We live in a world that tries to divide us. We are told to choose sides and cancel anything we don’t agree with. Political, ideological, cultural, generational… Jesus wants us to be able to cut through the noise and make a lasting impact rather than getting caught up in all the divisive rhetoric that is so prevalent today. Jesus came to serve God and others. There was never any question in his mind as too whose side he was on.

Dr. Martin Luther King envisioned “The Beloved Community” as a society based on justice, equal opportunity, and love of one’s fellow human beings. Dr. Ben Barnett fleshes out how true love for God and neighbor can bring about this reality in the kingdom of God.

There are these things we feel so deeply about —the rights of the oppressed or the unborn, our relationship to the state, government’s role in our lives, what a functioning society should look like, how to make “the system” more just and equitable to all. What do we do when the solutions we strongly support are opposed by those we love and respect? How do we hold these ideas in tension with our identity as Christians and subjects of our God and King Jesus?

The narrative of God’s story is a contrast between humanistic “empire” and godly “shalom” — the peace that can only be found through the rule and reign of HIS kingdom. Andy Winje helps us understand the ramifications of identifying ourselves as citizens of the kingdom of God here on earth.

Today we kick off a new worship series, “Our God and Country,” and we celebrate the amazing kingdom of God and Lordship of Jesus. So what does it mean to make him Lord? Who is Jesus to you?

Today we kick off a new worship series, “Our God and Country,” and we celebrate the amazing kingdom of God and Lordship of Jesus. So what does it mean to make him Lord? Who is Jesus to you?

David Bruce, a licensed counselor as well as minister, helps us understand how to maintain joy and peace (and good mental health) even in troubled times. He shows the way neuroscience supports the teachings of scripture and examples of Psalms that allow us to process traumatic situations through connection to God and each other. His handy mnemonic “VCR” is a practical tool for rewiring unhealthy thought processes that can sometimes take us captive, creating better mental practices and pathways.

Weariness and discouragement can sap our physical, emotional and spiritual life - but renewal is within our reach because God is always at work, and he makes himself available to us. Our hope is not in the new year but in the one who makes all things new.

Last week we discussed the way popular yet unsatisfying postures of relating to God do not allow us to overcome fear in our lives. Today we'll talk about uniting with God in a way that allows faith, hope, and love to flourish in our lives and relationships.

Brian shares teaching gleaned from the book WITH by Skye Jethani, with the subheading, "Reimagining the way you relate to God." What defines your relationship with God? What is your posture towards him? If you’re anxious, not at peace, motivated by fear, not experiencing the fruits of the spirit — something is off. Fear and suffering, confusion, uncertain futures — these are universal human experiences. Every religion is an attempt to overcome this condition. But how much control can we really exert. Is there a better way?