The Increase

BETTER TOGETHER FAMILY CONFERENCE: We recently concluded an encouraging “Family Conference” Weekend, with our guest speaker Pastor Josh Crans from Providence Church in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.  The theme of our weekend was “Better Together”. 

In a world where Satan seeks to divide and dominate families, relationships, communities, and churches, we embrace the Bible’s truth that we’re better together, and what that looks like in everyday life.  

Session Two: "Living Out the One Anothers" with Pastor Josh Crans

BETTER TOGETHER FAMILY CONFERENCE: We recently concluded an encouraging “Family Conference” Weekend, with our guest speaker Pastor Josh Crans from Providence Church in Coatesville, Pennsylvania.  The theme of our weekend was “Better Together”. 

In a world where Satan seeks to divide and dominate families, relationships, communities, and churches, we embrace the Bible’s truth that we’re better together, and what that looks like in everyday life.  

Session One: "The Church as a Family" with Pastor Josh Crans

Christian stewardship involves every aspect of our lives; not just our time, our abilities, and our spiritual gifts— but our money too! What are seven good guidelines given in the New Testament that can help you honor God and advance His kingdom with your financial giving? How does the Bible instruct you to give your money to God?  (Entrusted: The Joys of Stewardship, part 4)

Today’s culture puts off so much noise that many Christians are confused or conflicted when it comes to understanding money and material things. What are some of those erroneous views compared to the Bible? Where does God call you to go “all in” for Him? What are seven personal assets that you can unleash for the advancing of God’s kingdom? (Entrusted: The Joys of Stewardship, part 3)

View and download the "Stewardship Assessment" at this link. 

Many Christians think that stewardship applies only to the money they put in the offering at church. But while money is a part of stewardship, the Bible actually asks for a lot more. Do you know what your most valuable treasure is, and how it connects to your stewardship as a Christian? What is the sacred trust given to every follower of Jesus?  (Entrusted: The Joys of Stewardship, part 2)

As human beings, it's tempting to take pride in what things we own, what jobs we do, and what abilities we possess. But the Bible reminds us that God is the source of everything. If you want joy and fulfillment as follower of Jesus, what three foundational facts do you need to understand about Christian stewardship? (Entrusted: The Joys of Stewardship, part 1)

*GUEST SPEAKER* Many Christians have concluded that the church is simply a place to go or a service to attend, but the Bible goes far deeper than those surface level ideas. What does it truly mean to be part of God’s family? What actions does the Bible call you to fulfill as you connect with your local church?  (Next-Gen Pastor Jared Carline)

In Genesis chapter 50, the story of Joseph reaches its climactic conclusion— but the biggest lesson from Joseph’s story isn’t relational, it’s theological. Joseph’s faith never wavered in the God who superintends over every aspect of our lives. What do you need to learn about God’s active oversight of your life? How will your life change when you trust the good providence of God? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 12 conclusion) 

* Watch Joe Everson's amazing 'live' painting of the Statue of Liberty here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYAewDjJjoI

After subjecting his brothers to a series of challenging tests, Joseph finally reconciles with his brothers in what proves to be an exciting and emotional reunion. Have you been dealing with a fractured friendship or a broken relationship? Are you ready for a reunion and a renewal? What ingredients can contribute to a real reconciliation? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 11)

In Genesis 44, Joseph puts his brothers through the ultimate test to discover if their hearts had truly changed, or if they would repeat their selfish sins of the past.  Sometimes God brings tests and trials into our lives, not to break us—but to build us for what lies ahead. What do you need to know about the tests that God sends your way? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 10)