Woodmen Valley Chapel

The proclamation of the kingdom of God will not be received equally by those who hear it. Using parables, Jesus teaches on the nature of the gospel and how, while it does not always take root in every heart, when it does take root, it bears tremendous fruit. Since we can never know how one will respond, we are to share the good news as much as we have opportunity. 1. The Parable of the Sower (vs....

Not everybody responded with enthusiasm to Jesus’ increasing popularity. His earthly family thought him crazy and sought to discourage his work, and scribes had begun to come down from Jerusalem to openly challenge him. Despite the opposition, Jesus remains steadfast in his commitment to do the will of his father. We too should expect opposition and must remain committed even when those closest to...

As Jesus’ ministry continued to grow, he began to entrust his work to others. He called the disciples to himself so that they could be with him and so that he could send them out to preach and cast out demons. Still today, Jesus calls us to participate with him in his gospel ministry; beginning in his presence, we are equipped and sent out. 1. Jesus knew pressure (vs. 7-12) 2. Jesus knew pause (v....

Failing to recognize who Jesus was, some began to question his decisions and challenge his authority. In each case, Jesus responded with truth and pointed people toward the new work he was doing. We too will find Jesus’ new way radical and life-changing as we follow him. 1. What is with the "sinners"? (vs. 13-17) 2. Why are they eating? (vs. 18-22) 3. What about the law? (vs. 23-28) 4. How far wil...

When God calls us to follow Him, he is calling us to something greater than we could ever ask or imagine. Too often, however, we are satisfied by following the call of our own selfish heart. In the call of Elisha we see how God’s call leads to something greater, even though at first it seems to be exactly the opposite. Elisha was a wealthy man, but to be faithful to God’s call he gave up his wealt...

1. Gideon needs God. (7:19-22) 2. Gideon acts humbly (8:1-3) 3. Gideon's success affects his judgment (vs. 4-21) 4. Gideon's Legacy (vs. 22-35) Songs: Unstoppable God #7011436 by C Brown, S Furtick, and W Joye 2014 Sony/ATV Tree Publishing Praise The King #7032344 by C Voss, D Smith, M Bryce Jr. & M Farren 2014 © Farren Love And War Publishing Worthy Of Your Name #7052927 by B Younker and S Curran...

1. Perspectives on Guilt 2. Lessons on Guilt a. The Lesson of Joseph (Genesis 39:23) b. The Lesson of the Brothers (Genesis 42:21) c. The Lesson of the Father (Genesis 37:35) 3. Steps to Resolve Guilt a. Go to the Source (Genesis 45:28) b. Understand the Lesson (Genesis 45:15) c. Initiate a Plan (Genesis 47:11-12) d. Let it Go (Genesis 45:4-5a) e. Trust in God (Genesis 45:5b, 7-8a) Songs: Unstoppa...

Unity is something we long for but often fail to achieve. In Philippians 2, Paul demonstrates how unity is achieved through serving one another. He then points to the ultimate example, Jesus Christ 1. Unity through Humility (vs. 1-4) 2. Humility in Action (vs. 5-11) SONGS The Lord Our God #6518055 by J Ingram and K Stanfill 2013 Call Upon The Lord #7051501 by C Brown and S Furtick 2015 © Be Essent...

Gideon is an unlikely Hero in God’s story- so unlikely that it takes a process for him to gain confidence in himself and God’s calling. God’s strength with Gideon is the secret sauce that leads to Gideon’s success as a leader. God is calling each of us to different things- what will be necessary for you to gain confidence that his strength in you will be enough to accomplish what he has asked you...

Using scripture from Christ’s experience at Gethsemane, we will review a Biblical approach to handling pressure 1. Emotional Comatose (vs. 36-46) 2. Over Compensation (vs. 51-52) 3. Avoidance (vs. 56b) 4. Denial (vs.69-75) SONGS The Lord Our God #6518055 by J Ingram and K Stanfill 2013 Call Upon The Lord #7051501 by C Brown and S Furtick 2015 © Be Essential Songs Jesus We Love You #7030068 by H Mc...

When some heard that Jesus was teaching in their town, they brought their friend, a paralytic, to him. When there was no room for them to enter the home where Jesus was, they dramatically lowered their friend through the roof. Seeing their faith, he forgave the paralytic’s sins. When those in attendance questioned in their hearts Jesus’ ability to forgive sins, Jesus demonstrates his power by heal...

Even though Jesus was God in the flesh, he still desired to spend time with his father. Rising early in the morning he went to spend time in prayer. When the disciples try to get him to return to Capernaum, Jesus remains committed to his father’s mission and moves on to the next town to preach the gospel. Recognizing our weaknesses, how much more do we need that time alone with our heavenly father...

Jesus called Simon, Andrew, James and John to follow him, and they would quickly see he was not an ordinary teacher. Jesus taught as one who had authority, and even demons and sickness submitted to his will. We too need acknowledge Jesus’ authority over our lives and in obedience follow him. 1. Authority to… a. Call (vs. 16-20) b. Teach (vs. 21-22) c. Command (vs. 23-28) d. Heal (vs. 29-34) SONGS...

Unlike the other gospels, Mark begins right at the start of Jesus’ public ministry. Even though he himself was without sin, Jesus identifies with the sins of his people and is baptized; the Spirit of God descends upon him and the father confirms his identity. Though tempted, Jesus overcomes sin and begins to preach a message of repentance. 1. The beginning of the gospel (v. 1) a. Foretold by scrip...

The prophet Elijah was despondent. He had just seen God move in power, but his life is threatened instead of responding in faith, he immediately flees – essentially quitting the ministry. Elijah runs to the same mountain where God appeared to Moses and hopes for God to show up in a great display of power again. God shows up. But in ways that are both undeserving and unexpected. God tells Elijah; I...

After the craziness of Christmas comes a new year. Some see it as a chance to start fresh, write new resolutions and goals. Others can see it as a continuation of an already hard season. When we enter a season where our faith in God does not come easily, it’s important to know where to look to be reminded of the goodness and faithfulness of God. That place may not always be forward. Sometimes we n...

Unity is something we long for but often fail to achieve. In Philippians 2, Paul demonstrates how unity is achieved through serving one another. He then points to the ultimate example, Jesus Christ. 1. Unity through Humility (vs. 1-4) 2. Humility in Action (vs. 5-11) Songs: This Is Amazing Grace #6333821 by J Farro, J Riddle, and P Wickham 2012 Bethel Music Stronger #5060810 by B Fielding and R Mo...

The Birth of Jesus (vs. 1-12) 1. Some were seeking (vs. 1-2) 2. Some were threatened (v. 3) 3. Some were callous (vs. 4-8) 4. Some found God (vs. 9-12) Songs: Joy To The World 24016 by G F Handel | I Watts Public Domain Hark The Herald Angels Sing 7019799 by C Wesley, F Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, J Ingram, & P Baloche © Integrity Worship Music O Come All Ye Faithful 7095543 by B Tan, C. F Oakeley, J F...

Rather than abandoning those who have stumbled, we are to seek to bring back to the truth those who have wandered away. While this can be painful, and often requires great patience and faith, it is a demonstration of Christ’s great love and forgiveness for us. 1. We could all wander (v. 19a) 2. We should help those that do (v. 19b) 3. It’s the gift that money can’t buy (v. 20) Songs: Angels We Hav...

Prayer is the greatest resource we have, and yet, so few employ it regularly. James tells us that “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:16b) so we need to pursue righteousness and cultivate a pattern of persistent prayer. 1. Pray more: a. When you are suffering (v. 13a) b. When you are cheerful (v. 13b) c. When you are sick (vs. 14-15) d. When you have sinned...

The pattern of our lives should be such that one can trust us at our word. Rather than having to appeal to oaths or others, our integrity and personal testimony should be the measure that encourages others to believe in what we say. 1. Speak the Truth (v. 12) a. Wisdom for Communicating Well (and enjoying the Christmas season). I. Listen Carefully (Proverbs 18:13) II. Be Nice (Proverbs 12:18) III....

Our sense of identity determines how we live. Embracing the identity that Christ gives us will yield fruitful outcomes that enable us to succeed in our walk with Him. SONGS This I Believe (The Creed) #7018338 by B Fielding and M Crocker 2014 © Hillsong Music Publishing Your Grace Is Enough #4477026 by M Maher, C Tomlin 2003 spiritandsong.com Worthy Of Your Name #7052927 by B Younker and S Curran ©...

In this life we will have trial and tribulations. Rather than taking matters into our own hands, at times all that we can do is patiently wait for the coming of our Lord. “Patience” is not something that happens on its own, but is a conscious decision and matter of will. 1. Patience takes faith (vs. 7-8) 2. Patience requires discipline (v. 9) 3. Patience is always worth it (vs. 10-11) Songs: Overc...

It is a fool who thinks he or she can bring security to their future by amassing earthly wealth, and it is a great evil to amass that wealth by abusing others and living only for one’s own satisfaction. Loving well requires we live generously towards others sharing with them what God has entrusted us to steward. 1. Do not presume upon the future – Include God in your plans (vs. 13-17) 2. Do not pu...

The battles of this life will not be won by the strong, but rather by those who consciously seek to draw near and close to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you, but we must humble ourselves before God to receive the grace we need to overcome temptation. 1. The problem (v. 1) a. A vicious cycle (vs. 2-3) b. A foolish decision (v. 4) 2. The Solution: a. Receive grace (vs. 5-6) b. Draw nea...