TODAY'S MESSAGE

Easter is many things but it remains the GREATEST paradigm shift in history. God intends for it to prepare us to make the greatest paradigm shift too! In fact, I (Mark) think it is the change we are all secretly longing for...

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

Revelation 21.1-4

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, 4 and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”

Click here for this morning's message notes.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

This is why we can believe in the resurrection by Lee Strobel. Strobel was an investigative journalist who decided to prove the resurrection did not happen. in the process of doing so, he became persuaded that the Gospels were true and that Jesus really was raised from the dead. Here is a little article by him...

Did Jesus Really Rise From the Dead?One of the greatest New Testament historians and scholars, N. T. Wright, answers this question -- and you can enjoy his English Accent too! Video is well worth your time.

The Messiah is a animated video from the Bible Project. A great video to share with children... as are most videos on their site!

TODAY'S MESSAGE

Today we reflect on the example and leadership principles we learn from the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. 

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

Matthew 21.1-11   

1 When they had approached Jerusalem and had come to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied there and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to Me. 3 “If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord has need of them,’ and immediately he will send them.” 4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:

5 “SAY TO THE DAUGHTER OF ZION, 
‘BEHOLD YOUR KING IS COMING TO YOU, 
GENTLE, AND MOUNTED ON A DONKEY, 
EVEN ON A COLT, THE FOAL OF A BEAST OF BURDEN.’”

6 The disciples went and did just as Jesus had instructed them, 7 and brought the donkey and the colt, and laid their coats on them; and He sat on the coats. 8 Most of the crowd spread their coats in the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them in the road. 9 The crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting, 

“Hosanna to the Son of David; 
BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; 
Hosanna in the highest!”

10 When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee.”

Click here for this morning's sermon notes.

This Palm Sunday message has 3 parts. You can listen to any and all!
1.  00:00 - 09:58 An update from the GEM Foundation Orphanage in Uganda
2. 09:58 - 27:27 Vince's Palm Sunday message
3. 27:27 - 56:12  Mark's PalmSunday message/pastoral charge to Benji and Jen Horning who are leaving FCC pastoral staff to plant Light Church Encinitas.
4. 00:56:12 Benji and Jen's response to the FCC community

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Simply Good News: Why the Gospel Is News and What Makes It Good by N. T. Wright. The Gospel means good news. But if the message has been around for 2,000 years, what makes it significant today? What’s so “good” about stories involving damnation, violence, and a God who sacrifices his only son?

The Crown and the Fire: Meditations on the Cross and the Life of the Spirit. Part One of the book alone is worth the read. In Part One, Wright considers not the customary seven last words that Jesus spoke from the cross but, rather, seven words that various people spoke to Jesus on the cross -- people like Mary and the Roman centurion, who witnessed the crucifixion, and Pontius Pilate, who helped to instigate it. 

TODAY'S MESSAGE

In these spiritually confusing times, it may be appealing to think nostalgically that in its earliest days, the Christian church was a tranquil place of unity, joy, and peace, which only gradually became fragmented and contentious as the centuries rolled on. The history of the church is a history of disagreements and schisms that have led to the three major segments of Christianity we see today—Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, and Eastern Orthodoxy—and to thousands of denominations and groups within each. Nevertheless, here we are, nearly two thousand years after the John wrote, and the gospel of Jesus Christ is still alive and active, still reconciling people to God and transforming their lives as they read the NT. What a wonder! ... and here in the letter called, 3 John, we learn why!

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

3 John
1   The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.

2   Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I was very glad when brethren came and testified to your truth, that is, how you are walking in truth. 4 I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.

5   Beloved, you are acting faithfully in whatever you accomplish for the brethren, and especially when they are strangers; 6 and they have testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. 7 For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. 8 Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers with the truth.

9   I wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not accept what we say. 10 For this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words; and not satisfied with this, he himself does not receive the brethren, either, and he forbids those who desire to do so and puts them out of the church.

11   Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God. 12 Demetrius has received a good testimony from everyone, and from the truth itself; and we add our testimony, and you know that our testimony is true.

13   I had many things to write to you, but I am not willing to write them to you with pen and ink; 14 but I hope to see you shortly, and we will speak face to face.

15   Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Love Does by Bob Goff

The Letters of John by NT Wright

The Vox Podcast: The VOX Podcast is an alternative conversation about the work of Jesus in our modern day. Enjoy weekly episodes from Mike Erre and Co-Host Andy Lara. 

The Bible Project: Our videos are actually animated versions of much larger conversations that have been distilled into the most salient points. In The Bible Project podcast, Tim and Jon invite you into their dialogue concerning the biblical theology behind each video.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

Followers of Jesus are meant to walk in truth and make a connection between their knowing the Gospel and how they live. This isn't just about correct doctrine and right living, but it's also a life defined by a love for God and others.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

2 John

1 This letter is from John, the elder.

I am writing to the chosen lady and to her children,[b] whom I love in the truth—as does everyone else who knows the truth— 2 because the truth lives in us and will be with us forever.

3 Grace, mercy, and peace, which come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ—the Son of the Father—will continue to be with us who live in truth and love.

4 How happy I was to meet some of your children and find them living according to the truth, just as the Father commanded.

5 I am writing to remind you, dear friends,[c] that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning. 6 Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning.

7 I say this because many deceivers have gone out into the world. They deny that Jesus Christ came[d] in a real body. Such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we[e] have worked so hard to achieve. Be diligent so that you receive your full reward. 9 Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the Father and the Son.

10 If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don’t invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement. 11 Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work.
12 I have much more to say to you, but I don’t want to do it with paper and ink. For I hope to visit you soon and talk with you face to face. Then our joy will be complete.

13 Greetings from the children of your sister,[f] chosen by God.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Love Does by Bob Goff

The Letters of John by NT Wright

The Vox Podcast: The VOX Podcast is an alternative conversation about the work of Jesus in our modern day. Enjoy weekly episodes from Mike Erre and Co-Host Andy Lara. 

The Bible Project: Our videos are actually animated versions of much larger conversations that have been distilled into the most salient points. In The Bible Project podcast, Tim and Jon invite you into their dialogue concerning the biblical theology behind each video.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

Today we conclude where we began looking at the example of Jesus and the encouragement that we might change the world by following in His footsteps to follow, love, and serve.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

PHILIPPIANS 2.1-11

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes.

INFO | OPPORTUNITIES

Stop by the Welcome Table to receive your free gift, pick a charity, and to find out more information. 

Stop by the Easter Egg Hunt to pick up your egg shells to stuff and bring back for the Community Easter Egg Hunt.

Faith Community will be taking a team made up of 25-30 men, women, and families with children to Ensenada, Mx, May 27-29, 2017 (Sat-Mon) to build a home for a family in need. We will also be performing other ministry outreach activities for the children in the area. Families are encouraged to join us. To date, teams from our congregation have built 54 homes for needy families in Tijuana & Ensenada.

Stop by the Homes of Hope table in the Courtyard following the service for more information.

Click here to see all upcoming Easter events at Faith!

Every year Jews around the world "keep the Passover". Leaven is removed from the home in preparation and family gathers around an evening meal designed to be a time machine by which participants young and old are transported back to the very first Passover. Not only is the Seder meal rich in remembrance of Israel's deliverance from Egypt it is filled with prophetic "remembrance" that Jesus says is fulfilled in Him. 

We will be keeping Passover with a Seder meal on March 29th in our Fellowship Center.  Our Pastor, raised in a Jewish home, will be leading the evening. 

Cost:  $18 adult, $9 6-14 years old, free for 5 and under.  $50 family max.  Cost covers the Seder elements and a traditional modern Passover dinner.

Sign up at the Welcome Table or RSVP here

The Pacific Southwest District is hosting the Essential Women's Conference at The Center Foursquare in Escondido.  

To register and for more information, visit the Conference's website at essentialconference.com

Worship with Light Church @ 2 PM today.  Click here for directions.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

This classic book on spiritual leadership sets a high bar of excellence for all followers of Jesus to aspire to. Available in all formats.

Also, for using your invitations, listen to Rose Males message on "How to Have A Spiritual Conversation".

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

We cannot love and serve others if we are not willing to have spiritual conversations. The very thought of this frequently causes fear of rejection and anxiety that we are unprepared and inadequate... if we are honest, many of us hope God will use someone else! Rose Males helps us overcome our apprehensions with insight and practical help.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

COLOSSIANS 4.2-6

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Rose has posted some notes for us:

Spiritual Conversations: 6 thresholds to conversion

Spiritual Conversations/Puzzling Questions

Rose recommends:
• RePlacing Church by Ben Katt. "This is a podcast to hear about spiritual conversations that are going on within the Christian community regarding spirituality, community, justice, leadership, etc. I’ve found this podcast helpful in catching the pulse of the times and how others are engaging with the world."
• the Bible Project "provides insight into the bible for people who want to explore what they believe and why."
• Finally, any book or podcast by David Fitch

In addition, check out the classic book on spiritual conversations: Out of the Saltshaker Into the World. That this book still remains in print and a bestseller indicates its ongoing value as a resource and encouragement to God's Church. An easy, empowering, and insightful book that, if you read, you will feel released.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

This isn’t a disconnected God who we’re striving to get the approval of… this is a God who is overjoyed with His people and He is intimately, joyfully involved in their work.  

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
PSALM 16.11

You make known to me the path of life;
     in your presence there is fullness of joy;
        at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

PHILIPPIANS 2.13

... for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

Spiritual Leadership is a classic exposition on leadership that is distinctly Christian. Most Christian leadership texts recycle the best principles coming from leaders in business, sports, or military. This book is a distinctly biblical look at the leader that has a passion to follow, love, and serve well. 

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

What makes Christian service distinct. Well the answer is a "who" not a "what"... 

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | ACTS 1.4-5, 8

“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
...But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

ACTS 19.1-3

Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” 
     They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”

ACTS 7.51

“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!

JOHN 16.13

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

ISAIAH 30.21

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

JOHN 16.8

When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment:

Click here for today's sermon notes.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

Spiritual Leadership is a classic exposition on leadership that is distinctly Christian. Most Christian leadership texts recycle the best principles coming from leaders in business, sports, or military. This book is a distinctly biblical look at the leader that has a passion to follow, love, and serve well. 

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

In Acts 6 we read of a church on target: they’re seeing Jesus’ command to make disciples actually happen.  But as they see the Great Commission coming to fruition before their eyes, we’ll see a connection between their serving one another well and the word of God spreading and disciples increasing in number.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | ACTS 6.1-7

1 Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. 2 So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. 3 “Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. 4 “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch. 6 And these they brought before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.

7 The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

Click here for today's sermon notes.

INFO | OPPORTUNITIES

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

Spiritual Leadership is a classic exposition on leadership that is distinctly Christian. Most Christian leadership texts recycle the best principles coming from leaders in business, sports, or military. This book is a distinctly biblical look at the leader that has a passion to follow, love, and serve well. 

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

Today, we look at Jesus' teaching on the nature of Christian leadership. "Servant" is the character of the follower of Jesus who aspires to influence and lead. 

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | 1 Corinthians 13

1   If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

4   Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8   Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Click here for today's sermon notes.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

Spiritual Leadership is a classic exposition on leadership that is distinctly Christian. Most Christian leadership texts recycle the best principles coming from leaders in business, sports, or military. This book is a distinctly biblical look at the leader that has a passion to follow, love, and serve well. 

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well.

We have looked at the call and consciousness of a disciple/follower/leaner of Jesus. Today we look at the commandment of a disciple -- to love well.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | 1 Corinthians 13

1   If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

4   Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8   Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

A Disciple's Checkup: Here is a list of questions Mark developed to anchor his own life as a learner/follower of Jesus.

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

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ONLINE GIVING:
If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well. 

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | Mark 1.16-20
16 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 17 Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” 18 And they left their nets at once and followed him.

19 A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. 20 He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

A Disciple's Checkup: Here is a list of questions Mark developed to anchor his own life as a learner/follower of Jesus.

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well. 

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | Mark 1.16-20
16 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 17 Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” 18 And they left their nets at once and followed him.

19 A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. 20 He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

Every year our middle and high school student head up to the mountains for a winter camp with hundreds of students from other churches. Click here for information for middle school camp and click here for information for high school camp.

ONLINE GIVING:

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.

TODAY'S MESSAGE

If you spend any time here at Faith Community you will begin to hear the phrase: "Follow well, love well, serve well." These are the building blocks of our life of faith here at Faith. These are Jesus' words in every Gospel. His call and command are as simple as they are challenging. Easily memorized but never mastered. These must be the DNA of our our lives, our community, and our relationships.

In light of the polarization in our culture; the growing hostility to the Christian faith, and the individualistic and isolating habits many pursue, it seems like a strategic time to focus on these simple words. Let us start 2018 by defining these words that define us and by encouraging one another to follow well, love well, and serve well. 

This morning's message includes an interview with a pastor of a Tunisian community we are in relationship with as well as background regarding some of our global partnerships... the message itself is only about 15 minutes long this week but we felt the other parts were worth posting...

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE | Mark 1.16-20
16 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 17 Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” 18 And they left their nets at once and followed him.

19 A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. 20 He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men.

Click here for this morning's sermon notes

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some books and resources we recommend for your own reflection and study (there are listed in no particular order):

The Radical Disciple by John Stott. This was the last book John Stott chose to write. Consider it an elder statesman and saints farewell reflections on what it means to follow Jesus. What is a life of radical discipleship? At the root, it means we let Jesus set the agenda of our lives. We aren't selective. We don't pick and choose what is congenial and stay away from what is costly. No. He is Lord of all of life.

Issues Facing Christians Today by John Stott. Terrorism, Same-Sex Marriage, Debt Cancellation, The AIDS Pandemic These are just some of the critical contemporary issues addressed in this book. Issues Facing Christians Today helps thinking Christians sift through and respond to a sweeping array of complex and pressing topics.

The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This is a classic look at the Sermon On the Mount. The opening chapters on cheap grace are worth your investing in this book. Bonhoeffer was executed by Hitler weeks before the end of World War II. 

The Challenge of a Disciplined Life: Christian Reflections on Money, Sex, and Power by Richard Foster. Challenging and thoughtful reflections by a Quaker to the Church today.

The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus' Essential Teaching on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. Willard boldly challenges the thought that we can be Christians without being disciples, or call ourselves Christians without applying this understanding of life in the Kingdom of God to every aspect of life on earth. He calls on believers to restore what should be the heart of Christianity -- being active disciples of Jesus Christ.

If you would like to join us in worshiping the Lord through financial giving to the ministries of Faith Community please click here.