What is your purpose? This is a question we all ask at some point in our lives and—whether we know it or not—each day we live according to our answer. Our purpose defines the course of our lives, informs our major decisions, and provides the framework for our sense of fulfillment. The problem is that the answer to the question of our purpose is more elusive now than ever. Why do we struggle to find purpose? What are the enemies of purpose in our world today? In our continuing exploration of the Acts of the Apostles, we will see how Paul's purpose allowed him to endure unimaginable hardships with indestructible joy. Come join us on Sunday to learn how Paul's purpose and joy can be your own. Invite a friend looking for purpose and joy to join you!

As our summer comes to a close, so does our study of the book of Acts. In this week's passage, we will read a travel narrative that describes Paul's travels from Ephesus to Jerusalem, concluding his third missionary journey. This short section is packed with intriguing, and somewhat confusing questions about the Holy Spirit, prophecy, and the providence of God. But in the end, you will see a very simple, clear, and powerful message for the church today. We need gospel teamwork to make the gospel dream work. Please join us as we consider this interesting topic, and invite friends and family that might be interested.

As we continue our series in the book of Acts this week, we will witness an incredible sequence of events involving both tragedy and God's miraculous power, followed by Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders. Our passage opens with a memorable scene: Paul preaching until midnight, and a young man falling asleep and tumbling three stories to his death. Yet even this tragedy becomes a testament to God's power as Paul raises the young man back to life. Following this miracle, we read Paul's passionate charge to the Ephesian elders. Knowing he won't see them again, he entrusts them with the sacred responsibility of shepherding God's flock. His message is clear: stay alert, watch for wolves, finish the race, and remain steadfast in the Word. As you prepare your hearts for worship this Sunday, there are several questions I want you to consider: In what areas of your spiritual life might you be "falling asleep" and how can you cultivate greater alertness to God's Word and work in your life? How does Paul's example of faithful ministry challenge you to examine your own Christian walk? What "wolves" do you need to be more vigilant about in your own life and in protecting those God has placed in your care?

This Sunday, Shane will be preaching to us from Acts 19 about Paul's time in Ephesus. Join us for worship on Sunday morning, and for a worship night in the main building in the evening!

In many ways, life is like a riddle. We are born into a world that leaves us searching for answers about meaning, purpose, and happiness. We all have experiences and intuitions that tell us we were made for something more, but we often feel like we're wandering in the dark. How do we find answers to the ultimate questions of life? Acts 17 takes us on a journey into the heart of life's deepest questions. As Paul engages with the philosophers in Athens, he shows us how the gospel provides the only true answer to the riddle of life. Along the way, we learn how to share the hope of the gospel with the skeptical and suspicious.

This week, we'll explore key stories of individuals who have shaped the Church—both in history and still today. We begin with Paul's second missionary journey in Acts, where people encounter God in unexpected ways. We see the fulfillment of promises made long ago, the fruition of Jesus' words reaching the ends of the earth, and the unstoppable ways in which God accomplishes His purposes. Through God's leading, we see—just as in their stories—that the story of Jesus continues in the lives of those who believe. As we read through Paul's journeys, consider these questions: What expectations should we have of God and of this life following Jesus? How is God working in me—right where I am, and in the places He is sending me?

How do you feel when you hear the words "conflict," "disagreement," and "debate"? Probably not too excited! The Acts of the Apostles, however, shows us how conflict and debate are signs of health in the church when we engage in them in the way Christ intended. Acts displays conflict in a new light and points a way forward for healthy and productive debate in the church. In Acts 15, we see the church facing unprecedented questions and challenges as the gospel continues to spread to new frontiers. As the church grows in number, a new community is taking shape that represents an immense diversity of backgrounds, ethnicities, and experiences. What will hold together this growing movement of diverse Christians as they navigate multiple cultures and beliefs? What will be their anchor as their customs and traditions are challenged in light of God's redemptive acts? How will they work through sharp disagreement and difference while maintaining unity and peace? What will their engagement in healthy conflict proclaim to the watching world? These questions are just as important and prevalent for Grace & Peace today as they were for the church in the very beginning! Come join us this Sunday to discover how only the gospel can provide true unity in diversity.