Expository Insights with Pastor Lyle Wahl

Ephesians 4:1-6, sermon #11 in a series on the book of Ephesians.Theme: Position and practice are equal partners in healthy faith.The importance of linking and balancing position and practice.“Therefore”—looking back to our position. (1)“Therefore”—looking forward to our practice. (1)Some first steps in linking and balancing practice with position.In your character. (2 a)In your relationships with others. (2 b - 6)

#10 in a series on the book of EphesiansEphesians 3:14-21The Real Divine DesignTheme: God’s design for you is to be spiritually mature.God’s purpose for you.To bring glory to God forever. (21)(see also Isaiah 43:6-7; Matthew 5:16; John 15:8, 17:1-5; Romans 15:5-7; Corinthians 10:31; 2 Corinthians 9:13)God’s goals for you.To be strengthened in the core of your being. (16; (see also 1:17; 2 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Peter 4:11; Revelation 19:1, 21:23)To have Christ at home in your heart. (17; see also Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27)To comprehend and experience the love of Christ. (17-18; see also Romans 5:5)To be filled up to all the fullness of God. (18-19; see also Isaiah 48:8; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 1:23, 4:13; Colossians 3:10)God’s guarantee for you.God is more than able to accomplish His purpose and goals for you. (20, 16; see also 3:20, 4:11-13; Philippians 1:6)God is always at work within you. (20, 16; see also 1:19; 1 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 2:13)

The Privilege of Ministry, #9 in a series on EphesiansTheme: Every believer has the privilege of ministry.Ministry—the basic concepts.Stewardship. (2; see also 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; Colossians 1:25; 1 Peter 4:10)Ministry. (7; see also Acts 20:22-24, 26:16; Romans 15:15-16; 1 Corinthians 12:5; 2 Corinthians 4:1; Colossians 1:23, 25-27, 4:17; 2 Timothy 4:5)Ministry—the essential foundation.A gift of God’s grace. (2, 7, 8)A gift of God’s power. (7; see also 3:20)A part of God’s eternal purpose. (11-12)A call to hardship and suffering. (13; see also Acts 5:41; Philippians 1:29; 2 Timothy 1:12, 2:3; 2 Timothy 2:9-10, 3:12, 4:5)Ministry—the wonderful benefits.For the benefit of others. (2, 4-6, 8, 9, 13)For the benefit of angels. (10)

Peace . . . Real PeaceEphesians 2:11-22Theme: Jesus Christ is our peace.Our pervasive lack of peace.Alienated from God. (12-13, 19)Alienated from each other. (11-12, 14)God’s provision of perfect peace.Peace between God and us. (13, 15-18)Peace between each other. (13, 15-22)

Ephesians 2:1-10It Takes A Miracle! (Part 3)Receiving God’s Miracle.1. God’s motive—His love. (4; see also 5:1-2; John 3:16; Romans 5:6-10; Galatians 2:20; 1 John 4:8-10, 16)2. God’s love in action. (4-5, 7-9) a. God’s kindness. (7) b. God’s mercy. (4; see also Titus 3:4-5) c. God’s grace. (7-9; see also Acts 20:24; Romans 3:24, 6:23; Galatians 1:15; Titus 3:7)3. Receiving God’s miracle—through faith. (8-9) a. Received “through faith.” (8-9; see also Romans 5:1; Philippians 1:29, 3:9) b. There is only one way. (8-9; see also Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 John 5:11-12)

Father's Day 2026Wisdom For FathersProverbs 3:1-12Obey the truth you have been taught.Don’t forget the commands. (1-2)Don’t lose kindness and truth. (3-4)The benefits. (2, 4)Trust, fear and honor God.Trust God, not yourself. (5)Fear God and turn away from evil. (7)Honor God, not yourself. (9)The benefits. (8, 10)Don’t reject, but accept God’s discipline.God’s command. (11)God’s motive. (12)God’s blessings. (see Hebrews 12:6, 11)

It Takes A Miracle! (Part 2)Ephesians 2:1-10God’s Miracle.1. Its transformation. a. From being dead in sin to being alive in Christ. (5; see also 1) b. From being slaves to sin and Satan to being raised up with Christ. (6; see also 2) c. From being condemned before God to being seated in the heavenly places in Christ. (6; see also 3)2. Its privileges. a. Transformed for good works. (10) b. Transformed for displaying God’s glory. (7)

It Takes A Miracle! (Part 1)Why do we need a miracle? Because we are dead in sin. (1)Because we are dominated by Satan and his forces. (2)Because we are slaves to our sinfulness and sins. (2-3)Because we are condemned in our sin. (3)

What Does God Want For You?Ephesians 1:15-23Who is included?Every child of God—based on truth true faith in Jesus Christ. (15)Every child of God—demonstrated by true love for other believers. (15)What is included?A rich personal knowledge of God. (17)A rich certain knowledge of God. (18-23)How is this possible?The means: God’s grace. (17-18)The guarantee: God’s all-powerful strength. (19-23)The personal responsibility: ask God. (16)

Praise God! (Part 3)Ephesians 1:11-14Theme: Praise God for your spiritual blessings. God values you.The believer’s value is seen in the “inheritance.” (11-12, 14)The basis, certainty and goal of the inheritance. (11-13)God keeps you.The Holy Spirit has sealed you for God. (13-14)The Holy Spirit is the pledge of your inheritance. (13-14)

Praise God (Part 2)Ephesians 1:6-10Theme: Praise God for your spiritual blessings. God has showered you with His grace.God’s grace. (6-8)God’s shower of grace. (6-8)God’s grace redeemed you.The picture of redemption. (7-8)The grace of redemption. (7)God’s grace revealed the mystery of His will.The mystery of His will. (8-10)The grace of God’s revelation. (6-10)

Mother's DayMothers To Be PraisedTheme: Praise women who fear the Lord!What does it mean to fear the Lord?Clarifying the phrase. (Proverbs 31:30; cf. Genesis 3:8-10; Job 28:28; Psalm 110:10; Proverbs 1:7; 8:3; 9:10; 14:27; Ecclesiastes 3:14; 12:13; Habakkuk 3:2, 3-16)Clarifying the picture. (Proverbs 31:10-29)How do we respond to women who fear the Lord?Praise them! (Proverbs 31:30)Praise them publically! (Proverbs 31:31)

The first sermon in a series on the book of EphesiansPraise God! (Part 1)Theme: Praise God for your spiritual blessings. Setting the scene.The city of Ephesus.The church at Ephesus.This letter to the church.God has blessed you with every spiritual blessing.“Who, Me?” (1, 3)God’s spiritual blessings are in Christ. (3)God’s spiritual blessings are complete for each believer. (3)God has chosen each believer as His child.The truth. (4-6, 11; see also Matthew 25:34; John 15:16; Acts 13:48; Romans 8:29-30; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:1-2; Deuteronomy 7:6-8)Some practical implications.

Sermon #8, and final sermon, in this series on the book of Esther.You Can Be ConfidentTheme: God’s providence enables you to be confident. The conclusion to faithful service.Celebrating deliverance. (9:20–10:3)Remembering Deliverance. (9:20–10:3)The lessons to remember.God’s providence directs human events. (chapters 1–10)Failure is always serious but does not exclude forgiveness, future opportunities and meaningful service for God. (chapters 2–10)Personal conflicts can cause public problems. (3:1-15)Learn to lean on God. (4:1-17)God brings deliverance through people who trust Him. (8:1–10:3)

Sermon # 7 in a series in the book of Esther.Theme: God brings deliverance through trusting people. God’s places His people where He can use them.The example of Esther and Mordecai. (8:1-2)The exceptions — No One! (cf. John 15:5, 16; Ephesians 2:10)God uses His people when they trust Him.When they trust Him continually. (8:3 ff.)When they trust Him courageously. (8:3 ff., 9:13)God rewards His people when they trust Him.By making them instruments of deliverance. (8:8-14, 9:1-17)By making them instruments of joy. (8:15-17, 9:17-19)

Sermon # 6 in a series on EstherThe Gavel Comes DownTheme: God's providence restrains evil.God’s actions to end Haman’s evil.Insomnia is used to protect Mordecai. (6:1-3)The early bird is gotten by the worm. (6:4-11)Haman’s evil is exposed. (6:14 - 7:8)Haman is “hanged.” (7:9-10)God’s reasons for ending Haman’s evil.The character of God. (cf. Isaiah 6:3; Deuteronomy 7:9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 4:8, 16)The plan of God. (cf. Genesis 12:2-3; Psalm 135:6)The prayers of God’s people. (cf. 4:16; John 15:7)

Easter 2026 ~ The Life ChangerTheme: Jesus changes people forever through His death and resurrection.Why did Christ come?Because we were separated from God. (Leviticus 11:45; Isaiah 43:15; 59:2; John 3:36; Romans 3:23; 6:23; Ephesians 2:12, 15, 16, 19; Colossians 1:21; 2:14)Because only He could save us.What did Christ’s death and resurrection accomplish?The agony and atonement of the cross. (Matthew 26:38, 56; 27:45-46, 50; Mark 15:33-37; Luke 22:44, 54; John 19:25-27, 30; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24-25)The amazing result of the resurrection. (Matthew 25:46; Luke 24:46-47; John 17:13; Acts 4:24-25; 5:31; 17:30-31; Romans 4:24-25; 5:1; 6:4; 7:4; 8:1, 38-39; 1 Corinthians 15:17, 21-23, 42-43; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:6; 4:20; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Peter 1:3)How can we be changed?The example and decision of the disciples. (Matthew 28:16-17; Mark 16:10-14; Luke 24:11-12, 13-53; John 20:3-9, 19-29)The question and decision for us. (Luke 24:11-12; John 14:6; 20:31; Romans 10:9-10)

Palm Sunday 2026Jesus the KingVarious mistaken views of what Jesus meant when He said, “My kingdom is not of this world.”The Jews on the original Palm Sunday. (Matthew 21:1-10)Some others down through church history.Clarification of what Jesus meant when He said, “My kingdom is not of this world.”Jesus is the King. (John 18:36-37; 2 Samuel 7:16; Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 7:13-14; Luke 1:31-33; Philippians 2:9-11; The Revelation 17:14; 19:16)Jesus’ kingdom. (John 18:36-37; Psalm 10:16; 103:19; Jeremiah 10:10; The Revelation 11:15)What does Jesus being king and His kingdom mean for us?We can and are to bow before Him in worship. (1 Chronicles 16:8-36; Isaiah 43:21; Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Philippians 2:10)We can and are to trust Him and submit to Him. (Psalm 62:8; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:10, 16-17; The Revelation 3:13, 19:11, 16)We can and are to be confident because we will be with our Him forever. (John 10:27-30; 14:1, 10, 16; 18; 16:16; Romans 5:17; 6:17-28; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 6:2; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Galatians 5:22; The Revelation 5:9-10; 20:6.

It's Still In His HandsSermon #5 in a series in the book of Esther.Theme: God’s providence directs human events. The King: Moving the immovable object.Making the impossible look easy. (1-2)Breaking down the calloused heart. (3-5)Haman: Giving the fool enough rope to hang himself.Allowing honor to feed his pride. (4-5, 9, 11-12)Opening his eyes to incite his anger. (9, 13)Esther: Guiding the one walking by faith.Granting courage to act. (1-2)Giving sensitivity to God’s timing. (4, 5, 8)

Sermon #4 in a series on the book of EstherLearning to LeanTheme: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.The role crises play in faith.Lack of faith in God in normal day to day situations leaves you ill-prepared for a crisis. (11)In a crisis a choice of faith must be made. (1, 14-16)The route to living by faith.Get things straight with God. (1, 3, 16)Place your confidence in God. (14)Act on your confidence in God. (13-17)

# 3 in a series in the book of EstherTheme: Small personal conflicts can cause big public problems.Mordecai’s personal conflict with Haman.Haman’s background. (1)Haman’s position. (1-2)Mordecai’s problem with Haman. (2-4)Haman’s public campaign against Mordecai.He generalized and exaggerated the issue. (5-6, 10)He plotted the destruction of all the Jews. (7-15)The lessons to remember.Personal conflicts rarely, if ever, remain totally personal.It often is difficult to assess our own personal conflicts.Perseverance and faith in God are the believer’s guide to viewing and handling conflicts.

Sermon #2 in a series on the book of Esther, 2:1-23A summary of the events.The beauty contest is arranged. (1-4)Enter Mordecai and Esther. (5-7)Esther enters and wins the beauty contest. (8-18)Mordecai saves the king. (19-23)An examination of the events.The challenging questions and difficult answers. (8-18)The lessons to remember.

First sermon in a series on the Book of EstherSetting the SceneMain Lesson From The Book:God Is faithful and active to fulfill His purposes and keep His promises.Setting The Scene For The Book.The times.The style, issues and plot.The main lesson.Setting The Scene For Act 1.The main characters, in order of appearance.Feasting and defiance. (1:1-12)Consultation and action. (1:13-22) Lessons To Remember:Pride and power can distort our view and lead to trouble.Our own wisdom can be foolishness.Doing what is right is sometimes punished rather than rewarded.While God is not seen, He is at work.

Four Final ImperativesJames 5:12-20Theme: A living faith transforms the way you live.Simple Honesty.The simple, uncomplicated truth. (12; see also Leviticus 19:12; Deuteronomy 6:13; Matthew 5:33-37; 23:16-22; 26:63-64; Romans 1:9; Hebrews 6:13-14)The simple, loving truth. (Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 4:6)Effective Prayer.The overall Biblical framework. (15-18; 1:5-8; 4:3; Psalm 37:4; 66:18; Proverbs 15:29; Isaiah 59:1-2; Matthew 6:5-13; Mark 11:23-25; John 15:7; Romans 8:26-27; Ephesians 1:11; 6:18; Philippians 4:19; 1 Peter 3:7; 1 John 3:21-22; 5:14-15)Prayer when suffering. (13; see also Psalm 55:22; 2 Corinthians 1:3)Prayer when sick. (14-18; see also 1 Kings 17 & 18)Joyful Praise.Sharpening our focus on praise. (13; see also Psalm 22:22, 25; 40:9-10; 84:2; 111:1; 149:1)Turning up our expression of praise. (13; see also Acts 16:19-26; 27:22, 25; Hebrews 13:15)Loving Correction.The command. (19)The manner. (19-20; see also Galatians 6:1-5)The blessing. (20; see also Psalm 32:1; Proverbs 10:12 Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 11:30; 1 Peter 4:8)

Sermon #10 in a series on the book of JamesBe PatientTheme: A living faith demonstrates patience.The Picture of Patience.What it is not.What it is. (7, 8, 10, 11; see also Genesis 8:22; Isaiah 7:13; Matthew 24:27; John 13:34-35; Acts 26:3; Romans 2:4; 9:22; 1 Corinthians 13:4; 1 Timothy 1:15-16; 1 Peter 2:19-23)The Priority of Patience.Commanded by God. (7, 8; see also Psalm 37:7-9; James 4:17)Indispensable to true, living faith. (7, 11; see also Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 11:1; James 1:2-4)The Process of Patience.Personal responsibilities. (8, 9; see also Ephesians 4:29; 6:10-11; 1 Peter 5:10)God’s provision. (11)

Sermon #9 in a series on the book of James.Theme: A living faith replaces self-sufficiency with submission and service.A living faith moves from independent to submissive planning.The problem of independent planning. (4:13-14, 16; see also Proverbs 27:1; Luke 14:25-33; John 4:34; 6:38; 8:28; 12:26; 1 Corinthians 4:1; James 1:1)The attitude and practice of submissive planning. (4:15, 17; see also Matthew 6:10)A living faith moves from selfish use of possessions to service through possessions.Examples of this selfishness. (5:4-6; see also Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14-15; Matthew 5:42; 6:19-24; Luke 10:7; 1 Timothy 5:18; James 1:27; 2:15-17; 1 John 3:15)Effects of this selfishness. (5:1b-3; see also Ecclesiastes 2:11)Elimination of this selfishness. (5:1; 4-6; see also Proverbs 23:4-5; Matthew 6:19-21; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:28; Philippians 1:6, 10; 1 John 1:9)

Church FightsSermon #8 in a series in the book of JamesTheme: A living faith defeats conflict.Describing the problem.The nature and source. (1; see also 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 2:3-4, 14; Colossians 3:12)The dynamics. (2-3; see also Matthew 5:21-22; 6:11; John 16:24; James 1:5-7; 1 John 3:15; 5:14)Rebuking the problem.It is a form of spiritual adultery. (4; see also Isaiah 57:3; Jeremiah 3:9; 20; 5:7; Ezekiel 16:31; 28:37; Hosea 4:13; Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:17-19)It disregards God’s jealousy and grace. (4-6; see also Exodus 20:5; 34:14; Deuteronomy 4:24; 5:9; 6:15; Joshua 24:19; Psalm 138:6; Proverbs 3:34; Matthew 23:12; Romans 5:20; 1 Peter 5:5)Solving the problem.Return to God. (17; see also Hebrews 4:16; 10:22)Resist Satan. (7; see also Ephesians 6:10-18; Jude 1:9)Restore purity and humility. (8-10; see also 1 Corinthians 11:31; Ephesians 4:29)Refrain from being a critic and judge. (11-12; see also Matthew 7:1; 18:15-20; Luke 17:3; John 7:24; Romans 14:1-23; 1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 2:15)

Wisdom - True or False?Sermon #7 in a series on the book of JamesTheme: True wisdom leads to peaceful, righteous living.The challenge and test of true wisdom.You can and should have true wisdom. (13; see also 1:5)True wisdom is demonstrated in daily life. (13b)The portrait of false wisdom.The telling signs. (14, 16a)The true character. (15)The tragic results. (16b)The portrait of true wisdom.The true character. (17)The tremendous results. (18; see also 13)

Tongue Control, #6 in a series in James, 3:1-12Theme: Controlled speech is an essential indicator of spiritual maturity.The challenge of controlling your speech.Based in its untamed and untamable nature. (7-8; see also Matthew 12:34-35; 15:18-19; Jeremiah 17:9)Seen in its inconsistent and contradictory nature. (9-12)The damage from not controlling your speech.The small thing boasts of great things. (5; see also Psalm 19:1-4a; Romans 1:20-23)This fire from hell sets great fires. (5-6)This restless evil and potent poison defiles the entire body. (6-8)The Importance Of Controlling Your Speech.Essential to leadership. (1)Essential to spiritual maturity. (2-4; see also 1 John 1:8)

Saving Faith Works, #5 in a series in the book of JamesJames 2:14-26Theme: A saving faith is a working faith.The problem—faulty faith.Identifying the central issue. (14)Illustrating the central issue. (14-17, 20, 26)The solution—saving faith.It is more than belief. (19-25; see also Matthew 8:28)It is made visible by works. (18-26; see also Genesis 15:1-20; 22:1-19)It is completed by works. (22, 26; see also Ephesians 1:3; 2:10; Philippians 2:14; 1 Timothy 6:18; 2 Timothy 2:21; 3:16-17; Titus 3:1, 8, 14)

Sermon #4 in a series on the book of JamesTheme: A living faith replaces partiality with love.The total rejection of partiality.The clear statement. (1; see also Deuteronomy 1:16-17; 10:17; Romans 2:11)The clear example. (2-4; see also Ephesians 4:1-3)The tragic results of partiality.Become evil-motivated judges of others. (4; see also Romans 14:1-23; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; Galatians 5:14-15)Become inconsistent. (5-7)Become sinful lawbreakers. (9-11)The only replacement for partiality.Fulfill the royal law. (8; see also Matthew 10:16; Luke 10:25-27)Live by the law of liberty. (12-13; Romans 6:22; 14:10-12; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 13:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Galatians 5:1)

Christmas EveThe conclusion of the Advent Series, Jesus Is . . .Earlier episodes were Jesus is . . . The Breath of Life The Remarkable Redeemer The Wonder of Wonders The Light of the WorldAnd now, Jesus is the Glory of Christmas

Sermon #4 in Advent Series, Jesus Is . . . The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin.Darkness and creation. (Genesis 1:2-5; cf. Isaiah 45:7; Jeremiah 31:35; 2 Corinthians 4:6)Darkness and fallen creation. (Isaiah 5:20; 16:11; Romans 3:10; 6:17; 2 Corinthians 4:4; 11:14; Ephesians 2:1; 5:8; Colossians 1:13; 1 John 5:19; Revelation 20:11-15)The light of the world is Jesus.Jesus is the Light. (Psalm 104:1-2; John 1:1-5, 9; 8:12; 9:5; 1 Timothy 6:16; 1 John 1:5)Jesus brings light. (Psalm 18:28; 36:9; 110:105, 130; 139:11-12; Isaiah 9:2 cp. Matthew 4:16; Isaiah 42:6; Matthew 15:14-16; John 3:19-21; 11:9; 12:36, 46; Acts 26:18; Romans 13:12; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 5:8-9; Colossians 1:12; 1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 22:5)

The third message in the Advent series, "Jesus Is . . . "The testimony of people who saw and heard Jesus.Some examples. (Matthew 1:18-25; 7:28-29; 8:27; 9:33; 13:54-58; 19:25; 22:22; 27:14, 54; Mark 1:27; 6:51; 15:5, 39; Luke 1:26-38, 42-43; 2:19, 33; 4:32; 9:32; 20:26)What amazed them. (Matthew 8:27; 12:23; 13:54; Mark 2:1-12; 6:2; 9:8, 15; John 7:15)The facts of who Jesus is and what He accomplished.Jesus is Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14; 41:10; Matthew 1:20-23; 28:20; John 1:14; 14:16-20; 17:24; Acts 18:9-10; Romans 8:38-39; Hebrews 13:5; 1 John 5:20; Revelation 21:1-5)Jesus provides salvation. (Romans 6:23; 8:28-30; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Galatians 4:4-5; Ephesians 1:4-6; 2:8-10; 4:30)

Second Sunday of AdventRemarkable RedeemerJesus is the RedeemerThe basic idea of redemption. (Psalm 51:5; John 8:34; Romans 3:20, 23; 5:12 f.)God, the Redeemer, provides redemption. (Psalm 19:14; Isaiah 44:6; Mark 10:45; Luke 1:68-69; 2:29-32; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 5:19)Jesus redeems us from…Sin. (Romans 3:24 with 6:7, 14; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 2:15)Being under the Law and its curse. (Galatians 3:13; 4:5; Deuteronomy 21:23; 28:15-68)From Satan’s realm of darkness. (Galatians 1:4; Colossians 1:13; 1 John 5:19)Futility. (Galatians 4:8; 1 Peter 1:18; Ecclesiastes 1:2, 13-14, 17; 2:11, 17 etc.)Jesus redeems us to…Forgiveness of our sins. (Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:77-78; Acts 2:38; 10:43; Romans 10:13; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; 1 John 1:9)Being justified and righteous. (Romans 3:24, 28; 4:5; 5:9, 17, 18, 19; 6:18; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 2:6; Ephesians 4:24; Philippians 3:9)Everlasting life. (John 3:15-16, 36; 6:40; 10:27-29; 17:37; Romans 5:21; 6:22-23; Colossians 1:13; 1 Timothy 1:16; 1 John 5:11)Being under grace. (John 1:14, 16-17; Acts 20:24, 32; Romans 5:2, 21; 6:14-15; 2 Corinthians 9:14; 2 Timothy 2:1; 2 Peter 3:18)Purity. (Ephesians 1:4; 5:25-27; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2:5; 1 John 3:3; Revelation 20:6)The Holy Spirit being within us. (John 14:16-17, 26; Romans 8:9; Galatians 3:14; Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30)Serving God. (Romans 6:13, 18; 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 4:1; 2 Corinthians 3:6; Ephesians 4:7-16; Titus 2:10, 14; 1 Peter 4:10)

Sermon #1 in 2025 Advent SeriesJesus is the Breath of Life.The fact. (John 1:4; 5:21, 26; 14:6)Exploring the fact. (Genesis 21:33; Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 90:2; John 8:57-58; 1 Timothy 6:16; Revelation 1:8; 22:13)Jesus gives the Breath of Life.He spoke creation into being. (Genesis 1:1, 3, 6, 9, etc.; John 1:1-3, 10; 8:57-58; 1 Corinthians 8:6, Colossians 1:16-17; Revelation 1:8; 22:13)He shaped and breathed life into Adam. (Genesis 1:26-27; 2:7, 19, 21-22; Acts 17:24-29)He gives eternal life. (John 3:16; 11:21-27; 14:6; 17:3; Romans 6:23; see also Ephesians 2:10; 4:7-8; 5:27; Philippians 4:13; 2 Peter 1:2-4, etc.)

God's Word - A Matter of Life and BreathTheme: God's Word energizes your life.A picture of worthless faith.Self-deception of knowing without doing. (19-22, 26)Carelessness of seeing without remembering. (23-24)A picture of Word-energized faith.Receiving God’s Word humbly. (21)Studying God’s Word intently. (25)Living God’s Word effectively. (19-22, 25, 27)

Life in the Torture Chamber of TemptationsJames 1:13-18; 1 Corinthians 10:13God’s perspective for our temptations.Watch out for self-deception. (13, 16-18)Recognize the primary factor in the desire to sin. (14)Be fully aware of the process for sin. (14-15)God’s provision for our temptations. 1 Corinthians 10:13God will never allow you to experience anything you cannot move through with him, without sin, and without being crushed.God will always provide the way for you to handle every temptation without sin.

Life in the Pressure Cooker of TrialsWhen trials put the pressure on…What you need to know.Testing of faith produces endurance. (3; see also Romans 5:3-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7)Endurance is essential to maturity. (4; see also Romans 5:3-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7)Perseverance will be rewarded. (12; see also Matthew 6:19-21; Romans 5:3-4; Colossians 3:1; 1 Peter 1:6-7)What you need to do.Adopt the right attitude. (2)Ask God for wisdom. (5-8; Romans 4:20-21; Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37)Keep yourself in perspective. (9-11; see also Ephesians 1:3)

The End of the BeginningExodus 35:1–40:38Four Principles for Living and Working with God:God gifts His people for serving Him.The people of Israel building the Tabernacle. (35:30–36:2; see also 31:1-6)The people of the church. (Romans 12:1-8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31; see also Ephesians 1:19; 3:7, 20-21; 4:7-16; Philippians 2:13; Colossians 1:29; 1 Peter 4:10-11)God’s people are to obey Him completely.To obey His commands. (35-40; 24:3, 7; Leviticus 19:37; Deuteronomy 8:1; 11:1; John 14:15; 2 Corinthians 2:9)To do His work His way. (compare chapters 25-31 with 35-40; 39:32, 42-43; 35:1-3; cf. 25:8-9, 40; 26:30; 31:32, 42-43; see also 1 Corinthians 14:40; 2 Corinthians 9:6-12; Ephesians 6:10-20)God’s people are to bless others and their faithful work.Moses’ example. (39:43)Our practice. (Romans 16:10-15, 23; Philippians 1:15-18; 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4; 3 John 12)God demonstrates His approval with His presence and direction.To Moses and all Israel. (40:34-38; see also 25:8-9)To us. (see Psalm 90:17; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

Revelations from RebellionExodus 32:1 -34:5A Stark Contrast.The people quickly deserting God. (32:1-10; see also Galatians 1:6-9)Moses steadfastly holding to God. (32:11-35; 33:7-23; 34:9, 29-32)A Solid Constant.God being faithful to His promises. (32:10, 27-28, 35; see also Genesis 8:22; 12:1-3; Exodus 19:5; Leviticus 26:14-33; Deuteronomy 28:1-68; Malachi 3:6; 2 Timothy 2:13; James 1:17)God being faithful to His people. (32:27-28, 33-34; 33:1-23; 34:10)

Sermon #18 in a series on the book of ExodusWorshiping ImmanuelThe Tabernacle’s Importance.To Israel. (25:1-2, 8-9, 21-22, 40; 26:30; 29:45-46; see also 26:9; 27:21; 39:22; Numbers 9:15; 1 Kings 8:27; Hebrews 8:1-5; 9:11-12)In Scripture.The Tabernacle’s Design.Materials. (25:1-9)Elements. (25:10–27:21; 30:1-10, 17-38; see also Leviticus 24:4; John 1:29; 8:12; 10:9; 14:6; Romans 8:34; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrews 7:25; 9:11-12)Priests. (28:1–29:46)Builders. (31:1-11)Support. (25:1-2; 30:11-16)The Tabernacle’s Value Today.It pictures worshiping Immanuel, God who is with us. (25:8, 22; see also John 1:14; Revelation 3:20; 21:3)It pictures worshiping our holy, majestic and sovereign God. (25:1–31:18; see also Leviticus 10:1-7) It pictures worshiping Christ for His salvation. (Leviticus 16:1-34; 23:26-32; Numbers 29:7-11; see also Hebrews 7:23-27; 8:1-6; 9:1-14, 27–10:4, 11-14)It pictures worshiping God freely and generously. (25:1-7; see also 3:21-22; 11:2; 12:35-35; 1 Chronicles 29:14; 2 Corinthians 9:7)

Thanksgiving 2025Let Us Give ThanksGive thanks to God because He cares for our hurts and pains.A few examples of our hurts and pains. (2, 3, 6)God’s care for our hurts and pains. (2-6)Give thanks to God because He supplies our physical needs.A few examples of our physical needs. (8-9, 13-18)God’s care for our physical needs. (8-9, 13-18)Give thanks to God because He meets our spiritual needs.God acts and speaks. (19-20)God showers His people with lovingkindness. (10-11)

Sermon #17 in a Series on ExodusExodus 20:22 - 24:17The LawGod’s Law for Israel.The foundation and function. (20:1-17, 20; see also Genesis 2:16-17; 15:6; Leviticus 19:2, 19, 27-28; Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 4:3)The features. (20:22–23:33)God’s Law for Us.1. Stating some relevant truths: • law and grace. (Exodus 34:6; Leviticus 19:2; Deuteronomy 32:4; John 14:34; Romans 3:4, 31; 5:1-2; 6:15; 10:4; Galatians 6:2; James 2:8) • covenant and new covenant. (Exodus 19:5; Luke 22:20)2. Synthesizing the relevant truths. (Genesis 15:6; John 1:29; Ephesians 2:8-9; Hebrews 9:11-12; 10:10; 1 Peter 1:18-19)God’s challenge for Everyone.For Israel then. (24:1-18; see also 20:20)For us today. (Deuteronomy 27:10; Matthew 28:20; Luke 14:16-33; John 3:14-16; 14:6, 15; 15:10; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:23; 6:23; 10:9-10; 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 12:3; 1 Peter 3:15)

Sermon #16 in a series on the book of ExodusPositive NegativesCommandments six through ten.#6: You shall not murder. (13; see also 21:12-14; Genesis 4:3-15; 9:6; Matthew 5:21-22; 1 John 3:15)#7: You shall not commit adultery.(14; see also Genesis 2:24; Leviticus 20:10; Deuteronomy 22:22; Matthew 5:27-28; 15:19; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 10:5)#8: You shall not steal. (15; see also 22:1-15; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5; Malachi 3:8-10; Ephesians 4:28; James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17-18)#9: You shall not bear false witness. (16; see also 23:1-3, 6-7; Leviticus 5:1; 19:11-12; Deuteronomy 19:16-20; Ephesians 4:15, 25; Colossians 3:8-10)#10: You shall not covet. (16; see also Psalm 68:16; 1 Timothy 3:1; James 1:13-15)The response to and positive value of the Ten Commandments.Israel. (18-21; see also 32:1-10; Numbers 11:1-35; 13:1–14:45; 16:1-50, etc.)Ourselves.

Remember and Honor#15 in a series on the book of Exodus, 12:8-12.Remember the Sabbath.The basic nuts and bolts. (8-11; see also 16:5, 22-30; 23:12; 31:12-17; Genesis 2:1-3 Leviticus 16:31; 23:3, 32; Deuteronomy 5:12-15)The implications for Israel. (10; see also 31:14-15; 35:2-3; Numbers 15:30-36; Nehemiah 13:15-22; Isaiah 58:13-14; Jeremiah 17:19-27; Ezekiel 20:10-26; Luke 23:56 - 24:1)The implications for us. (Acts 13:13 ff; 17:1-2; 20:7; Romans 14:5-6; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; Galatians 4:8-10; Colossians 2:16-17; Hebrews 10:25; Revelation 1:10)Honor your Parents.The command to honor. (12; see also Leviticus 19:3; Deuteronomy 5:16; 21:18-21; 27:16; Proverbs 1:8; 4:10-11; 6:20-22; 23:22; 28:24; 30:11, 17; Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:4-9; Luke 2:51; John 19:26-27; Ephesians 6:1-3; Colossians 3:20; 1 Timothy 5:3-16)The blessing with the command. (12; see also Deuteronomy 5:16; Ephesians 6:2)

Putting God First# 14 in a series on the book of ExodusTheme: Putting God first means giving Him exclusive supremacy.No other Gods.Clearing up the language. (3)Exploring the implications. (3; see also Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 6:19-24; 22:36-38)No idols.What idols? (4; see also 25:18-20; 32:1-10; Deuteronomy 4:15-16)Why no idols? (4-5)Results of our response to this commandment. (5-6; see also Deuteronomy 24:16; Ezekiel 18:4, 20; John 14:15, 21, 23)No misuse of God’s name.Clarifying the language. (7; see also 23:1; Ezekiel 39:25; Matthew 5:33-37; 23:16-23)Guarding our language. (7; see also Ephesians 4:29; James 3:3-12)

Sermon #13 in a series on the book of Exodus.Exodus 19:1-25Getting our bearings. 1. An overview of the events. (1-25) 2. What’s going on here? a. God’s premise. (3-6, 9-13, 20-24; see also Deuteronomy 4:31-33; 32:9-11; Psalm 115:3; 135:6) b. God’s promises. (5-6; see also Deuteronomy 7:6) c. God’s conditions. (5)Gleaning truth for ourselves. 1. God chooses, saves by His sovereign grace. (Deuteronomy 7:6-8; 10:14-15; John 15:16, 19; Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 1:14) 2. God is faithful to His promises. (Exodus 3:12; Deuteronomy 4:31; 7:6-8; 1 Corinthians 1:4-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 10:23) 3. God commands and blesses faithful obedience. (5-6, 10-11; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15; 4:1-5) 4. God, who draws us close, must be respected and reverenced. (12-13, 21, 23-24; see also Deuteronomy 4:23-24; Ecclesiastes 5:1-7; Isaiah 57:15; Matthew 1:23; Ephesians 2:13; 1 Timothy 6:15-16; Hebrews 10:19-22; 12:28-29)

Leadership 101Sermon #12 in a series on the Book of ExodusExodus 18:1-27A textbook example of the need for good, godly leadership.A family reunion enjoyed. (1-12, 27)A leadership problem exposed. (13-18)A textbook example of good, godly leadership.Some personal qualities. (Fear God; able; truthful; hate dishonest gain; respectful and humble; Take interest in and praise God for what He is doing in others)Some leadership qualities. (Called by God; focus on gifts, abilities and role; teach and develop other leaders; Share leadership in an organized team)

Forever Faithful, #11 in a series on the book of ExodusTheme: God is forever faithful for His glory and our good.Faithful when we are not.To Israel when they grumbled and quarreled with God. (15:22-27; 16:1-36; 17:1-7; see also Psalm 78:14-33; 105:40; 106:6-15; 1 Corinthians 10:3-4, 10)To us when we complain and grumble. (Romans 2:4; 6:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:10; 2 Timothy 2:13; James 5:9; 1 John 1:9)Faithful when we are.To Israel in the battle with the Amalakites. (17:8-16; see also Deuteronomy 25:17-18)To us in all of our battles. (1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 2:14; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Philippians 1:6; 4:19; Hebrews 10:23; James 1:2-8; 1 John 5:1-5)Faithful with a purpose.To bring glory to Himself. (16:6-7, 9-10; see also 29:38-46; Numbers 14:20-23)To care for us. (15:25-27; 16:4, 8, 12 ff.; 17:5-6; see also Deuteronomy 2:7; Philippians 4:19)To teach, test and discipline us so we can grow in faith and faithfulness. (15:25-26; 16:5, 19-30; see also 20:20; Deuteronomy 8:1-6)