In this sermon series, we've explored different aspects of longing, beginning with Dr. Sanjay’s reflection on longing for the Messiah and Pastor Scott’s talk on longing for Emmanuel. Today, the focus shifts to longing for the child, as we look at Isaiah chapter 9. Longing often arises from wanting something we don't have or mourning what we've lost, which can lead to joy or sorrow depending on whether our desires are fulfilled. Unfulfilled longing, as Proverbs 13:12 says, can lead to heartache, cynicism, and even loss of hope. In the dark times of the past, the people of Judah were immersed in fear, despair, and oppression, as they turned away from God and sought help from worldly powers, leading to their suffering. Isaiah 9 promises a "great light" will shine on them, a prophecy fulfilled through Jesus, born in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, regions once shrouded in darkness. This Savior, described in Isaiah 9:6 as "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace," brings hope and light to a world in darkness, fulfilling the promise of God’s enduring presence and peace. The people, who had walked in darkness, now see this great light, and the joy of their salvation is compared to the joy of a bountiful harvest. This prophecy is not only a promise for ancient Israel but also a message that Jesus, as the light of the world, continues to dwell in the hearts of believers today, offering hope and restoration.

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Scott Harris, Lead Pastor, begins by discussing the process of planning a Christmas series, which he starts thinking about months in advance. His wife suggests a theme of "longing," which immediately resonates with him and sparks an emotional reflection on the deep desire for Jesus seen throughout Scripture. The series will focus on Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, particularly from Isaiah 7, which highlights the theme of longing for Emmanuel. The speaker explains the historical setting of Isaiah, where Israel and Judah are divided, and Judah faces the threat of attack from Israel and Syria. King Ahaz of Judah, lacking faith and character, succumbs to fear and aligns with the evil Assyrian empire, even offering tribute from the temple to secure their protection. The speaker emphasizes how fear and adversity reveal one's character, citing examples from life, including marriage and personal struggles, where true character is exposed in times of difficulty. The narrative highlights the contrast between Ahaz's failure and the deeper longing for God's intervention and the coming of the Messiah.

Speaker: Dr. Sanjay Merchant, Adjunct Teaching Pastor

The new sermon series focuses on the "longing" for a coming King, exploring the prophecies of the Old Testament, specifically through the lenses of Hosea and Isaiah, and their messages about this promised King. These prophets, from the 8th century BC, speak of an "Anointed One"—the Messiah (or Christ)—who would fulfill God's promises to His people. In Hosea 3, the prophet uses the metaphor of Hosea's troubled marriage to Gomer to illustrate Israel's unfaithfulness to God and their coming period of exile. Despite their sin, God promises redemption, symbolized by Hosea's eventual reconciliation with Gomer, pointing to the future return of the Israelites to their God and the coming of a perfect descendant of David, a new King, who would restore their relationship with God.

Isaiah 11 expands on this vision, prophesying a new King from the "stump of Jesse" (David's father), who will embody God's spirit, wisdom, righteousness, and judgment. This King is both a descendant (the shoot) and the origin (the root) of David, signifying a divine ruler who will bring peace and justice. The passage emphasizes that this King will be unlike previous leaders, who often led Israel astray into pagan practices, instead faithfully embodying God's character. The ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies is seen in the New Testament, where Jesus is revealed as the true Messiah, fulfilling both the legal and biological lines of David, and offering the eternal kingship promised in 2 Samuel 7.

Through these prophecies, the series highlights the longing for a true, righteous King who will bring peace, justice, and restoration, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the world.

Speaker: Josh Rogers, Worship Arts Pastor

Today marks the conclusion of the "Names of God" series, and we're reflecting on how these names have impacted our faith over the past ten weeks. The series has deepened our understanding of God’s character, helping us connect more personally with His attributes such as Jehovah Jireh (our provider), Jehovah Rohi (our shepherd), and Jehovah Shalom (our peace). Many have found that these names have shaped their prayer life and perspective, especially during challenging seasons. One worship team member shared how, during a season of pruning, they have found comfort in God's names like El Shaddai (God Almighty) and Jehovah Shalom, trusting in His goodness despite difficult circumstances. This series has encouraged us to grow and be transformed by the truth of who God is.

As we reflect on what we've learned, we remember that God's revealed names are not separate roles He plays, but facets of His unchanging nature. These names, from Yahweh (I Am) to Jehovah, show us that God is always fully who He is, even if different aspects of Him are revealed in different seasons. This brings us to the final name of the series, Jehovah Nissi—"The Lord is my Banner." Today, we’ll explore this name through the story in Exodus 17, where God’s provision and protection are displayed.

Speaker: Damian Thompson, Online & Outreach Pastor

In today's discussion, the focus is on the name *Jehovah Rohi*, meaning "The Lord is my Shepherd," drawn from Psalm 23 and John 10. The term *Jehovah* refers to God, while *Rohi* (from the Hebrew *ra* or *rohe*) means to feed, tend, or lead to pasture, ultimately signifying a shepherd. The name is first referenced in Genesis 48:15, where Jacob refers to God as his shepherd, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, including in Psalms, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Jehovah Rohi is seen as one who guides, leads, and protects His people, as exemplified in the famous Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." This opening statement prepares believers to receive all that Jehovah Rohi offers, ensuring that they lack nothing.

The Lord provides direction, leading His people to rest and peace, as described in verse 2 of Psalm 23, where God makes us "lie down in green pastures" and "leads me beside still waters." This represents rest and security, counteracting the rush of life. Additionally, Jehovah Rohi restores the soul, as noted in verse 3, offering healing and guidance along "paths of righteousness" for His name's sake. Restoration is vital because only that which is broken needs restoring. The Lord's guidance is especially needed for those who have wandered or lost their way, helping them return to the right and holy paths.

Speaker: Dr. Bryan O'Neal, Biblical Foundation Teacher

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by instructing him to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac. Obediently, Abraham sets out for Mount Moriah with Isaac and two young men, demonstrating his faith despite the emotional turmoil of the impending sacrifice. During their journey, which takes three days, Abraham grapples with his feelings about sacrificing his only heir, a promise from God that he had waited for many years. When they arrive, Abraham builds an altar and prepares to sacrifice Isaac, but an angel intervenes, stopping him and confirming Abraham's faithfulness. Instead, God provides a ram caught in a thicket for the sacrifice. This event leads Abraham to name the location "Jehovah Jireh," meaning "The Lord will provide." Finally, God reaffirms His promise to Abraham, declaring that his descendants will be numerous and blessed, underscoring the significance of faith and obedience in divine testing.

The discussion centers on the name of God, specifically Yahweh, which has significant relational meaning. Yahweh is introduced in Scripture and represents a personal connection with God. After the Babylonian captivity, the Hebrew people began to revere God's name so deeply that they replaced Yahweh with Adonai during public readings. This shift meant that when they encountered Yahweh, they would instead say Adonai, which incorporates vowels from that title to signify respect. Adonai translates to "Lord" and conveys authority and sovereignty, emphasizing God as the highest ruler. In Deuteronomy 10:17, God is described as "God of gods and Lord of lords," reinforcing His supreme power. The personalized form, represented in English translations as "Lord" (with a capital L and lowercase o), highlights a relational aspect, akin to a father-child dynamic, emphasizing not just God's position but also His intimate relationship with believers.

Speaker: Scott Harris, Lead Pastor

Speaker: Shane Hawely

Viewing the world through a "God-colored lens," emphasizes how our experiences shape our perspectives. Critical incidents and trauma can significantly affect how we see others. Romans 12:1-2 highlights the importance of transformation and avoiding conformity to worldly views. Pride can lead to judgment, as illustrated in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14), along with teachings from Philippians 2:3 and Romans 12:16, which advocate for humility. Hardened hearts can obscure our recognition of others' humanity, as seen in the story of Pharaoh (Exodus 7-13). However, the light of Christ offers hope, affirming that no one is beyond redemption (John 1:5). Jesus is presented as the solution for healing hardened hearts, encouraging us to view others through His lens. Finally, the call to action is to embrace the love of God and recognize our identity as His children (1 John 3:1).