The hope of Advent isn't just that Jesus came - it's that He is returning to fulfill His work and promise. Learn from 1 Thessalonians 4-5 how we can persevere and be encouraged as we wait for the "Not Yet" of the final Advent.

All Christmas long we have been asking, What Child is this: Baby Jesus is King Jesus. Kiss Baby Jesus and King Jesus.

God had a problem, how could he be true to Himself as the righteous judge who holds all people responsible, while following His deep desire to offer mercy and forgiveness? Judgment is a requirement for righteousness and mercy a requirement for love. God had an answer. What was needed was a kiss.

In this second week of Advent, we'll take a look at how God's plan for redemption involves submission and will bring about true, lasting hope for us and those around us.

In the first week of Advent, we focus on Matthew’s account of the genealogy and birth of Jesus the Messiah. Like many genealogies, there are some VERY surprising characters in the family tree! Matthew’s account has some amazing and delightful people for us to meet, and a profound message for us as we live between the first and second Advent.

Antioch was the first Gentile church, and what a church it was! From this church the great missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul were launched. The church at Antioch was amazing and a powerful example to us today as we face the uncertainty of a pandemic.

Peter's vision is a milestone for the church. It is the theological and worldview shift that allows for the inclusion of all people. It's hard to over-emphasize its importance!

When things look dark, God comes to us and surprises us with hope.

As the Gospel spread from Jerusalem to Samaria, miracles and supernatural power followed. One man, Simon the Sorcerer, was willing to do anything to wield that power for himself...

The power of fear, anger and hate is sobering. It warps our perceptions and allow us to rationalize thoughts, words and actions that are inconsistent with the Gospel and our citizenship in the Kingdom of God. In this age where there is so much division it is important that we remain in step with the Spirit of God and remain instruments of God's peace.