This is the longest section of teaching from Jesus that is recorded in the Bible. John concludes that the works of Jesus could fill all the world’s volumes and yet here we have just a small glimpse into the preaching/teaching of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Why would it be helpful to take a deep dive into Matthew 5–7? We could go on and on, but let me narrow it down to four reasons. The Teaching Is Astonishingly Authoritative At the conclusion of Jesus’ sermon in Matthew

We are just days away from the opportunity to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Some are spending more time away from work and around family. Others are busy preparing for the crash of family gatherings and an infinite supply of destroyed wrapping paper. It is my hope that some are found with a good book in hand, as the Lord continues to transform our minds. Here is another selection of readings that have really challenged my heart and revealed things I had pre

Hopefully you have been able to read the previous blog here: ( found here ). But if not, each December I enjoy doing something that causes me to slow down…reading. In an attempt to read 12 books throughout the Christmas season, I’ve really enjoyed some of the titles listed below. Maybe my short write up will cause you to pick up a copy or reach out for a copy. Third Corporate Worship by Matt Merker Corporate Worship is a wonderful book that explores the gathered church and

After grumbling in my spirit over our ridiculously full social schedule for this first week of December, I felt like a total hypocrite. I had just done a podcast with a friend the day before, encouraging families in our church to keep their celebrations Christ-focused and to streamline their calendars and plans when necessary in order to honor Christ in every detail of this busy season. To be honest, it’s a fight. No matter what season of life we are in, keeping our celebrati

What a gift for a pastor--12 books. Well, I’m certain some pastors would prefer gift cards or free babysitters, but I would always take the books. Now, like every book lover, I have more books than I have time to read. Additionally, that fact will not stop me from buying more books in the days ahead. Reading is a great way to see how others have worshiped God and put their ideas out to encourage people to worship with them. Every December I feel the reflection of “I wish I ha

As a worship pastor, it is a great desire for me to see our congregation grow and flourish as Christ leads His church. If we want to see passionate worship in the hearts and lives of our people, we must first be growing daily in our walk with the Lord. “Spiritual growth” is a phrase that can be used a lot and, to be honest, is very vague. I would guess that it is something we all would want but might not know how to do. I hope to give and explain three things needed for every

Summer is finally here! The pollen attack of 2025 has slowed, and the top is off the Jeep! What will you do during your summer? With many...

Scripture Romans 10:13–15, 17 For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then will they call on Him in whom they...

I’ve heard a lot of people over the years use the terms “discipleship” and “mentorship” interchangeably. I’ve experienced both, as well...

Praying doesn’t come easily to me. Maybe you can relate. Like Pastor John once admitted of himself, “my mind is constantly going.” Much...

When you hear the phrase “godly example,” someone’s name probably comes to mind. Maybe it’s a mentor, a pastor, a parent, or a faithful...

How does one really get to the point where they see death as gain as Paul did? Much of our culture works hard at delaying death or even...

Have you ever wondered why we pray, especially since ( not if ) God is sovereign.     First, let’s explain what God being sovereign...

The past nine weeks, I’ve had the chance to preach through Ruth. Just a short four chapters, it would be easy to overlook this book in...

Click on the button below to access the Sermon Slides for March 2, 2025: Love Story Ruth 4:13-21

A couple weeks ago, we were honored to be the sending church for two families who have decided to follow the call on their lives to share...

Our church recently walked through biblical roles in the church and home, but the messages may have left you wondering about those in...

The term small group is tossed around many facets of life. Nonetheless, it’s most often used in the church setting as a method of...