< Back Thessalonians Series Pt. 1: What Do They Say? Pastor Nate Brosher Jul 30, 2025 1Thessalonians 1:1-3 NLT - 1 This letter is from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God give you grace and peace. 2 We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. 3 As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. Three Things Paul expresses in Chapter 1: 1. Faithful Work - Dedication, Reliability & Commitment. - Integrity & Honesty. - Serving Others. 2. Loving Deeds - Care, Compassion & Affection. - Sacrificial. - Authentic Expression of Love. 3. Enduring Hope - Confidence in God’s Promises. - Anchored in God. 1Thessalonians 1:4-7 NLT - 4 We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. 5 For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you. 6 So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. 7 As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Greece--throughout both Macedonia and Achaia. • Are we imitating the Lord? - What would Paul say we are imitating? verse 7 that as a result of imitating Christ, they have become examples to all believers in the surrounding areas of Greece and Macedonia. 1Thessaslonians 1:8-10 NLT - 8 And now the word of the Lord is ringing out from you to people everywhere, even beyond Macedonia and Achaia, for wherever we go we find people telling us about your faith in God. We don't need to tell them about it, 9 for they keep talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God. 10 And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God's Son from heaven--Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. - Verse 9: for they keep talking about the wonderful welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve the living and true God. Are we just surface deep Christians? Revelation 12:11 ESV - 11 And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. ■ Testimony - Martyria – record, evidence given, report. What is coming out of our mouths? 1 Thessalonians 1:10 NLT – And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God's Son from heaven--Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment. - It’s time to declare the promises of the Lord! Previous Next

< Back The Aftermath Pt. 9: The Turn Around Pastor Nate Brosher Jun 22, 2025 Acts 16:22-24 NLT - 22 A mob quickly formed against Paul and Silas, and the city officials ordered them stripped and beaten with wooden rods. 23 They were severely beaten, and then they were thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to make sure they didn't escape. 24 So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. 1. Anointed, but Hindered. The anointing is the Holy Spirit’s empowering presence and gifts. R.C. Sproul: The “baptism of the Spirit” refers to being equipped or empowered by God’s Spirit to carry out the task that Jesus has given the church. When the Spirit equips us or baptizes us, we are immersed, as it were, in the Holy Spirit. What hinders the anointing in our lives? Sin & Disobedience Romans 6:23 ESV - 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1Samuel 15:23 NLT - 23 Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols Fear & Timidity 2Timothy 1:7-8 NLT - 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 8 So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don't be ashamed of me, either, even though I'm in prison for him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News. Pride & Self-Reliance Philippians 2:3-5 NLT - 3 Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Unforgiveness Mark 11:25 ESV - 25 “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." Hebrews 12:15 ESV - 15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled. 2. It’s a New Day! Acts 16: 25-26 NLT - 25 Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. 26 Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! Why did they wait until the midnight hour? 3. Your storm isn’t always about you! Acts 16: 27-33 NLT - 27 The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. 28 But Paul shouted to him, "Stop! Don't kill yourself! We are all here!" 29 The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household." 32 And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. 33 Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. Act 16:24 NLT - 24 So the jailer put them into the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. Are we demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives? Previous Next

< Back Summer Bods Series Pt. 3: Heart of Worship Pastor Nate Brosher Jun 23, 2024 1 Chronicles 16:23-34 ESV 23 Sing to the LORD, all the earth! Tell of his salvation from day to day. 24 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! 25 For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and he is to be feared above all gods. 26 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the LORD made the heavens. 27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his place. 28 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength! 29 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him! Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness; 30 tremble before him, all the earth; yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved. 31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice, and let them say among the nations, "The LORD reigns!" 32 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it! 33 Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD, for he comes to judge the earth. 34 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! 1. A Healthy Heart lēḇāḇ – Soul, mind, conscience, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory as seat of emotions. ■ What habits have we developed? Psalm 86:11-13 NLT Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. 12 With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever, 13 for your love for me is very great. You have rescued me from the depths of death. ■ Our heart needs to be evaluated. Isaiah 29:13 NLT And so the Lord says, "These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote. A sign of a healthy heart is defined by how we worship. Is our heart of worship designed by man or by God? Proskyneō – Complete submission, obedience and reverence. 2. Pledging our Allegiance to the Lamb and not the World. Hebrews 13:15 NLT Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. John 4:23-24 NLT But the time is coming--indeed it's here now--when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. 24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth." ■ It’s time that we come back to a heart of Worship. Previous Next

< Back The Aftermath Pt. 2: His Spirit Pastor Nate Brosher May 4, 2025 Acts 2:14-18 NLT - 14 Then Peter stepped forward with the eleven other apostles and shouted to the crowd, "Listen carefully, all of you, fellow Jews and residents of Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this. 15 These people are not drunk, as some of you are assuming. Nine o'clock in the morning is much too early for that. 16 No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel: 17 'In the last days,' God says, 'I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. 18 In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants--men and women alike--and they will prophesy. 1. His Spirit is for ALL PEOPLE! Joel 2:28-29 ESV - 28 “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. 29 Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit. God was setting a precedent! John 14:6-7 ESV - 6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Fatheralso. From now on you do know him and have seen him." Romans 8:16-17 ESV - 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God , 17 and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Suffer – sympaschō – To suffer evils, persecution, troubles together, feel pain together. 1Peter 5:8-11 ESV - 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Persecution comes in many different sizes. Accusations: Matthew 24:13 ESV - 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. Slandering/Mocking: Galatians 6:7-9 NKJV - 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 2. We are all witnesses! Acts 2:32-33 NLT - 32 "God raised Jesus from the dead, and we are all witnesses of this. 33 Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God's right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. Ephesians 1:13 NLT - 13 And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. What does the Holy Spirit do for me? 1. Reveals God’s Truth John 14:26 NLT - 26 But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative--that is, the Holy Spirit--he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. 2. Empowers with Spiritual Gifts Ephesians 4:11-12 NLT - 11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 3. Transforms Lives Galatians 5:22-23 NLT - 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Previous Next

< Back Formed 2: Spiritual Discipline Nathan Brosher Apr 26, 2026 1Kings 19:9-18 NLT - 9 There he came to a cave, where he spent the night. But the LORD said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" 10 Elijah replied, "I have zealously served the LORD God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too." 11 "Go out and stand before me on the mountain," the LORD told him. And as Elijah stood there, the LORD passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And a voice said, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" 14 He replied again, "I have zealously served the LORD God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too." 15 Then the LORD told him, "Go back the same way you came, and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. When you arrive there, anoint Hazael to be king of Aram. 16 Then anoint Jehu grandson of Nimshi to be king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from the town of Abel-meholah to replace you as my prophet. 17 Anyone who escapes from Hazael will be killed by Jehu, and those who escape Jehu will be killed by Elisha! 18 Yet I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!" 1. Silence Silence positions us to hear God. Psalm 46:8-10 NLT - 8 Come, see the glorious works of the LORD: See how he brings destruction upon the world. 9 He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire. 10 "Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world." Charles Spurgeon: “Faith does not remove us from the battle, but rather brings us to a place of inner peace because we are under the protection of God's "right arm" Silence is a posture. Ecclesiastes 3:7 NLT - 7 A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. Exodus 14:14 NKJV - 14 "The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." Ephesians 6:11-12 NLT - 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Stillness is not passive; it’s intentional awareness of God. Elisabeth Elliot, American Missionary/Author: "The stillness in which we find God is not superficial, a mere absence of fidgeting or talking. It is a deliberate and quiet attentiveness—receptive, alert, ready". 2. Solitude as a place of transformation - Private formation precedes public anointing. - God develops depth in hidden places. - Being silent causes transformation. Previous Next

< Back Distractions: Are You Not Entertained?! Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 21, 2024 Distractions: Are You Not Entertained?! Philippians 2:1-5 NLT 1 Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3 Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 1. Don’t be selfish and don’t try to impress others. Distractions: We are distracted by what the world says is success. Luke 14:23 NLT 23 So his master said, 'Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full. Hebrews 12:1 ESV 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely , and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Romans 12:2 ESV 2 Do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. 2. We must have the same attitude that Christ had. Phroneo – To be of the same mind, be harmonious, be wise, have understanding. Jesus said some things that are uncomfortable for many of us to follow. Mat 5:43-44 ESV 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Matthew 5:27-28 ESV 27 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Was the blood that I shed not enough? 3. Breaking off the Self-Centered mindset. Philippians 2:4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. It must be Christ centered at the forefront. Previous Next

< Back Journey Through James Pt. 1 Pastor Nate Brosher Feb 15, 2024 James 1:1-4 NLT 1 This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the "twelve tribes"--Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings! 2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. 1. Slave – Bond Servant to God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Doulos – devoted to another to the disregard of one's own interests, one who worships and submits to God. James makes a paradox statement: “When troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” Faith that is tested will allow our endurance to grow. “For when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:5-8 NLT 5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. 2. Faith in God alone. "When you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone.” James says, “Our loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do.” KJV – “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways!” James said, a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Revelation 3:15-16 NLT 15 "I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! We must be steadfast, unmovable in our faith and walk with God. James 1:12-15 NLT 12 God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 13 And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. 14 Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. 3. Be Patient! Temptation will rise frequently. We must recognize that “temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. Then these desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” James is telling us here, that we can’t let our desires entice us to make wrong and emotional decisions! James 1:16-18 NLT So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. 18 He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. Previous Next

< Back Preparation: Make Way for the King Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 24, 2024 Matthew 21:1-11 ESV 1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord needs them,' and he will send them at once." 4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, 5 "Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.'" 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. 8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" 10 And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, "Who is this?" 11 And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee." 1. Make Room Verse 8: Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Revelation 7:9-10 NLT 9 After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a great roar, "Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!" 2. Open Your Mouth Verse 9: And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" Colossians 2:6-7 NLT Hosanna – (Waava/Owoov) – “Save, I pray”, “Save us”. Matthew 21:15-16 NKJV 15 But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" they were indignant 16 and said to Him, "Do You hear what these are saying?" And Jesus said to them, "Yes. Have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise'?" We should always be making way for the King to come in. Matthew 17:17 NLT Jesus said, "You faithless and corrupt people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you?" Previous Next

< Back The Waiting Room Pt. 1: Prayer and Supplication Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 8, 2024 Philippians 4:4-7 ESV - 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness ( gentleness or gentle spirit ) be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand ( near ); 6 do not be anxious ( troubled with cares, to seek to promote one's interests ) about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 1. Rejoice in the Lord Rejoice – (Chairo) – to be cheerful, happy, glad, hail and thriving. Acts 11:19-24 ESV - 19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists ( Greek speaking non-Jews ) also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 2. Don’t be anxious! Philippians 4:6 NLT - do not be anxious ( troubled with cares, to seek to promote one's interests ) about anything , but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Paul is just reiterating what Jesus told his disciples. Matthew 6:25 ESV - 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” ■ Prayer – “proseuchē”: prayer addressed to God. Worship. ■ Supplication – “deēsis”: a seeking, asking, entreating, entreaty to God. ■ Thanksgiving – “eucharistia”: gratitude; actively, grateful language. 3. Always Remembering Him Psalm 34:1-3 ESV - 1 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. 3 Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! Prayer should be a daily practice. Previous Next

< Back Letters from Paul Series Pt. 9: Attitude Check Pastor Nate Brosher Sep 25, 2024 Philippians 2:1-2 NLT - 1 Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 1. Are we encouraged? Philippians 2:3-5 NLT - 3 Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Selfish – Eritheia – Strife, contention, a desire to put oneself forward, a partisan and factious spirit which does not disdain low arts. Empty Conceit - Kenodoxia - vain glory, groundless, self-esteem, empty pride. Tapeinophrosynē – a humble opinion, deep sense of one’s littleness, modesty, humility, lowliness of mind. 2. Why isn’t our attitude matching His? Philippians 2:6-8 NLT - 6 Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, 8 he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross. Matthew 26:53-54 NLT - 53 Don't you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly? 54 But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?" “Selfishness must give way to selflessness” Philippians 2:9-11 NLT - 9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, 10 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. Elevated - Hyperypsoō - to exalt to the highest rank and power, raise to supreme majesty, to be lifted upwith pride, exalted beyond measure. Ephesians 2:4-7 NLT - 4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) 6 For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. 7 So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. Our unity in Christ will keep our attitudes in check. Previous Next

< Back The Romans Journey Pt. 4: Undeserved Privilege Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 6, 2025 Romans 5:1-5 NLT - 1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Undeserved – Not warranted, merited or earned. Privilege – A special right, advantage or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group. ■ Doxa – Splendour/magnificence, excellence, grace belonging to Christ. 1. Zealous for Christ. Romans 12:11-12 ESV - 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Revelation 3:19 CSB - 19 "As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be zealous and repent. What does it mean to be zealous for Christ? Romans 5:3-5 NLT - 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. ■ Rejoicing through tribulation. “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger” – Kelly Clarkson. 1Corinthians 1:27 – God will choose the foolish things to confound the wise. Luke 6:22-23 NLT - 22 What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. 23 When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way. 2. Leap for Joy?! John 15:10-11 ESV - 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father'scommandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. Romans 5:5 NLT - 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Galatians 5:22-24 ESV - 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. ■ We have been equipped. Romans 5:17-21 NLT - 17 For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. 18 Yes, Adam's one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ's one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. 19 Because one-person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. 20 God's law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful grace became more abundant. 21 So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Previous Next

< Back Encounters Series Pt. 4: Here I Am Pastor Nate Brosher Sep 1, 2024 1 Samuel 1:11, 20, 24, 26-28 (ESV) 11 And she vowed a vow and said, "O LORD of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head." ... 20 And in due time Hannah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Samuel, for she said, "I have asked for him from the LORD." ... 24 And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh. And the child was young. ... 26 And she said, "Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the LORD. 27 For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him. 28 Therefore I have lent him to the LORD. As long as he lives, he is lent to the LORD." And he worshiped the LORD there. Dedication & Determination Hannah made a Nazarite Vow to God. 1 Samuel 3:1-14 (ESV) Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD in the presence of Eli. And the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no frequent vision. 2 At that time Eli, whose eyesight had begun to grow dim so that he could not see, was lying down in his own place. 3 The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. 4 Then the LORD called Samuel, and he said, "Here I am!" 5 and ran to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he said, "I did not call; lie down again." So, he went and lay down. 6 And the LORD called again, "Samuel!" and Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." But he said, "I did not call, my son; lie down again." 7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, and the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. 8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, "Here I am, for you called me." Then Eli perceived that the LORD was calling the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, "Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, 'Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.'" So, Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 And the LORD came and stood, calling as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant hears." 11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, "Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. 12 On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. 13 And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. 14 Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever." Know – (Yada) To distinguish, known by experience, perceive or discern. Eli’s sons, Hophni & Phineas were blasphemous priests of Shiloh. 1 Samuel 4:4, 10-11 (ESV) 4 So the people sent to Shiloh and brought from there the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, who is enthroned on the cherubim. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. ... 10 So the Philistines fought, and Israel was defeated, and they fled, every man to his home. And there was a very great slaughter, for thirty-thousand-foot soldiers of Israel fell. 11 And the ark of God was captured, and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, died. It’s time for us to preach the Gospel and make disciples. It’s time to focus on the main thing. John 3:16-17 NLT "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. We need to get back to the basics. Previous Next