Suffering in Perspective

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 1:3-12

Christians are given an eternal hope that is in stark contrast to the cynicism of modern-day culture. Perseverance through pain, suffering, and trials requires confidence in this living hope. The result of suffering victoriously through trials is a purified and strengthened faith.

Our Approach to Scripture Matters

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 1:1-2

In order to adopt an authentic Biblical lifestyle, we need to learn to interpret scripture accurately. By looking at the historical context and paying close attention to what the author says, we can arrive at much deeper conclusions. As we allow truth to affect our lives we are likely to encounter opposition from our culture. This is why we need to take a stand on the spiritual reality outlined in the Bible, and remember that our citizenship is in heaven.

Discipline Yourself for the Purpose of Godliness

Jim Leffel

1 Timothy 4:1-11

Contrary to other religious ideas about discipline, the Bible present discipline as our response to God's initiative and grace. Disciplined spirituality keeps the end goal in mind, is profitable to those who partake in it, and requires a steady diet of God's Word.

Two Ways to Live

Scott Risley

Romans 3:10-12:3

An overview of Hebrew poetry (tools for understanding and interpreting), types of Psalms (wisdom, praise/thanksgiving, and lament/anger), and an explanation of what we can learn from the Psalms including: how to express our feelings to God; and reconciling our feelings/life experiences with truth found in scripture. Psalm 1 is a wisdom psalm that lays out two life-paths (wicked vs. righteous), and the importance of delighting in and meditating on the Word. Ultimately, this psalm calls us to entrust our lives to God and learn to listen to His Word.

Staying Centered in Christ

Ryan Lowery

Nehemiah 6:1-16

In Christian service, a common tactic from the enemies of God is to try to bait us into extreme reactions. But Scripture calls us to an even-keeled approach where we are centered in the truth. It is looking at the cross that helps us to avoid extremes.

Challenges to Spiritual Leadership

Conrad Hilario

1 Timothy 4:1-16

As a relatively inexperienced and young leader, Timothy had a variety of challenges to his leadership. Paul offers six pieces of advice: 1) don't be surprised when people fall away; 2) keep the message of Christ at the center; 3) you can't lead others unless you yourself are growing; 4) stand on the authority of God's Word; 5) remember that God commissioned you; and 6) people should see where our lives are heading. Those who are able to persevere in the face of challenges are able to do incredible work for God.

Leading Against Opposition

Ryan Lowery

Nehemiah 2:19-4:23

Any effort toward a worthwhile endeavor will draw opposition, which is why anyone who wants to be used by God needs to learn to handle opposition in a way that is in line with God's values. Being a spiritual leader requires personal sacrifices and also draws naysayers who try to demotivate, mockers that level personal attacks, and even those who will make threats. Nehemiah deals with all of this opposition by turning to God and refusing to become discouraged.\r\n\r\n

Spiritual Complacency

Ryan Lowery

Nehemiah 1:1-11

Many Christians have chosen to go through the process of sanctification, but still encounter bumps along the way. They recognize that God has shown them incredible grace, yet still are susceptible to distractions that can turn a spiritual life into something mediocre. It is common to enter into these states of spiritual complacency. The story of Nehemiah contains seven steps toward spiritual renewal: 1) face the reality of our complacency; 2) rely on the promises and grace of God; 3) spiritual dedication; 4) repentance; 5) depend on God's Word; 6) ask God to move in big ways; and 7) be willing to take big steps of faith.

Introduction

Ryan Lowery

Jeremiah 29:4-14

Throughout the history of Israel, the nation experienced incredible peaks where they had intimacy with God and incredible lows where they completely lost their faith. Often, we can relate with the despair of the Israelites as they go through a period of suffering. By looking at God's plan in human history, it is apparent that God has an overarching plan that includes both refreshing periods of spiritual highs and difficult periods of spiritual lows. Ultimately, God's most impactful work for his people often comes after years of difficult preparation.