http://connectwithskip.com/ Skip Heitzig email@email.com Skip Heitzig Subscribase para automaticamente recibir el Audio de la enseñanza en Espanol desde Capilla Calvario Albuquerque. Esta subscripción la dará cada mensaje en la forma MP3, y puede ser escuchada en su computadora o in su MP3. The Live Service AUDIO Podcast is a twice weekly bible study with Pastor Skip Heitzig from Calvary of Albuquerque. Subscribe and you can receive FREE MP3 files of the message for your iPod or other MP3 Player. Skip teaches expositionally through the entire Bible, verse by verse. Calvary is a Christian fellowship where we gather for the purpose of knowing and glorifying Jesus Christ. We desire to see all people become committed to live as followers of Jesus Christ. Subscribase para automaticamente recibir el Audio de la enseñanza en Espanol desde Capilla Calvario Albuquerque. Esta subscripción la dará cada mensaje en la forma MP3, y puede ser escuchada en su computadora o in su MP3. The Live Service AUDIO Podcast is a twice weekly bible study with Pastor Skip Heitzig from Calvary of Albuquerque. Subscribe and you can receive FREE MP3 files of the message for your iPod or other MP3 Player. Skip teaches expositionally through the entire Bible, verse by verse. Calvary is a Christian fellowship where we gather for the purpose of knowing and glorifying Jesus Christ. We desire to see all people become committed to live as followers of Jesus Christ. en © 2026 Connect with Skip Heitzig no Skip Heitzig Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3620 1 c5da218aec712f3137a4940538bfb719 no Nate Heitzig Sun, 15 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3002 2 99157cd78b429ca428f897e23d6eaf00 no Skip Heitzig <p>The son of great missionary Hudson Taylor noted of his father, “For forty years the sun never rose on China that God didn’t find him on his knees.” Someone called prayer the gymnasium of the soul. When was the last time you had a good “workout”? Today, James jumps into the mysterious cooperation of the divine with the human through prayer. When and why should we do it?</p> <p>The son of great missionary Hudson Taylor noted of his father, “For forty years the sun never rose on China that God didn’t find him on his knees.” Someone called prayer the gymnasium of the soul. When was the last time you had a good “workout”? Today, James jumps into the mysterious cooperation of the divine with the human through prayer. When and why should we do it?</p> The son of great missionary Hudson Taylor noted of his father, “For forty years the sun never rose on China that God didn’t find him on his knees.” Someone called prayer the gymnasium of the soul. When was the last time you had a good “workout”? Today, James jumps into the mysterious cooperation of the divine with the human through prayer. When and why should we do it?

]]> Sun, 08 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2682 3 702394be99ef7b923be99432e19791f6 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 04 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3564 4 12c11a88c780afeb93870794bd27c21b no Skip Heitzig Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3658 5 2a5689195d3d63a8d69f0ffa39e3bd93 no Skip Heitzig <p>Sometimes parents will tell their children not to do certain things. But such prohibitions are motivated by love. These negative commands are to ensure a positive outcome. A good biblical example of this is the list of thou shalt nots in the Ten Commandments. In this section, James gives his audience a few negative instructions so they can have a positive life.</p> <p>Sometimes parents will tell their children not to do certain things. But such prohibitions are motivated by love. These negative commands are to ensure a positive outcome. A good biblical example of this is the list of thou shalt nots in the Ten Commandments. In this section, James gives his audience a few negative instructions so they can have a positive life.</p> Sometimes parents will tell their children not to do certain things. But such prohibitions are motivated by love. These negative commands are to ensure a positive outcome. A good biblical example of this is the list of thou shalt nots in the Ten Commandments. In this section, James gives his audience a few negative instructions so they can have a positive life.

]]> Sun, 01 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2720 6 dd0daf07960018a04b87cdcd69c1ff66 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3368 7 3e7b0a2c58e748c019552fd1153c1c9c no Skip Heitzig <p>Ever since Jesus came to Earth over 2,000 years ago to die and rise again, He promised to return. And believers have been looking for Him since. Every generation has its doomsday preachers and prophecy “experts,” predicting when He will return. But today we examine not when He will come back, but rather how we should live until He does. James tells us three ways we are to wait for it.</p> <p>Ever since Jesus came to Earth over 2,000 years ago to die and rise again, He promised to return. And believers have been looking for Him since. Every generation has its doomsday preachers and prophecy “experts,” predicting when He will return. But today we examine not when He will come back, but rather how we should live until He does. James tells us three ways we are to wait for it.</p> Ever since Jesus came to Earth over 2,000 years ago to die and rise again, He promised to return. And believers have been looking for Him since. Every generation has its doomsday preachers and prophecy “experts,” predicting when He will return. But today we examine not when He will come back, but rather how we should live until He does. James tells us three ways we are to wait for it.

]]> Sun, 25 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3348 8 3253b12f44d153b9a172487248172bc3 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 18 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3152 9 b5b71d9d51189d19783600086a67ea97 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3624 10 7e6ca4c9f30ada270ac39d1460d4d19c no Nate Heitzig Sun, 11 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3998 11 8168236c9a55d370a3312aaf98895ef4 no Nate Heitzig Sun, 04 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3654 12 6acfd38d7a0043cbc76d978f39d5ebd0 no Skip Heitzig <p>Conflict resolution is an entire field of practice—used from the counselor’s couch to the United Nations. Evidently, conflicts were a problem in early congregations. James, in forceful language, addressed this and told his audience how to fix it. Today we see several steps to resolve conflict. And today, instead of me writing the outline for you, I will let you do the honors.</p> <p>Conflict resolution is an entire field of practice—used from the counselor’s couch to the United Nations. Evidently, conflicts were a problem in early congregations. James, in forceful language, addressed this and told his audience how to fix it. Today we see several steps to resolve conflict. And today, instead of me writing the outline for you, I will let you do the honors.</p> Conflict resolution is an entire field of practice—used from the counselor’s couch to the United Nations. Evidently, conflicts were a problem in early congregations. James, in forceful language, addressed this and told his audience how to fix it. Today we see several steps to resolve conflict. And today, instead of me writing the outline for you, I will let you do the honors.

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3016 13 eab5a0e17420c3039dae8c13c8204171 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3742 14 3f853441b4bbe45f77f93856b2ab82df no Skip Heitzig <p>In the ancient world, few virtues were more revered than wisdom. In the biblical Hebrew culture, wisdom was considered the skill to live well, or more precisely, a wise person was an expert in godly living. According to James, wisdom has little to do with IQ, SAT scores, or education. Wisdom is different from knowledge. Rather, true wisdom is the right application of knowledge. In this passage, James showed the difference between true and false wisdom with four notable traits.</p> <p>In the ancient world, few virtues were more revered than wisdom. In the biblical Hebrew culture, wisdom was considered the skill to live well, or more precisely, a wise person was an expert in godly living. According to James, wisdom has little to do with IQ, SAT scores, or education. Wisdom is different from knowledge. Rather, true wisdom is the right application of knowledge. In this passage, James showed the difference between true and false wisdom with four notable traits.</p> In the ancient world, few virtues were more revered than wisdom. In the biblical Hebrew culture, wisdom was considered the skill to live well, or more precisely, a wise person was an expert in godly living. According to James, wisdom has little to do with IQ, SAT scores, or education. Wisdom is different from knowledge. Rather, true wisdom is the right application of knowledge. In this passage, James showed the difference between true and false wisdom with four notable traits.

]]> Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2506 15 3c300d863fe2d6ae6186652e02886d06 no Nate Heitzig <p>Do the words that come out of your mouth bless others and honor God, or do they bring bitterness and destruction? In this message, Nate Heitzig examines what James 3:2-12 says about the power of the tongue and reminds us that God is the only one capable of changing our heart—and the words that flow from it.</p> <p>Do the words that come out of your mouth bless others and honor God, or do they bring bitterness and destruction? In this message, Nate Heitzig examines what James 3:2-12 says about the power of the tongue and reminds us that God is the only one capable of changing our heart—and the words that flow from it.</p> Do the words that come out of your mouth bless others and honor God, or do they bring bitterness and destruction? In this message, Nate Heitzig examines what James 3:2-12 says about the power of the tongue and reminds us that God is the only one capable of changing our heart—and the words that flow from it.

]]> Sun, 14 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3622 16 85126ec9dbabd24b56d242479294e23c no Nate Heitzig <p>When our lives don't match our testimony, it gives unbelievers an excuse to blaspheme the name of God and diminishes our witness to a lost world. It's critical that believers continually develop their spiritual character and stay accountable for their conduct. In this message, Nate Heitzig applies James 3:1 to Bible teachers—and every believer who faces the scrutiny of a skeptical world.</p> <p>When our lives don't match our testimony, it gives unbelievers an excuse to blaspheme the name of God and diminishes our witness to a lost world. It's critical that believers continually develop their spiritual character and stay accountable for their conduct. In this message, Nate Heitzig applies James 3:1 to Bible teachers—and every believer who faces the scrutiny of a skeptical world.</p> When our lives don't match our testimony, it gives unbelievers an excuse to blaspheme the name of God and diminishes our witness to a lost world. It's critical that believers continually develop their spiritual character and stay accountable for their conduct. In this message, Nate Heitzig applies James 3:1 to Bible teachers—and every believer who faces the scrutiny of a skeptical world.

]]> Sun, 07 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3189 17 8bed9a376c7587aa23d4b9ba45f8c371 no Skip Heitzig <p>You probably couldn’t find two people more different than the two examples chosen by James to show the difference between dead faith and dynamic faith. Abraham was the first patriarch and designated figurehead of the Jewish nation. Rahab was a prostitute who lived in Jericho during Israel’s assault of that city. But both demonstrate how true faith will produce action and change.</p> <p>You probably couldn’t find two people more different than the two examples chosen by James to show the difference between dead faith and dynamic faith. Abraham was the first patriarch and designated figurehead of the Jewish nation. Rahab was a prostitute who lived in Jericho during Israel’s assault of that city. But both demonstrate how true faith will produce action and change.</p> You probably couldn’t find two people more different than the two examples chosen by James to show the difference between dead faith and dynamic faith. Abraham was the first patriarch and designated figurehead of the Jewish nation. Rahab was a prostitute who lived in Jericho during Israel’s assault of that city. But both demonstrate how true faith will produce action and change.

]]> Sun, 30 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2595 18 7c29eba57edf97d7fcfbbdd18d7c98c6 no Skip Heitzig <p>According to a recent Netflix documentary, there are more forgeries of famous paintings hanging in museums than most people suspect. From time to time, these cases come to light. But what about faith in God? The easiest thing to do is to simply say that one is a believer. But where’s the proof? James addressed this, giving four telltale signs to help us spot the genuine from the fake.</p> <p>According to a recent Netflix documentary, there are more forgeries of famous paintings hanging in museums than most people suspect. From time to time, these cases come to light. But what about faith in God? The easiest thing to do is to simply say that one is a believer. But where’s the proof? James addressed this, giving four telltale signs to help us spot the genuine from the fake.</p> According to a recent Netflix documentary, there are more forgeries of famous paintings hanging in museums than most people suspect. From time to time, these cases come to light. But what about faith in God? The easiest thing to do is to simply say that one is a believer. But where’s the proof? James addressed this, giving four telltale signs to help us spot the genuine from the fake.

]]> Sun, 09 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3029 19 95fa54bfb5d763da812f9f8da393e008 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 05 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3739 20 9fc9336714d5b0e84db63fe0da198158 no Skip Heitzig <p>Faith and favoritism are incompatible. We have been saved by a loving Redeemer and we must be willing to accept all different kinds of people. That’s not to say that people don’t need to repent of known sin. Of course they do! But one of the glaring sins of the Christian church is discriminating on the basis of outward appearance—actually, this is a flaw endemic to the whole human race.</p> <p>Faith and favoritism are incompatible. We have been saved by a loving Redeemer and we must be willing to accept all different kinds of people. That’s not to say that people don’t need to repent of known sin. Of course they do! But one of the glaring sins of the Christian church is discriminating on the basis of outward appearance—actually, this is a flaw endemic to the whole human race.</p> Faith and favoritism are incompatible. We have been saved by a loving Redeemer and we must be willing to accept all different kinds of people. That’s not to say that people don’t need to repent of known sin. Of course they do! But one of the glaring sins of the Christian church is discriminating on the basis of outward appearance—actually, this is a flaw endemic to the whole human race.

]]> Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3222 21 a14eaa24b13c56e5e71d39d28835a5e8 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 29 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3323 22 1e7ba2dbb01abd833c6a3d70c64206cf no Skip Heitzig <p>Mirrors are honest! Under well-lit conditions, mirrors reveal the truthful condition of the observer. The Bible is the Word of God. Like a mirror, it reveals the truth about our world, our character, and our God. But then we must act accordingly; doing must follow reading and hearing. James mentions five areas in our lives—five categories—the Word of God should govern.</p> <p>Mirrors are honest! Under well-lit conditions, mirrors reveal the truthful condition of the observer. The Bible is the Word of God. Like a mirror, it reveals the truth about our world, our character, and our God. But then we must act accordingly; doing must follow reading and hearing. James mentions five areas in our lives—five categories—the Word of God should govern.</p> Mirrors are honest! Under well-lit conditions, mirrors reveal the truthful condition of the observer. The Bible is the Word of God. Like a mirror, it reveals the truth about our world, our character, and our God. But then we must act accordingly; doing must follow reading and hearing. James mentions five areas in our lives—five categories—the Word of God should govern.

]]> Sun, 26 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2570 23 53f6c61745d9f76ca607fd5d15e79c46 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 22 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 4140 24 6ee2eeebb0f0ecc44aef932077c125a7 no Skip Heitzig <p>The Word of God is “full of living power,” wrote the author of Hebrews (4:12, TLB). It has the power to change a life completely and for eternity. James has been telling us that God gives good gifts and the first is the gift of salvation! But that is just the beginning. After birth comes growth, and the theme of this book is spiritual maturity. The primary agent for spiritual maturity is God’s Word. But unless we listen to it and allow it to work in us, it will never have its intended impact.</p> <p>The Word of God is “full of living power,” wrote the author of Hebrews (4:12, TLB). It has the power to change a life completely and for eternity. James has been telling us that God gives good gifts and the first is the gift of salvation! But that is just the beginning. After birth comes growth, and the theme of this book is spiritual maturity. The primary agent for spiritual maturity is God’s Word. But unless we listen to it and allow it to work in us, it will never have its intended impact.</p> The Word of God is “full of living power,” wrote the author of Hebrews (4:12, TLB). It has the power to change a life completely and for eternity. James has been telling us that God gives good gifts and the first is the gift of salvation! But that is just the beginning. After birth comes growth, and the theme of this book is spiritual maturity. The primary agent for spiritual maturity is God’s Word. But unless we listen to it and allow it to work in us, it will never have its intended impact.

]]> Sun, 19 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2702 25 dbfe81d7d12053cb0a078149a0dffeee no Skip Heitzig <p>It’s one thing to be tested on the outside (trials); it’s another thing to be tested on the inside (temptation). God may allow temptations in order to strengthen our faith. But Satan desires to tempt us to weaken our faith. In C. S. Lewis’s classic book The Screwtape Letters, a senior demon wrote to a trainee, saying, “All the habits of the [Christian], both mental and bodily, are still in our favor.” Today, we consider how temptation works and find workable solutions to overcome it.</p> <p>It’s one thing to be tested on the outside (trials); it’s another thing to be tested on the inside (temptation). God may allow temptations in order to strengthen our faith. But Satan desires to tempt us to weaken our faith. In C. S. Lewis’s classic book The Screwtape Letters, a senior demon wrote to a trainee, saying, “All the habits of the [Christian], both mental and bodily, are still in our favor.” Today, we consider how temptation works and find workable solutions to overcome it.</p> It’s one thing to be tested on the outside (trials); it’s another thing to be tested on the inside (temptation). God may allow temptations in order to strengthen our faith. But Satan desires to tempt us to weaken our faith. In C. S. Lewis’s classic book The Screwtape Letters, a senior demon wrote to a trainee, saying, “All the habits of the [Christian], both mental and bodily, are still in our favor.” Today, we consider how temptation works and find workable solutions to overcome it.

]]> Sun, 12 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3120 26 a432933d75821ded496a89280604a551 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 01 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3683 27 ccd683a2e4845fc62c59664397701178 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 08 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3746 28 1b3fb242fc35fff66fe99e29b7badf41 no Skip Heitzig <p>An old English children’s game followed the poem “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor, Rich Man, Poor Man, Beggar Man, Thief.” In the game, kids would try to determine what they would become later in life. Whether we become rich or poor, one thing is common to all—hardship. Trials are the great equalizer, bringing all of God’s children to depend on Him. James, with barefaced practicality, looked at the advantages of suffering for both the poor man and the rich man.</p> <p>An old English children’s game followed the poem “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor, Rich Man, Poor Man, Beggar Man, Thief.” In the game, kids would try to determine what they would become later in life. Whether we become rich or poor, one thing is common to all—hardship. Trials are the great equalizer, bringing all of God’s children to depend on Him. James, with barefaced practicality, looked at the advantages of suffering for both the poor man and the rich man.</p> An old English children’s game followed the poem “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor, Rich Man, Poor Man, Beggar Man, Thief.” In the game, kids would try to determine what they would become later in life. Whether we become rich or poor, one thing is common to all—hardship. Trials are the great equalizer, bringing all of God’s children to depend on Him. James, with barefaced practicality, looked at the advantages of suffering for both the poor man and the rich man.

]]> Sun, 05 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2544 29 996ab0fa3e32529d8123ea1449b80c9c no Skip Heitzig <p>Growing up has its advantages. Adults face life’s struggles differently than children do. Both children and adults feel strong emotions about the trials they face, but they display their emotions differently. A mature Christian can even dare to experience joy during such times. Whatever you may be facing in life, there are four realities about hardship you should know.</p> <p>Growing up has its advantages. Adults face life’s struggles differently than children do. Both children and adults feel strong emotions about the trials they face, but they display their emotions differently. A mature Christian can even dare to experience joy during such times. Whatever you may be facing in life, there are four realities about hardship you should know.</p> Growing up has its advantages. Adults face life’s struggles differently than children do. Both children and adults feel strong emotions about the trials they face, but they display their emotions differently. A mature Christian can even dare to experience joy during such times. Whatever you may be facing in life, there are four realities about hardship you should know.

]]> Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2696 30 6d4f2f801df49cc000a1f37df5ec58a7 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3415 31 341956cff4ab4a40cd9a0017ee614be7 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 21 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2967 32 49593d8b68b8a00e59765d02e2fa6d14 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 17 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3547 33 470079c0c804a606f28e19d879b91f4f no Nate Heitzig Sun, 14 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3727 34 c2acf2bcdfd439311e82941d4a00f7f8 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 03 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3799 35 8c0b47918a5722c8c036a16bae305c00 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 31 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2450 36 1c21b6ff021819b453cf3279ae4026e9 no Skip Heitzig <p>People either misunderstand the cross or they don't know its purpose and significance. Some think it's a tragic mistake or just a trivial symbol. When it came to the Messiah, the Jews anticipated a conqueror—instead, they got a sin bearer. Through the cross, Jesus glorified the Father and paid the price for our sins. Instead of shying away from it, we choose to celebrate the cross.</p> <p>People either misunderstand the cross or they don't know its purpose and significance. Some think it's a tragic mistake or just a trivial symbol. When it came to the Messiah, the Jews anticipated a conqueror—instead, they got a sin bearer. Through the cross, Jesus glorified the Father and paid the price for our sins. Instead of shying away from it, we choose to celebrate the cross.</p> People either misunderstand the cross or they don't know its purpose and significance. Some think it's a tragic mistake or just a trivial symbol. When it came to the Messiah, the Jews anticipated a conqueror—instead, they got a sin bearer. Through the cross, Jesus glorified the Father and paid the price for our sins. Instead of shying away from it, we choose to celebrate the cross.

]]> Fri, 29 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2475 37 f57a87b12690ff75246922cd02aebd3e no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we are entering into Passion Week—commemorating Jesus’ final days leading up to the cross, His burial, and His resurrection. We are all familiar with these events. As Jesus came into the city of Jerusalem, the crowd placed palm branches on the ground. In a few days, Jesus would be crucified, and they would place His body in the ground. But three days later, He would rise from the ground. Let’s note three comparisons of things that may be good versus something that’s best.</p> <p>Today we are entering into Passion Week—commemorating Jesus’ final days leading up to the cross, His burial, and His resurrection. We are all familiar with these events. As Jesus came into the city of Jerusalem, the crowd placed palm branches on the ground. In a few days, Jesus would be crucified, and they would place His body in the ground. But three days later, He would rise from the ground. Let’s note three comparisons of things that may be good versus something that’s best.</p> Today we are entering into Passion Week—commemorating Jesus’ final days leading up to the cross, His burial, and His resurrection. We are all familiar with these events. As Jesus came into the city of Jerusalem, the crowd placed palm branches on the ground. In a few days, Jesus would be crucified, and they would place His body in the ground. But three days later, He would rise from the ground. Let’s note three comparisons of things that may be good versus something that’s best.

]]> Sun, 24 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2978 38 895a650b11a8d0345962615d25fefbea no Skip Heitzig Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 4021 39 2a3f414ac8cc2bb73456218a71d8fb12 no Nate Heitzig Sun, 17 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3069 40 c12c8b746375ce03458e132439cfd2cc no Skip Heitzig Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3681 41 e7dd9f9f5533a75965abe73d85c25d56 no Skip Heitzig <p>In order to discover what Jesus intended for the church He came to establish (remember He said, “I will build My church”), we need to examine carefully the prototype—the first church in the book of Acts. In combing through this text the last few weeks, we have been able to get a sense of the style, structure, and service of the early church. Today we notice their generous hearts toward one another and in the cause of Christ. Because they were openhearted, they were also openhanded.</p> <p>In order to discover what Jesus intended for the church He came to establish (remember He said, “I will build My church”), we need to examine carefully the prototype—the first church in the book of Acts. In combing through this text the last few weeks, we have been able to get a sense of the style, structure, and service of the early church. Today we notice their generous hearts toward one another and in the cause of Christ. Because they were openhearted, they were also openhanded.</p> In order to discover what Jesus intended for the church He came to establish (remember He said, “I will build My church”), we need to examine carefully the prototype—the first church in the book of Acts. In combing through this text the last few weeks, we have been able to get a sense of the style, structure, and service of the early church. Today we notice their generous hearts toward one another and in the cause of Christ. Because they were openhearted, they were also openhanded.

]]> Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2571 42 f18ffdd74af9b4fd2d7e8717338cd4e5 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 06 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 4006 43 e1599cbac3b3fb80f63f67cff142648c no Skip Heitzig <p>When God works in a person’s life, there is profound change. When God’s people see that change, it produces a sense of awe and wonder. It also provides encouragement that God will do it again and again. When we gather together and hear one another’s stories and witness one another’s victories, we are inspired. Today we consider the power of God working not just through a sermon or through a worship service, but through the individual lives of all God’s people.</p> <p>When God works in a person’s life, there is profound change. When God’s people see that change, it produces a sense of awe and wonder. It also provides encouragement that God will do it again and again. When we gather together and hear one another’s stories and witness one another’s victories, we are inspired. Today we consider the power of God working not just through a sermon or through a worship service, but through the individual lives of all God’s people.</p> When God works in a person’s life, there is profound change. When God’s people see that change, it produces a sense of awe and wonder. It also provides encouragement that God will do it again and again. When we gather together and hear one another’s stories and witness one another’s victories, we are inspired. Today we consider the power of God working not just through a sermon or through a worship service, but through the individual lives of all God’s people.

]]> Sun, 03 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2610 44 e1ade17160a66d3bb7e1966f0503aa42 no Skip Heitzig <p>The term worship comes from an older English word, worth-ship, which means to give something worth or to attribute value to something or someone. In its purest form, worship acknowledges who God is, gives Him the glory that He alone deserves, and honors Him with our lips and lives. In the Old and New Testaments, worship was both personal and a community activity. Let’s peek at the very first church to gain insights on what worshiping together in the room looks like.</p> <p>The term worship comes from an older English word, worth-ship, which means to give something worth or to attribute value to something or someone. In its purest form, worship acknowledges who God is, gives Him the glory that He alone deserves, and honors Him with our lips and lives. In the Old and New Testaments, worship was both personal and a community activity. Let’s peek at the very first church to gain insights on what worshiping together in the room looks like.</p> The term worship comes from an older English word, worth-ship, which means to give something worth or to attribute value to something or someone. In its purest form, worship acknowledges who God is, gives Him the glory that He alone deserves, and honors Him with our lips and lives. In the Old and New Testaments, worship was both personal and a community activity. Let’s peek at the very first church to gain insights on what worshiping together in the room looks like.

]]> Sun, 25 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2712 45 a950708d8bb4e6f028e2efb7584852d3 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 28 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3657 46 41fc9b8c0a6a25ef56f186223a575fa8 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 21 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3672 47 f4c5772dcac63cd05750660c7382d981 no Skip Heitzig <p>There is an epidemic of loneliness in our society as people long for a place to feel safe and belong. The truth is, we were not built for isolation—and that's why God created the church and community. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares what happens when you get in the room with God's people.</p> <p>There is an epidemic of loneliness in our society as people long for a place to feel safe and belong. The truth is, we were not built for isolation—and that's why God created the church and community. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares what happens when you get in the room with God's people.</p> There is an epidemic of loneliness in our society as people long for a place to feel safe and belong. The truth is, we were not built for isolation—and that's why God created the church and community. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares what happens when you get in the room with God's people.

]]> Sun, 18 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2374 48 3daf096162ac06a6152e0911f078422c no Skip Heitzig Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3694 49 1043af7b26cdb40d6f030aeb8854311b no Skip Heitzig Sun, 04 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2459 50 ede9c22ddeca65c14390cd46e262fa24 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 31 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3529 51 26d81ec2434d4eb096b4a8cc48004156 no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we begin a new series we are calling In the Room. We will consider why it is so vital to gather as God’s people, and the benefits we receive when we do. We each have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, but personal does not mean private. Our lives are meant to be lived in community with others. Today we will take on the role of a reporter, examining a weekend event in the life of the early church to understand the significance of this experience.</p> <p>Today we begin a new series we are calling In the Room. We will consider why it is so vital to gather as God’s people, and the benefits we receive when we do. We each have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, but personal does not mean private. Our lives are meant to be lived in community with others. Today we will take on the role of a reporter, examining a weekend event in the life of the early church to understand the significance of this experience.</p> Today we begin a new series we are calling In the Room. We will consider why it is so vital to gather as God’s people, and the benefits we receive when we do. We each have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, but personal does not mean private. Our lives are meant to be lived in community with others. Today we will take on the role of a reporter, examining a weekend event in the life of the early church to understand the significance of this experience.

]]> Sun, 28 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3259 52 e62ed605b408fdc83763ac1a366bb7d9 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3798 53 80e2ff59d24406c5d0c5d1a17c9dfae1 no Nate Heitzig <p>As we ring in the New Year, we also want to ring in a fresh start. We want to be different, better. But lasting change doesn’t happen through New Year’s resolutions. Instead of trying to fix our bad habits, our flesh, we must begin submitting to the Spirit—only then will everything else fall into place. In this message, Nate Heitzig reflects on some truths we’ve learned in our Kingdom City series, sharing how we can change 2024 by becoming resilient disciples of Jesus.</p> <p>As we ring in the New Year, we also want to ring in a fresh start. We want to be different, better. But lasting change doesn’t happen through New Year’s resolutions. Instead of trying to fix our bad habits, our flesh, we must begin submitting to the Spirit—only then will everything else fall into place. In this message, Nate Heitzig reflects on some truths we’ve learned in our Kingdom City series, sharing how we can change 2024 by becoming resilient disciples of Jesus.</p> As we ring in the New Year, we also want to ring in a fresh start. We want to be different, better. But lasting change doesn’t happen through New Year’s resolutions. Instead of trying to fix our bad habits, our flesh, we must begin submitting to the Spirit—only then will everything else fall into place. In this message, Nate Heitzig reflects on some truths we’ve learned in our Kingdom City series, sharing how we can change 2024 by becoming resilient disciples of Jesus.

]]> Sun, 21 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3451 54 6279983e8ec82858e28b39889058454d no Skip Heitzig Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3791 55 e7c1de1c40062107f9bb4a41c44f1f89 no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we bring the series Kingdom City to an end. We have explored what it means to live as kingdom people, to be representatives of the King until He returns. We have examined the lives of people who influenced others with their kingdom-minded lifestyles. But today we consider the culmination of kingdom living, which is the future kingdom itself. There are four distinct experiences that sum up the announcement and inauguration of the coming future kingdom.</p> <p>Today we bring the series Kingdom City to an end. We have explored what it means to live as kingdom people, to be representatives of the King until He returns. We have examined the lives of people who influenced others with their kingdom-minded lifestyles. But today we consider the culmination of kingdom living, which is the future kingdom itself. There are four distinct experiences that sum up the announcement and inauguration of the coming future kingdom.</p> Today we bring the series Kingdom City to an end. We have explored what it means to live as kingdom people, to be representatives of the King until He returns. We have examined the lives of people who influenced others with their kingdom-minded lifestyles. But today we consider the culmination of kingdom living, which is the future kingdom itself. There are four distinct experiences that sum up the announcement and inauguration of the coming future kingdom.

]]> Sun, 14 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3088 56 87610734bb1b18b42a8eaadce6182acd no Skip Heitzig Wed, 10 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3523 57 b864758efe831041aecc80aeb073ba31 no Skip Heitzig <p>Last year, we studied the biblical prophecies on the end times and considered the promises of Jesus’ return and establishment of His kingdom. But until that awesome event occurs, how ought we to invest our time and resources? Did you know that our future position in the kingdom of heaven is largely determined by our faithfulness on earth? This section shows us four different responses to kingdom responsibility—four ways people live their lives in the light of Jesus’ coming kingdom.</p> <p>Last year, we studied the biblical prophecies on the end times and considered the promises of Jesus’ return and establishment of His kingdom. But until that awesome event occurs, how ought we to invest our time and resources? Did you know that our future position in the kingdom of heaven is largely determined by our faithfulness on earth? This section shows us four different responses to kingdom responsibility—four ways people live their lives in the light of Jesus’ coming kingdom.</p> Last year, we studied the biblical prophecies on the end times and considered the promises of Jesus’ return and establishment of His kingdom. But until that awesome event occurs, how ought we to invest our time and resources? Did you know that our future position in the kingdom of heaven is largely determined by our faithfulness on earth? This section shows us four different responses to kingdom responsibility—four ways people live their lives in the light of Jesus’ coming kingdom.

]]> Sun, 07 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 2554 58 7917e3f8e9889e9c392372b7d41bd55b no Skip Heitzig Wed, 03 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000 3857 59 9f39265900c154acacd17d85be5c49cf no Skip Heitzig <p>God chose a humble animal—a donkey foal—to play a big part in Bible prophecy and a key role in our Savior's story. The donkey who carried the Lord Jesus into Jerusalem for Passover was more than just transportation—that journey fulfilled prophecy and identified Jesus as the Messiah. In this Christmas Eve message, Pastor Skip Heitzig examines God's attention to detail, His perfect timing, and His use of humble things, and he encourages us to live in Service to the King.</p> <p>God chose a humble animal—a donkey foal—to play a big part in Bible prophecy and a key role in our Savior's story. The donkey who carried the Lord Jesus into Jerusalem for Passover was more than just transportation—that journey fulfilled prophecy and identified Jesus as the Messiah. In this Christmas Eve message, Pastor Skip Heitzig examines God's attention to detail, His perfect timing, and His use of humble things, and he encourages us to live in Service to the King.</p> God chose a humble animal—a donkey foal—to play a big part in Bible prophecy and a key role in our Savior's story. The donkey who carried the Lord Jesus into Jerusalem for Passover was more than just transportation—that journey fulfilled prophecy and identified Jesus as the Messiah. In this Christmas Eve message, Pastor Skip Heitzig examines God's attention to detail, His perfect timing, and His use of humble things, and he encourages us to live in Service to the King.

]]> Sun, 24 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2096 60 1b7e67bcdba3faa4c48468ae10b54581 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 17 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2612 61 b2e89852c68ec08a215f441d6e66bcc0 no Skip Heitzig <p>Christians often have questions about their role and responsibility to secular governments. These questions are even more pronounced when there is a government or political administration that appears to be at odds with their Christian convictions. As redeemed people whose “citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20), how should we discharge our responsibility to the state? Can we honor both God and Caesar? How do kingdom city residents properly balance these two realms?</p> <p>Christians often have questions about their role and responsibility to secular governments. These questions are even more pronounced when there is a government or political administration that appears to be at odds with their Christian convictions. As redeemed people whose “citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20), how should we discharge our responsibility to the state? Can we honor both God and Caesar? How do kingdom city residents properly balance these two realms?</p> Christians often have questions about their role and responsibility to secular governments. These questions are even more pronounced when there is a government or political administration that appears to be at odds with their Christian convictions. As redeemed people whose “citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20), how should we discharge our responsibility to the state? Can we honor both God and Caesar? How do kingdom city residents properly balance these two realms?

]]> Sun, 10 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3080 62 e38bb35be6be0ec3206583d3c259a851 no Skip Heitzig <p>As Christians get older, they sometimes tend toward compromise. The influence of their culture wears on them and they begin to shift in order to satisfy society. They are victims of the long haul! Their spiritual pace slows; their spiritual appetite weakens; their spiritual vigor abates. Today we examine a man who was faithful over his entire lifetime. His spiritual pace was steady; his spiritual appetite was strong; his spiritual vigor deepened. Daniel displayed four characteristics.</p> <p>As Christians get older, they sometimes tend toward compromise. The influence of their culture wears on them and they begin to shift in order to satisfy society. They are victims of the long haul! Their spiritual pace slows; their spiritual appetite weakens; their spiritual vigor abates. Today we examine a man who was faithful over his entire lifetime. His spiritual pace was steady; his spiritual appetite was strong; his spiritual vigor deepened. Daniel displayed four characteristics.</p> As Christians get older, they sometimes tend toward compromise. The influence of their culture wears on them and they begin to shift in order to satisfy society. They are victims of the long haul! Their spiritual pace slows; their spiritual appetite weakens; their spiritual vigor abates. Today we examine a man who was faithful over his entire lifetime. His spiritual pace was steady; his spiritual appetite was strong; his spiritual vigor deepened. Daniel displayed four characteristics.

]]> Sun, 03 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2787 63 ac3d409cbbecc86e7c32c33723798f93 no Skip Heitzig <p>In our last message, we discovered how Daniel became a kingdom influence in Egypt. Today we will see how a woman named Esther influenced the kingdom of Persia—specifically how she rescued the Jewish people from a murderously antisemitic plot. Her courage has become an iconic reminder that one person can bravely change the future for an entire nation. Esther’s story reminded me of the woman in Proverbs 31:25: Strength and honor are her clothing….</p> <p>In our last message, we discovered how Daniel became a kingdom influence in Egypt. Today we will see how a woman named Esther influenced the kingdom of Persia—specifically how she rescued the Jewish people from a murderously antisemitic plot. Her courage has become an iconic reminder that one person can bravely change the future for an entire nation. Esther’s story reminded me of the woman in Proverbs 31:25: Strength and honor are her clothing….</p> In our last message, we discovered how Daniel became a kingdom influence in Egypt. Today we will see how a woman named Esther influenced the kingdom of Persia—specifically how she rescued the Jewish people from a murderously antisemitic plot. Her courage has become an iconic reminder that one person can bravely change the future for an entire nation. Esther’s story reminded me of the woman in Proverbs 31:25: Strength and honor are her clothing….

]]> Sun, 26 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2680 64 bc36bbd678c4ac89389dbcaa0bd131f7 no Skip Heitzig <p>After laying the groundwork for our calling to be kingdom influencers in our secular culture, we now consider the first of three examples of people who did just that. Joseph was one of the sons of Jacob. He came from a rural ranching family with humble beginnings, but he ascended to become the second most powerful man in the vast kingdom of Egypt. What caused this to happen?</p> <p>After laying the groundwork for our calling to be kingdom influencers in our secular culture, we now consider the first of three examples of people who did just that. Joseph was one of the sons of Jacob. He came from a rural ranching family with humble beginnings, but he ascended to become the second most powerful man in the vast kingdom of Egypt. What caused this to happen?</p> After laying the groundwork for our calling to be kingdom influencers in our secular culture, we now consider the first of three examples of people who did just that. Joseph was one of the sons of Jacob. He came from a rural ranching family with humble beginnings, but he ascended to become the second most powerful man in the vast kingdom of Egypt. What caused this to happen?

]]> Sun, 12 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2828 65 ba5e8635aba3b986929c1625e8e00a71 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3973 66 60d8c186f9799114042f0d981c3ded55 no Skip Heitzig <p>A refugee is a displaced person, someone forced to leave his or her country and live elsewhere. The people of Judea were refugees living in Babylon. They’d been kidnapped and taken hundreds of miles away. So Jeremiah sent them a letter giving instructions on how to live as God’s people on foreign soil. We should take his words to heart since we too are displaced from our eternal home.</p> <p>A refugee is a displaced person, someone forced to leave his or her country and live elsewhere. The people of Judea were refugees living in Babylon. They’d been kidnapped and taken hundreds of miles away. So Jeremiah sent them a letter giving instructions on how to live as God’s people on foreign soil. We should take his words to heart since we too are displaced from our eternal home.</p> A refugee is a displaced person, someone forced to leave his or her country and live elsewhere. The people of Judea were refugees living in Babylon. They’d been kidnapped and taken hundreds of miles away. So Jeremiah sent them a letter giving instructions on how to live as God’s people on foreign soil. We should take his words to heart since we too are displaced from our eternal home.

]]> Sun, 29 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2921 67 a6b7c5f1a487b2f51b3b5eeb88bc5ca7 no Skip Heitzig <p>It can be hard to keep track of what is true during a crisis. TV pundits throw facts around till our heads spin, but truth can be found when we know where to look. In this message, Skip Heitzig separates fact from fiction to get a clear understanding of this conflict between the Jews and Palestinians.</p> <p>It can be hard to keep track of what is true during a crisis. TV pundits throw facts around till our heads spin, but truth can be found when we know where to look. In this message, Skip Heitzig separates fact from fiction to get a clear understanding of this conflict between the Jews and Palestinians.</p> It can be hard to keep track of what is true during a crisis. TV pundits throw facts around till our heads spin, but truth can be found when we know where to look. In this message, Skip Heitzig separates fact from fiction to get a clear understanding of this conflict between the Jews and Palestinians.

]]> Wed, 25 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3516 68 19c10601c1f0655f9dc57e4102c8d492 no Skip Heitzig <p>What will you be remembered for? What one thing will people think of when your name is mentioned after you die? Everyone wants to “leave his mark” on the world—to be acknowledged for some contribution made to society. Jesus wants us to do this as well—to leave a footprint on the path of life so others will say, “Hey, look! God’s kids walked here!” The analogy Jesus used for this influence was salt and light. These are the essence of transformation into a kingdom city.</p> <p>What will you be remembered for? What one thing will people think of when your name is mentioned after you die? Everyone wants to “leave his mark” on the world—to be acknowledged for some contribution made to society. Jesus wants us to do this as well—to leave a footprint on the path of life so others will say, “Hey, look! God’s kids walked here!” The analogy Jesus used for this influence was salt and light. These are the essence of transformation into a kingdom city.</p> What will you be remembered for? What one thing will people think of when your name is mentioned after you die? Everyone wants to “leave his mark” on the world—to be acknowledged for some contribution made to society. Jesus wants us to do this as well—to leave a footprint on the path of life so others will say, “Hey, look! God’s kids walked here!” The analogy Jesus used for this influence was salt and light. These are the essence of transformation into a kingdom city.

]]> Sun, 22 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3197 69 d6811ad44ae68acb546a949d74d95b96 no Skip Heitzig <p>Around the world and close to home, protesters are taking their rhetoric against the Jewish community to the streets. Violent language and calls to actions targeting Israel are no longer hidden but spoken aloud for all to hear. In this message, Skip Heitzig discusses the rise of antisemitism with Johnnie Moore and God's protection of His people from Bible times to present day.</p> <p>Around the world and close to home, protesters are taking their rhetoric against the Jewish community to the streets. Violent language and calls to actions targeting Israel are no longer hidden but spoken aloud for all to hear. In this message, Skip Heitzig discusses the rise of antisemitism with Johnnie Moore and God's protection of His people from Bible times to present day.</p> Around the world and close to home, protesters are taking their rhetoric against the Jewish community to the streets. Violent language and calls to actions targeting Israel are no longer hidden but spoken aloud for all to hear. In this message, Skip Heitzig discusses the rise of antisemitism with Johnnie Moore and God's protection of His people from Bible times to present day.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3298 70 5928840b23baabc2c85384d6f3a145aa no Skip Heitzig <p>Life is full of distractions. We can easily be sidetracked from our main objective as Christians. Rather than engaging in endless speculation over future events, we have a task to focus on. Yes, we believe in a coming kingdom. Yes, we are to be ready for the Lord’s return. Yes, the kingdom of heaven will be an awesome experience. But until then we have a message to proclaim and have work to do. In a nutshell, we are to have our eye on the sky but our hand to the plow!</p> <p>Life is full of distractions. We can easily be sidetracked from our main objective as Christians. Rather than engaging in endless speculation over future events, we have a task to focus on. Yes, we believe in a coming kingdom. Yes, we are to be ready for the Lord’s return. Yes, the kingdom of heaven will be an awesome experience. But until then we have a message to proclaim and have work to do. In a nutshell, we are to have our eye on the sky but our hand to the plow!</p> Life is full of distractions. We can easily be sidetracked from our main objective as Christians. Rather than engaging in endless speculation over future events, we have a task to focus on. Yes, we believe in a coming kingdom. Yes, we are to be ready for the Lord’s return. Yes, the kingdom of heaven will be an awesome experience. But until then we have a message to proclaim and have work to do. In a nutshell, we are to have our eye on the sky but our hand to the plow!

]]> Sun, 15 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2737 71 eb50184e57799cb6b502b83c7510f186 no Skip Heitzig <p>What does it mean to be kingdom people? What is the nature of this kingdom? What is our responsibility to the world we find ourselves a part of? If Jesus is coming to bring His kingdom and to rule over the earth, can’t we just sit and wait for that to happen? As we consider this model prayer, especially the petition “Your kingdom come. Your will be done…,” we will seek to discover our responsibility as local representatives of the kingdom of God.</p> <p>What does it mean to be kingdom people? What is the nature of this kingdom? What is our responsibility to the world we find ourselves a part of? If Jesus is coming to bring His kingdom and to rule over the earth, can’t we just sit and wait for that to happen? As we consider this model prayer, especially the petition “Your kingdom come. Your will be done…,” we will seek to discover our responsibility as local representatives of the kingdom of God.</p> What does it mean to be kingdom people? What is the nature of this kingdom? What is our responsibility to the world we find ourselves a part of? If Jesus is coming to bring His kingdom and to rule over the earth, can’t we just sit and wait for that to happen? As we consider this model prayer, especially the petition “Your kingdom come. Your will be done…,” we will seek to discover our responsibility as local representatives of the kingdom of God.

]]> Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2499 72 714cbabbb705a53c8515e546a022d508 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3784 73 9dd08a774025951f5a414d8471045c25 no Nate Heitzig Sun, 24 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3011 74 b7308afa8b88effaf825197eb431da04 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3732 75 11cfb0ea7c9a4ed864a1436707cc7ddc no Skip Heitzig Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3618 76 cf58f4cdcf79e4a0273cddbbe33c382a no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we will conduct a walk-through of every believer’s ultimate destination—the capital city of the eternal state, called New Jerusalem. Unlike New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, or New Mexico, this future place will have the most unique environment ever. I will touch on seven highlights of this future cityscape that make heaven the world’s most interesting destination.</p> <p>Today we will conduct a walk-through of every believer’s ultimate destination—the capital city of the eternal state, called New Jerusalem. Unlike New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, or New Mexico, this future place will have the most unique environment ever. I will touch on seven highlights of this future cityscape that make heaven the world’s most interesting destination.</p> Today we will conduct a walk-through of every believer’s ultimate destination—the capital city of the eternal state, called New Jerusalem. Unlike New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, or New Mexico, this future place will have the most unique environment ever. I will touch on seven highlights of this future cityscape that make heaven the world’s most interesting destination.

]]> Sun, 17 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3350 77 c569a644de31323331f3c49201cc72a9 no Skip Heitzig <p>Our ideas about what heaven will be like may not necessarily be how Scripture describes our eternal home. After officiating hundreds of funerals, I’ve heard some pretty bizarre remarks about loved ones turning into angels or greeting St. Peter at heaven’s gates or engaging in their favorite hobbies. As we look at the final phase of heaven, what is called the eternal state, we read things that may be shocking to some, including that it will come complete with a capital city.</p> <p>Our ideas about what heaven will be like may not necessarily be how Scripture describes our eternal home. After officiating hundreds of funerals, I’ve heard some pretty bizarre remarks about loved ones turning into angels or greeting St. Peter at heaven’s gates or engaging in their favorite hobbies. As we look at the final phase of heaven, what is called the eternal state, we read things that may be shocking to some, including that it will come complete with a capital city.</p> Our ideas about what heaven will be like may not necessarily be how Scripture describes our eternal home. After officiating hundreds of funerals, I’ve heard some pretty bizarre remarks about loved ones turning into angels or greeting St. Peter at heaven’s gates or engaging in their favorite hobbies. As we look at the final phase of heaven, what is called the eternal state, we read things that may be shocking to some, including that it will come complete with a capital city.

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3207 78 10953bc7cf20898c564f820811681c9b no Skip Heitzig Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3808 79 37607eaaa5712d6f78f3dbd9ea89e4b1 no Skip Heitzig <p>Contemplate the phrase the wrath of God. Most people who hear it think of God as some sort of annoyed deity—one who has a short temper and lashes out in uncontrolled rage. Actually, God’s wrath, including His judgment of unbelievers, is part of His moral integrity. God cannot just withhold judgment; that would go against His moral integrity. The final judgment of God will be His great complement to human freedom and choice. For those who choose to live without God, they will!</p> <p>Contemplate the phrase the wrath of God. Most people who hear it think of God as some sort of annoyed deity—one who has a short temper and lashes out in uncontrolled rage. Actually, God’s wrath, including His judgment of unbelievers, is part of His moral integrity. God cannot just withhold judgment; that would go against His moral integrity. The final judgment of God will be His great complement to human freedom and choice. For those who choose to live without God, they will!</p> Contemplate the phrase the wrath of God. Most people who hear it think of God as some sort of annoyed deity—one who has a short temper and lashes out in uncontrolled rage. Actually, God’s wrath, including His judgment of unbelievers, is part of His moral integrity. God cannot just withhold judgment; that would go against His moral integrity. The final judgment of God will be His great complement to human freedom and choice. For those who choose to live without God, they will!

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3170 80 7e7c2e6fc48f101a4276053c708ffa9e no Skip Heitzig Wed, 30 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3557 81 0cf2b79fb15202b7770494922f046dcf no Nate Heitzig Sun, 27 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3887 82 9472020a1ea25e6a28cb82f33c58a72e no Skip Heitzig <p>The phrase perfect government sounds like an oxymoron. Our world has never known such perfection, and Utopia seems to be the stuff of fairytales. But the Bible promises a coming kingdom on earth, ruled by the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These predictions are widely scattered through the Old Testament and reaffirmed in the New. But only in Revelation 20 are we given the duration of one thousand years. Today I want to share four marks of the governmental structure during the millennium.</p> <p>The phrase perfect government sounds like an oxymoron. Our world has never known such perfection, and Utopia seems to be the stuff of fairytales. But the Bible promises a coming kingdom on earth, ruled by the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These predictions are widely scattered through the Old Testament and reaffirmed in the New. But only in Revelation 20 are we given the duration of one thousand years. Today I want to share four marks of the governmental structure during the millennium.</p> The phrase perfect government sounds like an oxymoron. Our world has never known such perfection, and Utopia seems to be the stuff of fairytales. But the Bible promises a coming kingdom on earth, ruled by the Messiah, Jesus Christ. These predictions are widely scattered through the Old Testament and reaffirmed in the New. But only in Revelation 20 are we given the duration of one thousand years. Today I want to share four marks of the governmental structure during the millennium.

]]> Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2928 83 24fabae5e19d22068ca68a44970ab8b1 no Skip Heitzig <p>Can you envision, or even imagine, a world without conflict or war—a peace-filled, fair, and just environment? This has been the stuff of dreams, fairytales, and fiction. Bumper stickers tell us to “Visualize World Peace,” yet we find it impossible to do so because of our own history. But it is actually scheduled to happen for an entire millennium! For the next two weeks, we will explore this theme of the kingdom age—an era dominated by righteousness, justice, and goodness.</p> <p>Can you envision, or even imagine, a world without conflict or war—a peace-filled, fair, and just environment? This has been the stuff of dreams, fairytales, and fiction. Bumper stickers tell us to “Visualize World Peace,” yet we find it impossible to do so because of our own history. But it is actually scheduled to happen for an entire millennium! For the next two weeks, we will explore this theme of the kingdom age—an era dominated by righteousness, justice, and goodness.</p> Can you envision, or even imagine, a world without conflict or war—a peace-filled, fair, and just environment? This has been the stuff of dreams, fairytales, and fiction. Bumper stickers tell us to “Visualize World Peace,” yet we find it impossible to do so because of our own history. But it is actually scheduled to happen for an entire millennium! For the next two weeks, we will explore this theme of the kingdom age—an era dominated by righteousness, justice, and goodness.

]]> Sun, 13 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2794 84 f18f27360558dbf204d71262089b3710 no Skip Heitzig <p>The second coming will be the most important event in the world accomplished by the most important person in the world. It has no parallel. The second coming of Christ will be utterly unlike His first coming. The first time He came born in obscurity—unnoticed and unhonored. He shall come the second time in splendor and be seen by all. Billy Graham once said, “The second coming of Christ will be so revolutionary that it will change every aspect of life on this planet.” It will effectively end history as we know it and ready the world for a glorious kingdom age.</p> <p>The second coming will be the most important event in the world accomplished by the most important person in the world. It has no parallel. The second coming of Christ will be utterly unlike His first coming. The first time He came born in obscurity—unnoticed and unhonored. He shall come the second time in splendor and be seen by all. Billy Graham once said, “The second coming of Christ will be so revolutionary that it will change every aspect of life on this planet.” It will effectively end history as we know it and ready the world for a glorious kingdom age.</p> The second coming will be the most important event in the world accomplished by the most important person in the world. It has no parallel. The second coming of Christ will be utterly unlike His first coming. The first time He came born in obscurity—unnoticed and unhonored. He shall come the second time in splendor and be seen by all. Billy Graham once said, “The second coming of Christ will be so revolutionary that it will change every aspect of life on this planet.” It will effectively end history as we know it and ready the world for a glorious kingdom age.

]]> Sun, 06 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3085 85 28cb29a02654413d0596cd4862a32602 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 16 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3779 86 f884de9d93b1e0ef43106b1cd9970e2e no Skip Heitzig Wed, 09 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3371 87 36e59872de55720124afe4dd547916ed no Skip Heitzig Wed, 02 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3941 88 ce5ce7de5561ebf052f06a853bffebd9 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 26 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3448 89 91336cd8a09d58dcf014a34da0c84c28 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3767 90 bbc840a8be86a9f2d1d55f0e0539b01f no Skip Heitzig <p>The second coming of Jesus Christ is the moment we have all been waiting for—from the very beginning of human history until now. It is the capstone of God’s redemptive plan, and it is the only hope for the future. After history runs its course of rebellion, after Satan’s age-old retaliation, after God’s closing judgments on the earth, the end of the world as we know it will come. There are eight noticeable features of Christ’s second coming. Today we will cover the first four.</p> <p>The second coming of Jesus Christ is the moment we have all been waiting for—from the very beginning of human history until now. It is the capstone of God’s redemptive plan, and it is the only hope for the future. After history runs its course of rebellion, after Satan’s age-old retaliation, after God’s closing judgments on the earth, the end of the world as we know it will come. There are eight noticeable features of Christ’s second coming. Today we will cover the first four.</p> The second coming of Jesus Christ is the moment we have all been waiting for—from the very beginning of human history until now. It is the capstone of God’s redemptive plan, and it is the only hope for the future. After history runs its course of rebellion, after Satan’s age-old retaliation, after God’s closing judgments on the earth, the end of the world as we know it will come. There are eight noticeable features of Christ’s second coming. Today we will cover the first four.

]]> Sun, 16 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2661 91 43534fd87376fa9e944135f1ef2fc752 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 12 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3711 92 41040f35d9a69d65eed69ce628c94e7c no Skip Heitzig Sun, 09 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3280 93 a0544123abbf8a6fd7e63527e0da6f1a no Skip Heitzig Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3522 94 c343ef32a14beb79add5b845b67c5302 no Skip Heitzig <p>The infamous number 666 has been the cause of fear and superstition for generations. If people spot it on a license plate or a grocery store receipt, they consider it a bad omen. It’s right up there with the number 13. Many good expositors differ widely when it comes to interpreting its meaning. Will it be an implanted chip? An ID card? A barcode tattooed into the skin or simply a mark identifying allegiance to Antichrist’s kingdom? Today we will consider three additional details of Antichrist’s coming influence and try to drill down on the meaning of the mark of the beast.</p> <p>The infamous number 666 has been the cause of fear and superstition for generations. If people spot it on a license plate or a grocery store receipt, they consider it a bad omen. It’s right up there with the number 13. Many good expositors differ widely when it comes to interpreting its meaning. Will it be an implanted chip? An ID card? A barcode tattooed into the skin or simply a mark identifying allegiance to Antichrist’s kingdom? Today we will consider three additional details of Antichrist’s coming influence and try to drill down on the meaning of the mark of the beast.</p> The infamous number 666 has been the cause of fear and superstition for generations. If people spot it on a license plate or a grocery store receipt, they consider it a bad omen. It’s right up there with the number 13. Many good expositors differ widely when it comes to interpreting its meaning. Will it be an implanted chip? An ID card? A barcode tattooed into the skin or simply a mark identifying allegiance to Antichrist’s kingdom? Today we will consider three additional details of Antichrist’s coming influence and try to drill down on the meaning of the mark of the beast.

]]> Sun, 02 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2869 95 ea9e65d6afa07170a4265d4b6a8a76d9 no Skip Heitzig Sat, 01 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2301 96 66e34f8c63d1e73cfcaa35bca8d3ea12 no Skip Heitzig <p>The subject of the Antichrist is one of the most speculated, debated, and ridiculed subjects in all of Scripture. Who he will be, where he’ll be from, and what he will do is the theme of countless books, movies, and dissertations, as well as jokes and memes. But this is a serious subject. There are over 100 passages in the Bible that describe this person. Revelation 13 is one of the more famous. Let’s consider six characteristics of this leader who will live up to his terrible name.</p> <p>The subject of the Antichrist is one of the most speculated, debated, and ridiculed subjects in all of Scripture. Who he will be, where he’ll be from, and what he will do is the theme of countless books, movies, and dissertations, as well as jokes and memes. But this is a serious subject. There are over 100 passages in the Bible that describe this person. Revelation 13 is one of the more famous. Let’s consider six characteristics of this leader who will live up to his terrible name.</p> The subject of the Antichrist is one of the most speculated, debated, and ridiculed subjects in all of Scripture. Who he will be, where he’ll be from, and what he will do is the theme of countless books, movies, and dissertations, as well as jokes and memes. But this is a serious subject. There are over 100 passages in the Bible that describe this person. Revelation 13 is one of the more famous. Let’s consider six characteristics of this leader who will live up to his terrible name.

]]> Sun, 25 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2896 97 1978083404150e0e9fb6b2c3a4efdb11 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3711 98 d3eb7d693f64dff1ce52b183ef17f5ba no Skip Heitzig Wed, 31 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 4001 99 dd2f95c40d4fad75bdc646f969d7ab02 no Skip Heitzig <p>Just how bad will the coming day of the Lord be for the people of planet Earth? Is the tribulation period simply a scare tactic of doomsday fanatics who love to sensationalize everything? Today we consider an overview of this time period in the book of Revelation. We’ll see both the lowlights and the highlights of this coming seven-year time frame. Hint: some things might surprise you!</p> <p>Just how bad will the coming day of the Lord be for the people of planet Earth? Is the tribulation period simply a scare tactic of doomsday fanatics who love to sensationalize everything? Today we consider an overview of this time period in the book of Revelation. We’ll see both the lowlights and the highlights of this coming seven-year time frame. Hint: some things might surprise you!</p> Just how bad will the coming day of the Lord be for the people of planet Earth? Is the tribulation period simply a scare tactic of doomsday fanatics who love to sensationalize everything? Today we consider an overview of this time period in the book of Revelation. We’ll see both the lowlights and the highlights of this coming seven-year time frame. Hint: some things might surprise you!

]]> Sun, 28 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3079 100 251de0147363b2a7f06601e091988f29 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 24 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3524 101 2eeadc398aeef973f30149d734596586 no Skip Heitzig <p>I admit that the book of Revelation can appear mysterious, full of curious symbols and imagery. But it’s actually more straightforward than you may think. If you hold to a grammatical/historical view, this book provides a chronological flow of future history. It presents Jesus evaluating His church, judging His world, proclaiming His gospel, saving His nation, and establishing His kingdom. For this week and next, we will consider the flow of the future.</p> <p>I admit that the book of Revelation can appear mysterious, full of curious symbols and imagery. But it’s actually more straightforward than you may think. If you hold to a grammatical/historical view, this book provides a chronological flow of future history. It presents Jesus evaluating His church, judging His world, proclaiming His gospel, saving His nation, and establishing His kingdom. For this week and next, we will consider the flow of the future.</p> I admit that the book of Revelation can appear mysterious, full of curious symbols and imagery. But it’s actually more straightforward than you may think. If you hold to a grammatical/historical view, this book provides a chronological flow of future history. It presents Jesus evaluating His church, judging His world, proclaiming His gospel, saving His nation, and establishing His kingdom. For this week and next, we will consider the flow of the future.

]]> Sun, 21 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2871 102 a872112e89fe714c2dcfa0deef9d1321 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 17 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3727 103 3304de9cfff38c73aca2d84698c37657 no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we pay a special tribute to those unique individuals we call mothers. They have given us life on this earth, and their influence has transformed our lives. Here in this passage, Paul the apostle pays special tribute to two women who changed the world by seeing their duty as a divine mission. They raised a future leader who helped shape the early years of Christianity through tenderness, godliness, and boldness. These attributes are vital for all of us to have.</p> <p>Today we pay a special tribute to those unique individuals we call mothers. They have given us life on this earth, and their influence has transformed our lives. Here in this passage, Paul the apostle pays special tribute to two women who changed the world by seeing their duty as a divine mission. They raised a future leader who helped shape the early years of Christianity through tenderness, godliness, and boldness. These attributes are vital for all of us to have.</p> Today we pay a special tribute to those unique individuals we call mothers. They have given us life on this earth, and their influence has transformed our lives. Here in this passage, Paul the apostle pays special tribute to two women who changed the world by seeing their duty as a divine mission. They raised a future leader who helped shape the early years of Christianity through tenderness, godliness, and boldness. These attributes are vital for all of us to have.

]]> Sun, 14 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2414 104 33a4c7557e3780ba02de1878812f9aa5 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 10 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3587 105 2646e96ea47df4001f8f46d94ff3653a no Skip Heitzig Wed, 03 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3781 106 39404cebce96ace419ca378847d31f7b no Skip Heitzig Wed, 26 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3405 107 3dd5e247f071fb0b2c5b3daaf3ce36e8 no Skip Heitzig <p>The subject of the end times is fascinating and should also be motivating. One thing it should not be is aggravating; it shouldn’t produce fear but rather hope. Some of the young believers in the church at Thessalonica were perturbed and afraid thinking they were facing the tribulation and that loved ones who had died had missed the rapture Paul told them about. Paul’s concern wasn’t just doctrinal but pastoral—he wanted to comfort the Thessalonians. Let’s dig deeper into this doctrine.</p> <p>The subject of the end times is fascinating and should also be motivating. One thing it should not be is aggravating; it shouldn’t produce fear but rather hope. Some of the young believers in the church at Thessalonica were perturbed and afraid thinking they were facing the tribulation and that loved ones who had died had missed the rapture Paul told them about. Paul’s concern wasn’t just doctrinal but pastoral—he wanted to comfort the Thessalonians. Let’s dig deeper into this doctrine.</p> The subject of the end times is fascinating and should also be motivating. One thing it should not be is aggravating; it shouldn’t produce fear but rather hope. Some of the young believers in the church at Thessalonica were perturbed and afraid thinking they were facing the tribulation and that loved ones who had died had missed the rapture Paul told them about. Paul’s concern wasn’t just doctrinal but pastoral—he wanted to comfort the Thessalonians. Let’s dig deeper into this doctrine.

]]> Sun, 07 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2952 108 51c56c2bc7d169c3d198416a6c0be4a5 no Skip Heitzig <p>The phrase rapture of the church was a foreign one to me. I never heard it growing up and didn’t believe it was real until I read the Bible. Not only do I now believe in the rapture of the church, I believe it could happen at any moment! This passage of Scripture is what E. Schuyler English called “the first New Testament intimation of the Rapture.” Today we will be encouraged by Jesus’ own promise of it. Next week we’ll look more deeply at the timing of it.</p> <p>The phrase rapture of the church was a foreign one to me. I never heard it growing up and didn’t believe it was real until I read the Bible. Not only do I now believe in the rapture of the church, I believe it could happen at any moment! This passage of Scripture is what E. Schuyler English called “the first New Testament intimation of the Rapture.” Today we will be encouraged by Jesus’ own promise of it. Next week we’ll look more deeply at the timing of it.</p> The phrase rapture of the church was a foreign one to me. I never heard it growing up and didn’t believe it was real until I read the Bible. Not only do I now believe in the rapture of the church, I believe it could happen at any moment! This passage of Scripture is what E. Schuyler English called “the first New Testament intimation of the Rapture.” Today we will be encouraged by Jesus’ own promise of it. Next week we’ll look more deeply at the timing of it.

]]> Sun, 30 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2691 109 e92017dca5f609cc07fa1d7d6b38f059 no Skip Heitzig <p>These two chapters describe an event that will occur after Israel is restored to its land but before the millennial kingdom is established. There are so many remarkable aspects to this future battle. The list of nations (which today are forming alliances) is one. Another is how they will be overthrown. Other nations will watch but will not come to Israel’s aid. Only God will intervene. Let’s get some further details of this future invasion and how God will use it to bring glory to Himself.</p> <p>These two chapters describe an event that will occur after Israel is restored to its land but before the millennial kingdom is established. There are so many remarkable aspects to this future battle. The list of nations (which today are forming alliances) is one. Another is how they will be overthrown. Other nations will watch but will not come to Israel’s aid. Only God will intervene. Let’s get some further details of this future invasion and how God will use it to bring glory to Himself.</p> These two chapters describe an event that will occur after Israel is restored to its land but before the millennial kingdom is established. There are so many remarkable aspects to this future battle. The list of nations (which today are forming alliances) is one. Another is how they will be overthrown. Other nations will watch but will not come to Israel’s aid. Only God will intervene. Let’s get some further details of this future invasion and how God will use it to bring glory to Himself.

]]> Sun, 23 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2695 110 4f6d71191c39259429d5cb6b6cfdb6ea no Skip Heitzig Wed, 19 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3706 111 b649fa2888b4a4c2789bb3668f571df9 no Skip Heitzig <p>I realize that my sermon title today seems like it could have been a headline from a Ukrainian newspaper in early February 2022. But it actually will be a headline in the Jerusalem Post at some future date. The role of Russia in biblical prophecy, along with a group of nations in strategic alliance with its leader, is noteworthy. Who will they attack? When will it happen? And what is their motivation for this major military incursion of such a tiny country like Israel? Let’s find out.</p> <p>I realize that my sermon title today seems like it could have been a headline from a Ukrainian newspaper in early February 2022. But it actually will be a headline in the Jerusalem Post at some future date. The role of Russia in biblical prophecy, along with a group of nations in strategic alliance with its leader, is noteworthy. Who will they attack? When will it happen? And what is their motivation for this major military incursion of such a tiny country like Israel? Let’s find out.</p> I realize that my sermon title today seems like it could have been a headline from a Ukrainian newspaper in early February 2022. But it actually will be a headline in the Jerusalem Post at some future date. The role of Russia in biblical prophecy, along with a group of nations in strategic alliance with its leader, is noteworthy. Who will they attack? When will it happen? And what is their motivation for this major military incursion of such a tiny country like Israel? Let’s find out.

]]> Sun, 16 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2909 112 5433d97aa36dcb956240462146cba501 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 12 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3750 113 526d3958335952130a18c38961ce2bdc no Skip Heitzig Fri, 07 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2740 114 128363b91c8c9eddc848cda6942ef478 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 09 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 1602 115 5bca6cadb2ce07daa5cd5786f37db763 no Skip Heitzig <p>The land of Israel has been described as “the most important piece of real estate on earth,” “the geographical platform on which the story of the Bible is staged,” “the center of divine dealing with nations,” “the spiritual navel of the world,” and “ground zero for the end times.” Jerusalem has been called “the only city on earth not up for negotiations with anyone at any time for any reason.” Over and over again, God promised Israel “a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Let’s again consider how and why Israel stands at center stage for the fulfillment of end-time prophecy.</p> <p>The land of Israel has been described as “the most important piece of real estate on earth,” “the geographical platform on which the story of the Bible is staged,” “the center of divine dealing with nations,” “the spiritual navel of the world,” and “ground zero for the end times.” Jerusalem has been called “the only city on earth not up for negotiations with anyone at any time for any reason.” Over and over again, God promised Israel “a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Let’s again consider how and why Israel stands at center stage for the fulfillment of end-time prophecy.</p> The land of Israel has been described as “the most important piece of real estate on earth,” “the geographical platform on which the story of the Bible is staged,” “the center of divine dealing with nations,” “the spiritual navel of the world,” and “ground zero for the end times.” Jerusalem has been called “the only city on earth not up for negotiations with anyone at any time for any reason.” Over and over again, God promised Israel “a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Let’s again consider how and why Israel stands at center stage for the fulfillment of end-time prophecy.

]]> Sun, 02 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2721 116 e227de67298dc03788e827d539b2a4e0 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3593 117 8709d8f180c7bfaa5f514d33e20ead2f no Skip Heitzig <p>One of the great questions that has persisted throughout church history has to do with the future of the nation of Israel. Is God finished with Israel as a nation? Will there be a literal regathering and spiritual restoration? Or is all that figurative and allegorical, meaning that the promises to Israel are now subsumed by the church? Today and for the next few weeks we will consider these questions. We begin with the Abrahamic covenant—God’s unconditional promises made to the nation’s founder.</p> <p>One of the great questions that has persisted throughout church history has to do with the future of the nation of Israel. Is God finished with Israel as a nation? Will there be a literal regathering and spiritual restoration? Or is all that figurative and allegorical, meaning that the promises to Israel are now subsumed by the church? Today and for the next few weeks we will consider these questions. We begin with the Abrahamic covenant—God’s unconditional promises made to the nation’s founder.</p> One of the great questions that has persisted throughout church history has to do with the future of the nation of Israel. Is God finished with Israel as a nation? Will there be a literal regathering and spiritual restoration? Or is all that figurative and allegorical, meaning that the promises to Israel are now subsumed by the church? Today and for the next few weeks we will consider these questions. We begin with the Abrahamic covenant—God’s unconditional promises made to the nation’s founder.

]]> Sun, 26 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3052 118 1b0b6bc4c1beb24b057311bac178f5bb no Skip Heitzig Wed, 22 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3572 119 3dbbf2861fec5f122a0656f2e854eafa no Skip Heitzig <p>Last week, we considered how God tells time as we explored the detailed timetable of Israel’s future, including the prediction of the Messiah’s coming and death. Today we will consider the final period of that time clock, the seventieth week. We typically refer to it as the tribulation, a period that is given the greatest explanation in Revelation 6-19. God achieved redemption for the world by the end of the sixty-ninth week through the death of the Messiah, but the overall goal will require the seventieth.</p> <p>Last week, we considered how God tells time as we explored the detailed timetable of Israel’s future, including the prediction of the Messiah’s coming and death. Today we will consider the final period of that time clock, the seventieth week. We typically refer to it as the tribulation, a period that is given the greatest explanation in Revelation 6-19. God achieved redemption for the world by the end of the sixty-ninth week through the death of the Messiah, but the overall goal will require the seventieth.</p> Last week, we considered how God tells time as we explored the detailed timetable of Israel’s future, including the prediction of the Messiah’s coming and death. Today we will consider the final period of that time clock, the seventieth week. We typically refer to it as the tribulation, a period that is given the greatest explanation in Revelation 6-19. God achieved redemption for the world by the end of the sixty-ninth week through the death of the Messiah, but the overall goal will require the seventieth.

]]> Sun, 19 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3166 120 36443bd65228e2bea3b6fafff45f86b7 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 4120 121 4489d98819584d55048fb20fd7f2396f no Skip Heitzig <p>God inhabits eternity but reveals Himself throughout time. Moreover, He wants us to understand what He is up to and what His plans are for the future. Amos declared, “Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). God gave to Daniel the prophet the most remarkable timetable for Israel’s future that would lead up to the coming of the Messiah, the tribulation period, and even the kingdom age. Daniel 9 has been called the Backbone of Prophecy. For the next two weeks, we will seek to unravel and understand it.</p> <p>God inhabits eternity but reveals Himself throughout time. Moreover, He wants us to understand what He is up to and what His plans are for the future. Amos declared, “Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). God gave to Daniel the prophet the most remarkable timetable for Israel’s future that would lead up to the coming of the Messiah, the tribulation period, and even the kingdom age. Daniel 9 has been called the Backbone of Prophecy. For the next two weeks, we will seek to unravel and understand it.</p> God inhabits eternity but reveals Himself throughout time. Moreover, He wants us to understand what He is up to and what His plans are for the future. Amos declared, “Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). God gave to Daniel the prophet the most remarkable timetable for Israel’s future that would lead up to the coming of the Messiah, the tribulation period, and even the kingdom age. Daniel 9 has been called the Backbone of Prophecy. For the next two weeks, we will seek to unravel and understand it.

]]> Sun, 12 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3031 122 87dd5fb7851ccc783cb146d212cb39fd no Skip Heitzig Wed, 08 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3250 123 84dba6e5f2c27f4e9f6db98e67a1e82c no Nate Heitzig Sun, 05 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3338 124 061e54b9579883e053c6534e5761fdcc no Skip Heitzig <p>The Old and New Testaments include numerous references to the kingdom of the Messiah. It is one of the most frequently mentioned subjects in the Bible. Jesus Himself even taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10, KJV). But this subject has become a point of division throughout church history. Three major viewpoints have emerged. Today we examine them and consider the millennium’s chronology, theology, and necessity.</p> <p>The Old and New Testaments include numerous references to the kingdom of the Messiah. It is one of the most frequently mentioned subjects in the Bible. Jesus Himself even taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10, KJV). But this subject has become a point of division throughout church history. Three major viewpoints have emerged. Today we examine them and consider the millennium’s chronology, theology, and necessity.</p> The Old and New Testaments include numerous references to the kingdom of the Messiah. It is one of the most frequently mentioned subjects in the Bible. Jesus Himself even taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10, KJV). But this subject has become a point of division throughout church history. Three major viewpoints have emerged. Today we examine them and consider the millennium’s chronology, theology, and necessity.

]]> Sun, 26 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2920 125 e58d71f453ffd1789251782e8a20fd26 no Skip Heitzig <p>How could the return of Jesus Christ ever be a problem? It certainly won’t be a problem for anyone who trusts in Him. The problem lies in understanding its timing and manner. When and how will Jesus return? How can we say that Jesus can come back at any time and that we should always be ready for Him knowing He said certain signs must happen first? How do we reconcile all the prophetic signs the Bible predicts must happen (including the great tribulation and worldwide devastation) and yet say Jesus is coming soon? Hint: you already know the answer!</p> <p>How could the return of Jesus Christ ever be a problem? It certainly won’t be a problem for anyone who trusts in Him. The problem lies in understanding its timing and manner. When and how will Jesus return? How can we say that Jesus can come back at any time and that we should always be ready for Him knowing He said certain signs must happen first? How do we reconcile all the prophetic signs the Bible predicts must happen (including the great tribulation and worldwide devastation) and yet say Jesus is coming soon? Hint: you already know the answer!</p> How could the return of Jesus Christ ever be a problem? It certainly won’t be a problem for anyone who trusts in Him. The problem lies in understanding its timing and manner. When and how will Jesus return? How can we say that Jesus can come back at any time and that we should always be ready for Him knowing He said certain signs must happen first? How do we reconcile all the prophetic signs the Bible predicts must happen (including the great tribulation and worldwide devastation) and yet say Jesus is coming soon? Hint: you already know the answer!

]]> Sun, 19 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2927 126 098e649fccb66006ee16d3ab827c956e no Nate Heitzig Sun, 12 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3384 127 43e61d80abeaaafc45c6a89551288a16 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 08 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3461 128 8702ec916098bd3ebc48a10849d9156e no Skip Heitzig <p>Welcome to a study of eschatology, or end times. In the next several weeks, we will be looking into one of the most discussed topics in all of Scripture—the last days and the end of the world. While this is not necessarily a lightweight or feel-good subject matter, it will actually make you feel good if you’re on the right side of it! Four words can be used to sum up the experience of this theme of the last days. These four words will form the basis of our studies in coming weeks.</p> <p>Welcome to a study of eschatology, or end times. In the next several weeks, we will be looking into one of the most discussed topics in all of Scripture—the last days and the end of the world. While this is not necessarily a lightweight or feel-good subject matter, it will actually make you feel good if you’re on the right side of it! Four words can be used to sum up the experience of this theme of the last days. These four words will form the basis of our studies in coming weeks.</p> Welcome to a study of eschatology, or end times. In the next several weeks, we will be looking into one of the most discussed topics in all of Scripture—the last days and the end of the world. While this is not necessarily a lightweight or feel-good subject matter, it will actually make you feel good if you’re on the right side of it! Four words can be used to sum up the experience of this theme of the last days. These four words will form the basis of our studies in coming weeks.

]]> Sun, 05 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2844 129 3e9c9aec633c58099d84f45960acd2a6 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3838 130 a938b2527945748c90fbc1e103a25097 no Skip Heitzig <p>It seems that everyone is an armchair theologian these days, expressing their opinion of what churches should (and shouldn’t) do! From declaring that churches should stay away from contemporary, especially political, topics to saying the church should just be concerned about social issues. But as Paul closed out his letter to the church at Colosse, he informed them—and us—of what churches should be focused on. These final verses give five directives for any church.</p> <p>It seems that everyone is an armchair theologian these days, expressing their opinion of what churches should (and shouldn’t) do! From declaring that churches should stay away from contemporary, especially political, topics to saying the church should just be concerned about social issues. But as Paul closed out his letter to the church at Colosse, he informed them—and us—of what churches should be focused on. These final verses give five directives for any church.</p> It seems that everyone is an armchair theologian these days, expressing their opinion of what churches should (and shouldn’t) do! From declaring that churches should stay away from contemporary, especially political, topics to saying the church should just be concerned about social issues. But as Paul closed out his letter to the church at Colosse, he informed them—and us—of what churches should be focused on. These final verses give five directives for any church.

]]> Sun, 29 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2643 131 1677d02ca6e2b148932190309378255c no Skip Heitzig Wed, 25 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3789 132 fcf45002a59e93773d1212f22129f8aa no Skip Heitzig Wed, 18 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3486 133 a25853d69a2198b139519bfbba988ac8 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 15 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2689 134 fe92417a66f28943ae705f3cc0dc6846 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 11 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3666 135 bec05497b10eca74a45e0da809da3de3 no Skip Heitzig Sun, 08 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2597 136 5900590364ef641a902e90408651889d no Skip Heitzig Wed, 04 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 3682 137 262c342e2a318afa87690f29bee5dd73 no Skip Heitzig <p>Four out of ten Americans believe we are living in the end times, a topic often misunderstood, sensationalized, or ignored altogether. Next to the topic of faith itself, the theme of the second coming dominates the Scriptures, and as believers, there are aspects of our future we can be certain of—the prophecies of Scripture will be fulfilled. In this message, Skip Heitzig encourages us to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ return as we see “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8) in the world around us.</p> <p>Four out of ten Americans believe we are living in the end times, a topic often misunderstood, sensationalized, or ignored altogether. Next to the topic of faith itself, the theme of the second coming dominates the Scriptures, and as believers, there are aspects of our future we can be certain of—the prophecies of Scripture will be fulfilled. In this message, Skip Heitzig encourages us to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ return as we see “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8) in the world around us.</p> Four out of ten Americans believe we are living in the end times, a topic often misunderstood, sensationalized, or ignored altogether. Next to the topic of faith itself, the theme of the second coming dominates the Scriptures, and as believers, there are aspects of our future we can be certain of—the prophecies of Scripture will be fulfilled. In this message, Skip Heitzig encourages us to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ return as we see “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8) in the world around us.

]]> Sun, 01 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000 2872 138 bb9de4ea712158b5d2b8a5b37d24962e no Skip Heitzig Sun, 25 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1829 139 99a7e7ebbf9cabc05659a9f537f82867 no Skip Heitzig <p>Joseph and Mary were pushed into the night by the innkeeper, local shepherds went into the night to find the Infant who was announced by angels, and now the Magi were traveling westward into the night following a star. Who were these mysterious men and why had they come? How did they know to show up in Jerusalem and then Bethlehem? What prompted them to bow and worship this Child? Today we probe the familiar story to learn from their background and journey to Christ the King.</p> <p>Joseph and Mary were pushed into the night by the innkeeper, local shepherds went into the night to find the Infant who was announced by angels, and now the Magi were traveling westward into the night following a star. Who were these mysterious men and why had they come? How did they know to show up in Jerusalem and then Bethlehem? What prompted them to bow and worship this Child? Today we probe the familiar story to learn from their background and journey to Christ the King.</p> Joseph and Mary were pushed into the night by the innkeeper, local shepherds went into the night to find the Infant who was announced by angels, and now the Magi were traveling westward into the night following a star. Who were these mysterious men and why had they come? How did they know to show up in Jerusalem and then Bethlehem? What prompted them to bow and worship this Child? Today we probe the familiar story to learn from their background and journey to Christ the King.

]]> Sun, 18 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2688 140 49db3878a57adfb3ecb3e3917b11b61e no Skip Heitzig Wed, 14 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2865 141 79e39283f865b006be2232fa3b0f9f76 no Skip Heitzig <p>Experts tell us that breaking up your routine can be healthy and can help you to eliminate burnout. Predictability and monotonous activity can stifle creativity and even lead to depression. For a group of shepherds whose work was uneventful and often boring, everything was about to change from a nighttime encounter that shattered their routine and gave them a new sense of purpose. Their story is one of the best parts of the Christmas narrative. Let’s take a fresh look at their experience.</p> <p>Experts tell us that breaking up your routine can be healthy and can help you to eliminate burnout. Predictability and monotonous activity can stifle creativity and even lead to depression. For a group of shepherds whose work was uneventful and often boring, everything was about to change from a nighttime encounter that shattered their routine and gave them a new sense of purpose. Their story is one of the best parts of the Christmas narrative. Let’s take a fresh look at their experience.</p> Experts tell us that breaking up your routine can be healthy and can help you to eliminate burnout. Predictability and monotonous activity can stifle creativity and even lead to depression. For a group of shepherds whose work was uneventful and often boring, everything was about to change from a nighttime encounter that shattered their routine and gave them a new sense of purpose. Their story is one of the best parts of the Christmas narrative. Let’s take a fresh look at their experience.

]]> Sun, 11 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3263 142 7ae24eb8f841ade1ec3c71b31475ea81 no Skip Heitzig <p>Robert Browning quipped, “Night conceals a world but reveals a universe.” Kids are often afraid of the dark, preferring a brightly lit room to the pitch black of night. But the Christmas story is shrouded in the darkness of the nighttime sky. Its events took place in a barely lit stable after the innkeeper had pushed Joseph and his very pregnant wife away from shelter and into the night. But God’s universal plan would be revealed through this humble birth. Today we begin this short series by looking at Christmas through the experience of this couple from Nazareth.</p> <p>Robert Browning quipped, “Night conceals a world but reveals a universe.” Kids are often afraid of the dark, preferring a brightly lit room to the pitch black of night. But the Christmas story is shrouded in the darkness of the nighttime sky. Its events took place in a barely lit stable after the innkeeper had pushed Joseph and his very pregnant wife away from shelter and into the night. But God’s universal plan would be revealed through this humble birth. Today we begin this short series by looking at Christmas through the experience of this couple from Nazareth.</p> Robert Browning quipped, “Night conceals a world but reveals a universe.” Kids are often afraid of the dark, preferring a brightly lit room to the pitch black of night. But the Christmas story is shrouded in the darkness of the nighttime sky. Its events took place in a barely lit stable after the innkeeper had pushed Joseph and his very pregnant wife away from shelter and into the night. But God’s universal plan would be revealed through this humble birth. Today we begin this short series by looking at Christmas through the experience of this couple from Nazareth.

]]> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3413 143 c6157e21668d0d40c541f936249b6678 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3929 144 671362b751aa2e9e8ade2f14241287db no Skip Heitzig <p>Communication is a basic human trait, and one of the most obvious differences between people and animals is our ability to form articulate speech. We can inform, persuade, instruct, motivate, and encourage. The Christian, in particular, is called upon to speak to God about people and speak to people about God. The “new man” (Colossians 3:10) has a new mouth and a new message. Let’s consider four ways that we as believers can communicate to God and others.</p> <p>Communication is a basic human trait, and one of the most obvious differences between people and animals is our ability to form articulate speech. We can inform, persuade, instruct, motivate, and encourage. The Christian, in particular, is called upon to speak to God about people and speak to people about God. The “new man” (Colossians 3:10) has a new mouth and a new message. Let’s consider four ways that we as believers can communicate to God and others.</p> Communication is a basic human trait, and one of the most obvious differences between people and animals is our ability to form articulate speech. We can inform, persuade, instruct, motivate, and encourage. The Christian, in particular, is called upon to speak to God about people and speak to people about God. The “new man” (Colossians 3:10) has a new mouth and a new message. Let’s consider four ways that we as believers can communicate to God and others.

]]> Sun, 27 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3113 145 d8925caef89b034d9242122e74ea866e no Nate Heitzig Sun, 20 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3138 146 76c999e22948e3d531111284c04bc0d8 no Nate Heitzig <p>True worship of God is rooted in thankfulness. Thankfulness, not for what you have, or what your circumstances might be right now, but thankfulness in who God is and what He accomplished on the cross. Worship and gratitude are meant to be given to God from the highs and lows of life—when you’re at your best and your worst. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares how you can worship the God who created you with thankfulness even when chaos surrounds you.</p> <p>True worship of God is rooted in thankfulness. Thankfulness, not for what you have, or what your circumstances might be right now, but thankfulness in who God is and what He accomplished on the cross. Worship and gratitude are meant to be given to God from the highs and lows of life—when you’re at your best and your worst. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares how you can worship the God who created you with thankfulness even when chaos surrounds you.</p> True worship of God is rooted in thankfulness. Thankfulness, not for what you have, or what your circumstances might be right now, but thankfulness in who God is and what He accomplished on the cross. Worship and gratitude are meant to be given to God from the highs and lows of life—when you’re at your best and your worst. In this message, Nate Heitzig shares how you can worship the God who created you with thankfulness even when chaos surrounds you.

]]> Sun, 13 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2414 147 dfe2427cae7dcda83ef5cac757f37610 no Skip Heitzig <p>The biggest question in life is not what you own, but what owns you. As believers, our generosity is a gauge of our faith, and how we manage our finances is a gauge of our spiritual growth, because we are never more like Jesus than when we give. In this message, Skip Heitzig reminds us that it’s not about how much God has trusted us with, but rather, it’s about how we use what we have to further His kingdom.</p> <p>The biggest question in life is not what you own, but what owns you. As believers, our generosity is a gauge of our faith, and how we manage our finances is a gauge of our spiritual growth, because we are never more like Jesus than when we give. In this message, Skip Heitzig reminds us that it’s not about how much God has trusted us with, but rather, it’s about how we use what we have to further His kingdom.</p> The biggest question in life is not what you own, but what owns you. As believers, our generosity is a gauge of our faith, and how we manage our finances is a gauge of our spiritual growth, because we are never more like Jesus than when we give. In this message, Skip Heitzig reminds us that it’s not about how much God has trusted us with, but rather, it’s about how we use what we have to further His kingdom.

]]> Sun, 06 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 1764 148 b1d6feda537632b1d3b20cc2a175dd32 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 02 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000 4140 149 bcff3d8530b1b0c62db1879f3e6602ee no Skip Heitzig <p>Our faith in Jesus Christ not only changes us, but it also changes families and it changes communities. Or at least it should! Every corner of our culture should feel the “salt and light” that is created from the transformed Christian lives within it. Just as Paul had instructed wives, husbands, children, and parents within the home, he now instructs the servants and masters who make up the social world. We can glean much about what our actions and attitudes in the workplace should be like.</p> <p>Our faith in Jesus Christ not only changes us, but it also changes families and it changes communities. Or at least it should! Every corner of our culture should feel the “salt and light” that is created from the transformed Christian lives within it. Just as Paul had instructed wives, husbands, children, and parents within the home, he now instructs the servants and masters who make up the social world. We can glean much about what our actions and attitudes in the workplace should be like.</p> Our faith in Jesus Christ not only changes us, but it also changes families and it changes communities. Or at least it should! Every corner of our culture should feel the “salt and light” that is created from the transformed Christian lives within it. Just as Paul had instructed wives, husbands, children, and parents within the home, he now instructs the servants and masters who make up the social world. We can glean much about what our actions and attitudes in the workplace should be like.

]]> Sun, 23 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2847 150 8266f69c7486fb3275f39c6272f49517 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 19 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3055 151 56e8ba78afbcad631aaf126cec31c5de no Skip Heitzig <p>A four-legged stool can meet the contours of an uneven floor much better than a three-legged one, and it can handle the displacement of weight more efficiently. Life is much the same way. A bumpy world requires the stability provided by a family. If each family member is aligned with God’s will, the weight of life’s trials will be much easier to bear. The strength and solidity of a good and godly home is society’s greatest asset. Let’s consider four basic roles for a successful family unit.</p> <p>A four-legged stool can meet the contours of an uneven floor much better than a three-legged one, and it can handle the displacement of weight more efficiently. Life is much the same way. A bumpy world requires the stability provided by a family. If each family member is aligned with God’s will, the weight of life’s trials will be much easier to bear. The strength and solidity of a good and godly home is society’s greatest asset. Let’s consider four basic roles for a successful family unit.</p> A four-legged stool can meet the contours of an uneven floor much better than a three-legged one, and it can handle the displacement of weight more efficiently. Life is much the same way. A bumpy world requires the stability provided by a family. If each family member is aligned with God’s will, the weight of life’s trials will be much easier to bear. The strength and solidity of a good and godly home is society’s greatest asset. Let’s consider four basic roles for a successful family unit.

]]> Sun, 16 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3050 152 7b62d5e3fd325f2a1868eafc1e0534fc no Skip Heitzig <p>Today I am grateful to Mr. Dean Sicking, an American inventor who invented the first energy-absorbing guardrail for US roadways to keep our cars on the highway. But did you know there are also guardrails to keep our lives in the lane of God’s will? After describing the character of the new man (the saved and transformed person), Paul turns to our conduct. He gives to us four guardrails that will keep our lives “between the white lines” of the will of God.</p> <p>Today I am grateful to Mr. Dean Sicking, an American inventor who invented the first energy-absorbing guardrail for US roadways to keep our cars on the highway. But did you know there are also guardrails to keep our lives in the lane of God’s will? After describing the character of the new man (the saved and transformed person), Paul turns to our conduct. He gives to us four guardrails that will keep our lives “between the white lines” of the will of God.</p> Today I am grateful to Mr. Dean Sicking, an American inventor who invented the first energy-absorbing guardrail for US roadways to keep our cars on the highway. But did you know there are also guardrails to keep our lives in the lane of God’s will? After describing the character of the new man (the saved and transformed person), Paul turns to our conduct. He gives to us four guardrails that will keep our lives “between the white lines” of the will of God.

]]> Sun, 09 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3205 153 6b5080975fe8c4a911c92e0cfd150b48 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3767 154 2c37bbe13566b690e3abc41f16842fbe no Skip Heitzig <p>The global fashion market is a $1.55 trillion industry. It’s because everyone wears clothes! From birth to death, people cover themselves with apparel both for warmth and for style. The Christian believer should also have a spiritual closet filled with the right (and righteous) garments. Paul has been speaking about the “old man” versus the “new man,” and he does so using a fashion metaphor. In these three verses, he explains how every Christian can dress for success!</p> <p>The global fashion market is a $1.55 trillion industry. It’s because everyone wears clothes! From birth to death, people cover themselves with apparel both for warmth and for style. The Christian believer should also have a spiritual closet filled with the right (and righteous) garments. Paul has been speaking about the “old man” versus the “new man,” and he does so using a fashion metaphor. In these three verses, he explains how every Christian can dress for success!</p> The global fashion market is a $1.55 trillion industry. It’s because everyone wears clothes! From birth to death, people cover themselves with apparel both for warmth and for style. The Christian believer should also have a spiritual closet filled with the right (and righteous) garments. Paul has been speaking about the “old man” versus the “new man,” and he does so using a fashion metaphor. In these three verses, he explains how every Christian can dress for success!

]]> Sun, 02 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2975 155 7ecc682ce92a2ed66fced910ffe38ee4 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 28 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3688 156 a25c083ac85106ffc85712986fd02cb3 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3599 157 a1fc5154db35999b7d5e16dfc66d55cd no Skip Heitzig <p>Today’s message title may sound suspiciously similar to last week’s message title. That’s because we are dealing with two different sides of the same coin. Paul began this chapter by focusing our attention on heaven in the first four verses. Now he brings us back down to earth where we are slugging it out in the trenches of sensuality and hatred. While on our way to heaven, we are still doing battle on earth. Paul tells us that heavenly citizens should take three firm steps while living on earth.</p> <p>Today’s message title may sound suspiciously similar to last week’s message title. That’s because we are dealing with two different sides of the same coin. Paul began this chapter by focusing our attention on heaven in the first four verses. Now he brings us back down to earth where we are slugging it out in the trenches of sensuality and hatred. While on our way to heaven, we are still doing battle on earth. Paul tells us that heavenly citizens should take three firm steps while living on earth.</p> Today’s message title may sound suspiciously similar to last week’s message title. That’s because we are dealing with two different sides of the same coin. Paul began this chapter by focusing our attention on heaven in the first four verses. Now he brings us back down to earth where we are slugging it out in the trenches of sensuality and hatred. While on our way to heaven, we are still doing battle on earth. Paul tells us that heavenly citizens should take three firm steps while living on earth.

]]> Sun, 11 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2658 158 3caad670f05d84822c6c6cb4b317a30d no Skip Heitzig Wed, 07 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3495 159 62184a347ee8775f20441dec066ccf4c no Skip Heitzig <p>“Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal,” said Thomas Moore. But if that is true, why don’t we think more about heaven? Why do we only think and talk about heaven at funerals? How can the reality of our future home motivate our activities right now? If you were to think about your life in terms of chronology, how much time do you have left on earth? Let’s look at three categories of truth that will help us aim at heaven while we are living on earth.</p> <p>“Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal,” said Thomas Moore. But if that is true, why don’t we think more about heaven? Why do we only think and talk about heaven at funerals? How can the reality of our future home motivate our activities right now? If you were to think about your life in terms of chronology, how much time do you have left on earth? Let’s look at three categories of truth that will help us aim at heaven while we are living on earth.</p> “Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal,” said Thomas Moore. But if that is true, why don’t we think more about heaven? Why do we only think and talk about heaven at funerals? How can the reality of our future home motivate our activities right now? If you were to think about your life in terms of chronology, how much time do you have left on earth? Let’s look at three categories of truth that will help us aim at heaven while we are living on earth.

]]> Sun, 04 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2784 160 16e66d6d1f65085430e6d884b4b676be no Skip Heitzig Wed, 31 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3677 161 116d4423aba266f3bade4773108da5ff no Skip Heitzig <p>Karl Marx insisted that “religion is the opium of the people,” while Napoleon Bonaparte suggested that “religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich.” But within the broad category of religious belief are ideologies and practices that are dangerous and silly because they distract people from the essence of truth. God made it simple by having His Son do for us what we could never do on our own—reach God! Religion takes what is simple and merely complicates it.</p> <p>Karl Marx insisted that “religion is the opium of the people,” while Napoleon Bonaparte suggested that “religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich.” But within the broad category of religious belief are ideologies and practices that are dangerous and silly because they distract people from the essence of truth. God made it simple by having His Son do for us what we could never do on our own—reach God! Religion takes what is simple and merely complicates it.</p> Karl Marx insisted that “religion is the opium of the people,” while Napoleon Bonaparte suggested that “religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich.” But within the broad category of religious belief are ideologies and practices that are dangerous and silly because they distract people from the essence of truth. God made it simple by having His Son do for us what we could never do on our own—reach God! Religion takes what is simple and merely complicates it.

]]> Sun, 28 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3240 162 d2a27266756e97e8ad5924395e6100be no Skip Heitzig Wed, 24 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3296 163 0163ce86f488a56d6c0200ef6c6b6488 no Skip Heitzig <p>Sitting in the choir loft one Sunday morning, Elvina Hall, inspired by a sermon, wrote in the flyleaf of her songbook the words to a now-famous hymn: “Jesus paid it all; all to Him I owe.” Paul expressed much the same thing in this paragraph. After telling his readers they were complete in Christ, he then showed them how that was so. Against the backdrop of false teachers, some of whom insisted on performing rituals, Paul showed exactly what Jesus had done.</p> <p>Sitting in the choir loft one Sunday morning, Elvina Hall, inspired by a sermon, wrote in the flyleaf of her songbook the words to a now-famous hymn: “Jesus paid it all; all to Him I owe.” Paul expressed much the same thing in this paragraph. After telling his readers they were complete in Christ, he then showed them how that was so. Against the backdrop of false teachers, some of whom insisted on performing rituals, Paul showed exactly what Jesus had done.</p> Sitting in the choir loft one Sunday morning, Elvina Hall, inspired by a sermon, wrote in the flyleaf of her songbook the words to a now-famous hymn: “Jesus paid it all; all to Him I owe.” Paul expressed much the same thing in this paragraph. After telling his readers they were complete in Christ, he then showed them how that was so. Against the backdrop of false teachers, some of whom insisted on performing rituals, Paul showed exactly what Jesus had done.

]]> Sun, 21 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3068 164 81ae6e0e0a6c40e60abc3d036f7dcd08 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3773 165 5839f231d9d67b64b9d7429d87cc0761 no Skip Heitzig <p>Jesus Christ is the most controversial person who has ever lived! There are as many opinions about Him as there are religions, cults, philosophies, and church denominations. Though Paul had never met the young Christians in the church of Colosse, he was deeply concerned for them since attractive, man-made philosophies were making inroads. He wanted them to know the truth, to grow in their faith, and to be careful of any human ideas that diminish the place of Jesus Christ. I have summed up Paul’s concerns with three simple directives: Believe! Behave! Beware!</p> <p>Jesus Christ is the most controversial person who has ever lived! There are as many opinions about Him as there are religions, cults, philosophies, and church denominations. Though Paul had never met the young Christians in the church of Colosse, he was deeply concerned for them since attractive, man-made philosophies were making inroads. He wanted them to know the truth, to grow in their faith, and to be careful of any human ideas that diminish the place of Jesus Christ. I have summed up Paul’s concerns with three simple directives: Believe! Behave! Beware!</p> Jesus Christ is the most controversial person who has ever lived! There are as many opinions about Him as there are religions, cults, philosophies, and church denominations. Though Paul had never met the young Christians in the church of Colosse, he was deeply concerned for them since attractive, man-made philosophies were making inroads. He wanted them to know the truth, to grow in their faith, and to be careful of any human ideas that diminish the place of Jesus Christ. I have summed up Paul’s concerns with three simple directives: Believe! Behave! Beware!

]]> Sun, 14 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3282 166 7c58f138707732ae402b28ff4a762a5b no Skip Heitzig Wed, 10 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3405 167 c6dc73ccd44465b3de65fd0fd902adfd no Skip Heitzig <p>Serving Christ is the result of being saved by Christ. But the Christian life should carry a warning label: “Warning: Those who enter here won’t find it easy. In fact, at times it will be very difficult, but it will be the greatest adventure ever!” In this paragraph, Paul opened the curtain on his own personal life as a servant of Christ and shared five characteristics of his own ministry. Are they yours?</p> <p>Serving Christ is the result of being saved by Christ. But the Christian life should carry a warning label: “Warning: Those who enter here won’t find it easy. In fact, at times it will be very difficult, but it will be the greatest adventure ever!” In this paragraph, Paul opened the curtain on his own personal life as a servant of Christ and shared five characteristics of his own ministry. Are they yours?</p> Serving Christ is the result of being saved by Christ. But the Christian life should carry a warning label: “Warning: Those who enter here won’t find it easy. In fact, at times it will be very difficult, but it will be the greatest adventure ever!” In this paragraph, Paul opened the curtain on his own personal life as a servant of Christ and shared five characteristics of his own ministry. Are they yours?

]]> Sun, 07 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2963 168 34d9cc21ca7fe3e4b0347f0eb230c125 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3939 169 07635708fa5a237b702ed7af7a1fa085 no Skip Heitzig Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000 3765 170 d4a5c0b9540e4380d8791f73bab900f4 no Skip Heitzig <p>Today we come to one of the most important truths of the New Testament—that we have been reconciled to God. The gap that separates humans from their Creator has been closed by one person and one action. The results of that act are what brings God and His rebel creatures into a restored relationship. Let’s take a deeper dive into these magnificent realities and what they mean to us.</p> <p>Today we come to one of the most important truths of the New Testament—that we have been reconciled to God. The gap that separates humans from their Creator has been closed by one person and one action. The results of that act are what brings God and His rebel creatures into a restored relationship. Let’s take a deeper dive into these magnificent realities and what they mean to us.</p> Today we come to one of the most important truths of the New Testament—that we have been reconciled to God. The gap that separates humans from their Creator has been closed by one person and one action. The results of that act are what brings God and His rebel creatures into a restored relationship. Let’s take a deeper dive into these magnificent realities and what they mean to us.

]]> Sun, 31 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000 2909 171 5afe2ddb076c43cd4d944e5230848b9f no