The Well (BGVA) Lessons and Messages

A REAL Church

Some church start-ups have gone to an "us against the world" vibe where they make it a point to reject all things "typical" in an attempt to be more authentic. But... what IS authentic? Is all religious practice bad or is there a time and a place for structure and order? A deeper look at the church of the 1st Century reveals a few interesting facts that may not be glamorous, but they reveal a lot about the church forged by the apostles in those early decades.

Sermon: Cool Bible Women

Given that it's Mother's Day, we're practically obligated to do some kind of special message. However, the typical pandering from the pulpit seems insulting, so instead lets take a look at some of the remarkably amazing women of the Bible. Many of these individuals were mothers themselves. Regardless of what we know of their personal life, what we find is a bevy of spiritual giants who can teach all of us amazing lessons.

Sermon: Stillness

We live in a dramatic world. No matter how old or mature we get, it feels like everyone is just an angsty teenager trying to lash out at the latest life injustice. The consistent image we see in the Bible is not bombastic clashes for retribution and victory, but God found in the stillness. Perhaps that is why so many struggle and strive for contentment at the hands of their own efforts, only destined to live a life full of discomfort. God isn't found in the cries of a warrior; He is found in the silence of a lamb.

Sermon: Idolizing the Gold Star

We all like a little "good job" every now and then. Sure, we should be motivated by our love of God and dedication to calling, but that little bit of encouragement helps our human hearts to carry on. Sometimes people go too far in their pursuit of congratulations, turning their life into a pursuit of adoration from others. They celebrate their victories to elevate their own reputation and the success of their work. Jesus speaks to this directly, warning His followers against celebrating their work. It's only natural; the obvious progression of self-celebration is to fool ourselves into thinking that we are responsible for the good works God is doing through us.

Sermon: Do A Thing

God doesn't simply call us to "exist"; he calls us to a righteous work. It's true that work for work's sake isn't fulfilling and misses the point. Some are accustomed to focusing on how much you can "do" in life and not what God is calling you to do. However, don't be deceived into thinking work plays no role. It was there in the garden. It was given as a blessing to the first generations, and it is commanded by Christ as a part of extended God's glory. In a society today which allows so much opportunity for leisure and recreation, we are accustomed to demonizing work, but if oriented towards the source of all contentment, it can actually be quite powerful.