As the book of Ruth begins we are immediately confronted with famine, death, and loss. In light of this suffering, the question that naturally arises is, “Where is God?” In this sermon, pastor Joel considers the introduction to Ruth and reminds us that God is sovereign over it all, and working all things for the […]

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The Gospel Unchained (Acts 28:16-31)

Luke concludes the book of Acts with Paul a prisoner in Rome, yet still “proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance” (Acts 28:31). Though he was held captive by Rome, and many of his hearers were held captive by unbelief, he knew that God’s […]

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Should I Stay or Should I Go? (Acts 18:18-28)

Throughout the book of Acts, we see followers of Jesus both going and staying for the sake of the gospel. Some travel thousands of miles to preach Christ and establish churches; they go to give. Others remain in a local community of faith in order to encourage and equip the saints; they stay to strengthen. […]

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Many Christians today equate making disciples with “making converts.” We think the Great Commission is only about evangelism and reaching the lost. But true, Christian discipleship results from not just “going” but “staying” long enough to rejoice in the gospel and share life together. This is why Paul and Barnabas went back to visit the […]

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