First Missionary Church of Berne Sermons

One of the greatest challenges and opportunities about our church is that we are a multi-generational church--made up of Builders, Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers. It can be a challenge because we can easily divide among generational lines, but it can also be a great opportunity for deep community and to show the world that we truly love one another as followers of Jesus. What is our hope, source, and power for such a rich, diverse community? Is it even possible? Join us as we unpack various Scriptures on this topic.

What are you living for? What is it that you delight in? God gives us to ways to live—the way of the righteous or the way of the wicked. Psalm 1 gives us an incredible overview of these two ways.

How do I handle expectation and disappointment? The Christmas season can bring lots of excitement, anticipation, and expectation, but it can also be disappointing because it does not live up to the hype. How do we handle this? And how do we handle expectation and disappointment in life? We will look at Luke 2:25-35, the story of Simeon, and how God's Word helps us answer this question.

Enjoy this annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service!

One of the deep questions of life we ask is this: "Who or what is my life--that is--where do I place my hope, joy, and trust? And why?" In other words, where do I look for guidance, life, truth, wisdom, and beauty? The Christmas story tells us that Jesus is the true light of the world who gives life (John 1:1-5). He came to bring light in the darkness (John 1:5; Isaiah 9:1-2). Join us as we examine this deep question and also why Jesus is the best source to find light and life.

One of the biggest themes declared at Christmas is peace. After all, Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6-7), and the angels declared "peace" at his birth (Luke 2:14). However, most of us don't always feel at peace during this time. There may be conflict with family and friends; we may feel unsettled in our hearts because Christmas reminds us of pain and heartache; and the world doesn't look peaceful at all. How can we actually have peace that Jesus promised in a world devoid of it (John 14:27)? Is this actually possible? Join us as we learn about having peace in a chaotic world.

What is the real meaning of Christmas? This is one of the most important questions to ask and answer. For some of us, Christmas is about giving and getting gifts. For some, it's about family and gatherings. For others, it can be a lonely, depressing, and anxious time for all sorts of reasons. Whatever your reaction is, you are invited to go "Deeper" in this series as we ask important questions about Christmas, and it is our prayer that you will find joy and hope in Jesus Christ this Christmas.

Join us as we hear their story of coming to faith in Jesus Christ, wisdom on 61 years of marriage, God's faithfulness, and more. We hope you are challenged and encouraged.

The longest prayer that Jesus prayed is recorded in John 17. What did Jesus pray for? What were his priorities in praying for us? And how does this teach us to pray? Today, we will be amazed that we have a Savior, Lord, and King who prays for us.

How have you experienced the use of written or recited prayers? What are some written prayers or passages that you love? What is the point of prayer like this? How can we pray this in a way that connects to our hearts?