ECC Sermons

Dr. Crane continues his look into God's character by describing the incredible meaning of God's grace, the giving of a great gift to someone who does not deserve it. As we receive God's grace, we are motivated to become merciful and gracious to others.

Dr. Crane talks about the first word God uses to describe his own character: merciful. He shows how it is an emotional word, and action word, a forgiveness and rescue word, and a word that followers of Jesus are to put into practice in their daily lives.

Dr. Crane begins a new series on the character of God, which he revealed to Moses, in Exodus 34:6-7. In this story, Moses experienced the presence of God, learned the name of God, and heard five characteristics of God.

Dr. Crane shows how Paul had learned to be content in any circumstances, and yet was especially pleased to receive the offering the Philippians had taken for him, knowing that while it benefited him, it would also benefit them in their relationship with God.

Dr. Crane challenges us to put aside differences for the cause of Christ, to seek peace with others through rejoicing, being reasonable, being alert to God's presence, avoiding anxiety, praying about everything, and thinking and practicing excellent things.

Dr. Crane challenges us to follow the examples of Christ, and those who follow him, avoiding the examples of the enemies of the cross of Christ, instead living as citizens of heaven, while we await our transformation to become like Jesus.

Dr. Crane reminds us that even the Apostle Paul did not think he had arrived, but was continuing to press onward toward knowing Jesus, and living up to what Jesus had done for him.

Dr. Crane challenges us to be sure we are putting our confidence in Jesus and what he has accomplished for us, rather than putting our confidence in our own achievements.

Dr. Crane uses the lives of Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus to illustrate the characteristics of true servants of Jesus.

Jakob King talks about finding true rest in life by being yoked with Jesus.

Dr. Crane reminds us of Paul's admonition to remove all grumbling and disputing from our lives, in order to become blameless and innocent, especially in comparison with the crooked world in which we live.

Dr. Crane talks about the part that God plays in our salvation, and the part we play in responding to what He does in us and through us.

Dr. Crane reminds us of the glory of Christ: How he was equal with God, yet emptied himself and was obedient, dying on our behalf. God therefore exalted him to a place where everyone will one day honor his name.

Jason Carr looks at the story of when Jesus confronted his disciples about their view of greatness and leadership, teaching them to have an attitude and lifestyle of servanthood for the benefit of others and the purpose of the gospel.

Dr. Crane talks about the importance of unity among Christians, as they face the trials and suffering of life, and how that unity witnesses to fellow believers and to the world at large.

Dr. Crane shares on Paul's thoughts about whether it was better for him to die and be with Jesus, or to remain on earth to continue to serve Jesus in his situation.

Dr. Crane reflects on how Paul's imprisonment actually helped to advance the gospel by giving him opportunities to proclaim the gospel, strengthen others, and accept his critics.

Dr. Crane shares Paul's prayer for the Philippians that their love would grow, so that they would do what was best, so that they would become pure and blameless, so that God would be praise and glorified.

Dr. Crane shows how thankful Paul was for his partnership with the Philippians. He is thankful for what they did for him in the past, for their present partnership in the present, and his hope for what Jesus will do in their lives in the future.

Dr. Crane kicks off a new series on the book of Philippians with an overview showing how Paul had learned to experience joy in life despite facing numerous difficult circumstances.

Dr. Crane shows through his story of Ruth 2 how God is faithful to reward those who put their trust and faith in him, especially when the prospect of doing so may seem risky.

Dr. Crane shows through his study of Ruth 1 that even when we make questionable decisions and experience bitter circumstances, we can still have a sense of hope as we wait for the Lord, and remain loyal and encouraging to each other.