Sermon on 2/22/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 2/15/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

In an era of "misinformation campaigns" and 24-hour news cycles, how do we figure out what is actually true? From World War II radar myths to the "War of the Worlds" radio panic, history shows that human beings have always struggled to discern reality from fiction. In this message, we dive into John 16:4–17 to discover the ultimate source of truth: The Holy Spirit.

Jesus promised His disciples that His departure was actually to their advantage because it meant the arrival of the Helper (the Paraclete). We explore how the Holy Spirit acts as a divine prosecuting attorney, using "cross-examination" to expose the lies we believe about ourselves and the world. Learn the three specific areas where the Spirit convicts us—sin, righteousness, and judgment—and how that conviction leads us away from shame and into restoration and salvation.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Carrot & Radar Myth: A lesson on how misinformation starts and spreads.
• The Advantage of Jesus Leaving: Why having the indwelling Spirit is better than having Jesus physically present.
• The Helper as Cross-Examiner: How the Holy Spirit exposes the "lies" we think are true.
• Lie #1: "I am basically good." Why unbelief is the foundational sin that requires a Savior.
• Lie #2: "I can earn righteousness." Why our best deeds are "filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6) compared to Christ’s holiness.
• Lie #3: "Evil is winning." The truth that Satan was already judged and defeated at the Cross.

Keywords: John 16, Holy Spirit, Truth vs Lies, Bible Study, Sermon, Christian Discernment, Conviction of Sin, Jesus is Truth, Gospel of John, Faith, Spiritual Warfare, Salvation.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 2/8/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Have you ever felt like an outsider because of your faith? In this message, we explore John 15:18–27 to understand the "Third Relationship" Jesus describes: our relationship with the world. Jesus warns His disciples that if the world hated Him, it will inevitably hate His followers too.

But this isn't a message of defeat—it's a message of redemption. Drawing from the powerful life story of John Newton (the slave trader turned author of "Amazing Grace"), we see how God pulls people out of the darkest places into the light. Discover why the world’s pushback is often a confirmation of your identity in Christ, and how the Holy Spirit (the Helper) is already at work in the lives of those around you, preparing them for the message of the Gospel.

Learn how to move from judgmentalism to a redemptive mindset, standing as a bold witness in a culture that desperately needs the hope of Jesus.

Key Topics Covered:

• Foundational vs. Exceptional Relationships: A recap of our connection to the True Vine and our call to love one another.
• The Definition of "The World": Understanding why a system in rebellion against God rejects the light of truth.
• The Standard of Persecution: Why we shouldn't be surprised when our allegiance to King Jesus causes friction.
• No Excuse for Sin: How Jesus provided the fullest revelation of God’s character, leaving the world without pretext.
• The Role of the Helper: Why the Holy Spirit is the primary witness who goes before us to soften hearts.
• The Great Commission: Our imperative to bear witness to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

Keywords: John 15, Spiritual Warfare, Amazing Grace, John Newton, Bible Study, Sermon, Christian Living, Persecution, Holy Spirit, Redemptive Relationships, Gospel of John, Discipleship, Faith in Culture, Jesus is the True Vine.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 2/1/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Have you ever felt completely alone in a crowded room? In a world of "transactional love" and digital shortcuts, we often treat people like email newsletters—hitting the "unsubscribe" button as soon as they become inconvenient. In this message, we dive into John 15:12–17 to discover the exceptional relationship Jesus calls us to have with one another.

Building on the foundational truth of the True Vine, we explore what it means to love others not based on their worth or what they can give us, but based on a unilateral choice to serve. Drawing a powerful parallel to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth walking through the rubble of London during the Blitz, we see a picture of Jesus stepping out of heaven to walk among our rubble. Discover why Jesus calls you His friend, how He has appointed you for a mission, and how to step out of your "personal palace" to love others sacrificially.

Key Topics Covered:

• The "Unsubscribe" Culture: Why we are tempted to discard relationships when they become needy or difficult.
• Exceptional Love: Understanding the standard of loving others "as Christ has loved us."
• Servants vs. Friends: What it means for the Creator of the Universe to let us in on His divine mission.
• The Sovereignty of Choice: Why knowing that Jesus chose you (and not the other way around) destroys pride.
• Walking Among the Rubble: Practical ways to step out of comfort to meet the needs of those around you.

Keywords: John 15, True Vine, Love One Another, Bible Study, Sermon, Christian Relationships, Friend of Jesus, Sacrificial Love, Gospel of John, Discipleship, Overcoming Loneliness, Faith in Action.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 1/25/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Have you ever been in a crowd of people and yet felt absolutely alone? In this message, we explore why relationships matter and why your connection with God is the foundational bedrock for every other relationship in your life.

Diving into John 15:1-11, we examine Jesus' powerful metaphor of the Vine and the Branches. We’ll unpack what it truly means to "abide in Christ" and how remaining connected to the True Vine produces a life of joy, purpose, and eternal significance. Whether you are struggling with loneliness, navigating the challenges of "digital relationships," or seeking a deeper spiritual walk, this study offers a roadmap to finding wholeness and fruitfulness in Jesus.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Loneliness Epidemic: Why Gen Z and other generations are turning to AI for connection and how real relationships offer a better way.
• The True Vine vs. The Useless Vine: Understanding the Old Testament context of Israel and why Jesus is the only effective source of life.
• The Process of Pruning: Why difficult seasons aren't always a sign of God's discipline, but a sign of His development for "more fruit."
• What is Spiritual Fruit? Identifying the evidence of an abiding life: answered prayer, obedience, and the Fruit of the Spirit.
• Perfect Love and Full Joy: Discovering how joy is rooted in gratitude for God's grace (Charis), not in our external circumstances.

Keywords: John 15, True Vine, Abide in Me, Bible Study, Sermon, Relationships Matter, Loneliness, Christian Living, Fruit of the Spirit, Overcoming Anxiety, Jesus is the Vine, Gospel of John, Faith, Salvation.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

 Sermon on 1/18/26 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Do you ever feel like the loneliest person in the universe? Whether you are dealing with seasonal loneliness or a deeper sense of isolation, this message brings powerful assurance from John 14:15-31. Jesus promised his disciples—and us—that we would never be left as orphans.

In this study, we explore the "Second Helper," the Holy Spirit, and how His indwelling presence transforms our lives. Discover why obedience is a reflection of our love for Christ, how the Holy Spirit acts as our divine "Paraclete," and why the ascension of Jesus was actually the best thing for our spiritual growth. If you feel alone, frustrated, or helpless, learn how to tap into a legacy of peace that the world cannot give.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Loneliness of Michael Collins: Lessons on solitude from the Apollo 11 mission.
• Obedience as a Thermometer: How keeping Jesus' commandments reflects the temperature of our love.
• The Paraclete: Understanding the Holy Spirit as our permanent, on-time Helper.
• Orphans No More: Why the resurrection of Jesus ensures we are never truly alone.
• Spiritual Fruit vs. Self-Confidence: Why "self-control" is actually Spirit-control.
• Intercession at the Throne: How Jesus advocates for us at the right hand of the Father.

Keywords: John 14, Holy Spirit, Paraclete, Loneliness, Christian Living, Sermon, Bible Study, Peace of God, Shalom, Overcoming Anxiety, Jesus is Lord, Gospel of John, Faith, Salvation, Biblical Teaching.

 Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927 

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 1/11/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Are you living with a deeply troubled heart? Whether it’s the weight of the 24-hour news cycle, the pressure of "failing bridge syndrome" (caring for kids and aging parents simultaneously), or the grief of a lost relationship, life has a way of shaking our souls to the core.

In this message, we dive into John 14:1-14, where Jesus offers his disciples—and us—a powerful remedy for soul agony. Speaking in the upper room on the night of his betrayal, Jesus doesn't just offer "positive thinking"; he offers himself. Discover how trusting in Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life provides a permanent home in the Father’s house and the strength to do "greater works" through the power of the Holy Spirit.

If you are feeling anxious, fearful, or confused about the future, this study will remind you that while "Friday" (suffering) may be here, "Sunday" (resurrection) is coming.

Key Takeaways:

• The Definition of Peace: Understanding Shalom as wholeness and the idyllic human existence, not just the absence of conflict.
• Knowing the Future: Why Jesus "preparing a place" for us is about the cross, not a construction project.
• The Role of the Holy Spirit: How the Paraclete (Helper) comes alongside us to navigate daily life and remind us of God's truth.
• Greater Works: What Jesus meant when he said his followers would do greater things than he did on earth.
• Praying in Jesus' Name: Moving away from the "prosperity gospel" to praying as a true representative of Christ.

Keywords: John 14, Troubled Heart, Peace of God, Bible Study, Sermon, Jesus is the Way, Holy Spirit, Heaven, Overcoming Anxiety, Christian Living, Faith in Jesus, Salvation, Gospel of John.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 1/4/2026 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Are you searching for "peace at last" in a world filled with conflict and uncertainty? In this message, we explore the powerful stories of Simeon and Anna from Luke 2 to discover how true peace (Shalom) isn't just the absence of conflict—it’s a divine wholeness that can only be found in a Person.

While many in the first century settled for the temporary peace of the Roman Empire or gave into cynicism and resignation, Simeon and Anna remained "biblical lookouts." We’ll unpack why choosing anticipation over the easy road requires faith, confidence, and the fuel of the Holy Spirit. Discover how God's plan for your life is far more abundant than anything you could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20) and why His "risky" path is more secure than any human safety net.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Meaning of Shalom: Why biblical peace is about wholeness and restoration, not just tranquility.
• Simeon’s Assignment: How the Holy Spirit directs our steps when we are prepared to worship.
• Anna’s Calling: Choosing the "difficult road" of prayer and fasting over cultural expectations.
• The "Burn the Ships" Faith: Why trusting God requires a point of no return and total commitment.
• Salvation for All: The significance of Jesus being a light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel.

Keywords: Simeon and Anna, Luke 2, Finding Peace, Shalom, Consolation of Israel, Christmas Story, Bible Study, Sermon, Holy Spirit Guidance, Faith over Fear, Trusting God’s Plan, Gospel of Luke, Christian Living.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

Sermon on 12/28/25 by Pastor Todd Sapp 

Are you searching for "peace at last" in a world filled with economic stress, political division, and information overload? In this message, we explore the story of Simeon from Luke 2, a man who lived his entire life as a "biblical lookout," expectant for God’s promised rescue.

While many in the first century gave up hope or settled for the temporary peace of the Roman Empire, Simeon remained expectant for the Consolation of Israel. We’ll unpack why true peace isn't found in a change of circumstances—like a better job, healthy family, or political outcome—but in a Person. Discover how Jesus, the Prince of Peace, offers an eternal remedy for our deepest anxieties and how you can live with joyful anticipation today.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Shackleton Analogy: How 28 men survived the Antarctic by staying expectant for their rescuer.
• The Consolation of Israel: What it means for God to "come alongside" us in our distress.
• Temptations to Abandon Hope: Why we often trade anticipation for participation in culture or resignation.
• Peace is a Person: Why Simeon’s peace came from holding a child, not changing a government.
• The Cost of Holding Jesus: Why we must let go of other false hopes to embrace the true Savior.

Keywords: Simeon and Anna, Luke 2, Christmas Story, Finding Peace, Anxiety Relief, Consolation of Israel, Bible Study, Sermon, Christian Living, Trusting God, Isaiah 40, Gospel of Luke, Advent.

Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927 

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com

 Christmas Eve Service on 12/24/25 by Pastor Todd Sapp

Merry Christmas! Join Pastor Todd and the Northwoods community for our special Christmas Eve service. In this message, we pause to intentionally shift our focus from the busyness of the season to the true miracle: the birth of Jesus Christ.

Through the stories of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds in Luke 2, we explore how God’s perfect plan often arrives in the middle of human chaos. From the "no room at the inn" to the angelic proclamation in a lonely field, discover how Jesus is the Light of the World who brings hope for the weary and peace for the restless.

Whether you are seeking rest from a stressful year or looking for a fresh start in the New Year, this service reminds us that Emmanuel (God with us) is our wonderful counselor and prince of peace.

Key Topics Covered:

• Finding Peace in Chaos: How God used a Roman census and a humble manger to fulfill His ancient promises.
• The Shepherd’s Good News: Why God chose "working-class heroes" to be the first messengers of the Gospel.
• Making Room for Jesus: Understanding why the rejection of Christ on earth led to Him making room for us in eternity.
• Beholding the Light: A candlelight worship experience reflecting on Jesus as the source of redeeming grace.

Keywords: Christmas Eve Service 2025, Birth of Jesus, Luke 2 Bible Study, Christmas Sermon, Light of the World, Christian Worship, Prince of Peace, Emmanuel, Christmas Candlelight Service, Northwoods Church, Gospel of Luke, Christian Living.

 Music used with Permission through our CCLI Copyright License Number #54024 and Streaming License Number #20133927 

Find out more about Northwoods Church at www.nwctally.com