One of the few NT letters addressed to an individual, 3 John bears a striking resemblance to 2 John. Yet, the differences are startling as well. This “postcard” provides insight into the life of early believers and the challenges they faced, amazingly similar to the issues of our day. Truth, in the first century and today, is continuously in danger.

John the Elder calls his congregation to endurance in the most basic of all Christian disciplines: love. He encourages them in truth and warns them against false teachers, but always in the context of love for one another. This NT “postcard” reveals the sincere heart of a pastor for his church family. Evergreen shares these realities of the faith today as well.

Though the account of Hezekiah’s reign is positive and favorable overall, his story finishes on a low note—a man too impressed with his success, too proud of his possessions, and too comfortable to pass on his faith intentionally. Question: Do believers succeed best in comfort or under pressure? What, then, does the answer mean for Evergreen?

Pastor Zach Dietz walks us through the martyrdom of Stephen and beings us a word for today.

The key to victory in life is the discernment to recognize the spiritual nature of every battle and the willingness to engage the battle with spiritual means. Hezekiah understood his own inadequacies in the face of Assyrian invasion. He also recognized the supreme sufficiency of God. What cultural, family, or personal battle should you be releasing into God’s hands?

A legendary football coach once said, “Before you can learn how to win, you must learn how not to lose.” A certain prescription for defeat is to be unaware of your enemy and his methods. Spiritual successes are always accompanied by confrontation with spiritual enemies. Therefore, preparation for battle is essential!

Throughout 2 Corinthians Paul lovingly challenges the Corinthians’ authority to question his apostleship. He stands firm on the authority given to him by Christ and helps the Corinthians to understand their status in God’s economy.

The national revival of Judah (and the remnant of Israel) was followed by a reformation of Temple practices to solidify the renewed commitment of God’s people to His ways. These spiritual changes were crucial because the existential threat of a generation was on the horizon—Assyrian invasion. From what strength could Judah draw to face this challenge?

Pastor Taylor Gabbert walks through the story of Balaam as he looks at finding God's will. 

With the Temple cleansed and restored, Hezekiah proceeds with the greatest Passover celebration since the days of King Solomon (30:26). His concern was for all Israel and his priority was the proper approach to God. Revival is a sovereign movement of God among His people, but it, nevertheless, requires human yearning and attention to repentance.