River Oaks Church Sermons

A sermon on Psalm 2 by Dr. Ben Shaw. Application questions: How do we plot against the Lord, even unintentionally? In what ways do we consider the word of the Lord to be bondage? How do we demonstrate in our daily lives that we serve the Lord and subject ourselves to the reign of Christ? Do we pray for the coming of his kingdom, recognizing that that coming includes both blessing and judgment? Reflect on this quote from the English poet and preacher John Donne: "Kiss the Son." That is, embrace him, depend upon him all these ways: as thy kinsman, as thy sovereign; at thy going, at thy coming; at thy reconciliation, in the truth of religion in thyself, in a peaceable unity with the church, in a reverent estimation of those men, and those means, whom he sends.

A sermon on the "amor of God" in Ephesians 6:10-24, by Greg Lanier. Application questions: Why does Paul end this letter by discussing spiritual warfare and the “schemes of the devil”?  How often do you think about spiritual warfare? Do you see Satan and power of darkness as a real enemy in your day-to-day?  Read Isa 59:14-20. How is God depicted as a mighty warrior? Where do you see elements of this description in the text of Ephesians?  Walk through the elements of armor that Paul describes. Assess your own armor’s condition. Where do you need to strengthen your armor to be able to stand firm in the fight?  Spend time praying for each other to be able to stand firm in spiritual conflict. 

A sermon on Paul's teaching on servants/masters and vocation by David Camera. Application questions: Do people have a generally positive or negative view of work today? What are some unhealthy and even sinful ways we can view work? How are we to serve those in authority over us according to Paul? Look up Leviticus 25:39-46; Deut. 15:12-18 and 1 Timothy 1:10. How is the slavery mentioned here different than slavery in general in the historical context of the Bible? Identify the statements Paul makes that undermine slavery. Whom are we ultimately serving as Christian workers? What is our motivation to work and to serve according to the passage? What is to be the manner and motive behind our work? Paul says “masters do the same.” Does he mean that masters are to serve their servants? How did masters normally ensure obedience from their slaves? How does Paul motivate masters (those in authority) to treat their servants (employees fairly?) Paul maintains a distinction between slaves and masters (i.e. becoming a Christian doesn’t eradicate all roles) yet he does assert the equality of all Christians before God. How does he do this in the passage? What principles would you apply from this passage to the modern work place?

A sermon on obedience to parents by David Camera. Application questions: Describe your home-life growing up.   What was most important to your parents?  How did they discipline, or not?  What did you learn from their example, either positively or negatively?  Were you an obedient or rebellious child and how did your parents deal with you?  How do you see the influence of your parents on you today?  What is the command given to children here, and what are the reasons/motivations provided?  How are we to understand and apply the promise attached to the fifth commandment?  Look up Romans 1:28-32; 2 Timothy 3:1-5. How important is the fifth commandment and why according to Paul?  What can we infer about our children from the fact that Paul addresses children in the church at Ephesus?  Look back to Ephesians 5:15-21. How is the order of the Christian home connected to Paul’s overall point in this section?  What are the commands given to fathers in this section?  How can fathers provoke their children by their parenting?  What are to be the priorities of Christian parenting? (nb. “bring them up” is the same verb translated “nourishes” in 5:29)  Read Deut. 6:4-8. What does Paul mean by the discipline and instruction of the Lord?  How has this passage impacted your view of the importance of family for the church and society?  If you are a parent, what changes can you make to your parenting in light of this passage?  How is obedience to parents and act of faith on the part of children?

A sermon on biblical submission by Cody Brobst. Application questions: How does the idea of “submission” as a positive thing affect your view of difficult texts in Scripture? Where did the negativity around this come from?  Why does Paul go out of his way in v. 22 to name your “own” husbands?  As Christ humbly yields to the church, so she submits “in everything” to her husband. What does this not mean?  If one’s husband is the “head” (leader, authority for provision and protection), what practical things often come to mind for how this can work out in a household?  Where does Paul go with it? Where does this Christ/husband analogy fall short?  How does a husband’s sacrifice play a role in sanctifying his wife? Doesn’t she play a role in sanctifying him? What’s Paul trying to say about the Gospel (hint: Christ’s giving up of himself makes something possible for the church)?  In verse 29, nourishes & cherishes can also be translated feeds & cares. What is the opposite of this?   How can authority & submission be misused? If you had knowledge that someone in your circles was being explicitly (not just debatably) abused in their home, what might you first say or do?  In light of v. 31, flip to Genesis 2:18-25 together where this is being quoted verbatim. What all do you observe in the passage? What institutional patterns are set forth at creation in the first wedding so to speak.  What mystery is profound? What is mysterious?   Since Christ & the church are not made one the same way a husband & wife are made one, in what sense is Christ our “Husband” (Isaiah 54, Hosea 1-3, Rev. 21) and in what sense is He not?  In C.S. Lewis’ “Four Loves” he talks of the Greeks naming   With this summary statement, Paul ends how he begins—love & respect. Why do you think respect is the particular word for wives & love for husbands? Think about Genesis 3:16-17 and where our various temptations may lie.  How can we at River Oaks encourage struggling married couples well? Those who are single, widowed or divorced? Children looking to the future? 

A sermon on Paul's exhortations about mature Christian "walking" by Pastor Greg Lanier. Application questions: Where are you most allured by what the world has to offer? How does Paul’s statement, “the days are evil,” correct this temptation to put hope in the world?  Some English translations (rightly) render v16 as “redeem the time.” Why is Paul's word choice interesting? What does it mean that time is a resource/commodity that can be spent, invested, or wasted?  Take stock on your relationship to time. Where are you most prone to waste time in unhelpful/un-restorative ways? How can you work on “buying back time” from the world that constantly wants your attention?  What are some practical ways you can grow in “understanding the Lord’s will” (v17)? How can other Christians be a helpf here?  Why is singing a valuable way to grow in walking a Spirit-filled life? Where can you improve your listening habits so that you are putting in Scripturally-sound singing?  Why is “submitting to one another” an important part of growing in Christian maturity? 

A sermon on the Christian walk by David Camera. Application questions: How would you explain your identity to someone? (Who are you?)  What has the Apostle been teaching about since 4:1? To whom are these verses directed?  How is 5:1 connected to 4:32?  How does Paul describe Christians in this section? How should our identity impact our activity?  Why should Christians imitate the character of God?  What specifically is Paul teaching we should emulate?  How would you summarize the way Christians are to relate to one another according to vs. 1-6?  Look at verse 6. In light of verses 3-5, what could the deception Paul warns against be about?  How is it possible that some people were saying God doesn’t care how we live? How would you summarize the way the church is to relate to the world according to verses 7-14?  How does the world typically react when the church pursues holiness?  Should people outside the church expect Christians to live differently?   Are there ways in which your life imitates the world more than God? How will you practically pursue holiness in those areas? 

A sermon on the new life in Christ by David Camera. Application questions: If someone asked you why we should pursue a holy life, how would you answer?  How does 4:25-32 flow from vs. 4:22-24?  Why do you think there is so much on the use of our words in this section?  List the pairs of vices and virtues Paul commands us to "put off and put on.  Read Psalm 4. What is David's situation? In light of the Psalm, what does Paul mean by “be angry and do not sin?"  How does holding on to anger give an opportunity to the devil?  How is laziness a form of thievery?  From the context, what does Paul teach grieves the Holy Spirit?  From this passage, how would you describe what Biblical repentance entails? 

A sermon on the defeat of death and the hope of resurrection by Cody Brobst. Trigger warning: The introduction to this sermon discusses the death of an infant. Also, an illustration is used that deals with suicide.   Application questions: Why is facing the reality of death generally difficult for us? Think of personal examples of people in your life whom you have lost and the reasons it was hard.  Why is “the sting of death” really the “sting of sin” (v. 56)?  Is Satan responsible for this sting? After all He was the venomous snake who planted the idea in Adam & Eve’s minds in the Garden of Eden, right?  Have you considered that you have victory over death too & not just Jesus (v. 57)?  If the Bible describes plenty about the second resurrection and Christ’s victorious return, why do you think Paul calls it a mystery (vv. 51-52)?   What various details as you think about Heaven, your new body & the return of Christ do you feel relatively in the dark about? Why do you think God did not see fit to include all of that in our Bibles?  Where else in life have you struggled to accept God’s timeline?  Paul drawing from Hosea 13 & Isaiah 25 goes into sayings that provide not just a judgement but a taunt or mockery of death (vv. 54-56). React to that.  Do you think it’s healthy to exercise humor around something so serious?  How would our Christian identity as offensive conquerors in a war through Christ (Rom. 8) empower us to not be afraid of death?  Death is a thing not a person, so who are we actually fighting against? (Hint: see above commentary from v. 56)  Our victory is imperishable, immortal and immovable. Notice the first two are futuristic realities while the third is taking place now in light of the future. Paul says “therefore *be* immovable” (v. 58). What immovable images come to mind?  How can we be like a tree planted by streams of water? What cultural or worldly forces make us movable?  Paul tells us to be steadfast & immocable in the “work” of the Lord and that our “labor” is not in vain. So how are your various vocations/callings informed by the victory we have in Christ? That one day we will be raised?  Imagine the next time you are at a funeral, in the hospital bed, reading a painful news headline on a Tuesday afternoon. How does this passage shape what you will remember to reflect on and the attitude you intend to have? 

A sermon on the nature of the resurrection body by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: What analogies does Paul draw to prove the reality of a future resurrection of our bodies? If you had to describe our resurrection bodies from this passage, how would you describe them? Since we will bear the full image of Jesus when we are resurrected, his body is the pattern of our future bodies. Look up Luke 24:36-43. Describe Jesus’ resurrected body. There are those who treat their bodies harshly (ascetics) and those who almost worship their bodies as ultimate. How would you correct both extremes from this passage? Are there ways that you view and treat your own body that need correcting? How should we view our current bodies from a biblical perspective? Look again at vss. 42-44. Is there a connection between who we are now and who we will be at the resurrection? Will we know ourselves and be known as ourselves by others? In vss. 47-49 Paul draws a comparison between Adam and Christ. How does this comparison support Paul’s argument that we will be raised? What hope and comfort do you find in this passage?

A sermon on the reign of Christ (with focus on Reformed approaches as part of our Spiritual Formation 3.0 weekend) by David Camera. Application questions: What elements need to be in place if you are to have a kingdom? In Jesus’ first sermon in Mark 1:14-15 he said “repent for the Kingdom of God is near.” What did he mean by the Kingdom of God and its being “near”? How do we become members of his kingdom? What is Christ doing now according to 1 Cor. 15? What benefits and comforts can we draw from the fact of Christ’s reign now? In the Lord’s prayer Jesus taught us to pray “your kingdom come.” What does this petition ask God to do? How does the hope of Christ’s future kingdom help us in our day to day lives? God made humanity in his image to fill the earth and subdue; that is to rule over creation as God’s vice regents. How was Adam’s rebellion in the garden a reversal of God’s creation design? How do we wrongly serve the creation today? How are we to relate to the kingdoms of this world as citizens of Christ’s kingdom?(e.g. retreat, engage, oppose?)

A sermon on how Christ's resurrection defeats the enemy of death (past, present, future), by Greg Lanier. Application questions: The resurrection ‘tradition’ cited in 1 Cor 15:3-4 mentions “according to the Scriptures” (twice). What passages does Paul engage in this text? Why is it important to note which sections of the OT they come from? (Hint: Law...Prophets...Writings) Revisit verse 22. Now read Rom 5:12-21. How does Romans help explain more fully what Paul succinctly states here? Reflect on how death stares at us as the “last enemy.” Where do you experience that most in your day-to-day lfie? Why does a life of monotonous pleasure (“eat and drink…”) not satisfy? How does resurrection hope change the way you see your daily calling? Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on Paul's teaching about the necessity of the resurrection by Pastor David Camera. Application questions: Is living forever in a resurrected body appealing to you? Why or why not?  What were some of the Corinthian Christians claiming about the resurrection? Why would that be something they argued for?  Let’s follow Paul’s logic here. Some of the Corinthians claimed there is no resurrection of the body. List all the implications Paul draws out if that statement is true.  Are Christians resurrected or raised with Christ now? (cf. Eph. 2:4-7) What’s the difference?  According to 15:3 Christ died “for our sins.” Why was it necessary for Christ to die? (cf. Gen 2:17; Rom. 6:7-11; 23)  If Christ did not rise again from the dead, why therefore would our faith be in vain? (cr. v. 17)  What is the hope of the Christian? (v. 19)  Considering this passage, why is what we do with our physical bodies important to God?  What comfort does the bodily resurrection of Christ give us in this life? 

Easter service sermon on the apostolic testimony to the bodily resurrection of Jesus in 1 Cor 15:1-11, by Dr. Greg Lanier. Application questions Why is the resurrection important to Christianity? Name 5 reasons (from this passage or from others). Discuss the biggest objections to the resurrection of Jesus that you’ve heard (e.g., “the disciples stole the body,” “the disciples all just saw a ghost”). Which do you think are the hardest to answer? Review the 5 lines of evidence discussed from this passage that demonstrate that it is reasonable to believe in the resurrection of Jesus. How would you share them with an unbeliever? Remembered tradition (“I delivered…what I received”) Fulfillment of the Old Testament (“according to the Scriptures” 2x) Apostolic eyewitnesses (“Cephas and the apostles”) Greater cloud of witnesses (“500 other brothers”) Improbable transformations (James and Paul) What are some other lines of evidence that support the facticity of the resurrection? Find out more at https://www.riveroakschurch.com

A homily by Pastor David Camera on John 19:28 ("I thirst") as part of our Good Friday service.

A sermon on putting off the old and putting on the new in Ephesians 4:17-24, by David Camera. Application questions: How would you describe the life of a non-Christian?  How does Paul describe the life of a non-Christian in verses 17-19?  How is a person brought out of the futility, darkness and hardness of a life apart from Christ? (vs. 20-21)  According to verses 22-24, what steps must a Christian take to grow in godliness?  Why must Christians no longer live like the world?  Why is it important for a Christian to remember their life and spiritual condition before Christ?  How has this passage affected the way you see those outside of Christ?  What specific vices must you intentionally put off, what virtues must you intentionally put on and what aspects of your thinking must you renew with the Word of God?  What is the encouraging truth that Paul ends with in verse 24?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on Christ's gifts to his church to build one another up (Eph 4:7-16), by David Camera. Application questions: How does a Christian grow to maturity in Christ?  Why does Paul place this instruction at this point in the letter? How does it flow from chapters 1-3?  Summarize how Paul describes a life that is worthy of our calling as Christians?  What do all the offices mentioned in vs. 11 have in common?  What is God’s goal for the church? How will He bring it about?  What part do you have to play in the church?  Can a Christian mature apart from the church? Why or why not? Answer from the text.  Describe a mature Church from this passage.  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on Ephesians 4:1-6 by pastoral intern David Oh. Application questions: Read Eph 1:3-14, noticing the plural nature of God's salvific blessings. How does the text's emphasis on the church's communal nature convict or challenge you?   Where have you experienced God blessing you through the gifting of another brother or sister in Christ?   How do you normally react when you meet another Christian who is difficult to tolerate. How do you think our text today calls us to react?   What area of your character are you most thankful for God's patience toward you?  Discuss one aspect of our trinitarian unity (Spirit, 4:4, Christ 4:5, or Father 4:6)  What would a healthy disagreement look like between two Christians? 

A sermon on Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3 by David Camera. Application questions: Make a list with your group of your top 5 prayer requests.  Why does Paul pray? (I.e., What is the reason he speaks of in v. 1 and v. 14?)  To whom, for what, and to what end does Paul pray?  What does the phrase "…filled with all the fullness of God" mean? (cr. 4:13)  How can Paul’s prayer inform our own prayer life?   Why does Paul end this prayer with a doxology in vv. 20-21? (I.e. What is the relationship between vs. 20-21 and Paul’s prayer?)  What does the doxology tell us about God?  Where is God glorified according to the doxology?  How can a church focus on glorifying God?  How important is church-life to you? 

A sermon on the wisdom and power of God by Rev. Cody Brobst.  Application questions: What is meant by ”the mystery of the Gospel”? Are there hints around what this means throughout the book of Ephesians (start with verse 6)?   What is Paul’s goal with the Gentiles? What message is he trying to send about the nature of the church this side of Christ's death on the cross?  How does this inform “who is in”? Does the body of Christ today do well at inclusion? Do we have a warped definition of inclusion? Discuss.  Both in v. 2 and v. 7, we see that God’s grace was given to him (Paul). What does he want us to know about his ministry as an apostle?  Paul sees himself as a steward of the Gospel mystery. What is a “steward”? Read 1 Peter 4:10 and encourage one another by naming your own gifts!  Paul further calls himself “the very least of all the saints.” Is this false humility since we know he is an apostle? What context in Paul’s life drives his view of himself?  Where would we be helped practically by having this kind of humility?   Verse 10 says "that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.” What does this refer to? Again visit 1 Peter 1:12. Why would angels take interest in the church?  What is “wisdom”? What does the world say wisdom is? What are the ways God’s wisdom is made known to the church?  Verse 11 says “This was according to the eternal purpose...” Which is?   Do you approach God’s throne boldly knowing you have direct access to him? V.13 encourages us to not lose heart over Paul’s suffering (remember: in prison). How would Paul’s suffering lead to the Ephesians glory? As you consider your own suffering or that of those you care about, what are the pitfalls of how Christians view suffering positively and negatively? 

A sermon on Ephesians 3:1-6 by Dr. Ben Shaw. Sermon application questions: How is the term "mystery" used in Scripture? How is Paul using it here? What is the "mystery" of Christ? How does the OT reveal the gospel? Why is the inclusion of Gentiles so important to the biblical gospel, both OT and NT?

A sermon on Christ's work demolishing the dividing wall of hostility and building the church, by Rev. Greg Lanier. What are some examples in both OT and NT of the “dividing wall of hostility” between Gentiles and Jews/Israel? Why is motivating Paul to address this?  Why is it important to think through the corporate (“we”) aspect of Christ’s work and not limit it to the individual (“I”)?  Revisit the ways in which Christ tore down the division between Jew and Gentile. Then reflect on ways in your own life or community you can see him doing the same. What sorts of dividing walls still exist, and how does the work of Christ address them?  Reflect on this (summary) statement from the sermon. “The church founded by Jesus is the most staggering social experiment of all time: a community that is not based on any external things (talent, money, nation, vocation, social status) and only on faith in Christ.”   What sort of “dividing walls” could threaten the peace/unity of River Oaks Church? How can you proactively seek to foster unity on the sole foundation of Christ? 

A sermon on God's grace of saving us from spiritual death in Ephesians 2, by David Camera. How does Paul describe the condition of humanity in 2:1-3? List out the words/phrases.  What does Paul say is the reason God saves us? (v. 4)  When did God love us? Where is the first mention of God's love in Ephesians?  Contrast our former predicament with our present status in Christ.  Where have we seen the phrases in 2:6 already in Ephesians? What is Paul's point?  Why did God save us? (v.7)  So how does chapter 2 fit in Paul's argument so far? What is he explaining that he brought up in chapter 1?  From this passage, how would you respond to someone who claimed that the way to be saved was to do more good than evil?  What did we contribute to our salvation? What did we do according to this passage?  What is the relationship between faith and works?  What ought to be our response to God's grace to us in Christ? 

A sermon on Paul's prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23 by Pastor David Camera. How does a person's self-perception impact the way they approach life?  Paul begins in verse 15, with "…for this reason." What reason/s?  Do you ever thank God in your prayers when you see good things in others?  In verses 17-19 Paul reports the content of his prayer. For what does Paul pray?  In verse 17, Paul teaches that the key to knowing our identity, purpose and future is knowing the identity and purpose of _______________.  What is our hope as Christians? How did we come to possess that hope?  What is the church according to v. 18?  What power is at work within the church?  Read verses 20-21. What do we learn about Christ?  Identify the parts of Christ's body in verses 22-23 in relationship to all things.  What have you learned about who you are and about your place in God's cosmic plan? How will this new understanding impact the way you approach life?  How can we use Paul’s prayer as a model for us in our prayer life?  Do we realize we are part of something so big? And are we praying, as he does, to know and experience these great blessings more and more? 

A sermon on Paul's introductory praise of the Triune God by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: What comes to your mind when you think of a blessing?  Look at verses 3-14, list all the “blessings” God has made available.  What words or phrases are repeated?   Why do you think Paul repeats himself?   What has God the Father done, what has God the Son done, what has God the Spirit done?  How are people made recipients of God’s blessed salvation?  How would you answer someone who argued that God’s blessings are available apart from Christ?  What evidence does Paul provide that assures us that God’s blessings are found in Christ?  How could you use this passage to answer someone who claimed that there were additional blessings given to Christians after their salvation?  What we are most thankful for is an indication of the things we value most highly. For what blessings in your life do you typically thank God? Compare your list to Paul's.  Take some time to thank God in prayer for the blessings listed in this passage which belong to all Christians. 

Introducing the letter of Paul to the church at Ephesus, by David Camera. Application questions: How would you describe yourself to someone you did not know?  What impact does our identity have on the way we live?  Read Acts 19:1-20:41. Summarize Paul’s ministry in Ephesus in your own words.  How does Paul describe himself? Why is this important?  How does Paul describe the Christians in Ephesus?  Paul begins and ends this letter in similar fashion. What words or phrases are repeated?  According to 1:1-2 and 6:21-24, who is the source of grace, peace, love and who are those that receive these blessings?  What are some implications of your answers to question 7?  How would your life be different if you understood that your primary identity was a saint and child of God? 

A sermon on the qualifications for ordained leadership in the church by Rev. David Camera. Application questions Review the list of character qualifications in this passage. What sorts of categories do they include? Why does Paul include these and not others that modern leadership gurus might include (like 'visionary leader' or 'efficient' or 'charismatic speaker')? Why must an elder/deacon be able to lead his household well? Why is character more important over the long term than skill?

A sermon on remembering God's faithfulness and offering prayerful praise by pastoral intern Daniel Turner. Application questions: What does Paul offer thanks for? Why is it important to thank God for what you see in others (and not just yourself)? What are you thankful for as you head into 2026? Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on the last verse in the Johannine prologue by David Camera. Application questions: We often hear the phrase, “seeing is believing.” What do we mean by it, and it is true in relationship to believing in Jesus?  If someone said to you, God has revealed himself to many people, throughout history, Jesus is only one of them. How would you respond in light of John 1:1-18?  What is faith according to the Bible?  How is faith normally created in a person?  What therefore can we do to sustain our faith?  What are you most looking forward to about seeing Jesus one day? 

A Christmas Eve homily by Pastor David Camera. Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the "the Word became flesh" in John 1:14-17 by Greg Lanier. Application questions: Reflect on this claim: “‘The Word became flesh,’ as part of the bigger picture of the Triune God, is the deepest and boldest claim imaginable.” Why might this be true? Read Exod 25:5; 29:46; Lev 26:11-12; Ezek 11:20; 2 Cor 6:16; Rev 21:3. How do these passages show that the core theme of the Bible is that God would “dwell with us”? Discuss the connection made between “we have seen his glory” and the glory that Isaiah “saw” in John 12:41 (including Isaiah 6 and Isaiah 53). What do these passages teach about the (a) preexistent glory of Christ and (b) suffering-glory of Christ? Why is being a child of God—based on the Sonship that Jesus himself has—so important to the Christian life? Here are some suggestions on books you can read in 2026 that can help you grow in knowing God in Christ more: Knowing God (J.I. Packer) Knowing Christ (Mark Jones) The Deep Things of God (Fred Sanders) The Trinity: An Introduction (Scott Swain) Simply Trinity (Matthew Barrett)

A sermon on John 1:6-13 by Pastor Cody Brobst. Application questions: Review the prologue (John 1:1-18) together and notice what concepts repeat.  Why is Christianity incompatible with other worldviews (hint: John 14:6)?  How is the Light revealed through witnesses?  What makes John the Baptist’s witness unique specifically?  What are ways you most enjoy revealing the Light (witnessing) to others?  Where are you most tempted to believe that you can do what only God can do?   How might life look if we reminded ourselves that “I am not the Christ”?  In verse 9, when we read that the true Light was coming into the world & giving light to everyone, in what sense is the Light given to everyone?  Why do people reject Jesus and not believe?  In verse 10, what are the different definitions given for “the world”?  How does this inform how we read John 3:16?  What do vv. 12-13 say about how someone is & is not “born again”?  How might that debunk the whole “seeing is definitey believing” idea?  As children of God, what are ways we can simply enjoy God more this Christmas? What habit(s) could help you slow down & enjoy His free gift of adoption more?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

An advent sermon on John 1:1-5 by David Camera. Application questions: Do you put up Christmas lights? If so why?  Read Genesis 1:3-5. How did God create all things? What was the first thing He created?  John starts with "In the beginning” to connect the coming of Jesus to Genesis 1. What is John teaching us by doing this?  Summarize in your own words what we learn about the “Word” in these verses? So who actually did the “creating” in Genesis 1?  What is light a metaphor of in the Bible? (cr. Psalm 27:1)  Where is salvation to be found according to these verses?  What reasons do we have for hope in the passage?  How has this passage expanded your view of the importance of Christmas? Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon concluding our series on Exodus by David Camera. Application questions: Do you think most people believe that it is easy for loving God to allow people to dwell in His presence forever? Why or why not? What must we not forget about ourselves and about God?  Summarize the narrative of Exodus so far in your own words.  What was the purpose of redemption?  What is therefore surprising about how Exodus ends?  Why cannot even Moses enter?  How would you answer this question from what you have learned in Exodus, “How can a person dwell in God’s presence?” How does Leviticus 1:1-2 provide the answer?  Read Revelation 15. What themes are similar to Exodus 40? What is required before anyone can dwell in God’s presence?  Read Romans 8:9-11. Where is the presence of God to be found today?  If the Spirit of God dwells in us, what does that make each Christian?  How does the reality that God dwells with us impact the way we ought to live our lives today?  Read John 14:1-7. What is shocking about Jesus’ promise here? If someone asked you, “How can I dwell with God forever?” How would you respond? 

A sermon on the ark as the shadow of the presence of God by Greg Lanier. Application questions: Reflect on the fact that these chapters re-narrate what we’ve already covered, only now the craftsmen actually do the fabrication that earlier Moses had instructed. What is Scripture trying to teach us with this repetition?  Reread the following passages to trace the ark of the covenant through the Bible:  Exod 35:21-22  Exod 40:20-21  Lev 16:15-16  Num 10:33-36  Josh 3:14-17  Josh 6:12-14  1 Sam 4:1-11  2 Kgs 24:10  How did the ark function as the “shadow” of God’s presence with his people? Where does this go right? Where does this go wrong for the Israelites?  Reread Rom 3:24-25. Does your Bible include any footnotes about the word “propitiation” or “mercy seat” in verse 25?   What is Paul teaching about Jesus? About salvation?  Reread Rev 11:19. What is surprising to you about the “reappearance” of the ark in heaven? What is Scripture teaching?  Reflect on how the presence of God is a key thread of Scripture. How might this impact what you expect from your walk with Christ?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on genuine heart change (vs. a "change of heart") from Exodus 35-36 by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: Share some ways you have experienced a “change of heart” in your life. What causes such changes?   Recap what has happened in the Exodus story from chapter 32-34.  What evidence of a change of heart do we see in the Israelites in this passage?  In Numbers 10, the Israelites finally leave Mt. Sinai and take a 3-day journey into the wilderness. Read Numbers 11:1-6.  What has happened to the Israelites here?  Was their “change of heart” permanent in Exodus 35?  Read 1 Cor. 10:1-13. How does the Apostle describe Israel’s experiences to the church?  Were the hearts of the Israelites genuinely changed?  What is the warning here for us?  How do we know as Christians if our hearts have experienced a genuine change?  Cross reference Hebrews 3:12-19. What is the evidence our hearts have experienced a genuine change and won’t “turn back to Egypt.”?  Are past repentance, giving and obedience evidence of a genuine heart change? Why or why not?  Can we be assured of our salvation as Christians? Where should be look for assurance? (cr. Romans 8:12-17; Phil. 1:6; 3:12-16; 1 Thess. 1:2-10)  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on God's disclosure of his name and attributes to Moses on Mt. Sinai, by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: Make a list of life and death issues, choices and situations as a group.  Look back to Exodus 3:13-17. What do we learn about God’s name in this passage?  The name “LORD” is literally “I am” in Hebrew. Explore together what God’s name “I am” teaches us about His nature.  What does God reveal about His character (i.e. what He is like) in Ex. 34:6-7?  Why do the Israelites (along with us!) need to know these things about God?  The number 1000 in the Bible is a symbol for perfection. What is God saying therefore about His forgiveness and his justice?  Look again at the second half of verse 7. Is God saying He punishes the innocent children of sinful parents? Why or why not? Discuss.   Does it sometimes appear that evil goes unpunished? What is God assuring us of therefore in this verse?  What are the Lord’s actions in the passage and what do those actions reveal about Him?  What is the relationship between God’s eternal nature, His character and His actions?  Why can we trust God according to these verses?  Look up John 17:1-5. How do we know the Lord today?   How is knowing God a matter of life and death?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com  

A sermon on Moses's veiled/unveiled face in beholding the glory of the Lord at Mount Sinai, by pastoral intern Cade Horton. Application questions: Meditate on the different ideas and metaphors that the Bible uses to talk about God’s glory (e.g., God’s “Name,” dark clouds, lightning, radiance, fire, etc.). Are there any you can think of that were or weren’t used in the sermon? See also... Isaiah 6 Ezekiel 1 Isaiah 60.1–19 Psalm 24; Psalm 29.1-2 John 12.27–28 Col 1.15; Heb 1.3; 2 Cor 4.16-18 We have direct access to God’s glory in Jesus. How does this reality change our perspective on life? The Holy Spirit is transforming us to reflect God’s glory. Consider some ways that you have seen other believers reflect God’s glory. How are our experience of God’s glory now & when Christ returns different? How does this cause us to long more and more for heaven?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on God revealing himself to Moses in Exodus 33 by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: Have you ever been in the position of mediator between two people?   If so, what were the circumstances and what was the outcome?  What is surprising about the Israelite response in vs 4, considering what they just did in chapter 32?  What is the reason the Lord says he cannot go with His people? What does the metaphor “stiff-necked” mean? How are we tempted to be “stiff necked” at times? What is the opposite of stiff-necked?  Why did the people respond with mourning?   If the Lord offered protection and material blessing in this life, but without a personal relationship with Him, do you think most people would take it? Why?  What is Moses attempting to do in this chapter?  On what basis does Moses intercede for the Israelites? (v. 15-16)  How had Moses tried to intercede in chapter 32? (What had he offered? Why was his offer refused?) What does it mean to “find favor” with the Lord? How is favor found with God?  In the Tent of Meeting, Moses spoke with the Lord “face to face.” Which means person to person. Moses was inside the tent, the Lord was outside the tent. So a curtain separated them. What is Moses asking for exactly in v. 18?   How does God respond to Moses’ request?  What is rather surprising about God’s response considering who Moses is?  Look up John 1:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:6. Where do we see the glory of God revealed?  How do the actions of Moses point forward to Jesus Christ? (cr. Heb. 8:6-12)  Considering this passage, do we have any hope of a relationship with God apart from a mediator? Why or why not?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on the golden calf incident by Dr. Levi Berntson. Application questions: How does Israel’s distrust here mirror the earlier complaints about hunger and thirst (Ex. 16–17)?  In what ways does this scene echo Genesis 3, where distrust in God’s word leads to rebellion?  The NT often warns about unbelief in the wilderness (e.g., Hebrews 3:7–19; 1 Corinthians 10:6–11). How do these NT writers use Israel’s story to instruct Christians today?  Stephen in Acts 7:39–41 reflects on this event. How does he describe Israel’s heart posture, and what warning does he draw for his audience?  How does the sin of God’s people damage their witness before the nations (v. 25)? Reflect on Ezekiel 36:22–23. How does God ultimately restore His reputation?  When have you found it most difficult to trust God’s timing or plan?  Why do seasons of waiting often reveal what we really believe about God’s character?  How does Exodus 32 challenge our tendency to want immediate answers or visible control?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on God's equipping of his people to serve him by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: When you think of ministry in the church, what comes to your mind?  How would you describe the work of the ministry? Who does it and what do they do?  Who is the focus of chapter 30? Where do they work and what do they do?  Who is the focus of chapter 31? Where do they work and what do they do?   Who called and qualified the priests to do their work?  Who called and qualified the craftsmen to do their work?  What implications can we draw from seeing the relationship between the priests who work inside the Tent, and the craftsmen who work on the Tent?  Look at 31:1-6. List out the ways God has equipped people to do the work He called them to do. What impression does this list make on you?  What skills, experiences, abilities, and knowledge do you have that can be employed in the work God has called you to do?  If all that we are is given to us by God what aspects of life are excluded from serving and glorifying Him?  How can you use your industry, creativity, and imagination to serve the Lord?  Why is the sabbath commandment restated after God commanded all this work to be done? What is the principle? How might we apply this today?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the purification of the priests in Exodus 29 by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: What is your favorite style of dress and why? (Formal, fancy, casual etc.) Have you ever been improperly dressed for an occasion? What was the occasion and what did you do? How did you feel?  Why were the priests given special clothes to wear? (Cr. 28:43)  What does it mean to be consecrated?  How were the priests consecrated? What was required?  Have you ever witnessed an ordination of either and elder, deacon or pastor? What stood out to you about the purpose?  Look at vs. 42-48. What was the purpose of the priesthood and how is this connected to the promises of God we have heard about in Exodus so far?  Think back over the story of Exodus, if you were one of Aaron’s sons, how would you feel about being ordained as a priest?  Look up Hebrews 7:23-28. How is Christ the fulfillment of the priesthood?  In light of the unique access priests enjoyed, through consecration and ordination, reflect on the astonishing statements made in Hebrews 10:19-22.   Look at 1 Peter 2:4-5 and 2:9-10. How do Christian’s function as priests today?  What kind of consecration is required of us in light of our priestly ministry? (1 Peter 2:11-12)  Read Revelation 7:9-14. What is astonishing about this scene? What are the saints wearing in heaven and what are we doing?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the priestly garments in Exodus 25 by Pastor Cody Brobst Application questions: Can you think of a time you needed a representative to stand in your place? How might that change how we view the ministry of the Old Testament priesthood?   What are the various articles of the High Priest’s outfit? Talk together about what each part signifies (ephod, breastpiece, etc.) as you make your way through Ex. 28.  If Jesus is the image of the invisible God (Col. 1), what does He make known publicly that we wouldn’t have known about God otherwise?  Talk about the pursuit of excellence, aesthetic, beauty both in our culture and in the church. Where do these ideas mimic biblical principles & values? Where might these good things turn into an idol? How does this passage dignify our work/gifts?  Couldn’t the priest have just made the point that God is glorious & beautiful to the people without the elaborate processes? (Why do we think this way?)  What burdens did Christ carry for you? Read v. 29 & discuss judgment on his heart.  What does “Holy unto the Lord” mean (v. 36)? Do we have to be perfect? What are the traits you notice in Christians who are “clothed in righteousness”? (Is. 61:10)  Encourage one another in where you’ve seen God's beauty & been blessed.

A sermon on the altar, courtyard, and lamp by Dr. Greg Lanier. Application questions: Discuss the location of the altar. How does it remind us of our sin before a holy God? When you’re facing friction with someone, how can the visual symbolism of the altar help you deal with your own heart?  Discuss the role of the altar. In what way is it a ‘dress rehearsal’ for the work of Christ? Read Romans 12:1—what does it mean for you to be a ‘living sacrifice’?  How does the church function as the new ‘courtyard’? Discuss the different ways you feel called to serve as the new covenant ‘tabernacle setup crew.’   Why does it matter that everyone use their gifts, not just the pastors?  Re-read Revelation 1:13 and 20. How does the tabernacle’s lampstand point forward to Christ? To us?  Reflect on worshiping at River Oaks. How does our Sunday service (and other activities) function as a ‘dress rehearsal’ for eternal worship and rest?   Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the design of the tabernacle in Exodus 26 by Rev. David Camera. Application questions: How would you say the design of a building or a house and its interior influence us?  Look at a picture of the Tabernacle online or in your bible. How is the Tabernacle designed?  What was the design of the Tabernacle intended to communicate to us? About God? About ourselves? About access to God?  What does the fact that God was willing to dwell in a special way in a tent with His people tell you about His character?  Do you tend to focus on the accessibility of God or His inaccessibility? Do you know why? Where should our focus be? Why? (Hebrews 10:19-25)  Think back over the Garden of Eden. How does the Tabernacle represent the Garden, both before and after the Fall?  Read Revelation 21:22. Why will there be no temple in the New Heavens and Earth?  Look at John 1:14. How does Jesus fulfill the tabernacle?  In 1 Cor. 6:12-20 Paul says that individual Christians are “temples” because we are indwelled with the Holy Spirit. What implications does Paul draw in this passage about our moral and ethical behavior?  Think about the design of church buildings. What messages are communicated, intentionally or not, by their design? How should church buildings be constructed today? What messages should the architecture communicate and why?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on the tabernacle furnishings in Exodus 25 by Rev. Dr. David Camera. Application questions: What is your prized possession and why? How did you acquire it? What would it take to cause you to give it away?  Look at the list of possible contributions to the tabernacle in verses 1-7. What do they all have in common? Where did these former Hebrew “slaves” get some of the most valuable items in the ancient world? (see Ex. 3:22, 11:2; 12:35)  Where does all that we have ultimately come from? Why does God give us the things we have ultimately?  What principle of giving do we learn in v. 2? (cf. 2 Cor. 9:7) Look at Romans 12:1-2. What are we to offer to God?  What were these donations for?  What is God teaching about worship by asking for these sorts of items?  What were the Israelites forbidden to make by the 2nd commandment? Why? What are they commanded to make here?  What can we learn from verse 9 and verse 40 about how we are to worship God?  The Israelites are commanded here to make 3 primary pieces of furniture that will go inside the tabernacle, the ark, the table and the lampstand.  What aspects of each piece are described in detail?  What can we learn about their significance from these details?  (think back over Genesis and Exodus for hints to the symbolism)  The ark was the center of worship. Inside the ark was the Law of God (testimony). What does this tell us about the focus of meeting with God?  The mercy seat is the place the high priest would sprinkle blood to make atonement for the sins of Israel. Why was the mercy seat placed over the testimony? Look up Rom 3:25 to see how the word for "mercy seat" is used of the work of Jesus Christ. Why is that significant? Look up Hebrews 2:17 and 1 John 2:2. How do we find mercy today for our law-breaking?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the "Song of Moses and the Lamb" in Revelation 15, by Pastor David Camera. Application questions: What was the last exciting thing in your life (person, place, event etc.) you praised to others? What motivated you to share your excitement?  What is it about God (His nature, character or actions) that truly excites you and why?  Look at Rev. 15:3-4, list the reasons why God is praised.  How does the 2nd half of verse 4, answer the question “Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify your name?”  Why is it important that we praise God for these things?  What is the connection between who God is, what He does and how He does it?  How does praising God for these specific things, help us in our daily lives?  Read Psalm 98. What “righteous acts” of God have been revealed?  Read Romans 3:21-26. How was God’s righteousness ultimately revealed/shown?  When is the last time you shared your excitement about who God is and what He has done to others? What makes sharing your praise of God different or difficult?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on the heavenly song of praise to God in Revelation 11 by Pastor David Camera. Application questions: Picture a kingdom. What elements do you need to have a kingdom?  How would you describe God’s Kingdom?  If God is King, why did Jesus teach us to pray, “Your kingdom come?” What does this tell us about the nature of the kingdom now?  Look at Mark 1:14-15. How did Jesus describe the nature of God’s kingdom and our response?  When we think about God’s future kingdom, are there any aspects of it that you find embarrassing to talk about with unbelievers?  What are the saints in heaven singing about here?  How often do you think about heaven, hell, reward and judgment?  How does the Bible encourage Christians with the reality of eternal reward and punishment?  How can the reality of our future reward help us keep this life in perspective?  Is it essential to talk about heaven and hell when we share the gospel? Why or why not?  Why is the destruction of the destroyers necessary for God’s kingdom to be fully realized?  What is the hope we see in verse 19? Do we have to wait for the kingdom for access to the presence of God? (cf. Luke 11:20)  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com

A sermon on the heavenly song(s) around the throne of the Father and the Son in heaven by Rev. Dr. David Camera Application questions: Why do/should Christians sing together? Brainstorm a list of reasons.  You have heard of the phrase, “He/she sings your praises.” Why do people praise? What does praise reveal about us?  Look at the 3 verses of this heavenly song. Who is the subject? Why is the Lamb praised?  Who is the subject of praise in 4:11? Now compare 4:11 with 5:12 and 5:13. What is surprising/amazing about who is praised and how they are praised in these verses?  What can we conclude about the Lamb?  Is verse 13 past, present or future? Who is singing in this verse?  If the endgame of the universe is the uniting of heaven’s praise with all creation, what role does singing in the present play?  Why is it important that the content of our songs be biblical?  What impact does singing have on us?  What are some of your favorite Christian songs and why?  Try listening to Christian songs every day this week and see how they impact you.  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com.

A sermon on the "great commission" to multiply, fill, and subdue the earth as God's image-bearers, by Rev. Dr. Matt Newkirk Application questions: We were created for mission What does it mean to be an "image-bearer" of God?  When do you feel most validated as God's image-bearer? How does this passage change that system of worth for you? We need each other for that mission Why is the whole church needed for missions? Do you tend to think of mission work as limited to super-Christians who go abroad?  What is the importance of being a 'sender'? How does v27 impact the way you view men and women as part of God's purposes? We are called to fulfill that mission to the end of the earth How can you, your family, or your small group play a role in representing God throughout the world? What specific actions could you take?  Find out more at www.riveroakschurch.com