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< Back Preparation: There’s Nothing! Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 31, 2024 John 19:1-6, 15-20, 28-30, 32-34, 36-37 NLT 1 Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. 2 The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him. 3 "Hail! King of the Jews!" they mocked, as they slapped him across the face. 4 Pilate went outside again and said to the people, "I am going to bring him out to you now but understand clearly that I find him not guilty." 5 Then Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. And Pilate said, "Look, here is the man!" 6 When they saw him, the leading priests and Temple guards began shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" "Take him yourselves and crucify him," Pilate said. "I find him not guilty." ... 15 "Away with him," they yelled. "Away with him! Crucify him!" "What? Crucify your king?" Pilate asked. "We have no king but Caesar," the leading priests shouted back. 16 Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. So, they took Jesus away. 17 Carrying the cross by himself, he went to the place called Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, [Golgotha]). 18 There they nailed him to the cross. Two others were crucified with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them. 19 And Pilate posted a sign on the cross that read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." 20 The place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, so that many people could read it. ... 28 Jesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, "I am thirsty."29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. 30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, "It is finished!" Then he bowed his head and released his spirit. ... 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the two men crucified with Jesus. 33 But when they came to Jesus, they saw that he was already dead, so they didn't break his legs. 34 One of the soldiers, however, pierced his side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out. ... 36 These things happened in fulfillment of the Scriptures that say, "Not one of his bones will be broken," 37 and "They will look on the one they pierced." 1. The Journey Flogging/Scourging was used as a Roman art of punishment. Flagellum - consisted of three separate thongs, each ending in a set of two lead balls or sharp pieces of sheep bones were tied at intervals. The Crown – Believed to have come from the jujube tree. Thorns would have been 2-3”. The Cross – was estimated to be 2 meters wide and 3 meters long at the weight of 165lbs. The Walk – 2/5 of a mile over 600 yards (6 football fields). The Nails – 6 to 8” long into the wrist and foot. Crucifixion – difficulty breathing, constrained blood circulation, organ failure and asphyxiation. 2. The Finale: “It is FINISHED!” Matthew 27:51 NLT At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, Jesus came to fulfil the law. What was finished? There’s NOTHING that can prevent us from receiving eternal life. Previous Next

< Back Preparation Series: What’s Next? Pastor Nate Brosher Apr 7, 2024 Mark 1:16-18 NKJV 16 And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. 17 Then Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." 18 They immediately left their nets and followed Him. 1. The Beginning. John 13:36-38 NLT 36 Simon Peter asked, "Lord, where are you going?" And Jesus replied, "You can't go with me now, but you will follow me later." 37 "But why can't I come now, Lord?" he asked. "I'm ready to die for you." 38 Jesus answered, "Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter--before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 2. False sense of reality. Matthew 26:41 NKJV "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak." John 21:3-7, 11-12, 15-17 NKJV 3 Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We are going with you also." They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing. 4 But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Then Jesus said to them, "Children, have you any food?" They answered Him, "No." 6 And He said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find [some]." So, they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish. 7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on [his] outer garment (for he had removed it) and plunged into the sea. ... 11 Simon Peter went up and dragged the net to land, full of large fish, one hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not broken. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come [and] eat breakfast." Yet none of the disciples dared ask Him, "Who are You?"--knowing that it was the Lord. ... 15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, [son] of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He said to him, "Feed My lambs." 16 He said to him again a second time, "Simon, [son] of Jonah, do you love Me?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He said to him, "Tend My sheep." 17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, [son] of Jonah, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus said to him, "Feed My sheep.” 3. Revived and Purpose Driven. Leaders Lead. Feed his Sheep! Previous Next

< Back Letters From Paul (1 Timothy): False Teachings Pastor Nate Brosher Oct 15, 2025 1Timothy 1:3-7 NLT - 3 When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to stay there in Ephesus and stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth. 4 Don't let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees ( Genealogies ). These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don't help people live a life of faith in God. 5 The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. 6 But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions. 7 They want to be known as teachers of the law of Moses, but they don't know what they are talking about, even though they speak so confidently. Combatting False Teachers ■ Legalism & Ascetism Matthew 6:16-18 NLT - 16 "And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Fasting is a voluntary spiritual discipline, not a compulsory law. ■ Myths & Genealogies Act 14:11-12 NLT - 11 When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in their local dialect, "These men are gods in human form!" 12 They decided that Barnabas was the Greek god Zeus and that Paul was Hermes, since he was the chief speaker. Paul said this is all meaningless! 1 Timothy 1:5-6 NLT - 5 The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. 6 But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions. ■ Demonic Influences 1Timothy 4:1 NLT - 1 Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. Ephesians 6:17-18 NKJV - 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-- ■ Financial Gain If we are preaching anything else, we are preaching a false gospel! Entitlement Gospel - God owes me something. Charles Spurgeon: True "gospel prosperity" is about spiritual wealth and closeness to God, not material riches. 1Timothy 1:9-11 NLT - 9 For the law was not intended for people who do what is right. It is for people who are lawless and rebellious, who are ungodly and sinful, who consider nothing sacred and defile what is holy, who kill their father or mother or commit other murders. 10 The law is for people who are sexually immoral, or who practice homosexuality, or are slave traders, liars, promise breakers, or who do anything else that contradicts the wholesome teaching 11 that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God. Previous Next

< Back Thessalonians Series Pt. 3: Holiness Pastor Nate Brosher Aug 20, 2025 1Thessalonians 4:1-4 NLT - 1 Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You live this way already, and we encourage you to do so even more. 2 For you remember what we taught you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. 3 God's will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. 4 Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor – Sanctification/Holiness – hagiasmos – Consecration, purification. The effect of consecration. “In Sanctification/Holiness” This means living a life set apart for God, free from sexual immorality and characterized by purity and holiness. “And Honor” This emphasizes the need to treat the body with dignity and respect, both internally and in one's relationships with others. Holiness is about moral purity and righteousness. Growing in Holiness Becoming holy is often described as a process of growth and transformation, involving ongoing repentance, obedience, and reliance on God's grace. Leviticus 19:2 ESV - 2 "Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy. Matthew 5:48 ESV - 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. • How do we become perfect? Hebrews 10:14 ESV - 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. “To those who are BEING sanctified.” 2Corinthians 5:20-21 ESV - 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in HIM we might become the righteousness of God . 1Thessalonians 4:5-8 NLT - 5 not in lustful passion like the pagans who do not know God and his ways. 6 Never harm or cheat a Christian brother in this matter by violating his wife, for the Lord avenges all such sins, as we have solemnly warned you before. 7 God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives. 8 Therefore, anyone who refuses to live by these rules is not disobeying human teaching but is rejecting God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you. Are we rejecting God’s teachings? We are Chosen! 1Peter 2:9-10 ESV - 9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Romans 12:1-2 NKJV - 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. 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 The Romans Journey Pt. 10: God’s Abounding Grace Pastor Nate Brosher May 14, 2025 Romans 11:1-6 NLT - 1 I ask, then, has God rejected his own people, the nation of Israel? Of course not! I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham and a member of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 No, God has not rejected his own people, whom he chose from the very beginning. Do you realize what the Scriptures say about this? Elijah the prophet complained to God about the people of Israel and said, 3 "LORD, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too." 4 And do you remember God's reply? He said, "No, I have 7,000 others who have never bowed down to Baal!" 5 It is the same today, for a few of the people of Israel have remained faithful because of God's grace--his undeserved kindness in choosing them. 6 And since it is through God's kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God's grace would not be what it really is--free and undeserved. 1. Undeserved Kindness Undeserved kindness is characterized by its unearned and unmerited nature, meaning it is not based on any prior actions or merits of the recipient. Romans 12:1 ESV - 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. ■ Deliberate Sinning Hebrews 10:26-29 ESV - 26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? ■ Willful Disobedience James 4:17 NKJV - 17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do [it], to him it is sin. Romans 11:22-23 NLT - 22 Notice how God is both kind and severe. He is severe toward those who disobeyed, but kind to you if you continue to trust in his kindness. But if you stop trusting, you also will be cut off. 23 And if the people of Israel turn from their unbelief, they will be grafted in again, for God has the power to graft them back into the tree. The olive tree symbolizes God's covenant people, encompassing both the Jewish and Gentile believers. John 15:4-6 NLT - 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. 5 "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. Romans 10:13 NLT - 13 For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." Great reminder of His Amazing/Abounding Grace. Romans 11:33-36 NLT - 33 Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! 34 For who can know the LORD's thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? 35 And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back? 36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen. Previous Next

< Back The Importance of Fasting Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 11, 2024 The Importance of Fasting Matthew 17:14-21 NKJV 14 And when they had come to the multitude, a man came to Him, kneeling to Him and saying, 15 "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and suffers severely; for he often falls into the fire and often into the water. 16 So I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not cure him." 17 Then Jesus answered and said, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him here to Me." 18 And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" 20 So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 "However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." The disciples asked; “Why couldn’t we cast it out?" And his response was “because of your unbelief” faithlessness! The statutory definition of corruption is a dishonest, fraudulent, or even criminal act of an individual or organization, using entrusted authority or power to make a personal gain or other unethical or illegal benefits. Act 8:9 NLT A man named Simon had been a sorcerer there for many years, amazing the people of Samaria and claiming to be someone great. Acts 8:18-19 NLT 18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given when the apostles laid their hands on people, he offered them money to buy this power. 19 "Let me have this power, too," he exclaimed, "so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit!" Many Greek manuscripts have left out verse 21 in Matthew because it closely resembles Mark 9:29 so it has been believed to be added because it wasn’t in the original text of Matthew. Mark 9:28-29 NKJV 28 And when He had come into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, "Why could we not cast it out?" 29 So He said to them, "This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting." Fasting releases God's supernatural power. It is a tool we can use when there is opposition to God's will. Satan would like nothing better than to cause division, discouragement, defeat, depression, and doubt among us. United prayer and fasting has always been used by God to deal a decisive blow to the enemy! St. Augustine said, “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one's flesh to the spirit, renders the heart contrite and humble, [and] scatters the clouds of concupiscence.” (strong desires/sinful lust) Matthew 6:16-18 NLT 16 "And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Jesus assumes that His followers will fast. Notice, that it's “ when ” not “ if .” Fasting is an essential part of the Christian life, and Jesus understands that the absence of fasting will make us spiritually feeble. For God to honor our fasting, we must be seeking to please the Lord and not ourselves. If we want our fasting to honor God, we must prioritize personal righteousness and ministry to others. Prioritizing personal righteousness means uprooting sin while also seeking a solution from God. In its deeper spiritual meaning, righteousness is the quality of being right in the eyes of God, including character (nature), conscience (attitude), conduct (action), and command (word). Righteousness is, therefore, based upon God's standard because He is the ultimate Lawgiver. Isaiah 33:22 NLT For the LORD is our judge, our lawgiver, and our king. He will care for us and save us. Previous Next

< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 1: Consecration Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 12, 2025 2Timothy 4:3-8 NLT - 3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me--the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. 1. What have we made sacred in our lives? Sacred is an adjective used to describe a person or thing worthy of worship or declared holy. Exodus 20:3 ESV - 3 "You shall have no other gods before me. ■ Consecrated – To make or declare sacred. Joshua 3:5 ESV - 5 Then Joshua said to the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you." ■ qāḏaš - sanctify, prepare, dedicate, be hallowed, be holy, be sanctified, be separate. What are we chasing after? 2. Where are we going? Is your life self-driven or is it Christ-driven? Romans 12:1-2 ESV - 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 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. Are we presenting our bodies a living sacrifice to God or a living sacrifice to this world? 2Timothy 2:20-22 NLT - 20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. 22 Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. How desperate are we? Matthew 5:13-16 ESV - 13 "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Previous Next

< Back The Aftermath Pt. 1: What Now? Pastor Nate Brosher Apr 27, 2025 Matthew 28:16-20 NLT - 16 Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him--but some of them doubted! 18 Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." 1. Some Doubted Doubt – an inclination not to believe or accept. 2: uncertainty of belief or opinion that often interferes with decision-making. James 1:5-6 ESV - 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. We must address our doubt! 1Corinthians 6:9-11 ESV - 9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, 10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers (someone who uses harsh and abusive language), nor swindlers (deceivers who deprive people of money) will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. Let’s address the “But” Romans 8:1-4 ESV - 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:5-8 ESV - 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those, who are in the flesh, cannot please God. Are we living according to the flesh or the Spirit? Hebrews 11:6 ESV - 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Jesus said, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations,” Teach and instruct His precepts. Previous Next

< Back Heroes of the Faith Pt. 4: Turning Point Pastor Nate Brosher Aug 24, 2025 Exodus 13:17-19, 21-22 NLT – 17 When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, "If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." 18 So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus, the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle. 19 Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel swear to do this. He said, "God will certainly come to help you. When he does, you must take my bones with you from this place." ... 21 The LORD went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. 22 And the LORD did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people. 1. God knows ALL things God is all-knowing – Omniscience Psalm 139:1 NLT - 1 O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. Exodus 14:10-12 NLT - 10 As Pharaoh approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. They cried out to the LORD, 11 and they said to Moses, "Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren't there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? 12 Didn't we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, 'Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It's better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!'" 2. What is coming out of your mouth? Proverbs 18:21 ESV - 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. The Power of the Tongue Positive Impact Negative Impact Exodus 14:13-16 NLT - 13 But Moses told the people, "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. 14 The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm." 15 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! 16 Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. 3. Faith is an Action! “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving!” Exodus 14:21-28 NLT - 21 Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the LORD opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. 22 So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side! 23 Then the Egyptians--all of Pharaoh's horses, chariots, and charioteers--chased them into the middle of the sea. 24 But just before dawn the LORD looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and he threw their forces into total confusion. 25 He twisted their chariot wheels, making their chariots difficult to drive. "Let's get out of here--away from these Israelites!" the Egyptians shouted. "The LORD is fighting for them against Egypt!" 26 When all the Israelites had reached the other side, the LORD said to Moses, "Raise your hand over the sea again. Then the waters will rush back and cover the Egyptians and their chariots and charioteers." 27 So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the water rushed back into its usual place. The Egyptians tried to escape, but the LORD swept them into the sea. 28 Then the waters returned and covered all the chariots and charioteers--the entire army of Pharaoh. Of all the Egyptians who had chased the Israelites into the sea, not a single one survived. Not a single one survived! Previous Next

< Back The Journey Series Pt. 4: Foolish Heart Pastor Nate Brosher Nov 24, 2024 Romans 1:16-23 ESV - 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith." 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So, they are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. 1. Idols - Idolism is the worship of idols, or objects or images that are considered to represent deities or gods. Matthew 6:24 NLT - 24 "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” - What are we devoted to? Philippians 3:19 NLT - 19 They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. - Appetite for the things of this world. There are 4 words that describe a fool in the NT. 1. Aphrõn – a term of reproach to describe those who are morally and spiritually corrupt like the Pharisees whom Jesus designated as fools who were hypocritical and self-righteous. 2. Anoêtos – irrational and mindless, unable to govern lusts. Galatians 3:1 NLT - 1 Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ's death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 3. Asynetos – without understanding, unable to reason, unintelligent, stupid Romans 1:21 - For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 4. Mõros – morally worthless in heart and character, in English, Moron. The fool described in the Bible is censured and condemned by God not because they are intellectually deficient but that they are in the state of rebellion against God. 2. Rebellion 1Corinthians 3:19 NLT - 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness." 1Samuel 15:23 NLT - 23 Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So, because you have rejected the command of the LORD, he has rejected you as king." - A rebellious heart leads to destruction. Jeremiah 5:23 NLT - 23 But my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. They have turned away and abandoned me. 3. Turn from our wicked ways. 2Chronicles 7:14 NLT - 14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. Matthew 6:31-34 ESV - 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 "Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. 1Corinthians 2:14-16 NLT - 14 But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them, and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 15 Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others. 16 For, "Who can know the LORD's thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?" But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ. Previous Next

< Back Letters from Paul Pt. 13: Deeply Rooted Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 12, 2024 Colossians 2:6-7 NLT - 6 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. 1. What are we following? Follow/Walk – peripateō - to make one's way, progress. ■ What is trending in our lives? Proverbs 26:11-12 ESV - 11 Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. 12 Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Proverbs 23:12 NLT - 12 Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge. Proverbs 14:12 NKJV - 12 There is a way [that seems] right to a man, But its end [is] the way of death. Overflowing – perisseuō - to exceed a fixed number of measures. Exodus 3:17 NLT - 17 I have promised to rescue you from your oppression in Egypt. I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey--the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live."' Living in the Land of Overflow. Ephesians 6:11 NLT - 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 2. The enemy is always strategizing Colossians 2:8-10 NLT - 8 Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. 9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. 10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. Colossians 2:12-15 NLT - 12 For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead. 13 You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. 14 He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. 15 In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross. 3. Victory belongs to Jesus Colossians 2:20-23 NLT - 20 You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, 21 "Don't handle! Don't taste! Don't touch!"? 22 Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them. 23 These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person's evil desires. To conquer our evil desires, we must devote our lives to following Jesus. Colossians 3:2 NLT - 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. Previous Next