In the third message in this series, we see that in order to participate in the future Kingdom of God, we need to experience a new birth. This new birth - or regeneration - offers us a radically transformation, as our hearts are sprinkled clean through the spirit. This new birth is available to anyone who looks away from themselves, and looks to the Son of Man, lifted up on the cross. John 3:1-15

In the second message in this series, we learn about the necessity of God calling us to Him. Jesus tells us that no one would be able to come to Him except those who are drawn in by the Father (v.44). Because we have been separated from God by our sin, the gap is too big for us to come to God on our own. But God, in His infinite love, came to us first, and has bridged the gap in order for us have an abundant life in Him by responding to His call in our lives. 

In the first sermon of this series title "From Death to Life", we see the outline of God's plan for us - from God foreknowing His elect through to bringing them to glorification. It is a comfort to those who are God's elect to know that we were chosen by Him before we had done anything to deserve it, for if God's love for us was dependent upon our love for Him, we could never do enough to earn it. Even when we sin and willingly choose to not love God, we can be comforted to know that God chose us, He is still for us, and He will always love us. 

We continue to look at Isaiah's promise of God's Messiah to bring the hope of the world. This week, we looked at the promised Restoration that will come when the branch of Jesse springs forth, and who it is that'll bring about that restoration. Finally, we were invited to come, with the nations, and seek after this King, who has been lifted high. When we seek him, we will find him, and find his resting place to be glorious. Isaiah 11:1-10

Although the circumstances surrounding the writing of this poem were dark, Isaiah was able to see hope amidst the darkness by holding onto the promises of God. He had faith that despite all the strife and burdens of our current situations, God would bring peace and joy in the future. Isaiah had faith that God would send our Savior, Jesus, to be our True King and to bring lasting peace to our lives. I

The words of Isaiah in this passage assure God's people of His coming presence - which we find fulfillment in through Jesus Christ. Isaiah tells the people to take comfort, knowing that God has come to gather them near to Him. We can take comfort in knowing that despite our rebellion against Him, God has already come to us and has offered us all the blessings of belonging to Him.

Every week, Christians gather together across the world in order to worship. But have you ever stopped and asked, why do we do what we do on Sundays? Or have you ever wondered if there are proper ways to worship and improper? In John 4, Jesus answers a question about the right way to worship by showing us the essence of our worship, that it is to be done in Spirit and in Truth. Pastor Jeremy concludes our brief series in the Rhythms of Grace, but showing us what the Father is looking for from us, what that should look like, and how that's possible. (John 4:19-26)

Christians of all different backgrounds are part of the same community shaped by the new life offered through Jesus. God designed the community of fellow believers to be a support, lifting each other up and encouraging one another in faith. These passages remind us of the importance and benefits of a strong Christian community in our lives.  

Even when we aren't aware of it, the culture we are surrounded by is shaping us. Paul challenges us to be transformed not by the culture of this world, but instead to be transformed by the gospel, through the Holy Spirit, so that we can become more like Christ out Savior. 

After the Flood, God called His people to "fill the earth" - but we see instead that the people have gathered together to make a name for themselves. They are congregating together, not to give glory to God, but to give glory to themselves and specifically to deny God's mandate to fill the earth. So God, out of His mercy, makes it impossible for the people to pursue their plans and simultaneously helps them to fulfill His mandate. This passage is a reminder to God's people to live and serve God for His glory, not for our own.