Jew, Gentile, or New Creation? (Acts 21:17-26)

One of the greatest difficulties that the early church faced was the sharp division that existed between Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles). When we read our Bibles, it’s often hard for us to grasp just how serious this separation was. We certainly know what division looks like and estrangement feels like, however; just consider the year […]

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Willing to Obey, Ready to Die (Acts 21:1-16)

It’s safe to say that most of us are drawn to the more exciting and extraordinary parts of the Bible. If we’re honest, there are some parts of Scripture that seem rather ordinary, that don’t grab our attention. The final major section of Acts, from chapters 21-28, is often neglected for these reasons. But while […]

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Good Friday isn’t good because it shows us how good we are or how valuable we are to God; Good Friday is good because it shows us the riches of God’s glorious grace and steadfast love toward unworthy and rebellious sinners. In this brief message, pastor Matt reminds us that the love of God in […]

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Where the Ruined Find Refuge (Isaiah 15-16)

When God revealed his glory to Moses on Mt. Sinai, he did so by making all his goodness pass before him (Ex. 33:18-19). He begins by declaring that he is a compassionate God, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. But he then adds that he is also a righteous God, “who will by no means […]

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Here I Am, Send Me (Isaiah 6:8-13)

Today, ministry ‘success’ is often defined by visible, tangible, quantifiable, and impressive results. But God’s Word is clear that “results” are up to God alone. We can plant the seed and water the soil, “but God gives the growth” (1 Cor. 3:6). So, if God alone is responsible for results (conversions, numerical growth, revival, etc.), […]

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75th Anniversary Celebration Service

Over the years, ever since our church’s first worship service held on August 18, 1944, God has shown himself faithful to the assembly of his saints gathered here at ECC.  He has continued to lead his children along every step of the way by his sovereign grace. And as we look towards the future, our […]

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Redeemed by Justice (Isaiah 1:21-31)

One of the central issues addressed by Isaiah and the rest of the prophets is that of justice—faithfully living according to the standard of what is right in our relationships with others. It’s only as we do justice, as we live righteously, that we will flourish as a society under God’s loving rule. But when […]

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Throughout the Bible, God often gave his rebellious people powerful reminders of his holiness through judgment. For instance, after Aaron and his sons were set apart as priests, Nadab and Abihu offered strange fire and were consumed. Why? The word of the Lord after their death says it all: “Among those who are near me […]

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