< Back Family Matters Pt. 2: Abundant Grace Pastor Nate Brosher Nov 9, 2025 Colossians 3:12-15 NLT - 12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other's faults and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. 1. Make Allowance Anecho - to sustain, to bear, to endure. Romans 5:18-21 NLT - 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. ■ Why are we not giving and showing Grace? Romans 8:1-2 NKJV - 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 6:23 NLT - 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. 2. Forgiveness Colossians 3:13 NLT - forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. • “Church Hurt” Matthew 25:35-40 NLT - 35 For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. 36 I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' 37 "Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? 39 When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?' 40 "And the King will say, 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!' ■ We are the hands and the feet of Jesus! Colossians 3:14-15 NLT - 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. 3. Love One Another • Paul says, “Above all to clothe ourselves with love” Previous Next

< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 2: My Sacrifice Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 19, 2025 “In a secular world where “me” is God and everyone else is a means to more of “me,” who wants to serve others? In a techy world where “selfies” are currency and “likes” are gold, and where academic achievement, sporting achievement, money, fame, media celebrity status, and the latest cool fashion logos have iconic status, who really cares about living sacrificially? Who really cares whether I care? What even is sacrificial living?– Author, Shona Murray Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT - 8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. 1. Greatest Sacrifice Mark 16:15 : "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation" Matthew 28:19-20 : "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" Matthew 24:14 : "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations" ■ We have all been called to be a witness “Sacrificial living is motivated by a love for God and gratitude for salvation, not by legalism.” – Author, Shona Murray. Matthew 6:31-33 NLT - 31 "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. ■ A sacrificed heart is driven by the concern to meet others’ needs, because Christ met our need. 2. What are we doing? 1Corinthians 6:12-14, 19-20 NLT – 12 You say, "I am allowed to do anything"--but not everything is good for you. And even though "I am allowed to do anything," I must not become a slave to anything. 13 You say, "Food was made for the stomach, and the stomach for food." (This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them.) But you can't say that our bodies were made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. 14 And God will raise us from the dead by his power, just as he raised our Lord from the dead. ... 19 Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So, you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:15 NLT Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! David Livingstone – (1813-1873) Scottish Missionary.– “God send me anywhere, only go with me. Lay any burden on me, only sustain me. And sever any tie in my heart except the tie that binds my heart to Yours.” Robert Morrison – (1782-1834) First Protestant Missionary in China. - “When you get to heaven, will you look back on this earth and regret how much treasure you laid up here instead of sending it on ahead to heaven?” ■ Sacrificial living is love-motivated, not law-motivated. Matthew 6:1-4 NLT - 1 "Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. 2 When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. 3 But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4 Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Previous Next

< Back Sabbath Series Pt. 5: The Good Place Chase Radford Nov 6, 2025 Link to full notes: https://estd.craft.me/ss5-the-good-place Previous Next

< Back The Waiting Room Pt. 3: Change to be Changed Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 29, 2024 Isaiah 1:11-20 NLT - 11 "What makes you think I want all your sacrifices?" says the LORD. "I am sick of your burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fattened cattle. I get no pleasure from the blood of bulls and lambs and goats. 12 When you come to worship me, who asked you to parade through my courts with all your ceremony? 13 Stop bringing me your meaningless gifts; the incense of your offerings disgusts me! As for your celebrations of the new moon and the Sabbath and your special days for fasting--they are all sinful and false. I want no more of your pious meetings. 14 I hate your new moon celebrations and your annual festivals. They are a burden to me. I cannot stand them! 15 When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will not look. Though you offer many prayers, I will not listen, for your hands are covered with the blood of innocent victims. 16 Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. 17 Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. 18 "Come now, let's settle this," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. 19 If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat. 20 But if you turn away and refuse to listen, you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. I, the LORD, have spoken!" 1. Going through the motions. “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results.” Insanity – The state of being mentally ill, madness, extreme foolishness or extreme irrationality. (The quality of being unreasonable.) Matthew 23:1-3 NLT - 1 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 "The teachers of religious law and the Pharisees are the official interpreters of the law of Moses. 3 So practice and obey whatever they tell you, but don't follow their example. For they don't practice what they teach. ■ Are we practicing what we teach? 2Timothy 3:1-5 NLT - 1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious (Form of godliness), but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! - The word "form" can be translated "appearance Matthew 23:5-7, 11-13, 15, 23-28, 33-36 NLT - 5 "Everything they do is for show. On their arms they wear extra wide prayer boxes with Scripture verses inside, and they wear robes with extra long tassels. 6 And they love to sit at the head table at banquets and in the seats of honor in the synagogues. 7 They love to receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces, and to be called 'Rabbi.' ... 11 The greatest among you must be a servant. 12 But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 13 "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you shut the door of the Kingdom of Heaven in people's faces. You won't go in yourselves, and you don't let others enter either. ... 15 "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you cross land and sea to make one convert, and then you turn that person into twice the child of hell you yourselves are! ... 23 "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law--justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. 24 Blind guides! You strain your water so you won't accidentally swallow a gnat, but you swallow a camel! 25 "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy--full of greed and self-indulgence! 26 You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too. 27 "What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs--beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people's bones and all sorts of impurity. 28 Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness. ... 33 Snakes! Sons of vipers! How will you escape the judgment of hell? 34 "Therefore, I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers of religious law. But you will kill some by crucifixion, and you will flog others with whips in your synagogues, chasing them from city to city. 35 As a result, you will be held responsible for the murder of all godly people of all time--from the murder of righteous Abel to the murder of Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you killed in the Temple between the sanctuary and the altar. 36 I tell you the truth, this judgment will fall on this very generation. - Outwardly you look like righteous people, but inwardly your hearts are filled with hypocrisy. 2. Turn your eyes upon Jesus! Isaiah 55:6-9 NLT - 6 Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. 7 Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the LORD that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. 8 "My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. 9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. The dispensation of grace includes: • Forgiveness of sins through Christ Jesus • God's benevolence to the undeserving • The rule of life for the Church • Being able to walk with the Lord and live as he intends Previous Next

< Back Summer Bods Series Pt. 6: Bad Habits Pastor Nate Brosher Jul 21, 2024 2Kings 5:20-27 NLT - 20 But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, the man of God, said to himself, "My master should not have let this Aramean get away without accepting any of his gifts. As surely as the LORD lives, I will chase after him and get something from him." 21 So Gehazi set off after Naaman. When Naaman saw Gehazi running after him, he climbed down from his chariot and went to meet him. "Is everything all right?" Naaman asked. 22 "Yes," Gehazi said, "but my master has sent me to tell you that two young prophets from the hill country of Ephraim have just arrived. He would like 75 pounds of silver and two sets of clothing to give to them." 23 "By all means, take twice as much silver," Naaman insisted. He gave him two sets of clothing, tied up the money in two bags, and sent two of his servants to carry the gifts for Gehazi. 24 But when they arrived at the citadel, Gehazi took the gifts from the servants and sent the men back. Then he went and hid the gifts inside the house. 25 When he went in to his master, Elisha asked him, "Where have you been, Gehazi?" "I haven't been anywhere," he replied. 26 But Elisha asked him, "Don't you realize that I was there in spirit when Naaman stepped down from his chariot to meet you? Is this the time to receive money and clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and cattle, and male and female servants? 27 Because you have done this, you and your descendants will suffer from Naaman's leprosy forever." When Gehazi left the room, he was covered with leprosy; his skin was white as snow. 1. Flesh Habits - Greed – an excessive, extreme desire for something, often more than one's proper share. 2Kings 7:1-11, 17-20 NLT - 1 Elisha replied, "Listen to this message from the LORD! This is what the LORD says: By this time tomorrow in the markets of Samaria, five quarts of choice flour will cost only one piece of silver, and ten quarts of barley grain will cost only one piece of silver." 2 The officer assisting the king said to the man of God, "That couldn't happen even if the LORD opened the windows of heaven!" But Elisha replied, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be able to eat any of it!" 3 Now there were four men with leprosy sitting at the entrance of the city gates. "Why should we sit here waiting to die?" they asked each other. 4 "We will starve if we stay here, but with the famine in the city, we will starve if we go back there. So, we might as well go out and surrender to the Aramean army. If they let us live, so much the better. But if they kill us, we would have died anyway." 5 So at twilight they set out for the camp of the Arameans. But when they came to the edge of the camp, no one was there! 6 For the Lord had caused the Aramean army to hear the clatter of speeding chariots and the galloping of horses and the sounds of a great army approaching. "The king of Israel has hired the Hittites and Egyptians to attack us!" they cried to one another. 7 So they panicked and ran into the night, abandoning their tents, horses, donkeys, and everything else, as they fled for their lives. 8 When the lepers arrived at the edge of the camp, they went into one tent after another, eating and drinking wine; and they carried off silver and gold and clothing and hid it. 9 Finally, they said to each other, "This is not right. This is a day of good news, and we aren't sharing it with anyone! If we wait until morning, some calamity will certainly fall upon us. Come on, let's go back and tell the people at the palace." 10 So they went back to the city and told the gatekeepers what had happened. "We went out to the Aramean camp," they said, "and no one was there! The horses and donkeys were tethered, and the tents were all in order, but there wasn't a single person around!" 11 Then the gatekeepers shouted the news to the people in the palace. ... 17 The king appointed his officer to control the traffic at the gate, but he was knocked down and trampled to death as the people rushed out. So, everything happened exactly as the man of God had predicted when the king came to his house. 18 The man of God had said to the king, "By this time tomorrow in the markets of Samaria, five quarts of choice flour will cost one piece of silver, and ten quarts of barley grain will cost one piece of silver." 19 The king's officer had replied, "That couldn't happen even if the LORD opened the windows of heaven!" And the man of God had said, "You will see it happen with your own eyes, but you won't be able to eat any of it!" 20 And so it was, for the people trampled him to death at the gate! 2. Learn from bad decisions. Lamentations 5:7 ESV - 7 Our fathers sinned and are no more; and we bear their iniquities. Leviticus 26:39-42 ESV - 39 And those of you who are left shall rot away in your enemies' lands because of their iniquity, and also because of the iniquities of their fathers they shall rot away like them. 40 "But if they confess their iniquity and the iniquity of their fathers in their treachery that they committed against me, and also in walking contrary to me, 41 so that I walked contrary to them and brought them into the land of their enemies--if then their uncircumcised heart is humbled and they make amends for their iniquity, 42 then I will remember my covenant with Jacob, and I will remember my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land. ■ No Longer Bound! John 9:1-3 NLT 1 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2 "Rabbi," his disciples asked him, "why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents' sins?" 3 "It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins," Jesus answered. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. Matthew 5:17-18 CSB - 17 "Don't think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. 18 "For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished. Galatians 1:4 NLT - 4 Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. Romans 7:4-6 NLT 4 So, my dear brothers and sisters, this is the point: You died to the power of the law when you died with Christ. And now you are united with the one who was raised from the dead. As a result, we can produce a harvest of good deeds for God. 5 When we were controlled by our old nature, sinful desires were at work within us, and the law aroused these evil desires that produced a harvest of sinful deeds, resulting in death. 6 But now we have been released from the law, for we died to it and are no longer captive to its power. Now we can serve God, not in the old way of obeying the letter of the law, but in the new way of living in the Spirit. Romans 6:23 NLT 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Previous Next

Where Abundance Meets Compassion The Over flow We believe that God's blessings are meant to be shared. Just as His love overflows into our lives, we're here to overflow into our community — providing nourishment, hope, and support to those in need. Whether you're facing a temporary challenge or seeking a helping hand, our hearts and hands are open. Because when we have more than enough, it's meant to overflow to others. "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I needed clothes and you clothed me. . . whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’"– Luke 6:38 Get Help Donation Guidelines We are deeply grateful for your generosity! Your donations help us provide essential support to individuals and families in need. To make sure all items are safe, helpful, and respectful to those we serve, please follow the guidelines below. Accepted Food Donations We accept non-perishable items only (boxed, canned, or shelf-stable). Items must be unopened and within their expiration date. Please avoid glass containers if possible (they can break in transit). Suggested items: Pasta/pasta sauce Canned soups Canned vegetables Canned beans Canned fruit Canned tuna Canned chicken Rice Oats Trail mix Cereal Granola bars Applesauce Crackers Broth Salsa Chips Instant mashed potatoes Hamburger helper Bottled water Accepted Clothing Donations We accept clean, gently used clothing. Please avoid clothing with stains, rips, or heavy wear. Seasonal items are especially appreciated (coats in winter, lighter wear in summer). We also welcome shoes in good condition and new socks and undergarments. Suggested items: Adult clothes Kids clothes Baby clothes Coats Hats Gloves Scarves Socks Underwear Shoes Boots Accepted Toiletry Donations We accept non-perishable items only. Items must be unopened and within their expiration date. Please avoid glass containers if possible (they can break in transit). Suggested items: Toilet paper Paper towel Soap Tooth paste Toothbrushes Deodorant Detergent Disclaimer: All donations will undergo a quick check by our team before being accepted. This helps ensure food is safe, clothing is in good condition, and all items are useful for the people we serve. Schedule a Donation Have a question or looking for additional guidance? Speak to a Bridgeway ministry leader at one of our services or contact us here .

< Back Advent Season: Joy to the World Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 15, 2025 Psalm 98:4-9 NLT - 4 Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy! 5 Sing your praise to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, 6 with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn. Make a joyful symphony before the LORD, the King! 7 Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! Let the earth and all living things join in. 8 Let the rivers clap their hands in glee! Let the hills sing out their songs of joy 9 before the LORD. For the LORD is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with fairness. 1. The Purpose of a Shout David declares, “Make a joyful noise” Joyful Noise - “Rua” - to shout a war-cry, in triumph, in applause, to cry out in distress. “Joy to the World” written by Isaac Watts in 1719, Joy to the world, the Lord is come!Let Earth receive her King;Let every heart prepare Him room,And heaven and nature sing, x2And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing. Isaiah 61:1-3 ESV - 1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; 3 to grant to those who mourn in Zion-- to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified. 2. Disruption/Distraction Matthew 28:18 ESV - 18 And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Jesus understood the implications. Luke 4:16-21 ESV - 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. 17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, 18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." 20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." This passage outlines His Messiahship and mission. Previous Next

< Back Family Matters Pt. 1: We Will Serve the Lord Pastor Nate Brosher Nov 2, 2025 Joshua 24:14-16,19-24 NLT - 14 "So fear the LORD and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the LORD alone. 15 But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD." 16 The people replied, "We would never abandon the LORD and serve other gods. 19 Then Joshua warned the people, "You are not able to serve the LORD, for he is a holy and jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. 20 If you abandon the LORD and serve other gods, he will turn against you and destroy you, even though he has been so good to you." 21 But the people answered Joshua, "No, we will serve the LORD!" 22 "You are a witness to your own decision," Joshua said. "You have chosen to serve the LORD." "Yes," they replied, "we are witnesses to what we have said." 23 "All right then," Joshua said, "destroy the idols among you, and turn your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel." 24 The people said to Joshua, "We will serve the LORD our God. We will obey him alone." As for me and my House/Family A. Decisiveness in Faith 1Kings 18:21 NLT - 21 Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, "How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!" But the people were completely silent. ■ How long will we waver, hobbling between two opinions? 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. B. Family/Household Commitment Charles Spurgeon: “My House” means the household under one’s influence: Spouse, children, servants (in the biblical setting) - The sphere of one’s leadership and responsibility. Matthew 6:24 ESV - 24 "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. “A little leaven, leavens the whole lump” 1Corinthians 15:58 NKJV - 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. C. Spiritual Vigilance in the Home Charles Spurgeon: “You cannot impart to your children new hearts, but you can see to it that there shall be nothing within our gates that is derogatory to the religion of Jesus Christ.” 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. Proverbs 22:6 ESV - 6 Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Previous Next

< Back Guardrails Pt. 2: Strategies Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 9, 2025 Ephesians 6:10-12 NLT - 10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 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. 1. Strategies of the devil. ■ Strategies/Schemes – (Methodeia) - cunning arts, deceit, craft, trickery. "methodical" describes a well-organized process while "methodeia" describes a calculated, deceptive plan. “Satan” translates to “adversary” in Hebrew. “Devil” – Diabolos – a calumniator, false accuser, slanderer. Calumniator - a person who makes false accusations or spreads lies about someone, damaging their reputation. The word comes from the verb "calumniate", which means to slander. Ephesians 4:11-15 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. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Luke 22:31-34 ESV - 31 "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers." 33 Peter said to him, "Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death." 34 Jesus said, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me." Ephesians 6:13-17 NLT - 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. ■ We must resist temptation. Temptation – is simply the trial of man’s integrity, constancy, virtue. James 4:7 ESV - 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 1Peter 5:8-9 NLT - 8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. ■ Who are we turning to? James 4:8 NLT - 8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. We must recognize the tactic of division. Previous Next

< Back Spiritual Maturity Pt. 3: Gifts of Christ Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 21, 2023 Spiritual Maturity Pt. 3: Gifts of Christ Ephesians 4:4-16 NLT 4 For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. 5 There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all. 7 However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. 8 That is why the Scriptures say, "When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people ." 9 Notice that it says, "he ascended." This clearly means that Christ also descended to our lowly world. 10 And the same one who descended is the one who ascended higher than all the heavens, so that he might fill the entire universe with himself. 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. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever, they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. 1. Christ “gave” to the Church. a. Didomi – To give, granted, furnished, endued, appointed, commissioned, returned. Apostle - Prophet - Evangelist - Pastor - Teacher Apostle – (Apostolos) a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ. Ephesians 4:13 – This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 NLT - 10 Because of God's grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. Prophet – (Prophetes) one who, moved by the Spirit of God and hence his organ or spokesman, solemnly declares to men what he has received by inspiration, especially concerning future events, and in particular such as relate to the cause and kingdom of God and to human salvation. 1 Corinthians 14:2-4 NLT - 2 For if you have the ability to speak in tongues, you will be talking only to God, since people won't be able to understand you. You will be speaking by the power of the Spirit, but it will all be mysterious. 3 But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them. 4 A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church. Evangelist – (euangelistēs) a preacher of the gospel. This name is given in the N.T. to those heralds of salvation through Christ who are not apostles: 2 Timothy 4:5 NKJV – 1 I charge [you] therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season [and] out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, [because] they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn [their] ears away from the truth and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. Mark 16:15 NLT - 15 And then he told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Romans 10:13-15 NLT - 13 For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." 14 But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? 15 And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, "How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!" Pastor – (poimēn) a shepherd. Outline of Biblical usage: A shepherd in the Near East was responsible for watching out for enemies trying to attack the sheep, defending the sheep from attackers, healing the wounded and sick sheep, finding, and saving lost or trapped sheep, loving them, and sharing their lives and to earn their trust. Teacher – (didaskalos) an instructor. In the N.T. one who teaches concerning the things of God, and the duties of man: Ephesians 4:13 NLT - 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. The Purpose of the gifts are to equip the Saints. Previous Next

< Back Formed, Part 3 - Hidden Devotion Nathan Brosher May 3, 2026 Matthew 6:16-18 ESV - 16 " And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you . 1. Fasting (Heart posture, not performance) Generosity Fasting “If people are the audience, God is not!” - Elisabeth Elliot, (American Missionary/author) The Posture: Humility and Hunger 2. Sabbath/Rest Exodus 20:8 NLT - 8 "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Sabbath is not a suggestion; it’s a command! God builds rest into rhythm. Mark 2:27-28 ESV - 27 And he said to them, " The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath. " The purpose of the Sabbath is for True rest as a day of freedom and restful worship, rather than simply a list of prohibitions. Hebrews 4:1-2 NLT - 1 God's promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it. 2 For this good news--that God has prepared this rest--has been announced to us just as it was to them. But it did them no good because they didn't share the faith of those who listened to God. Fasting vs Sabbath Previous Next

< Back Year of Growth Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 28, 2025 John 6:26-35 CSB - 26 Jesus answered, "Truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled. 27 "Don't work for the food that perishes but for the food that lasts for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set his seal of approval on him." 28 "What can we do to perform the works of God? " they asked. 29 Jesus replied, "This is the work of God -- that you believe in the one he has sent." 30 "What sign, then, are you going to do so that we may see and believe you? " they asked. "What are you going to perform? 31 "Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, just as it is written: He gave them bread from heaven to eat." 32 Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, Moses didn't give you the bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 "For the bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." 34 Then they said, "Sir, give us this bread always." 35 "I am the bread of life," Jesus told them. "No one who comes to me will ever be hungry, and no one who believes in me will ever be thirsty again. Are you satisfied? ■ The Feeding Stage: Matthew 5:6 ESV - 6 "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. ■ The Transition Stage: Jude 1:20-21 NLT - 20 But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, 21 and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love. ■ The Reproductive Stage: Zechariah 4:10 - Do not despise the days of small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin. 1Corinthians 2:9-10 NLT - 9 "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." 10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. Matthew 6:31-34 NLT - 31 "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 34 "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. Previous Next