The Vine and the Branches

Text: John 15:1-6 Jesus used the illustration of a vine and its branches to teach His apostles (and us). He was explaining something about Himself, the Father, and His disciples. There are important lessons for us to learn in Jesus’ illustration. The Vine: Jesus “I am the true vine…” (v. 1) – Jesus was speaking; we […]

What Are Our Priorities?

Text: Ecclesiastes 12:13 Our lives are shaped by our priorities. Time, energy, and resources are limited; therefore, we spend them on what is important to us. What should be most important to us? The Bible shows us what our highest priorities should be. We need to see what the Bible says and examine our lives to see […]

God’s Plan for You

Text: Jeremiah 29:11 This verse is a favorite for many people. Yet it is important to note the context – the restoration of the Jews from Babylon after 70 years in captivity (v. 10, 14). But many take this verse, apply it to their lives, and assume that God must have a plan for every detail (jobs, homes, […]

The Importance of Thankfulness

Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 The Bible clearly instructs us to give thanks to God for all things. Our society places particular emphasis upon thankfulness during this time of year. This is good; but as Christians, we are to be thankful at all times. Why is this important? It is about more than just God instructing us to […]

The Christian’s Walk

Text: Colossians 1:9-10 Walk refers to the way in which we conduct our lives. We must do so “in a manner worthy of the Lord.” This comes by being filled with knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. It allows us to please the Lord and bear fruit. But what does this look like? How do we walk in a worthy […]

Lessons from the Ark

Text: Genesis 6:13-18 The account of Noah and the flood is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. Yet this was not a fairy tale; it is something that really happened. Learning about the ark and the world before and after the flood is fascinating. But there are also important lessons we need to learn from […]

By Grace You Have Been Saved

Text: Ephesians 2:1-10 Typically when the New Testament talks about grace, it is the grace that was extended from God to man. Grace is “kindness which bestows upon one what he has not deserved” (Thayer), sometimes called “unmerited favor.” As Paul explained in our text, God’s grace saves us. The Need for Grace (v. 1-3) […]