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