Gospel Community of Sarasota

Genesis 35 - 07/12/2026

Genesis 35 marks a turning point in Jacob's life. Before returning to Bethel, Jacob calls his household to put away their foreign gods, purify themselves, and renew their commitment to the Lord. It's a powerful reminder that worshiping God wholeheartedly often requires us to leave behind the idols and distractions that compete for our hearts. At Bethel, God reaffirms His covenant and reminds Jacob of the new name He has given him: Israel. Though Jacob's past was marked by deception and living up to the name "heel-grabber," God declares a new identity over him. This chapter reminds us that while our past may shape us, it does not have to define us. God is in the business of giving His people a new identity rooted in His grace and His promises. Genesis 35 is also marked by three significant deaths—Deborah, Rachel, and Isaac. These losses frame the chapter with both sorrow and hope, reminding us that God's covenant purposes continue even through seasons of grief. While people pass away, God's promises never die. Join us as we explore what it means to put away our idols, live in the identity God has given us, and trust His faithfulness even in the midst of life's deepest losses.

Genesis 34 - 07/05/2026

Genesis 34 is one of the most difficult and disturbing chapters in the Bible. It tells the tragic story of Dinah, the sinful actions of Shechem, the deceptive revenge of Simeon and Levi, and Jacob's troubling silence. Rather than hiding the brokenness of God's people, Scripture confronts it head-on. In this message, we explore what Genesis 34 teaches about sin, vengeance, leadership, and the devastating consequences of taking justice into our own hands. Even in a chapter where God is never mentioned, His truth is evident as we see the destructive effects of human rebellion and our deep need for a Savior who brings true justice, healing, and redemption.

Genesis 32-33

Jacob has spent his entire life running—running from consequences, running from conflict, and trying to secure God's blessings through his own strength. But everything changes in Genesis 32–33. On the night before facing Esau, Jacob wrestles with God and walks away changed. He receives a new name, a permanent reminder of his encounter with God, and a renewed confidence that God's promises don't depend on Jacob's schemes. The next day, the relationship with Esau is unexpectedly restored, displaying God's power to reconcile what seemed beyond repair. For the first time in Jacob's story, he speaks of the Lord as his God—not merely the God of Abraham and Isaac. And instead of continuing to run, Jacob purchases land and settles, marking a new chapter of faith and stability. Join us as we explore how an encounter with God transforms our identity, restores broken relationships, and gives us the courage to stop running and trust Him with our lives.

"Portrait of Christian Maturity"

Deacon Daniel Kopp preaches from 2 Peter chapter 1.

Genesis 31 - 06/14/2026

In Genesis 31, Jacob flees from Laban, Rachel secretly steals her father's household idols (teraphim), and God intervenes by speaking directly to Laban in a dream. Through this dramatic chapter, we see a powerful reminder that God alone is worthy of our trust. While people cling to idols, possessions, control, and earthly security, God proves Himself to be the One who watches over His people and keeps His promises. No matter how large our problems may seem, God is greater. Join us as we explore how Genesis 31 calls us to trust the God who protects, provides, and faithfully works on behalf of His people.