In between Paul’s words about our blessings in Christ in Ephesians 1 and a powerful description of the supernatural impact of what Jesus has done for us individually and for his people collectively in chapters 2 and 3, he inserts a strong reminder about the realities of life apart from Jesus. His words about evil and a true spiritual adversary challenge us to consider our beliefs about the realities we cannot see and our need for the rescue of Jesus.

In John 4, Jesus approaches Sammy, the woman at the well, in need of a drink. But as Sammy engaged with him, he revealed more and more intriguing truth about himself. Jesus uses our deepest needs, vulnerabilities, and desires to draw us closer to him. Jesus offers us living water to quench every thirst and well up as life for others.

After elaborate words of praise for God, Paul turns his attention to prayer for the saints. That prayer teaches us, the church, what to pray for and why.

Paul helps us celebrate our present reality of redemption, forgiveness, grace, and discernment, as well as how that affects our eternal future.This week our focus is on the Holy Spirit and spiritual discernment.

Paul helps us celebrate our present reality of redemption, forgiveness, grace, and discernment, as well as how that affects our eternal future.

Paul leads us in worship with one of the most fascinating passages in all of Scripture.

As we begin a new study of the book of Ephesians, we learn important information about who wrote it and why, and what God wants to say to us through it.

We wrap our series on The Faith discussing the promised return of Jesus to set the world right. Though we often shove questions about “end times theology” into the corner as unnecessary or indulgent speculation, the accumulation of pain and unanswered questions in our lives and the world make our ability to see and hope in what’s ahead crucial.

Our church’s statement of beliefs reads, in part: “The Scriptures tell God’s story with creativity and purpose, reflect His character without error, and communicate His Word and desire for His creation with authority and power.” We believe the Bible is a gift from God and that it is crucial for each of us to embrace that gift with purpose and expectation.

If we believe in the God of Abraham, who through Jesus Christ gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist, who are we and what have we inherited? Among other things, we are eternally forgiven and alive, freed for real communion with God, and ambassadors for God’s Kingdom.