not heard. Hebrews 1:2-3 reveals that through Jesus, God spoke again, bringing the brightness of His glory to a silent world.

Oppression

Israel lived under Roman rule, both spiritually and physically oppressed. Yet Galatians 5:1 declares Christ's freedom from all yokes of slavery, offering grace and eternal life to those who believe (Ephesians 2:1-9).

Hopelessness

Ephesians 2:12 describes life without Christ as hopeless. Through Jesus, hope is restored (Hebrews 3:6).

Identity Crisis

Before Christ, humanity was enslaved to sin. Romans 6:18-23 proclaims freedom through righteousness in Him.

As humanity that has been redeemed, we have His Light, His Word, His Freedom from the yoke of Slavery, His Hope and His Identity that He gives to us.

All because Jesus was born.

In this service, join Ps Anthony as he teaches on the importance of rest in our lives. We should take the posture of Mary instead of Martha and continue to stay at the Lord’s feet.

Crowds often characterize Christmas. Shopping centers, roads, airports, and even homes become overcrowded with people, activities, and decorations. Unfortunately, amidst this busyness, Jesus is often forgotten. Richard Foster, in Celebration of Discipline, notes that “noise, hurry, and crowds” are the tools our adversary uses to distract us. This is particularly evident during the holiday season, where excessive activity can pull us away from rest in God.

The story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38–42) exemplifies this. While Martha was overwhelmed with serving, Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen. Jesus highlighted that Mary chose the "one thing" that truly mattered. This illustrates the importance of inward rest—a posture of faith and trust in God’s completed work.

Scripture teaches that rest is not laziness but trust in God's provision (Hebrews 4:11). Jesus invites us to abide in Him, producing fruit without anxiety or hurry (John 15:5). He offers peace that transcends circumstances (John 14:27), allowing us to guard our hearts and live free from the burdens of the past or future (Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 6:11).

In a hurried world, rest becomes a spiritual discipline. Battles are won not by striving but by trusting and feeding on God’s Word. As Psalm 23:5 reminds us, God prepares a table for us even in the presence of enemies. True victory comes from sitting in His presence, resting in His finished work, and embracing the now—the time of His favor (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Therefore, slow down. Be present. Trust God. Rest is the posture of faith, and in rest, you will find peace, favor, and wholeness.

Join Ps Megan as she unpacks the parable of the soil in Luke and how this applies to our hearts and the word of God.

The passage being focused on today addresses soil. Research on soil was conducted because a refresher was clearly needed, which amusingly led to memories of learning about this in school. The different types of soil: silt, clay, sandy, and loam are categorized based on texture. Understanding the type of soil being worked with is important to know how to use it effectively. With clay soil, only certain plants grow because it is compact, leaving little space for roots to develop. Sandy soil, with its large particles, is unsuitable for most plants. However, loam, a balanced mixture of the other types, is considered ideal for growth and is often referred to as a gardener's best demonstrates the significance of choosing the right soil.

In Luke 8:4-15 (NIV), the parable Jesus shared is set in a time when many listeners were likely farmers, making it relatable. The soil represents human hearts, and the seed symbolizes the gospel—the good news of Jesus.

Several questions arise for reflection:

- Has it ever been wondered why some people come to Jesus and later fall away?

- Is there someone with whom the gospel has been shared, but they remain unreceptive?

- Have life’s challenges ever caused anyone to distance themselves from God or become resistant to the Holy Spirit?

Each person is encouraged to evaluate the state of their own soil—or heart—because various factors can influence it:

- Hardened soil

- Rocky soil

- Thorny soil

- Fruitful soil

Three Key Points Regarding the Soil of Others

- Pray for their soil (hearts): Prayers should be offered for those who will hear the word, asking that their hearts be prepared to receive it and allow it to take root deeply (Romans 10:1). Prayers should also focus on challenges not choking their faith but drawing them closer to God. Jesus desires people to accept Him and His good news, and those who have received Him are called to desire this for others.

- Assist in sowing the seeds: While control over others’ soil is absent, prayers can be made for them, and efforts can be taken to sow the seeds of faith. Passages like 1 Timothy 2:3-4 and Matthew 9:37-38 highlight the partnership with Jesus in sharing His good news. Those who believe in Jesus and accept that He died for their sins gain eternal life and a relationship with Him.

- Avoid dismissing anyone: Assumptions about the type of soil someone has should not lead to excluding them from hearing the gospel. Some individuals, like Mary Magdalene before her transformation, might easily be discounted. However, Jesus did not count anyone out, and believers are called to adopt His perspective toward others.

Three Key Points for Personal Soil

- Care for your soil: What is allowed into one’s heart significantly impacts its condition.

- Prevent dryness: Guard against becoming like hardened soil, where nothing grows, and love for Christ fades and dies.

- Feed the soil: It is never too late to nourish the heart. Scripture, prayer, encouragement, and fellowship with other believers provide essential nutrients. Extended isolation risks spiritual dryness.

Fruitful Soil

For a garden to flourish, intentional care must be provided. A beautiful garden does not happen by chance; it requires effort. Of the four soils, only one is conducive to growth—the fruitful soil. When hearts and minds remain fixed on Jesus, growth occurs, and fruit is produced in life. As John 15:4 states: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”

Are you looking after your own soil?

In this sermon, join Ps Bruce as he preaches on the importance of leaving a legacy, God’s faithfulness through generations and how He can use us to build platforms instead of pits. 

God is good, all the time, and His goodness and faithfulness transcend generations. We know this because of what scripture says:

Deuteronomy 7:9 shows me that God is faithful, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations.

Psalm 100:5 assures me of His enduring love and faithfulness for all time.

Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds me that His compassions are renewed every morning.

1 Corinthians 1:9 declares that God is faithful, calling me into fellowship with His Son.

Throughout history, God has shown His faithfulness to people like Adam, Noah, Abraham, David, and countless others. His promises never fail, and even when we fall short, 2 Timothy 2:13 tells us He remains faithful because it is His very nature.

Faithfulness is both an inheritance and a responsibility. Like David preparing for the temple Solomon would build, what we do today impacts the generations that follow. So are we building a platform for them to stand on or a pit they must climb out of?

This challenges us to:

- Prepare and include others in the journey. We must explain why we serve, love, and strive, not just lead by example but teach the meaning behind it.

- Devote our heart to seeking God. We need to learn and teach how to pray, seek, obey, and trust in Him, ensuring this knowledge passes on.

- If you feel like you have no inheritance, start now. You start now to prepare for the future.

If we feel like we have no inheritance of faith, we can start building one today. Just as God promised David that Solomon would build His house and establish His kingdom forever (1 Chronicles 22:10), we can trust God to use our faithfulness to bless future generations.

In this sermon about the possibility of a strong future with God, join Pastor Anthony as he takes us through the importance of reopening wells and finishing strong.

Before we had a relationship with God life was different. Then, Christ saved us and gave us a new life filled with hope and a future. But, over time, what was once extraordinary and transformative can start to feel routine, like the thrill of starting a new year that fades into complacency by December.

There is a need to address the "elephant in the room": the temptation to disconnect—taking a break from church, fellowship, Scripture, and ultimately, Jesus. But we should not live a spiritually mediocre life anymore. Change begins now, and here’s how we do it:

1. Reopen Wells

Just like Isaac reopened the wells his father had dug (Genesis 26:17-18), we need to reconnect with the “living water” Jesus offers (John 7:37-38). Water sustains physical life, and spiritual water sustains our soul. We can’t survive without it.

2. Reopen Doors

Like King Hezekiah reopened the doors of the temple and cleansed it (2 Chronicles 29:1-11), we must open the doors of our hearts to God again. He’s standing at the door, knocking, waiting for us to let Him in (Revelation 3:19-20).

3. Reopen Our Hearts

Life’s challenges, unmet expectations, disappointments, and delays can harden our hearts. But we must remember that God’s delays aren’t denials. Proverbs 13:16 reminds us, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” To heal, we need to trust in His love, provision, and timing.

4. Rebuild the Altar

Like Isaac built an altar to worship God in Beersheba (Genesis 26:23-25), we need to rebuild our personal altar—a place of worship, prayer, and connection with God.

An altar and a well belong together. To truly change, we must reopen our hearts, our doors, and our connection to the living water. Only then can we live a life full of purpose, hope, and spiritual vitality.

Listen to Ps Ray Menchaca as he teaches us on the importance of changing and allowing the Lord to transform our lives instead of us conforming to the things of the world.

God didn’t come just to make bad people good; He came to bring new life. God has the power to transform a hardened heart into one full of compassion, to replace a troubled mind with the mind of Christ, and to turn a selfish nature into a selfless one.

To change, we first need to see ourselves through God’s mercy, as Paul says in Romans 12:1-2: we are urged to live as a “living sacrifice,” transformed by a renewed mind. Real change begins when we understand God’s deep, passionate love for us, as shown throughout Scripture. While we were still sinners, God sent Christ to die for us so we could receive the gift of eternal life. This unending love is the starting point of our transformation.

Steps to Change:

- In View of God’s Mercy: Understand the depth of God’s love and mercy toward us. Knowing we’re loved beyond measure allows us to live with a new perspective.

- Guard Your Mind: Focus on what aligns with God’s truth, not the distractions of the world. As Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Colossians 3:2, bring every thought captive to Christ and keep your focus on heavenly things.

- Guard Your Heart: Proverbs 4:23 tells us to protect our heart above all, as it is the source of life. Our heart’s direction often determines our actions.

- Be Filled with the Holy Spirit: Ephesians 5:18 calls us to be continually filled with the Spirit, allowing God’s power to work within us daily.

Real change comes by allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us. It takes time, prayer, and a continual turning of our hearts and minds toward God. 

So, are you willing to open your life to this transformation?

In this thought-provoking sermon, join Ps Bruce as he teaches on the significance of our lives and walks us through the cycle of grace and the cycle of works and how to be aware of the latter.

At a conference, Pastor Trevor Hudson guided us through his book, The Cycle of Grace. This cycle was inspired by British psychiatrist Frank Lake, who observed that many well-prepared, purpose-driven missionaries returned from their work in India emotionally and spiritually exhausted. Despite their training and support, they came back disillusioned, depressed, and burned out.

Lake wanted to understand why Jesus of Nazareth didn’t experience the same burnout, despite the intensity of His mission. So, he studied Jesus' life in the gospels, asking one fundamental question: Why did Jesus remain emotionally and spiritually resilient throughout His mission? What Lake discovered was that Jesus lived a balanced life of receiving and giving grace.

Here’s how this Cycle of Grace looked in Jesus' life:

Acceptance: Jesus knew who He was. He began His ministry only after receiving His identity from the Father (“This is my Son, in whom I am well pleased”) and later reaffirmed at the Transfiguration (“You are my beloved”). Grounded in this identity, He was willing to fulfil His purpose, even unto death.

- Sustenance: Jesus maintained practices that nourished His spirit, including prayer, fellowship, worship, and immersion in God’s Word.

- Significance: Jesus' life was a sign from God. He understood that He represented God’s presence on earth ("Whoever has seen me has seen the Father"). He had a deep sense of who He was and the significance of His life.

- Fruitfulness: In obedience, Jesus lived a life marked by inclusiveness, compassion, and love.

Lake and Brunner realized that British missionaries burned out because they operated in a “Cycle of Works” rather than the “Cycle of Grace.”

The Cycle of Works enslaves us to constantly work for approval and acceptance, whereas the Cycle of Grace empowers us to act boldly, rooted in the security of our worth and identity.

Dallas Willard once said, “We all live at the mercy of our ideas.” We either live from acceptance or we live for acceptance. This is crucial because, deep down, we all want our lives to matter. Many of us think that if we’re successful, then we’ll feel accepted—by others, by ourselves, and even by God. We pour ourselves out, giving constantly, yet rarely take the time to receive. We build our lives around a drive for significance, but often, we forget to include God in the equation.

Romans 12:1-2 (NIV) says: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy,... Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

We often rush to seek God’s purpose for our lives before first embracing His acceptance of us. When fruitfulness becomes our starting point, we risk devastation when life doesn’t go as planned. In John 15:16 (NIV), Jesus says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”

Living in the Cycle of Grace can transform our lives:

- God accepts me.

- God sustains me through prayer, fellowship, and worship.

- My life signifies something beyond what I do; it reflects God. God doesn’t want to leave me broken but desires to make me whole. I am not defined by my struggles; I am defined by God’s acceptance.

- God desires for me to bear lasting fruit.

So, your life counts—not because of your achievements or productivity, but because God chose you to bear good fruit.

As we start this new series called Diving Into Romans, join Ps Bruce as he teaches on the importance of reading the word, how the book of Romans applies in this current day and age and we can stay anchored in the Lord.

Martin Luther, a German monk, initially believed that God required him to live a completely righteous life to be saved, which led him to hate God for demanding what seemed impossible. However, after reading Romans 1:17, Luther realized that "the righteousness of God" refers to the righteousness given by God through faith, not human effort.

This revelation transformed his understanding of God from one of fear and resentment to love and reverence, as he came to see salvation as a gift of God's grace and mercy, rather than something earned by personal righteousness. This transformation happened because of his encounter with God’s word in the book of Romans.

Paul was passionate about the gospel of Christ. He believed deeply that Christ didn’t come just for the Jewish people, but for all humanity. As he wrote in Romans 1:16-17: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last."

In Romans, Paul explains that everyone, whether Jew or Gentile, (Christian or secular) faces the same struggles. He talks about the wrath of God and says that if there was no wrath, then why would we need a savior? We can’t ignore the evidence that God exists, and if we don’t worship Him, we will end up worshipping something else.

Paul explains that whether you are an unbeliever or a believer (Jew or

gentile) we struggle with the same things.

1) To acknowledge the wrath of God

a. But if there was no wrath then why do we need a savior?

2) We can’t ignore the evidence around us that God exists

3) If we don’t worship God, well worship something else

4) God will give us over to the desire of our hearts

Paul lays all of this out so that we can fully understand the weight of the gospel. Without understanding our sinful condition, the rest of the message wouldn’t have the same impact. To truly appreciate the good news of salvation, we must confront what we are like without God.

So, what are your desires?

As we celebrate family Sunday, join Ps Megan as she teaches on the importance of healthy parenting and how to be children of God.

“Before you’re a parent, you’re a child.” Before we take on any role in life, whether as a parent, student, athlete, or business owner, we’re first children of God. Romans 8:14-16 says we are children of God, led by His Spirit. We don’t need to live in fear, but in the freedom of being God’s children. As His children, we have access to His Spirit, which comforts and guides us. Last week, Pastor Bruce reminded us that our view of God as a Father can be shaped by our backgrounds, but this scripture shows us we don’t need to live in fear. We can come to God with open arms, knowing His love will heal our broken places.

As parents, we must let God guide and correct us, so we can discipline our children in love. If we’ve made mistakes, we should be humble enough to say sorry. As parents we’ve had moments with kids where we’ve had to admit we were wrong. It’s important to allow God to heal our wounds, so we don’t react from a place of pain.

Children need boundaries, and deep down, they feel safer when they have them. Even if you didn’t have the best example of this growing up, God can show you a better way. Remember, before anything else, we’re children of God. He is with us, guiding us, and as we spend time with Him, it affects all our relationships, including how we parent. It’s from this place of love and security in God that we can pour out love to others.

Matthew 18:1-4 reminds us that we need to be like children—trusting, humble, and forgiving—to enter the kingdom of heaven. It’s from this place of being God’s child that we live our lives and grow in Him.

So, how are you trusting God?

As we celebrate our diverse cultures and heritage this month, join Ps Bruce as he preaches on our new found heritage and identity in the Lord and how to walk confidently in that.

Last week, we were reflecting on the promises of God. As a children of God, we believe that His promises are for today because of our heavenly heritage. This heritage also gives us an eternal inheritance.

Our heritage can come from many things:

- Our country

- Our culture

- Our traditions

- Our life experiences (both good and bad)

- Our inheritance

- Our legacy

- Our identity

- Our physical, moral, and spiritual development

We are marked by our heritage. For some, it may feel like a badge of honor, while for others, it might feel like a burden. But it shapes who we are and how we live, and in turn, how we influence others. Now, we have a new heritage. We are rooted in Christ, accepted by God, sustained by Him, and given purpose through Him. We are called to bear fruit for Him.

1 Peter 2:5, 9 (ESV) says, “You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

We are part of God’s family now, adopted as His children. 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) says, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”

Though we’ve spent a lifetime shaped by our worldly heritage, as followers of Christ, we now have a new heritage. Paul urges in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

There’s tension between our old heritage and our new one. We are transformed from the inside out by God’s grace, but society tries to conform us from the outside in. The battle for our heritage is real.

So, where do you feel the tension between your worldly heritage and your heavenly one—physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

Just as it took time to conform to the world, it will take time to conform to Christ. One way to do this is by spending more time in His Word.

Romans 6:8-14, 17, 20-23 (NIV) reminds us that we are no longer slaves to sin, but slaves to righteousness. The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

So take time to reflect on how your ethnicity, culture, upbringing, and life experiences have shaped you—for both good and bad.

As we continue with our series on So Much More, join Ps Bruce as he teaches on the promises of God and how they keep us secure and enable us to walk in His purpose for our lives.

Hebrews 11:32-34, 39-40 (NIV) tells us about the heroes of faith who did amazing things through faith. They conquered kingdoms, escaped danger, and grew strong in weakness. Though they had faith, they didn’t receive all God promised because He had something better planned for them, and for us too.

However, today, promises feel less important. We often apologize for not keeping them instead of making sure we follow through. Whether we forget or just don't take them seriously, promises have lost their weight. 

The book of Hebrews 11 reminds us that while some promises are fulfilled now, others are for the future. Sometimes, we struggle to trust God’s promises because we don’t fully understand who He is, or we keep His promises in our minds but not in our hearts.

Sometimes we struggle with the Promises of God because of: 

1) A broken filter

2) Bad understanding of who God is

3) Head knowledge, not heart knowledge

Here are some of God’s promises:

1. John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

2. Promise of Peace: John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

3. Promise of the Holy Spirit: John 14:16-17 - And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth.

4. Promise of Provision: Philippians 4:19 -And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.

5. Promise of God’s Presence: Matthew 28:20 - And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

6. Promise of Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

7. Promise of a New Creation: 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here.

8. Promise of God’s Guidance: James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

9. Promise of Strength in Trials: 1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.

10. Promise of Victory Over Death: Revelation 21:4 - ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

If we have a broken view of God or don't really know Him, then we struggle to trust these promises. However, if they stay in our heads and not our hearts, then we will be able to trust Him.

So, what has God promised you? Do you trust Him? Do you trust in His Promises?

As we continue with our So Much More series, join Pastor Bruce as he takes us through having a desire for God and growing in faith. .

Hebrews 11:32 says: What more can I say? There isn't time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets. Through faith, they conquered kingdoms, brought justice, and received promises. They shut the mouths of lions, survived fire, and escaped the sword. Their weakness turned to strength, and they became powerful in battle, defeating enemies.

Even though they were praised for their faith, none of them saw what was promised because God planned something better, which includes us. None of them were perfect—they had flaws, insecurities, and made mistakes, but they still took steps of faith and overcame their struggles.

Gideon struggled with his status, Barak had doubts, Samson had weaknesses, Jephthah was the son of a prostitute, and Samuel was separated from his mother. Yet, they overcame their past and trusted God's plan for more.

How does this connect to us? 2 Peter tells us that God has given us everything we need for a godly life. By trusting in His promises, we can take part in His divine nature, escaping the world's corruption. We should add to our faith goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, love, and more. These qualities will help us be productive and effective in knowing Jesus. Without them, we're blind, forgetting we've been forgiven.

Think of it like baking a cake: You can have all the ingredients, but if you don't put it in the oven, nothing will happen. Similarly, faith is the seed that activates grace in our lives, leading to growth. Without faith, we become ineffective and unproductive. It's through the process of sanctification, being purified from sin, that we grow in God.

Philippians reminds us to work hard in showing our faith because God is giving us both the desire and power to do what pleases Him. Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and follow me." This means abandoning our old ways and embracing God's will.

In the end, there is so much more for us—more than just for ourselves, but for those who come after us. Like those before us, we must trust in God's promises and keep our faith strong. There’s more at stake than we realize, just as Jesus knew when He faced the cross.

In this new series called Hot Month, join Pastor Bruce as he teaches on the importance of running your race and reflecting on what disqualified us in our battle. 

Sometimes when we think of eternity, we feel regret because of all the things we didn't do, however, even in that, we need to see and acknowledge that we are where God wants us to be because there is a battle for our lives. 

Our battles are different but the biggest battle is the battle for our faith. The accuser wants to disrupt and destroy our faith. That is why it's important to fight our battle because when it's all said and done, we want the Lord to welcome us and say ‘Well done my faithful servant’. 

That is why we need to focus on the Lord and not lose our faith. When we fail in our faith then those around us or those looking at us become at risk. When we lose our faith, it impacts those we are discipling and leading in our lives. 

That is why the devil wants to disrupt our faith, he is there to accuse us because if he can disrupt our faith then he can access our truth and our whole armor. 

A way in which the devil will try to disrupt our faith is through sin. So, when we can't deal with our flesh then seeds of sin will start to grow in our lives. 

It's important that we don't disqualify ourselves based on seeds of sin. We must choose the right seeds, godly seeds, that are far away from sin. 

So, what is disqualifying you from the battle? What bad seeds do you need to pluck out before they become weeds?