Villas Grace Church

Code Shifting is the practice of switching between two or more languages, dialects or accents. It's often exercised as a means to manipulate the perception of one person to another. As Believers, when we share the Gospel, we must refrain from Code Shifting. In our sermon "Speak Grace" from Colossians 4:1-6, the Apostle Paul encourages us to be accurate & consistent when God opens a door for us to share the Gospel.

The health and fitness industry garners around 1.5 trillion dollars annually around the globe. From gym memberships, home gym equipment, supplements, meal plans, to prescription meds …etc. It’s easy to see that people want to make healthy life changes & are willing to spend whatever it takes. Join us this Sunday as we wrap up chapter 3 of Colossians. Here, the Apostle Paul continues to speak to those who have become new creations in Christ. He encourages us to follow God’s design, for a healthy spiritual life. Specifically, he focuses on our home and work life, which is where we'll find out how to live out “The New Person Life”.

Like professionals put on uniforms to distinguish their identity, Believers are to put on their new self in Christ to distinguish their faith. In our sermon "Putting On the New Self pt.2" from Colossians 3:12-17, the Apostle Paul encourages Christians in the actions, perfection & priorities of a Believer. When these three distinguishing marks of Christian character are pursued, unity & harmony are achieved.

Typically, we're able to identify someone's profession based on their attire. Many working professionals wear some type of uniform. For us Believers, the same is true. The uniform of a Believer is repentance, love, truth, wisdom & disdain for sin. Join us for our sermon "Putting On the New Self," from Colossians 3:9-11, where we'll be encouraged to lay aside the old self & put on the new.

Many view religion as just a system of rules to follow. If you just do this or not do that, God will love you and you will obtain eternity. In almost every case, they are correct. However, with Christianity, this is not the case. Join us this Sunday, as we continue our series in Colossians, chapter 3:1-4. In our sermon “Relationship NOT Ritual”, we find that it’s not about following the rules or traditions, but about becoming new creations, which can only be achieved, through our relationship with Christ

Charles Spurgeon was the most widely read preacher of the 19th century. He published over 3,500 sermons & 135 books. One day, one of Spurgeon's spiritual friends asked him, "When are you going to stop smoking cigars?" Spurgeon replied, "When I start smoking to excess." To which his friend responded, "What is excess?" Spurgeon replied, "Two at a time." As Believers, we need to exercise caution regarding legalism, asceticism & mysticism. Also, we need to be careful in how we handle someone else's non-conformity. Join us for our sermon "Spiritual Deception pt.2" from Colossians 2:20-23, where we'll find encouragement in the only thing that leads to righteousness; our faith in the personhood & work of Jesus!

The world is full of deception. Take designer hand bags for example. They might have a "Made in Italy" tag, but that doesn't necessarily mean they were made by an Italian artisan. In fact, designer hand bags are made in Chinese sweat shops, then shipped to Italy where the final "Made in Italy" tag is sewn on. According to European Union law, this is perfectly legal, as long as the product underwent the "last substantial transformation" in the last country of production. This type of deception is not limited to the fashion industry, as news media, academia & governments all use various forms of deception. Join us as we examine the "Spiritual Deception" from Colossians 2:16-19, that's been upon the Church since its inception. We will observe Paul's warning about legalism, asceticism & mysticism which all deny the sufficiency of Christ.

From 1933-34, the John Dillinger gang terrorized the mid-west. In 1934, Dillinger escaped a jail in Crowne Point, Indiana by brandishing a wooden pistol, which he used to force the guards into compliance. As Believers, we know that this is similar to our adversary, who has been disarmed by Christ. Yet, our adversary still attempts to force us into compliance. Join us for our sermon "Alive With Christ" from Colossians 2:13-15, where we'll be encouraged in the benefits of believing & receiving God's grace.

It was once said that 30 philosophers can produce 30 different philosophies, regarding the exact same subject. While philosophy can assist in our understanding of the world around us, it is far better equipped to find the "meaning behind facts,” rather than seeking factual truth itself. Join us this Sunday, as we continue our series in Colossians, with a focus on verses eight through fourteen of chapter two. Here we'll find Paul urging the church NOT to fall for philosophies that contradict the truth found in Scripture. Especially, the truth of Who Jesus is, the truth of what He has done for mankind, and the truth about our response. The world has many philosophical ideas about the Person of Christ, but not one comes close to the truth found in God’s Word. This is precisely why we believe, “Truth > Philosophy”.

The Mystery Manifested - Colossians 1:24-29 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

81 years ago, the United States & Japan were hostile toward one another. After 3 years & 9 months of bloodshed, both nations reconciled & have been at peace ever since. All of mankind was born hostile to God. However, the message of the Gospel reveals God's reconciliation with mankind. His reconciliation runs directly through the blood of His cross, as executed by Jesus! Join us for our sermon "Righteous Reconciliation" from Colossians 1:20-23, where the Apostle Paul tells of how The Lord has reconciled His entire creation.

The Incomparable Christ - Colossians 1;13-19 - Jared Novak by Villas Grace Church

Walking Worthy in The Lord - Colossians 1:9-12 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

Layaway is still a thing! Though the "buy now, pay later" concept is more popular, a few retailers still offer layaway. As Believers, we understand that our hope is laid up in heaven. Therefore, we're under God's "Divine Layaway Plan" with regards to our salvation. Join us for our sermon "The Word of Truth" from Colossians 1:1-8, where we'll find encouragement in our future hope that's been reserved & secured for us in heaven by Jesus.

The United States Secret Service employs hundreds of humans to protect one human from less than hundreds of humans. They scan for threats before, during & after the President's official duties. As Believers, we too should scan for threats. Our adversary is our only real threat & according to Peter, he prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour! Join us for our sermon "Be On the Alert" from 1 Peter 5:8-14, where we'll be encouraged to remain alert with a sober spirit that's tethered to eternal life.

Serve With Humility - 1 Peter 5;1-7 - Jared Novak by Villas Grace Church

Historically, Christians have experienced persecution & suffering. According to Scripture, our persecution & suffering has been, is currently & will be ongoing into the future. Fortunately, God's plan of salvation, executed through Jesus, has guaranteed our salvation. What this means is that this world may persecute us to suffer, even to the point of death, but we have hope of a future which is something this world could never strip away. Join us for our sermon "Trial by Fire" from 1 Peter 4:12-19, where we'll be encouraged in our eternal security, despite our current sufferings.

In the early 20th century, families of the Aran Islands off the coast of Ireland, started a sweater making tradition. These sweaters are known for their unique, distinguishing patterns. In fact, no two families share the same pattern. As Believers, our love should be unique & distinguished from the world. The pattern of "Christian Love" should not only serve others, but also represent the glory of God through Christ. Join us, as we are encouraged in these truths from 1 Peter 4:7-11.

Within the criminal justice system, eye-witness testimony is the most potent form of evidence. Therefore, as it pertains to the resurrection of Jesus, God provided eye-witness testimony from not only Christ's twelve Apostles, but from over 500 brethren as well! Join us as we celebrate our Lord & Savior's resurrection & observe these truths in our sermon "Raised On the Third Day" from 1 Corinthians 15:3-8.

Armed with Purpose - 1 Peter 4;1-6 - Jared Novak by Villas Grace Church

The Messiah's Victory - 1 Peter 3;18-22 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

The Security of a Believer - 1 Peter 3-13-17 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

The Good Life - 1 Peter 3:8-12 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

These days we find some professional sports teams, have enough money to construct virtual all-star teams. They acquire the best players money can buy. However, this doesn’t always guaranty a championship. In fact, some of these juggernaut teams, fall flat on their faces and do not even make the playoffs. How could this be? Almost always, it’s the failure of the team, to submit to leadership or each other, or both. It’s “every man for themselves”. Join us this Sunday, as we study 1 Peter 3:1-7. Here Peter speaks about the most important team on earth, a husband and wife. We find that in a truly healthy and Biblical marriage, there is submission. Submission to God’s design of leadership and each other. Here we truly find “The Power of Submission”.

In Kindergarten, students are taught how to correctly form upper & lower case letters. They are given worksheets where each letter consists of dotted lines for them to trace. As Believers, we too have a guide to follow. Jesus is our guide & by following His example, we're preparing now for eternity later. Join us for our sermon "Follow in His Steps," from 1 Peter 2:21-25 where we'll realize how & why we follow Jesus.

Submitting to Authority - 1 Peter 2;13-20 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

When most Americans think of royalty, we think of the Mountbatten-Windsor Royal Family of Britain. Though this family's responsibilities are primarily ceremonial, they're still required to represent Great Britain's government. As Believers, we are royalty too. In fact, we too have responsibilities in representing the King of the Universe, Jesus Christ! Join us for our sermon "Living Stones pt.2" from 1 Peter 2:8-12, where we'll be encouraged in our royal responsibilities.

In our culture today, pride can come in different forms and can have different meanings. Some may use it to tell their child they are proud of them for an accomplishment. While others may use it to describe their work ethic, as in, “I take great pride in my work”. When the Bible speaks on the subject of pride, it is never seen in a good light. This form of pride causes mankind to place their thoughts and ideas above God’s. It actually causes some to become their own god, or worship creation. When this happens, it can come with some grave consequences. Join us this Sunday, as we study Romans 1:18-32. In these vereses, the Apostle Paul describes the terrible consequences of “Pride’s Deceit”.

Skyscrapers are able to scrap the skies due to their foundation upon bedrock. In 1 Peter 2:4-8, we're encouraged in our foundation; Jesus Christ who is a living stone. Join us for our sermon "Living Stones," as we find encouragement in Peter's words: "you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house." A spiritual house with eternal implications.

Who remembers the "Got Milk" campaign from the 90's & early 2000's? From celebrity milk mustaches to partnering with other brands, the purpose of the campaign was to sell more dairy. However, critics would argue that adults do not necessarily need milk, as 65% of the world's population is lactose intolerant. Also, studies have found that after a baby is born, they can only digest milk their first six years. Join us for our sermon "Pure Milk" from 1 Peter 2:1-3, where we'll be exhorted to consume God's Word, like babies do Mother's Milk. We might not need more dairy, but we most definitely need as much "Pure Milk" as possible.

This world believes that tolerance & equality equate to love. However, it's tolerance & equality that's at the root of the moral decay of society. The fact of the matter is that this type of love does NOT last. Join us for our sermon "Imperishable Love" from 1 Peter 1:22-25, where we'll find encouragement in how to love according to God's Word.

Some people try and do good things, to earn God’s love. Those with faith in Jesus, do good things because of Who He is and all He has done for them. We know we cannot do anything to change our position with God, because we cannot EARN salvation in the first place.However, Peter reminds us that we better remember Who God is and that He deserves the utmost reverence and respect. Join us this Sunday, as we continue our series in 1 Peter 1:17-21. Last week we learned that we should, be Holy as He is Holy. This week will find our motivation to do so. We will find that we are in fact, “Motivated by Reverence”.

Our Precious Faith - 1 Peter 1;6-9 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

Many of us would love to find out, that we had a rich, estranged uncle, who left us a huge inheritance. You are probably already thinking about what you would do with that found fortune.However, no matter how great the fortune, it is temporal for the one who will receives it. Join us this Sunday, as we begin our sermon series in 1 Peter. In our first 5 verses, we find Peter writing a letter to Believers, scattered throughout foreign lands due to growing persecution. He encourages them that because God has saved them, they are His chosen ones. Also, Peter reminds us not to be focused on the current hardships, but to focus on “Our Imperishable Inheritance".

As a peninsula, Florida is an amazing state! We are fortunate to have both majestic sunrises & sunsets. As we observe the majesty of each sunrise, we should be reminded that Jesus is coming, again! Join us for our sermon "The Rising Sun" from Malachi 4:1-6, where the prophet foretells, "the sun of righteousness will rise" which is associated with Christ's second coming. We find hope in this future event, as God will heal this sin cursed land.

Have you ever made an introduction, only to forget the persons name before the introduction is even over? Yeah, our memories are pretty unreliable. In fact, even manmade artificial memory, like computer RAM & Storage Disks have their limitations. Fortunately, the Lord's memory is like none other. He remembers those whom He deems righteous for ALL of eternity. Join us for our sermon "The Lord Remembers" from Malachi 3:16-18, where we'll be encouraged in Him remembering His faithful.

Unfortunately, most believe that giving comes from what's left over. This attitude neglects the fact that God is the sole source of what's given to begin with. Israel was to give a tenth of their crops & animals to the Temple. However, when their crops didn't produce a profitable yield, they withheld their tenth from God. In Malachi 3:8-15, the Lord calls on Israel to test Him. He promised blessings, if they continued in their obedience to sacrifice a tenth. Join us for our sermon "Tithing the Storehouse," where we'll hear Malachi prophesy over Israel about the current state & future of their tithes & offerings. Even if Israel gave a tenth, despite an unprofitable yield, through Malachi the Lord said: "I will...pour out for you a blessing until it overflows."

The Upholder of Covenants - Malachi 3:1-7 - Jared Novak by Villas Grace Church

As the One who organized marriage, the Lord takes the covenant of marriage seriously. Though He told Israel NOT to marry-foreign women. Though He told Israel NOT to divorce the bride of their youth. Israel still defied His commands & married foreign woman & divorced the brides of their youth. Join us for our sermon "When Family Ties Sever," from Malachi 2:10-17, where we'll hear the prophet Malachi prophesy God's covenant with His people.

When a patient is admitted to the hospital, one of the first things the medical staff will do is hook the patient up to a Vital Signs Monitor (VSM). A VSM provides important data on the overall health of the patient. In Malachi 2:1-9, the Lord has hooked Israel's priests up to a spiritual VSM, with Malachi being the monitor. Join us for our sermon "Israel's Vital Signs," where we'll observe the spiritual health of those who DO NOT honor the name of the Lord.

We've all heard the expression, "Any job worth doing, is worth doing right". Or maybe, "Put your best foot forward". The same is true when we worship. See, when we worship the Lord, we should offer Him nothing but our best. Unfortunately, this is something Israel's priests of Malachi's day did not understand, as they did anything but. Join us for our sermon "Worthless Worship" from Malachi 1:6-14, where we'll observe how God views half-hearted worship.

Twenty Four Seven Prayer - Ephesians 6;18-24 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

We’ve all heard the saying “The devil made me do it”. The fact is, the devil can’t MAKE you do anything. However, we do have an adversary, who studies us and does everything he can, to separate us from the love and protection of God. Much like a great hunter or fisherman, he knows the where, when and how to tempt us to take the bait. Join us this Sunday as we continue our series in Ephesians 6:10-17. Here Paul tells us exactly how to defeat the schemes of the devil, by putting on “The Armor of God”.

The Roles of Husbands & Wives - Ephesians 5:22-33 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

God's divine Light exposes the darkness. In fact, we ALL began in darkness, until God's Light exposed our sin. As Believers, we are called to walk as children of light. When we do, God's divine Light is reflected off us & onto those still asleep in darkness to His grace. Join us for our sermon "The Illuminated Walk" from Ephesians 5:7-14, where we'll find encouragement as children of light.

There is a lot of current discussion about living a healthy life and what contributes to that or conversely what causes health problems. Come Sunday and discuss what Paul has to say about building a healthy Body in our sermon "Building Up the Body of Christ" from Ephesians 4:8-16.

The Mystery Revealed pt.2 - Ephesians 3:7-12 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

The Mystery Revealed pt.1 - Ephesians 3:1-6 - Matthew Niemier by Villas Grace Church

What makes church buildings so special? Is it a special place where God dwells? Is it a place where the Holy Spirit meets believers every Sunday? The answer is, the church is just a building. There is nothing particularly special about it. However, when believers get together to worship, we transform the church building into a special place. Join us this Sunday as we continue our sermon series in the book of Ephesians. As we wrap up chapter 2, Paul is explaining how Old and New Testament saints are united through Christ. Also, because of our faith in Christ, “We are the Temple” of the Holy Spirit.

Throughout history, brokered peace treaties never seem to last. In fact, most historians believe that between 1500 BC & 850 AD, there were an estimated 1,500 peace agreements between nations. On average, each lasted no more than 2 years. As Believers, we know that there is only one peace agreement that has & will continue to withstand the test of time. Join us for our sermon "Barriers Broken Through Peace" form Ephesians 2:11-18, where the Apostle Paul reveals God's eternal covenant with man.