Joel Gilbert

Introduction Series on biblical community in preparation for the launching of community groups next month we will look at a variety of passages, but most of our time together will be in the book of Ephesians Background Diversity there were cultural, ethnic, and religious divisions in the city - not unlike…

Sermon Title: Finding Joy in the Lord—(Show Slide 1) Sermon Text: Philippians 3:1-16 I was visiting with Sunita’s relatives from Canada a couple of weeks ago and was watching America’s Got Talent on TV. (Show Slide 2 cue) I was impressed with the performance of two brothers who managed to do a head balancing…

Pastoral Prayer: Graduation sentiments In May and June, countless schools around the world participated in commencement ceremonies - marking the end of one chapter of life or schooling and movement into the next. Over the years, there have been some famous and memorable commencement speeches. Winston…

I’ve heard it said that art is something that requires contemplation. Whether it’s the visual arts or musical arts or even the literary/poetic arts, there are things that are quickly available on the surface, but, when given time for reflection, concentration, and contemplation - more depth, color, sounds,…

Introduction: There is a phrase that has come up in news reports and advocacy over the last few years - “the right side of history.” The phrase pre-supposes that the views that one side of an issue is advocating will be vindicated and proved to be correct when historians give their assessments. But,…

Sermon Title: Finding Joy in Serving Sacrificially Sermon Text: Philippians 2:17-30 Early this week I was listening to a song on the Christian radio WGTS and the name of the song was called “Nobody” performed by Casting Crowns and featuring Matthew West. ( Show slide 1-2 ) The lyrics go something like…

Sources of Hope new job or position financial standing Political changes Physical changes new school year…. There can be positive and even godly outcomes in all of those things, but there is ultimately only one source of hope that can provide lasting change and relief in the midst of dark and difficult…

How should we respond to suffering? None of us like suffering - but it’s a reality of life that we all have to deal with from time to time. Whether it’s death, disease, disordered circumstances, or any other environment in which we suffer - suffering seems to demand a response. One of the beautiful things…

God's just judgment for our wicked ways resulting in futility in the things that should bring flourishing and enjoyment, dangers of rugged individualism

I grew up in conservative churches. By that I mean that each of these places had a high view of scripture and taught me to revere the Word of God. These churches sought to live out the gospel faithfully and instilled in me a passion and vision for the lost around the world. They awakened in me a heart…