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Tragedy and Triumph

The Lives of the Kings of Israel           In June and July the sermons will be on “The Kings of the Israel.”  The theme is triumph and tragedy that we face in our lives.  Saul, David, and Solomon had to face very real tests if they would be obedient to God.  When the King obeyed …

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How to Stop the Legalist

 When I was younger, we had a saying about our “Christian standards,” that I don’t drink, don’t smoke, don’t chew, and don’t go out with girls that do!  Though it was a joking way to say it, it did also reinforce something we discussed in Pub Theology last Monday.  We talked about “legalism.”  Most of …

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The Apocalypse and Advent

Mark 13:24–“But in those days, after that tribulation,the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light.”       I have been thinking a lot about how Advent is such a counter-cultural season.  In the traditional church year, Advent always begins with a verse like Mark 13:24.  The reason for that is justice is …

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The “Now What?” of Ministry

It is so easy to slip into a project-oriented mindset when it comes to ministry.  We have seen recently how the diligent work and planning of our members resulted in security improvement on the downstairs entries, the renovated sign in front of the church, and attractive banners welcoming our neighbors.  Yet, there is the challenge …

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