river city vineyard

We practice a center-set approach to ministry. We are discerning the values toward which our community is drawn in this season. 

Are we lawyers or prophets? Will we retreat into religious legalism or serve as the prophetic conscience of our culture? Which way does Jesus lead us?

What is the meaning of Lent? What are we to do?

In a center set approach to ministry, the authority is found in the values at the center toward which all in the community are encouraged to move toward. Along with prioritizing relationship over rules, the values at the center hold things together in a center-set community.

How do we live in the moment united with God?

Merry Christmas. Our world is in desperate need of change. What can we who follow Jesus do to help?

Part of the salt and the light we are to share with the world is Peacemaking. In light of the outbreak of hostility in the Middle East, we want to encourage others to come along with our community in the pursuit of reconciliation and a just peace between Palestine and Israel.

Our community has been on an adventure of reading A More Christlike God  by Bradley Jersak. We have been covering one chapter a week. Each week’s conversation is directed by one of our teaching leaders followed by comments and questions by our in-person and on-line community.

Our purpose for this journey with Bradley has been to make sure we are telling the best story of the Good News of Jesus. We have noticed that too often we leave the basic story line of the Bible and begin to add particular theological explanations which at times twists the story of Good News into Bad News, from a beautiful story to something much less than beautiful.

We want to do our best to pass along the Good and  the Beautiful news of Jesus to our families, friends, and neighbors.

Self-denial in the Gospel is not meant to be an end in itself.  What does self-denial for the sake of following Jesus look like?

We are preparing for Lent. This morning we are suggesting a Community Rhythm of Prayer for the Lenten Season. All are welcome to join in prayer with us. Let us know if you do by writing inquire@rcvineyard.org.

How do we live the peace of Christ internally and externally? Here are a few ideas.

Without darkness we cannot recognize light. In a similar way we cannot know  hope without experiencing hopelessness. We will step into the pit of despair this morning so that we may experience the hope of Messiah

We want to continue the ministry of Jesus by serving the poor. We, also, have a wonderful heritage in the Vineyard of service to the poor. As we move toward owning a home close to a neighborhood of obvious need, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to empower us for service to others.

After a season of discernment, we have a future idea of moving closer to our neighbors and serving with the love and care of Jesus. 

A dead person raised from death to life is spectacular. Nothing compares to the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. However, there is so much happening in the cross and the resurrection worthy of taking note. Give a listen. Hope you are encouraged. 

May I have permission to rename the Triumphal Entry? This Palm Sunday I suggest the Courageous Entry. I think I have good reason to do that. Please listen and share what you think. 

When disoriented remember who God has shown himself to be, and move forward trusting in him. 

Jesus brought Good News to our world. We must never allow this Good News to be coopted for any purpose other than the purpose of his kingdom.

God is love. His message is love. His method is love. He sent Jesus because he loves all of humanity. He saves us and forgives us because he loves us. May we respond to him in love.

Is it time for our community to move from disorientation toward reorientation?