Jesus, Stephen and Violence

Do You Really Want It?

Exodus 19:2-8a and Matthew 9:35-10:8: Listen, the lordship of Jesus has costs. True, his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Also, we don't get to do whatever we want to whomever we want. We are purchased for a price, and Jesus is the boss. At Sinai and in the Galilee, God/Jesus ask the people if they are willing to pay the cost - to be obedient, in order to become a treasured nation and to receive life and healing. Today, God asks us the same question - are we willing to pay the cost for what God wants to give us?

Lovingkindness, Not Sacrifice

Hosea 5:15-6:6 & Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26. Bargaining is a natural human instinct, and one of the stages of grief. But, as it turns out, it's not God's favorite thing. Instead, Jesus models how God desires lovi9ngkindness toward neighbors, not just continual sacrifices.

New Things!

Genesis 1:1-2:4a and Matthew 28:16-20 - What's God up to? The same, old thing, or something new? Why not both? This week, we talk about God filling up creation with new things, again and again.

Prepoaring for Pentecost

Acts 2:1-21 and Numbers 11:24-30 - What do you know about Pentecost? Is it something that comes up for the first time after the Resurrection, or are its origins much older? Come learn about some of the best good news that we've got!

Scattering Enemies or Making Friends?

Acts 1:6-14, Psa 68:1-10; John 17:1-11 - What is the role of a Christian? Scattering our enemies or welcoming strangers?