Pastor ryan
Lead Pastor
As we read John 5, we are reminded that whether God reveals His heart or His hand, He is inviting us deeper into His presence.
Listen + Watch the Message
(new sermons published every Monday)
Sermon Summary:
The messaging of this world specializes in noise, crowds, and busyness, and we are all surrounded by it. Messages telling you to be more, that you deserve more, and to get what you want. The solution for years has been for us to attempt to suppress those desires, hoping they will go away. Rather than suppression, Thomas Chalmers offers substitution as a solution—substituting a lesser affection with a greater love of Jesus. The best way to do this is by entering the story of Scripture, experiencing Jesus, and keeping the fire of our hearts kindled. We look to John 5 as an example of how our affections for Jesus can be stirred as His power, grace, love, and vision are fully on display. As we read this story, we are reminded that whether God shows you His heart or His hand, we are being invited deeper into His presence.
Scripture References from the Sermon
John 1:1 | John 5:1-17 | John 5:21
Discussion Questions
- Recall a time where sin or an ungodly desire has been strong, and you tried to suppress it.
- Discuss the idea of substituting a lesser affection with a greater love when it comes to your relationship with God.
- In John 5:1-17, we use the three fold movement “Enter the Story, Experience Jesus, and Kindle the Flame” as a means to substitute. List some ways you’re exchanging an old affection for Jesus’ hand or heart.
- As you take the place of a lame man in the story, how have you lived half alive, familiar with poverty?
- When did, or do you, practice pleading inadequacies over your life?
- Where are you blaming, making excuses, or seeing from a place of self-pity?
- How is seeing Jesus, and then telling you to ‘Get up…’ helping you come out of that place?
- What other stories can you read through the gospels with these same three movements?
Event Highlight | Night of Worship
Our church-wide Night of Worship is an opportunity for us to come together in unity to worship, pray, and seek the Presence of God together. Please visit the events page for all of the details.