Pastor Ian Crooks explores humanity’s tendency to reshape God according to our preferences, emotions, culture, and comfort, while calling us back to worship the living God as He has revealed Himself. This passage confronts counterfeit worship, exposes the danger of reducing God to something controllable, and points us toward the beauty of knowing Him rightly.

📖 Passage: Exodus 20:4–6
🎙️ Sermon Title: Beyond the Image
📍 Preached at Free Grace Vernon

Whether you’re exploring Christianity, wrestling with questions about worship, or wanting a deeper understanding of the Ten Commandments, we hope this message encourages and challenges you.

This isn’t just about ancient idols—it’s about the subtle ways we place our identity, security, and hope in things other than God. Through this teaching, you’ll be challenged to examine what truly holds first place in your heart and see how God’s command is ultimately an invitation into freedom, not restriction. 

Discover why God alone is worthy of our worship, and how reordering our lives around Him leads to lasting joy and purpose. 

📍 Recorded at Free Grace Vernon 
🔔 Subscribe for more sermons, teachings, and resources 
📺 Watch more: YouTube.com/FreeGraceVernon 

#FreeGraceVernon #Exodus20 #NoOtherGods #TenCommandments #Faith #Gospel #ChristianLiving

In this sermon, Pastor Ian Crooks walks through Exodus 20:1–17, often called “The Ten Words,” revealing that these commands are not merely rules to follow but a reflection of God’s character and His desire for a relationship with His people. Rather than a checklist for moral performance, they expose our need for grace and point us to the freedom found in Him. 

Whether you’re familiar with the commandments or exploring them for the first time, this message invites you to see them in a deeper, more transformative way. 

📍 Free Grace Vernon 
🔔 Subscribe for weekly sermons and teaching 
🎧 Also available on all major podcast platforms 

#TenCommandments #Exodus20 #BibleTeaching #FreeGrace #Sermon #Christianity #Faith #GospelCentered

It’s one of the most honest—and difficult—questions people ask about the Christian faith. In this seminar, Pastor David Bootsma walks through what the Bible actually teaches about God’s love, justice, and the reality of hell. 

Rather than avoiding the tension, this seminar and Q&A leans into it—exploring how God’s character is perfectly both loving and just, and how the gospel offers a real and hopeful answer. You’ll be challenged to think deeply, wrestle honestly, and see how grace stands at the center of it all. Whether you’re skeptical, searching, or looking to better understand your faith, this seminar invites you to consider the bigger picture of who God is and what He has done for us in Christ. 

📍 Recorded at Free Grace Vernon 
🔔 Subscribe for more sermons, teachings, and resources 
📺 Watch more: YouTube.com/FreeGraceVernon 

#FreeGraceVernon #Christianity #FaithQuestions #Gospel #Theology #HeavenAndHell #Grace

What happens when a holy God draws near to sinful people? In Exodus 19, Israel arrives at Mount Sinai—and the mountain erupts in smoke, fire, thunder, and trembling. This isn’t just a dramatic scene; it’s a powerful revelation of who God is. His holiness isn’t safe, manageable, or casual. And yet… He invites His people into relationship. 

▶️ Watch, listen, and share If this message encouraged you, consider subscribing and sharing it with someone who needs to hear it. 

📍 Join us in person Free Grace Vernon meets weekly in Vernon, BC. We’d love to welcome you. 

🌐 Learn more: freegracevernon.ca 

🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform Search Free Grace Vernon

In Colossians 1:15–20, we’re given a powerful picture of who Jesus truly is. This passage reveals that Jesus is not just a teacher or moral example—He is supreme over all creation, the head of the Church, and the one through whom all things are reconciled. 

At Free Grace Vernon, we exist to help people know Jesus and understand the good news of the gospel. 

👉 Subscribe for weekly sermons & bible teaching 
👉 Join us Sundays in Vernon, BC or live on our YouTube channel 
👉 Visit: freegracevernon.ca 

This passage pulls back the curtain on God’s ultimate plan: a coming day when every enemy—sin, suffering, and even death itself—will be fully and finally defeated under the reign of Christ. Because Jesus lives, our future is secure, our hope is alive, and death no longer has the final word. This sermon invites you to see the bigger story you’re part of—one where Christ reigns now and will one day make all things new. 

Whether you’re exploring faith or have followed Jesus for years, this message points us to a living hope rooted in the resurrection. 
📍 Join us Sundays in Vernon, BC 
🌐 Learn more: freegracevernon.ca 

On Palm Sunday, we remember the moment Jesus entered Jerusalem—not as the conquering king people expected, but as the humble King we desperately need. 

In this sermon from Free Grace Vernon, Pastor Ian Crooks walks through Matthew 21:1–11 and unpacks the significance of the triumphal entry. The crowds shouted “Hosanna,” laying down palm branches and cloaks in celebration—but many misunderstood the kind of King Jesus truly is. 

Join us as we prepare our hearts for Easter and see the beauty of a King who saves. 

Free Grace Vernon (PCA) 
1802 45th Avenue, Vernon, BC 
Sundays at 10:30am | freegracevernon.ca

In Matthew 20:29–34, we see a powerful picture of persistent faith, the compassion of Christ, and the kind of sight we all truly need. This sermon invites us to consider: are we crying out to Jesus with that same boldness—and do we recognize our need for Him to open our eyes? 

📖 Passage: Matthew 20:29-34 
📍 Free Grace Church – Vernon, BC 

If this message encouraged you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing it with someone who needs this reminder. Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. 

Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream. 

If you’ve ever asked that question—you’re not alone. Join us as we wrestle honestly with pain, trust, and the hope we have in Christ, even in the middle of it all. 

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

In Matthew 20:17–28, Jesus turns the world’s idea of greatness upside down. As He prepares His disciples for His coming suffering and death, He teaches that true greatness in God’s kingdom isn’t found in power, status, or recognition—but in humble service. In this sermon we explore how Jesus, the King who came not to be served but to serve, calls His followers to the same radical way of life. What does it mean to follow a Savior who gave His life as a ransom for many? And how should that reshape the way we pursue influence, leadership, and significance? 

📖 Passage: Matthew 20:17–28 
📍 Free Grace Church – Vernon, BC If this message encouraged you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing it with someone who needs the reminder that true greatness is found in serving like Jesus. 

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

The parable of the workers in the vineyard confronts our instincts about fairness and reward. 

Jesus shows that the kingdom of God does not run on merit but on grace. Whether someone comes early or late, whether their story is long or short, the invitation of the gospel is the same: salvation is a gift from a generous God. 

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 1802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream. 

In Matthew 19:16–30, Jesus exposes the danger of a heart that wants eternal life — but on its own terms. The rich young ruler walks away sorrowful, not because Jesus wasn’t loving, but because Jesus was. 

Salvation isn’t earned. 
It isn’t negotiated. 
It’s received with empty hands. 

“What then will we have?” Peter asks. And Jesus answers with a promise far greater than anything we surrender. 

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream. 

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

Free Grace is Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Vernon, BC Canada. Join us for our Sunday service at 10:30 AM at 802 45th Ave, or tune in online through our Facebook or YouTube livestream.

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

'A Mountaintop Experience' - Matthew 17:1-13 

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Matthew 16:21-28

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Mathew 16:13-20

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

'Good News!' - Luke 2:8-14 

Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

'The enemy within' - Matthew 16:1-12 

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Matthew 14:36-15:20

Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

David Bootsma

Free Grace Vernon

November 9, 2025

Free Grace Vernon

Scripture Reading: Matthew 14:13-31

Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

David Bootsma

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Dave Bootsma

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Scripture: Acts 6

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Sunday, August 3rd, 2025

Sermon title: 'Sharing the load' 

Exodus 18:13-27

Pastor Ian Crooks

 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34

Scott McDowell

Exodus 17:8-16

Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.ca

John 9

David Bootsma

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Erol Bortucence

 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sunday June 8, 2025

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sermon: 'A bitter sweet experience' 

Exodus 15:22-27

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Scripture: Exodus 13:17 - 14:14

Pastor Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder!
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church building (1802 45th Ave)
Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Exodus 12:43 - 13:16

Pastor Ian Crooks

Free Grace Vernon

Exodus 12:29-42 

Pastor Ian Crooks

Free Grace Presbyterian Church, Vernon BC

Scripture: John 20

Pastor Ian Crooks

Ian Crooks

April, 13, 2024

Sermon: 'A Plague is Announced' 

Exodus 11:1-10 

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Dr. Bryan Clarke

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Exodus 5

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Exodus 4: 18-31

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Exodus 3:13-22

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sermon: 'From slavery to salvation' 

Exodus 1:1-22

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sermon: 'The Sign and the Saviour' 

Luke 2:15-21

Pastor Ian Crooks
 Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.
 
 We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 
 
 Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).
 
 Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sermon: 'This Generation' 
Matthew 12:38-45 

Pastor Ian Crooks
Free Grace Vernon

Free Grace Vernon Presbyterian Church is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination.

We seek to be a Gospel Centered Church which is different than moralism or liberalism. We believe it is the gospel of Christ that has power to transform people’s lives. Our problems are solved by the gospel, not trying harder! 

Do you live in or are VERNON, BC and looking for a Reformed and evangelical church?  We would love to have you join us!  We meet at 10:30am at Vernon Christian School (6920 Pleasant Valley Rd).

Find out more at https://freegracevernon.com

Sermon title: 'So sad, so lonely!'   

Lamentations 1 

Ian Crooks
Free Grace Presbyterian Church
Vernon, BC

Sermon title: 'Either/or'   
Ian Crooks
Free Grace Presbyterian Church
Vernon, BC

Matthew 7:13-29

13 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’

24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”

28 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.

God’s prophet Elijah calls God’s people to choose…… 

1 Kings 18:21, ‘How long will you go limping between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.’ And the people did not answer him a word’ 

Jesus calls us to a decision that is, ‘Either …..or’ 

Life in His kingdom …….or life outside His kingdom

Heaven ……..or Hell

Don Carson ‘A man will ignore these blessings and curses only at his own eternal peril’

A choice between ……2 ways, 2 trees, 2 claims, 2 foundations

1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. 6 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.

Natasha Crain, ‘If anything at all is to be classified as sin in secular culture, it’s the act of ‘judging others’. Go ahead and follow your heart and pursue your own happiness, but don’t stop along the way to claim that someone else is following their heart or pursuing their happiness wrongly’ 

Ian Crooks

Free Grace Presbyterian Church, Vernon, BC

Matthew 5:38-43

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.

‘You have heard that it was said’ - ‘But I say to you’  

The Law of Retaliation ……The Royal Law   

1. The Law of Retaliation

 ‘You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ v38

2. The Royal Law

‘But I say to you, ‘Do not resist the one who is evil.’ v39a

Dignity - Security - Liberty - Property 

Dignity

‘But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.’ v39b

A gesture of contempt ……an insult to the one who’s slapped 

Are we ready to endure a loss of dignity …..rather than retaliate? 

We leave vengeance to the Lord ……we trust in His perfect vindication even as we follow the way of His Son, Jesus Christ

‘Father forgive them for they know not what they do' Luke 23:34

Security

‘And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.’ v40 

We don’t have to always demand our own rights when we’ve been wronged ……or always press for our own interests

1 Corinthians 6:7 ‘Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be defrauded?’ 

Liberty  

‘And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.’ v41

When we're called to, ‘Go the extra mile’ 

Property  

‘Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.’ v42

Jesus calls us to be wise in our giving …..to those who are unable to help themselves 

James 2:15-16, ‘If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?’ 

Don Carson, ‘Personal self-sacrifice displaces personal retribution; for this is the way the saviour himself went, the way of the Cross’ 

Possible only as we place our trust in the One who, ‘Did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross’ - Philippians 2:7-8 

9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, 10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Mark 10:13-16

13 And they were bringing children to [Jesus] that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.

Reclaiming our God-given identity.

Embracing our God-given design.

Fulfilling our God-given purpose.

What is the purpose of sex?  Marriage?

Genesis 2:18:25

Embracing our God-given design.

Fulfilling our God-given purpose.

Part 2: Image is Everything
Genesis 1:26-31

What is the significance of the reality that human beings are made in the image of God?
What does that even mean?

Reclaiming our God-given identity.

Embracing our God-given design.

Fulfilling our God-given purpose.

Part one: The Essence of our identity (More than a feeling)

Genesis 1:26-27

What does it mean to be human?   There are all sorts of different answers, depending on who you ask.

 *“Men go abroad to admire the heights of mountains, the mighty waves of the sea, the broad tides of rivers, the compass of the ocean, and the circuits of the stars, yet pass over the mystery of themselves without a thought.” – Augustine

We are living in a culture and age where there are conflicting and even harmful answers to the question of what it means to be human, which leads to confusion, conflict and destruction.

What does Jesus say?