Peter reminds us that, through Christ, we have a secure identity, an eternal inheritance, and a future that is fully protected by God. Even in the midst of trials, God is at work—using hardship to refine our faith and redirect our focus from the temporary to the eternal.

Because Jesus is alive, our hope is alive. And that means we can face fear with confidence, knowing our future is secure and our present struggles have purpose.

Fear often takes root in our identity—questions like Am I accepted? Do I matter? Am I truly loved? In this message, we explore how the resurrection of Jesus speaks directly into those fears by redefining who we are.

Through Romans 6, we see that believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. This means we are no longer slaves to sin but are now alive to God with a new identity. These truths aren’t just meant to be understood—they’re meant to be lived.

Because Jesus is alive, your identity is secure… and fear no longer has to define you.

But the resurrection of Jesus speaks directly into those fears.

In this series, we will explore what it means to live life in light of a living Savior. If Christ had not been raised, many of our fears would be completely justified. But because the tomb is empty and Jesus is alive, everything has changed. His resurrection gives us a new foundation for our faith, a new identity as His people, and a new way to face the fears that shape our lives.

Again and again, we can return to this central truth: because Jesus is alive, fear does not have the final word. Through the power of the resurrection, we can move from being gripped by fear to being grounded in the perfect love of a risen Savior.

The 19th-century English preacher, William Lonsdale Watkinson, once said, “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” It is easy today to curse the darkness, since there is so much of it and we get tired of being engulfed by it. But Watkinson was right. Jesus came into this world of darkness as the LIGHT (John 1:4–5). Only He can dispel the darkness of the world. And yet this Light of the World, who resides within each of us as His followers, calls us to shine as His lights in this world (Matthew 5:16). We can either curse the darkness or share the light of Christ with someone and, by doing so, see another candle lit to dispel the darkness. This Christmas, as we celebrate the Light of the world, let’s remember our calling to share that light with someone else rather than curse the darkness around us. 

The 19th-century English preacher, William Lonsdale Watkinson, once said, “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” It is easy today to curse the darkness, since there is so much of it and we get tired of being engulfed by it. But Watkinson was right. Jesus came into this world of darkness as the LIGHT (John 1:4–5). Only He can dispel the darkness of the world. And yet this Light of the World, who resides within each of us as His followers, calls us to shine as His lights in this world (Matthew 5:16). We can either curse the darkness or share the light of Christ with someone and, by doing so, see another candle lit to dispel the darkness. This Christmas, as we celebrate the Light of the world, let’s remember our calling to share that light with someone else rather than curse the darkness around us. 

The 19th-century English preacher, William Lonsdale Watkinson, once said, “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” It is easy today to curse the darkness, since there is so much of it and we get tired of being engulfed by it. But Watkinson was right. Jesus came into this world of darkness as the LIGHT (John 1:4–5). Only He can dispel the darkness of the world. And yet this Light of the World, who resides within each of us as His followers, calls us to shine as His lights in this world (Matthew 5:16). We can either curse the darkness or share the light of Christ with someone and, by doing so, see another candle lit to dispel the darkness. This Christmas, as we celebrate the Light of the world, let’s remember our calling to share that light with someone else rather than curse the darkness around us. 

The 19th-century English preacher, William Lonsdale Watkinson, once said, “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” It is easy today to curse the darkness, since there is so much of it and we get tired of being engulfed by it. But Watkinson was right. Jesus came into this world of darkness as the LIGHT (John 1:4–5). Only He can dispel the darkness of the world. And yet this Light of the World, who resides within each of us as His followers, calls us to shine as His lights in this world (Matthew 5:16). We can either curse the darkness or share the light of Christ with someone and, by doing so, see another candle lit to dispel the darkness. This Christmas, as we celebrate the Light of the world, let’s remember our calling to share that light with someone else rather than curse the darkness around us. 

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

In our ongoing study of the Gospel of Mark, we’re uncovering a profound spiritual reality: a battle is taking place. Scripture reveals that this battle plays out across three realms—the world, the flesh, and the devil. This mini-series will focus specifically on the realm of Satan.

Drawing from Mark’s Gospel and passages like 2 Corinthians 2:11, we’ll explore how Satan opposes God’s purposes and how that conflict impacts our lives today. The Bible warns us not to be ignorant of the enemy’s schemes—and it also equips us with truth, strength, and hope.

Together, we’ll consider what God’s Word declares, what God has provided for us in Christ, and the mindset we’re called to embrace as we trust Him in the midst of the fight.

Want to go deeper?

Check out the Biblical Training Center companion series taught by Mark Carey, which addresses this same battle as it plays out in the realm of the flesh.

In our ongoing study of the Gospel of Mark, we’re uncovering a profound spiritual reality: a battle is taking place. Scripture reveals that this battle plays out across three realms—the world, the flesh, and the devil. This mini-series will focus specifically on the realm of Satan.

Drawing from Mark’s Gospel and passages like 2 Corinthians 2:11, we’ll explore how Satan opposes God’s purposes and how that conflict impacts our lives today. The Bible warns us not to be ignorant of the enemy’s schemes—and it also equips us with truth, strength, and hope.

Together, we’ll consider what God’s Word declares, what God has provided for us in Christ, and the mindset we’re called to embrace as we trust Him in the midst of the fight.

Want to go deeper?

Check out the Biblical Training Center companion series taught by Mark Carey, which addresses this same battle as it plays out in the realm of the flesh.

In our ongoing study of the Gospel of Mark, we’re uncovering a profound spiritual reality: a battle is taking place. Scripture reveals that this battle plays out across three realms—the world, the flesh, and the devil. This mini-series will focus specifically on the realm of Satan.

Drawing from Mark’s Gospel and passages like 2 Corinthians 2:11, we’ll explore how Satan opposes God’s purposes and how that conflict impacts our lives today. The Bible warns us not to be ignorant of the enemy’s schemes—and it also equips us with truth, strength, and hope.

Together, we’ll consider what God’s Word declares, what God has provided for us in Christ, and the mindset we’re called to embrace as we trust Him in the midst of the fight.

Want to go deeper?

Check out the Biblical Training Center companion series taught by Mark Carey, which addresses this same battle as it plays out in the realm of the flesh.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let’s continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark’s Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark’s Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

 - Thankfulness

 - Assurance of Salvation

 - Called to be Sent - Living a Life on Mission

 - The Sending Church - Church Planting through Fellowship Send

 - Thankfulness

 - Assurance of Salvation

 - Called to be Sent - Living a Life on Mission

 - The Sending Church - Church Planting through Fellowship Send

 - Thankfulness

 - Assurance of Salvation

 - Called to be Sent - Living a Life on Mission

 - The Sending Church - Church Planting through Fellowship Send

 - Thankfulness

 - Assurance of Salvation

 - Called to be Sent - Living a Life on Mission

 - The Sending Church - Church Planting through Fellowship Send

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

None Like Jesus - Beholding the Glory of Christ 

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

None Like Jesus - Beholding the Glory of Christ 

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

None Like Jesus - Beholding the Glory of Christ 

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

None Like Jesus - Beholding the Glory of Christ 

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Our God is the Ancient of Days who has revealed Himself to us through His Word and through His Son Jesus Christ. We can trust Him because He is sovereign and has a plan for the ages that He is working out and bringing to completion. What is our response to this? How then shall we live? We need to walk in His truth, trusting Him daily with our lives. We need to look to His Word to grow in our relationship with Him. We need to pass this torch of faith on to the next generation. In this short series, we dig into God’s Word and see some specific areas where we can trust Him, grow in faith, and walk in truth.

Daniel 2:25-30
“In the darkest of times, God’s light seems to always find a way to shine through key servants that He raises up. The nation of Israel had walked away from God for the final time.  By 605 B.C. the Babylonians had subjugated Judah and by 586 B.C. had conquered God’s chosen people altogether, destroying Jerusalem and hauling away its people into captivity. The nation of Israel was no more.  And yet, the God of Israel was very much alive and at work.  And that was never more evident than in the life of one man – Daniel. For seventy years Daniel stood unwaveringly as God’s faithful messenger of truth. With undaunted courage, unmuffled clarity, and sincere and humble loyalty to God, Daniel was used to show the world that there is a sovereign God in heaven who rules supreme and is fulfilling His eternal plan for Israel and for all the Nations in accordance with His divine purposes for the ages. God is in charge and there’s no doubt about it! If you want to be encouraged while living in troubling times; if you want to gain insight into what God’s plans are for the future; and if you want to see an example of the type of person God uses for His glory, then join us as we study the Book of Daniel.”

Daniel 2:1-24
“In the darkest of times, God’s light seems to always find a way to shine through key servants that He raises up. The nation of Israel had walked away from God for the final time.  By 605 B.C. the Babylonians had subjugated Judah and by 586 B.C. had conquered God’s chosen people altogether, destroying Jerusalem and hauling away its people into captivity. The nation of Israel was no more.  And yet, the God of Israel was very much alive and at work.  And that was never more evident than in the life of one man – Daniel. For seventy years Daniel stood unwaveringly as God’s faithful messenger of truth. With undaunted courage, unmuffled clarity, and sincere and humble loyalty to God, Daniel was used to show the world that there is a sovereign God in heaven who rules supreme and is fulfilling His eternal plan for Israel and for all the Nations in accordance with His divine purposes for the ages. God is in charge and there’s no doubt about it! If you want to be encouraged while living in troubling times; if you want to gain insight into what God’s plans are for the future; and if you want to see an example of the type of person God uses for His glory, then join us as we study the Book of Daniel.”

In the Christmas story, there are a few words or phrases that stand out to us. They highlight those moments of special significance in the story of the birth of Christ. Over the five weekends in December, come and reflect with us on those moments, seeing how they encouraged and directed the hearts of the hearers and how their timeless message reaches us today.

“DO NOT BE AFRAID” – Luke 1:30 -- The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

“BLESSED” – Luke 1:41-42 -- When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

“SAVIOR” -- Luke 2:11 – “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“BEHOLD” – Luke 2:10 -- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy

which will be for all the people.

“GLORY TO GOD” – Luke 2:13-14 -- And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

In the Christmas story, there are a few words or phrases that stand out to us. They highlight those moments of special significance in the story of the birth of Christ. Over the five weekends in December, come and reflect with us on those moments, seeing how they encouraged and directed the hearts of the hearers and how their timeless message reaches us today.

“DO NOT BE AFRAID” – Luke 1:30 -- The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

“BLESSED” – Luke 1:41-42 -- When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

“SAVIOR” -- Luke 2:11 – “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“BEHOLD” – Luke 2:10 -- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy

which will be for all the people.

“GLORY TO GOD” – Luke 2:13-14 -- And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

In the Christmas story, there are a few words or phrases that stand out to us. They highlight those moments of special significance in the story of the birth of Christ. Over the five weekends in December, come and reflect with us on those moments, seeing how they encouraged and directed the hearts of the hearers and how their timeless message reaches us today.

“DO NOT BE AFRAID” – Luke 1:30 -- The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

“BLESSED” – Luke 1:41-42 -- When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

“SAVIOR” -- Luke 2:11 – “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“BEHOLD” – Luke 2:10 -- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy

which will be for all the people.

“GLORY TO GOD” – Luke 2:13-14 -- And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

In the Christmas story, there are a few words or phrases that stand out to us. They highlight those moments of special significance in the story of the birth of Christ. Over the five weekends in December, come and reflect with us on those moments, seeing how they encouraged and directed the hearts of the hearers and how their timeless message reaches us today.

“DO NOT BE AFRAID” – Luke 1:30 -- The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

“BLESSED” – Luke 1:41-42 -- When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

“SAVIOR” -- Luke 2:11 – “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“BEHOLD” – Luke 2:10 -- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy

which will be for all the people.

“GLORY TO GOD” – Luke 2:13-14 -- And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

In the Christmas story, there are a few words or phrases that stand out to us. They highlight those moments of special significance in the story of the birth of Christ. Over the five weekends in December, come and reflect with us on those moments, seeing how they encouraged and directed the hearts of the hearers and how their timeless message reaches us today.

“DO NOT BE AFRAID” – Luke 1:30 -- The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

“BLESSED” – Luke 1:41-42 -- When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

“SAVIOR” -- Luke 2:11 – “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“BEHOLD” – Luke 2:10 -- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy

which will be for all the people.

“GLORY TO GOD” – Luke 2:13-14 -- And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

“God’s Word is like an onion — just when you think you’ve pealed back the final layer of truth you are awakened by the Holy Spirit to another rich and wonderful truth that seemed to have been buried under all the other rich and wonderful truths you’ve already discovered.

That’s the fun and joy of digging deeper into God’s Word. 

“Over the next six weeks we are going to be digging deeper into the book we have just concluded studying — the Book of Acts. And we will consider some important truths that we left buried and never fully “unearthed.”

“So grab your shovel (or onion pealer) and join us as we dig a little deeper in Acts.”

Global Church Week (GCW) is a special time in the life of our church that occurs every two years, where we have the opportunity to host many of our Global Church partners from around the world. Throughout this series, you will have opportunities to hear about the pastors and church leaders from places like Ecuador, India, Mexico, and Nigeria, among many more!

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.” (Acts 2:46-47).

“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .” (Acts 6:&).

“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.” (Acts 9:31).

“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.” (Acts 16:5).

“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.” (Acts 19:20).

WOW!! Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times. So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have? Answer: ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 

As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Global Church Week (GCW) is a special time in the life of our church that occurs every two years, where we have the opportunity to host many of our Global Church partners from around the world. Throughout this series, you will have opportunities to hear about the pastors and church leaders from places like Ecuador, India, Mexico, and Nigeria, among many more!

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.” (Acts 2:46-47).

“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .” (Acts 6:&).

“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.” (Acts 9:31).

“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.” (Acts 16:5).

“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.” (Acts 19:20).

WOW!! Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times. So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have? Answer: ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 

As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 14

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 13:42-52

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 13:14-13:41

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 12:25-13:13

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Revelation 7:9-10 - After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” 

The crowd waved palms as the King entered Jerusalem; this weekend, we will wave palms in worship, and in heaven, the multitude has palm branches. This weekend we join with generations past and future to worship the true King who reigns.

Acts 12

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 11:19-30

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 10-11:18, 10:44-48, 11:1-18

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

Acts 10

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

An Introduction to Acts 10

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

“The most unreached people group in the world are the ones next door. Missions doesn't begin across an ocean or on the other side of the world; according to Acts 1:8, it starts across the street. The primary mission field for most of us is not far away; it's in the routine of our daily lives, in the places where we live, work, and play. God doesn't save us to be passive spectators. He saves us and then sends us out into the world to live lives that look remarkably like Jesus while looking for opportunities to speak of His grace. Each of us is called to play a part in God's mission of reconciliation — to the people we meet every day.”

“Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.”  (Acts 2:46-47).
 
“And the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly . . .”  (Acts 6:&).
 
“So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.”  (Acts 9:31).
 
“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”  (Acts 16:5).
 
“So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.”  (Acts 19:20).
 
WOW!!   Just about on every page of the book of Acts we see the amazing story of THE TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL even in the darkest of times.   So what did the early church as described in Acts have that the modern church today doesn’t have?  Answer:  ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!  God has given to us today the very same thing that He gave the early church. 
 
As we begin our journey into this faithful and carefully written history of the early church by Doctor Luke, let’s pray that God will instill a new excitement and joy for what He has done and can continue to do by His Holy Spirit through the Church of Jesus Christ today, so that the TRIUMPH OF THE GOSPEL  can be experienced even now in the dark days in which we live.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NASB)

This holiday season as a church body we will be celebrating the truths of these verses. God really does love the whole world. The Son has been given to bring us salvation. He has given us power through the Holy Spirit to share the Good News! This Gospel has been triumphant all around the world for over 2000 years in the lives of those who believe in Him.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NASB)

This holiday season as a church body we will be celebrating the truths of these verses. God really does love the whole world. The Son has been given to bring us salvation. He has given us power through the Holy Spirit to share the Good News! This Gospel has been triumphant all around the world for over 2000 years in the lives of those who believe in Him.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NASB)

This holiday season as a church body we will be celebrating the truths of these verses. God really does love the whole world. The Son has been given to bring us salvation. He has given us power through the Holy Spirit to share the Good News! This Gospel has been triumphant all around the world for over 2000 years in the lives of those who believe in Him.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NASB)

This holiday season as a church body we will be celebrating the truths of these verses. God really does love the whole world. The Son has been given to bring us salvation. He has given us power through the Holy Spirit to share the Good News! This Gospel has been triumphant all around the world for over 2000 years in the lives of those who believe in Him.

Such was the period of the Judges in the Old Testament.  Sin was rampant.  Sorrow seemed to visit every home.   Despair and hopelessness abounded.  And the reason?   It is summed up by the last verse of the book:  “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”   God was forgotten and instead of doing what was right in His eyes, everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

But though God’s people had forgotten God, God had not forgotten them.  And in the midst of His righteous judgment upon their sin, God was still sovereignly, graciously, miraculously, creatively working out His plan for His people.   In one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible, despair gives way to hope; the emptiness of sin is replaced by the fullness of joy because nothing can get in God’s way of accomplishing His redemptive plan for His people.

Such was the period of the Judges in the Old Testament.  Sin was rampant.  Sorrow seemed to visit every home.   Despair and hopelessness abounded.  And the reason?   It is summed up by the last verse of the book:  “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”   God was forgotten and instead of doing what was right in His eyes, everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

But though God’s people had forgotten God, God had not forgotten them.  And in the midst of His righteous judgment upon their sin, God was still sovereignly, graciously, miraculously, creatively working out His plan for His people.   In one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible, despair gives way to hope; the emptiness of sin is replaced by the fullness of joy because nothing can get in God’s way of accomplishing His redemptive plan for His people.

Such was the period of the Judges in the Old Testament.  Sin was rampant.  Sorrow seemed to visit every home.   Despair and hopelessness abounded.  And the reason?   It is summed up by the last verse of the book:  “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”   God was forgotten and instead of doing what was right in His eyes, everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

But though God’s people had forgotten God, God had not forgotten them.  And in the midst of His righteous judgment upon their sin, God was still sovereignly, graciously, miraculously, creatively working out His plan for His people.   In one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible, despair gives way to hope; the emptiness of sin is replaced by the fullness of joy because nothing can get in God’s way of accomplishing His redemptive plan for His people.

Such was the period of the Judges in the Old Testament.  Sin was rampant.  Sorrow seemed to visit every home.   Despair and hopelessness abounded.  And the reason?   It is summed up by the last verse of the book:  “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”   God was forgotten and instead of doing what was right in His eyes, everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

But though God’s people had forgotten God, God had not forgotten them.  And in the midst of His righteous judgment upon their sin, God was still sovereignly, graciously, miraculously, creatively working out His plan for His people.   In one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible, despair gives way to hope; the emptiness of sin is replaced by the fullness of joy because nothing can get in God’s way of accomplishing His redemptive plan for His people.

Such was the period of the Judges in the Old Testament.  Sin was rampant.  Sorrow seemed to visit every home.   Despair and hopelessness abounded.  And the reason?   It is summed up by the last verse of the book:  “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”   God was forgotten and instead of doing what was right in His eyes, everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

But though God’s people had forgotten God, God had not forgotten them.  And in the midst of His righteous judgment upon their sin, God was still sovereignly, graciously, miraculously, creatively working out His plan for His people.   In one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible, despair gives way to hope; the emptiness of sin is replaced by the fullness of joy because nothing can get in God’s way of accomplishing His redemptive plan for His people.