Circumcision, Baptism, and the Covenant of Grace

Today Pastor Mark delivers his last sermon as our Senior Pastor. Based in Philippians 1, Pastor Mark reflects upon these few verses within the context of his leading our congregation over the past many years. Mark shares, that like Paul, two main reasons for thanksgiving: the joy of the gospel partnership and the assurance of completion.

Today Pastor Mark delivers the last sermon from our study in Romans. Consider with us the essence of the gospel that make God worthy of glory and moves believers to praise. The gospel: strengthens believers; is about Jesus Christ; is revealed by God through the prophets; and is for all nations.

As we near the end of our study in Romans, today Pastor Mark leads us through his penultimate sermon of this series. Consider with us the idea of contending with evil in this section of chapter 16. Mark offers from this passage a word of warning, a word of advice, and a word of hope.

In our continuing study of Romans today Pastor Mark leads us through the rest of chapter 15. Consider with us four characteristics of gospel-driven disciples: responsive to God's gospel mission; God-glorifying in their kingdom work; eager to share the gospel with the unreached; and humbly reliant on the power of prayer.

In our continuing study of Romans today Pastor Mark leads us through the remaining portion of chapter 14 and the first half of chapter 15 in the continued theme of unity in the church despite disagreeing on "disputable matters". Consider with us four principles for how to live in unity: 1) not causing fellow believers to stumble; 2) maintaining proper Kingdom priorities; 3) discerning the disputable matters; and 4) following the selflessness of Christ.

In our continuing series in Romans Pastor Mark leads us through the first half of chapter 14. Consider with us in light of divisions and polarizing ideas that those in Christ are to accept (welcome into one's heart) those whose faith is weak (i.e., whose consciences are more restrictive) without quarreling (arguing, passing judgment) over disputable matters (adiaphora, ἀδιάφορα). The reasons for following this command include: 1) God has accepted those who are in Christ; 2) All live under the lordship of Christ; and 3) God alone is the true judge.

In our continuing study of Romans today Pastor Mark leads us through the first part of chapter 13. Consider with us three principles regarding how Christians should relate to the government: that governing (civil) authorities are established by God for our good; that we are to submit to the governing authorities; and that our submission is not absolute.

Today in our continuing study of Romans Pastor Mark leads us through the last part of chapter 12. Regarding contending with evil consider with us the tree main ways Paul urges to overcome evil with good: by loving one another; through zeal; and striving for peace.

In our continuing study of Romans, today Pastor Mark leads us through the second verse of chapter 2. Consider with us the two-part command, not to conform to the pattern of this world (age, era, zeitgeist) but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, which will result in being able to test and to approve what God's will is.

Today in our continuing study of Romans Pastor Mark leads us to consider the first verse of chapter 12. Consider with us the four truths about the life of sacrifice for Christians: it involves the body; it is a living sacrifice; it is holy and pleasing to God; and it is offered in response to God's mercy.