Biblical Eldership

In this message Steve Todaro brings a message on what Scripture teaches about pastors in the local church. As a church devoted to the Word of God, this pertinent message brings us to what God teaches on the subject. Feel free to leave thoughts and reflections in the comments.

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The Church in 3 Directions: Part II

OK, so God has called His Church to live in worship (upward), fellowship (inward), and evangelism/service (outward.) As we study the Scriptures it turns out that all three are not only indispensible, but inextricably linked. And the next question is, if we HAD to pick one as a priority over the others, which would we be most likely to choose? Do you have a favorite?
After answering that question, look at the shocking words of Jesus in Matthew 5:23, 24. Perhaps our priorities don't match up to those of Jesus as readily as we might think. This message is a call to the priority of brotherly reconciliation and acceptable worship. And yes, the order IS significant.
I would love any reflections you may want to leave in the comments.
God bless,
Karl

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Discover, Not Determine: The Church in Three Directions

"Who are we, really?" This question probes the philosophical foundations of our existence, and when it comes to finding an answer there is no better place to turn than the revealed Word of God. As we investigate the Scriptures to see what the Church is all about, we find that God has designed His people to live in three directions: Upward, Inward and Outward. Upward is our holy relationship of worship with God Himself, Inward is the call to love and community, and Outward is the mission of evangelism and service. Each of the three is essential, and this two part sermon investigates what Scripture teaches in these areas. The focus is on Hebrews 12 and I Peter 2. Feel free to leave comments, questions or reflections.
Karl

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Discern, Not Decide

In Numbers 13 and 14 we find the dramatic events at the edge of the promised land.  God told Moses to send 12 Israelite leaders into the new territory, a land that He was going to deliver to them.  When the 12 came back, ten had reasoned arguments why they should not advance into Canaan, while two claimed they should.  This is a prime example in which the majority doesn't, or shouldn't, rule.  Ten decided what they thought should be done.  Two correctly discerned the will of the Lord.
For all of God's people, our lives, our churches, our every choice is to be one of discerning His direction, not of deciding what we think should be done.  This message walks through this story, so you may want to have a Bible handy if you're listening to it.  I'd appreciate any thoughts or reflections.
May God help us all to know, hear, and heed His will for our lives.
Karl

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January 24, 2010: Isaiah 58

As we watch on the news the gripping tragedy of the disaster in Haiti, it is easy to think of the insurmountable list of serious needs throughout our world. Instead of being overwhelmed, God has called us to live out our faith with trust, hope and perseverance.
Isaiah 58 was delivered to religious people who had lost their true love for God. In indictment, Isaiah declares that on the very day of their religious fasting they exploit the helpless. This is worthless religion.
So what is the key to keeping our faith from becoming worthless religion? The answer is to DELIGHT in God Himself.
I would appreciate any thoughts or comments as you read Isaiah 58 and listen to this message.
Take care,
Karl

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January 17, 2010: Jesus, the Bread of Life

Jesus describes Himself as the Bread of Life. In John 6 we find Jesus in conversation with those who were following Him with confused motives. Yes, they wanted to hear Him, but even more than that they saw Jesus as the means toward the end of getting food. As vital a necessity as food is, Jesus Himself is the eternal food that is far more precious. Jesus loved them too much to let them keep their focus there, and a very interesting conversation ensues.
Give John 6 a good read, listen to the message, and please feel free to leave comments and reflections.
God bless,
Karl

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January 10, 2010 - Real Healing

This message is based on The Book of James, Chapter 5, verses 13-20. No matter who you are, the need for healing is something to which we can all relate. This passage challenges us to put our faith in God for all sorts of healing, and to participate in God's healing of others. I'd greatly appreciate any thoughts, comments, or questions in response to this passage or message. May God bless you with great faith and a life filled with prayer. Please feel free to leave comments and reflections.
Karl