Dr. Case Thorp | 1 Peter 2:9-17

The 250th anniversary of our country is significant, indeed, and Christianity has played a key role in her formation. Of course, we want Christianity to play a key role going forward, even as our nation diversifies. What, then, is the allegiance we hold as citizens of a nation and citizens of God's Kingdom? What is the difference between nationalism, of which we hear much, and patriotism? How does the Bible show us how to prioritize God and love one's country?

Dr. David Swanson | Ecclesiastes 3:9-22

We are not built to understand everything. The big picture would overwhelm us, but we ARE built to pursue the biggest thing - eternity with God. He made us in a way that our hearts long to find Him...

Pastoral Intern Ben Willsey | Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Time is a tremendous challenge for us. It moves slow at points and too fast at others. We never seem to have enough and we know ours will one day run out. God, thankfully, orders the seasons of our lives - our "times" (Psalm 31).

Rev. Tanner Fox | Ecclesiastes 2:1, 10-14, 17, 23

These are three common visions of a life that can overcome the curse. We cling to them because they are something to do in the face of the challenges and sadnesses of a broken world. If I can just enjoy enough, become smart enough, or work hard enough, perhaps I can escape the chaos of the curse. But there is only one thing that can mend a broken world.

Dr. David Swanson | Ecclesiastes 1:12-18

We will often use bubbles to hide in to protect ourselves from reality - to make ourselves believe this is really home when it is not. We are nomads. No amount of wisdom or laughter or commercial success will change that. However, if death is a reality, then life becomes a gift - a privilege - and a purposeful endeavor. 

Dr. David Swanson | Ecclesiastes 1:1-11

It's a question that has plagued the human mind from the beginning. Ecclesiastes is an exploration of that question beginning with the circular nature of life - that no matter how hard we try, we won't get answers. But is he looking in the right place?

Dr. Paul Gibson | Acts 1:1-11

Jesus told the disciples in Acts 1:4, "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised...the Holy Spirit." The disciples had this promise, but still had to wait until the day of Pentecost to be filled with the Holy Spirit. How did the disciples handle this period of waiting? How do we handle the in-between of living in God's promises that are not yet fulfilled? The truth is that "The Waiting is the Hardest Part."

Dr. David Swanson | Revelation 3:7-12

Building on the message from May 3, the church at Thyatira faced false teaching as well, and they did something about it - those who would not accept discipline were thrown out of the church. We have to realize why we have theological and doctrinal standards. These protect the Church while equipping the next generations. Strategic Priority 2!

Dr. David Swanson | 2 Timothy 1:3-7

Paul writes of the rich legacy of faith he was left by particular women, an important theme on Mother's Day.

Dr. David Swanson | Revelation 2:18-29

It is becoming increasingly hard to identify as a Christian and not take some heat for it or be faced with hostility. This was the situation for Thyatira as well. God writes to that church to encourage them to stand firm and to watch out for false teachers. This is why elders and deacons matter in the life of the church. Truth and doctrine must be guarded carefully.