In this sermon, John warns against stifling the Holy Spirit as in 1 Thessalonians 5:19 and thus cutting yourself off from the power and influence of God in your life. Are you allowing God's Holy Spirit to work through your life?

In our culture, we're often made to think that it's okay to be passionate about anything except for our faith. John shows us why this cannot be! He challenges us to consider the passion in our own lives for the gospel and for the church.

John poses the question of whether or not God still performs miracles and asserts that the church, as the feet and hands of Christ, is God's miracle.

John emphasizes patience, a fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22), and focuses on Jesus as our prime example. (Hebrews 12: 1-3)

After encouraging us to stand firm in God's Word last week, John challenges us do justly, be merciful, and walk humbly with God.

Despite trends in our country of decreased faith in God, John encourages us to stand firm in God's Word by citing how Paul encouraged the church in Thessalonica in his second letter to them.

Jenn discusses some attributes of our Heavenly Father. God is our source of life; he corrects, provides, gives wisdom, and forgives. What a great example our Father sets for us!

John talks about issues we have in our nation and in the church dealing with mental illness and encourages everyone to not let emotions dictate what truth is.

Despite what job or career path we choose in life, John reminds us to follow Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes.

13 Now all has been heard;

here is the conclusion of the matter:

Fear God and keep his commandments,

for this is the duty of all mankind.

14 For God will bring every deed into judgment,

including every hidden thing,

whether it is good or evil.

-Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NIV

Thinking of Memorial Day, John emphasizes Jesus' command in John 15:12-14. Having died for us, Jesus is the perfect example of the love and service we should be showing to others.