Psalms 98

Will Dyer

12-22-2024

The sermon focuses on the concept of joy, particularly as it relates to the Christmas season and the song “Joy to the World.” ​ Will Dyer emphasizes that joy is fundamentally different from happiness, which is fleeting and often tied to material or temporary circumstances. ​ True joy, according to the sermon, is a deep, enduring state that comes from recognizing and accepting Jesus as Lord and King, and aligning one’s life with His teachings. ​ The sermon references Psalm 98 and the writings of CS Lewis and Tim Keller to illustrate that joy is rooted in the assurance of God’s presence and faithfulness. Will Dyer encourages the congregation to seek joy through a relationship with Jesus, which sustains them through both good times and challenges, and to understand that this joy is available to all of creation. ​ The sermon concludes with a call to embrace this joy and live a life transformed by Jesus’ grace.

Luke 2:8-20

Will Dyer

12-15-2024

The sermon focuses on the story from Luke 2:8-20, emphasizing the announcement of Jesus’ birth by the angels to the shepherds. Will Dyer highlights the common misconceptions about the appearance of angels and contrasts them with the biblical depiction from Ezekiel. ​ The central message is the proclamation of peace by the angels, which is not merely the absence of conflict but the profound biblical concept of “shalom” – universal flourishing, wholeness, and delight. ​ The sermon stresses that true peace, as announced by the angels, is available to those on whom God’s favor rests, and it comes exclusively through faith in Jesus Christ. Will Dyer encourages the congregation to embrace this peace and reject the materialistic and consumer-driven distractions of the holiday season, urging them to trust in Jesus for a life of true peace and fulfillment.

Isaiah 11:1-9

Will Dyer

12-8-2024

The sermon focuses on the significance of Advent, emphasizing its dual nature: the celebration of Jesus Christ’s first coming at Christmas and the anticipation of His second coming. ​ Will Dyer reads from Isaiah 11:1-9, highlighting the prophecy of a future king who will bring justice and peace. ​ The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing that God is with us, as symbolized by the name Emmanuel, and encourages believers to celebrate, wait, and work during the Advent season. Will Dyer calls for introspection and preparation for Jesus’ return, urging the congregation to live in a way that reflects the hope and peace of God’s kingdom. The message concludes with a prayer for God’s presence and guidance in living out these principles.

Luke 2:1-21

Matt Hester

12-1-2024

The sermon focuses on the story of Jesus’ birth as recounted in Luke chapter 2, emphasizing the humble and unexpected circumstances of the event. Matt Hester reflects on how the Christmas season begins and the various traditions people have, but ultimately highlights the importance of understanding and believing in the true meaning of Christmas. ​ The birth of Jesus, marked by humility and simplicity, serves as a reminder that God often works through the most unlikely situations and people. ​ The sermon encourages believers to see the holiness in everyday moments and to trust that God can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. It concludes with a call to embrace the unexpected and to live with faith and trust in God’s presence and purpose. ​