Numerous churches nationwide have observed a decline in their congregation's attendance since the lifting of pandemic regulations. Has the disruption of our routine led us to overlook the significance of attending church? The Book of Acts provides a clear illustration of the vital role the church plays in our daily lives.

Driving down the road, you see church after church, each claiming they are the right way to follow God. How are you supposed to know which church has the correct answer? Do you have to agree on everything? Jesus gives us these answers and a few more as he teaches his disciples in the Book of Matthew. 

Jesus calls His disciples to wholeheartedly follow all of His teachings, and to go and make disciples. He does not instruct them to cherry-pick teachings that suit their comfort while making disciples. Instead, He emphasizes the importance of taking every word He says and passing it on to others, even when these teachings challenge or cause discomfort.

Some of New Hope's guiding principles are remembering that God is on a mission to redeem creation, we want to think Kingdom first, and God has called us to be the Church as we go.

In Matthew 20:1-16 we read the parable of the vineyard workers and how no matter how long they worked everyone was paid the same days wage by the landowner. We read this parable and think, "That's not fair." Does this mean that God doesn’t have fair judgment? 

You demonstrate exceptional moral character, consistently adhering to ethical principles, showing kindness to your neighbors, and actively supporting those in need through various charitable acts. Yet, is there more required to attain heavenly blessings and secure eternal life? Matthew 19:16-30 recounts a profound exchange between Jesus and a wealthy young man, revealing that the path to eternal life isn't quite what we might anticipate.

We frequently encounter hindrances that prevent us from dedicating time to be with Jesus, and these hindrances often originate from our own actions and habits. It's crucial for us to identify and eliminate these obstacles. 

How many times should we forgive someone? In Matthew 18:21-22 Peter asks Jesus this question, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?" Jesus responds, "No, not seven times, but seventy times seven!" But what does this truly mean? Is Jesus advocating for keeping a tally of forgiveness? Jesus continues with a parable (Matt. 23-35) that teaches His disciples to embrace a life of forgiveness. 

Jesus guides us on how to handle conflicts within the Christian community. He teaches how to address conflict when a fellow believer sins against us in a way that builds relationships instead of feeding derision. He starts with approaching the situation privately, seeking a resolution, and involving witnesses if necessary. 

The disciples ask Jesus who will be the greatest in Heaven, but instead, Jesus uses this moment to teach His disciples about humbleness. Jesus challenges the disciples to be humble and to look outside of themselves to help the lowly in society.