Village Green Community Church

 It is one of the most important functions of a church, even though it can sometimes be difficult to define or even recognize. Still, it is one of the hallmarks of a vibrant community of faith. 

1 Corinthians 9:19-27 In times of uncertainty, there is one principle that can make the difference between hope and despair. It not only applies on an individual level, but also to the church as a whole

 It is suppose to be part of our Christian experience but it can leave us confused and frustrated. We think it should be straightforward and work in a particular way but often find that it works in ways that we can rarely predict. Regardless, it is vital to our spiritual health. 

There is no denying the importance of reading and understanding the Bible. It’s centrality to the Christian faith cannot be underestimated. But why is it important and why do I need to know what it teaches?

How would you end this sentence? We are better_________! In this message we look at one word that seems so out of place, especially in this present season, but serves as a well-timed reminder.

Galatians 5:22 -23 The strength of our character lies in our inner formation. Without it, what people see is only a mask of our true self. 

To the casual observer, these are most often the characteristics that catch the attention and admiration of others.

In the ongoing struggle for self-improvement, the first three Fruits of the Spirit can prove to be the most difficult to maintain. 

Victory comes in many forms, but few as dramatic as a resurrection.

A suffering Messiah was difficult for most to comprehend. It became the biggest stumbling block even though it was an important aspect of the Messiah's mission.

Jesus' favourite title for Himself was carefully taken from prophetic passages in the Old Testament. To His audience, just hearing it would mean that Jesus was claiming something extraordinary.

 A difficult season is upon us and in the midst of closures, social distancing and being told what we cannot do , the days ahead look bleak and without promise. It's in these moments where we need to be reminded of what God says we can do and why it makes all the difference, even in a season such as this.

Advice is everywhere. Gurus and self-help icons are the new priests heralding a new world. One where the pursuit of happiness is the only value worth pursuing.

 We live in unprecedented times that few of us could have foreseen even a mere month ago. In the midst of the uncertainty and questions we need to be reminded of where our hope and courage lies and why it's so important to embrace our faith now more than ever. 

 It's the new mantra of the age; being busy. It conveys an air of self-importance and a life of purpose and intent. It's no surprise then, to find out that burn-out and stress is also at an all-time high. 

We are more polarized than ever, It's not acceptable to just disagree any more, now you have to attack anyone who doesn't hold to every condition of your worldview. In turn, it's virtually impossible for any of us to get along.

In a culture of more, the ones who appear to have more also appear to have it all. In a contest rooted in envy, the constant race to accumulate creates a false reality built with false hopes.

 Identity is a big deal today. Without clarity in this area, most default to identity that is related to profession, preference, or passion, any of which can leave us empty when they are gone. 

There is a danger when we see life as nothing more than disconnected pieces. It can leave us wondering if any kind of purpose can be found and throw doubt on obedience to God or to righteous living. 

We wonder if the roller coaster will ever stop and give us a chance to catch our breath. Life can throw us off balance and make us wonder if any kind of equilibrium is even possible?

Loss is a painful experience. Few experiences throw us into darkness like loss, and the emotional toll can make us feel as if normalcy is a distant reality.

None of us can escape it, even though we would never invite it into our lives. Oddly enough, it is what bonds every human being together while teaching us the value of compassion and mercy.

For most, faith has an unwelcomed companion. We didn't expect it to become a lifelong partner, but there it is, nudging from the sidelines trying to get our attentions through its constant nagging.

Peace is for many, an elusive state. In the midst of our broken world lies the potential to experience lasting peace.

God is not a temporary benefit, or a maker of promises that last only for a season. As they say, hope springs eternal when it comes to the promises of God.