February 5, 2012
Chuck Runge
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Bro. Chuck looked at how Jesus "set his face like flint" throughout his journey to Jerusalem. Despite the knowledge that he was going to his death on a cross, he steadfastly carried on his journey, doing the Lord's will. Through this, we have the ultimate exhortation to "carry our own cross daily."

January 29, 2012
Dan Richard
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Bro. Dan used the following as a “jumping off” point for his remarks: 1) A letter from a supervisor at work that addressed his shortcomings, 2) His observations after visiting different churches while he was in Williamsburg, and 3) The exhortation reading (which contains letters to four of the seven Churches of Asia Minor).

Dan enumerated seven different points as to why he “Loves my Church” :
1)      Our Faith (doctrines and beliefs) (Deuteronomy 6:4, James 1)
2)      No paid ministry. This encourages more involvement (1 Corinthians 12:27-31)
3)      Fellowship practice. Dan cited the inclusion of the Church of God of the Abrahamic Faith into our fellowship.
4)      The book, The Bible Hope. Five thousand books have been distributed, with an additional 5000 copies to be printed.
5)      No collection at our Meeting. There is no basket passed around during Meeting. Those who donate seek out the Brother in charge of Ecclesial finances.
6)      The ability to use the word Church (Acts 19:30-41)
7)      The “little things”. The following list is not inclusive of what Bro. Dan mentioned:
-That we sit during our prayers.
-That Bro. Dan can stand at the podium and read from the Bible.
-Our building (size-wise)
-Our church music
-The role of women in the Ecclesia (1st Corinthians 11)
Dan concluded his remarks by saying that the church is not the four walls of a building (2nd Corinthians 3:2+3 – those that meet in isolation and strife), and that we need to keep on improving as servants, disciples and as a Church (1st Timothy 4:11-16).

January 22, 2012
Nathan Richard
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What does God require of you? An examination of Micah 6:8 revealed the important of living wisely with justice and mercy, while remaining humble in everything.

January 15, 2012
Nicolas Pratt
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Through the example of the current stress that students are undergoing with finals, we discussed the tests that God gives to us, and how we can pass the tests. Nine steps were given for how to handle every kind of test: 

  1. Be willing
  2. Follow instructions
  3. Be Prepared
  4. Do not give up
  5. Stay Calm
  6. Have courage
  7. Encourage others
  8. Listen
  9. Honor God

December 25, 2011
Marc Williams
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Bro. Marc helped us to celebrate Christ's birth by remembering his birth. In particular, we looked at the lives of Joseph and Mary.

December 11, 2011
Trent Johnson
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Bro. Trent encouraged us by looking at 2 Cor. 4:18, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Do you see what cannot be seen?

December 4, 2011
Dan Richard
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Bro. Dan talked about the problems the Christadelphian body currently has with unity. Both the Amended and Un-Amended Christadelphians struggle in achieving fellowship with their brothers and sisters in Christ. We must strive for fellowship with each other, and with God. His talk was entitled "An Epiphany and a Conundrum."

November 27, 2011
Nicolas Pratt
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From today's daily reading of Esther 2 we can see many examples of how we should be like Esther. She used her beauty to serve God and her people, risked her life, and was faithful to both God and Mordecai. We see how she is a good example of the Bride of Christ, she was orphaned and adopted, replaced the established queen, selected, purified, and finally accepted as the chosen one.

November 20, 2011
Russ Johnson
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Be strong and courageous! We looked at examples in Joshua about how we need to trust in God, and trust that he will fight and make us mightier than our enemies. Also, we must look to Jesus, who fought the ultimate enemy, sinful human nature itself.


November 13, 2011
Trent Johnson
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 Incite on several examples in old and new Testaments of brethren examining their own behavior and acknowledging their sin before God. Psalm
51: David's confession.

November 6, 2011
Nathan Richard
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Nathan examines crutches we have in our lives. He remarked the crutches are not necessarily bad things; they are simply things that give us support. Our crutches are our role models, and we can either be fully reliant on them (bad), or use them as opportunities to grow. In the end, we need to look to Jesus and rely on God, as they will never leave us.

October 23, 2011
Marc Williams
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Bro. Marc explained the title of the exhortation came from a reading of the Beatitudes while reflecting on the recent passing of his mother, Sis. Rose Williams (who had been a member of the Chicago Ecclesia).
Bro. Marc said that, in our current society, we tend to dwell on the negative – going from one negative thing to the next. The tendency to dwell on the negative can lead to possible long-term side effects, such as depression. Despite the negative things that impact our lives, we need to look at the bright side of things; and not take positive things in our lives for granted (we want more, we want different, we want better, and we grumble when we don’t). Bro. Marc brought this point home by reading from Exodus 16 (the Lord providing manna and quail) and Numbers 20 (the Lord providing water from the rock in Kadesh, in the Desert of Zin). The exclamation point on this thought comes from Deuteronomy 8:1-3, where The Lord God took care of Israel’s needs for the 40 years the nation wandered in the wilderness, ending with this thought: “man does not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.”
Bro. Marc then had the ecclesia do an exercise – to come up with five blessings. Marc mentioned five (perhaps the most common five?) 1) Family, 2) The ecclesial family, 3) Employment (especially nowadays), 4) House, and 5) The Hope we have in Christ.
Marc also spoke of “Blessings in Disguise” – when a situation appears bad, it is actually working out for good. Marc cited Joseph as a prime example of this, using Genesis 45:4-8 and Genesis 50:15-21 as support passages.
Marc also cited Jesus’ teaching (near the end of the Sermon on the Mount) in Matthew 7:9-11 as a parallel to Joseph.
Marc concluded by telling us that the hardships that happen to us are for a reason, using Proverbs 10 and Ephesians 1:11-14 to close.

October 9, 2011
Russ Johnson
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Bro. Russ explained the title of the exhortation came from Simon Peter’s own name – Simon (his given name) means “hearing” in the Hebrew, and Peter (the name Jesus gave him) means “rock” in Greek. Bro. Russ drew on Old Testament scripture to show a foreshadowing of not only Simon Peter, but Jesus as well:
- Genesis 28:18 (Jacob pouring oil on the stone he used as a pillow when he had his dream)
- Genesis 29 (The stone at the mouth of the well)
- Joshua 4:8+9 (The 12 stones from the Jordan set up as a pillar at the campsite after the nation had crossed over)
- Joshua 24:25-29 (emphasis v. 27) (The large stone set up under the oak tree by the holy place of the Lord (the “stone as a witness”))
- 2nd Samuel 23:3 (“The Rock of Israel”)
- Isaiah 51:1+2 (“Look to the Rock from which you were cut”)
Bro. Russ stated that [Simon] Peter was the first chosen, and Peter was the first to step out in many situations, one of those being recorded in John 20:6 (1st one to enter the tomb of the risen Jesus). It was also noted that Jesus did not choose the 12 apostles (as one would infer from Mark’s Gospel), but God himself. Jesus states this when he prays to the Father in John 17:6-12.
Other New Testament passages cited were:
-John 2:25 and 14:28
-Romans 10 (“Faith by Hearing”)
-1st Peter 1:12-19 (emphasis vv. 16+17)
The application to us in the present day is this: just as Simon at first listened, then became the witness (remember Joshua 24:27), so we first hear the Gospel/Biblical message, then become “called out” (remember Isaiah 51:1+2). The presider (as a tie-in to the Memorial emblems) cited Jesus’ words in Matthew 16:13-19 (Simon Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ, with Jesus telling Simon, “you are Peter (rock), and on this rock I will build my Church.”)

October 2, 2011
Dan Richard
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Dan's title was "Fellow-ship." He looked at the new testaments origins of fellowships, which was disciples literally sitting in a ship (a boat). He also looked at different ways that we can fellowship.

September 25, 2011
Ron Waye
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In light of the recent events regarding the vote betwen Palestine and Israel, Bro. Ron spoke on the future of Israel. It should be our hope and vision to look to Jerusalem, and ultimately "go up" to Jerusalem. 

September 11, 2011
Nathan Richard
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Bro. Nathan looked at how big a problem blaming is in society. We all tend to blame others for their faults, instead of taking responsiblity of our own. This "faultfinding" can become a deadly sin that dramatically stunts our spiritutal growth.

September 4, 2011
Chuck Runge
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Bro. Chuck started by drawing on the similarities of Colossae and Ephesus, two cities on the same trade route, just as the modern-day Village of Lombard (home to the Ecclesial building) and the City of Chicago are connected by the expressway system.
Ancient Colossae and Ephesus (as well as Lombard and Chicago) have the same issues – false teachings and bad behavior. Two other problems the Colossae Ecclesia dealt with were Pagan Philosophies and Jewish Legalism. Even though our modern-day Ecclesia is 2000 years removed from Colossae, the problems of Pagan Philosophies and Legalism still persist.
The arguments that Paul exhorted in Colossians he expanded on in Ephesians.
Paul’s main points in the 3rd chapter of Colossians are: 1) The sufficiency of Christ; and 2) The need to behave accordingly (“Do the Right Thing”).
The purpose of the message is threefold: 1) The mystery of the Gospel revealed in Christ; 2) The practical application of the revealed mystery; and 3) Our behavior is more important than our theology (with respect to having account for ourselves).

August 28, 2011
Chuck Runge
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By going through 1 Samuel 15 (where the Lord rejected Saul as King), we were able to closely examine Saul's life, mindset, and characteristics.

July 31, 2011
Russ Johnson
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By examining the connections between Psalms 22, 23, and 24, we were able to further understand that if we wish to enter God's presence, we must strive to be holy beyond reproach.

July 24, 2011
Norm Fadelle
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Citing the Examples of David & Melchizedek, David & Jonathan and Jesus & God, Bro. Norm showed how these covenant relationships strengthened David and Jesus. Bro. Norm noted 3 beliefs: 1-Right to be baptized, 2-Right to join God’s family, and 3-Right to gladly face the tests that we will surely face (just as David and Jesus did). Some of the verses cited were: Matthew 4: 1-11, Luke 4:1-12, Romans 8:28, Genesis 22, Ephesians 4, Romans 6, James 1:4+12, and Psalm 11:5, Jeremiah 20:12, Hebrews 11:17 & James 1:12.

July 10, 2011
Brian Ross
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"The Real Moses: Manna From Deuteronomy"
We examined lessons from the life of Moses, particululary in the book of Deuteronomy. We should strive to read ALL parts of our bibles to learn lessons from it.

June 5, 2011
Nicolas Pratt
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"A Spiritual Contract Reality"
We all abide by the Social Contract Theory, that we respect those around us and do not lie.
But do we abide by the Spiritual Contract Reality that God has established for us?
We must look at our lives and make sure that we love our neighbors as ourselves,
not judge if we do not wish to be judged, and spread the word of God. 



April 24, 2011
Nathan Richard
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On Resurrection Sunday, Nathan emphasized the need for an emotional connection to the resurrection. Being the centerpoint of our faith, Jesus' victory over death should be forefront in all of our minds.

March 20, 2011

Nicolas Pratt
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We must be prepared to face the coming return of Christ. 
Like athletes our preperation must be constant and rigorous.
Following the example of Christ we must continually look to scripture for guidance.

March 13, 2011

Mike Stull
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The combination of faith and works was stressed, and an emphasis on striving to improve on both qualities was made.

March 6, 2011
Dan Richard
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Four main points were examined:

  • We must be compelled
  • God is in control
  • Deny ourselves for Christ
  • Follow our Master
     

February 27, 2011
Trent Johnson
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By looking at several great speeches throughout the bible, Bro. Trent encouraged us to always be prepared for when we will need to support and give an answer for our faith.

February 20, 2011
Dan Richard
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Bro. Dan enforced on how continual improvement is necessary to us as believers. We cannot remain stagnant in our faith, but must always be growing towards God.

February 13, 2011
Chuck Runge
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The first 6 verses of the Psalm tell of the Sun and the heavens. Bro. Chuck spoke of the forces that hold our Sun in place, how the Sun doesn’t burn out, how the North Star has held it place in the heavens, giving direction to travelers even to this day. The ordered Universe is a testament to a God’s power. The next 5 verses of the Psalm draw from the order of the Universe to teach us that God’s precepts, commands and ordinances are sure and right. The final 3 verses seek forgiveness from sin, with the final verse that our words and meditation be pleasing to God.
Chuck tied all this together by showing that Christ was the embodiment of God’s precepts, commands, and ordinances.

February 6, 2011
Russ Johnson
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The letter in Jeremiah, written to the Jewish exiles, was examined. How are we like those exiles?

January 30, 2011
Nathan Richard
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The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing. Don't be bogged down by distractions that the world throws at you, but instead remember our goal of reaching the Kingdom.

 

January 23, 2011
Horst Truestedt
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Praise the Lord! We were reminded of the privilege we have in that we can praise our Lord. Enjoy the times of praise that we have, and lift your voices in song!

November 21, 2010
Russ Johnson
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"They were not afraid." We must be more reverent in our words and actions.

November 14, 2010
Marc Williams
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Football teams make plans for each game they play. A team never makes plans to lose. Some people make plans but fail to count the costs so are unable to complete projects as in the parable of building a tower. There are many things that we can't plan for and we need to always trust in God. Consider the story of Joseph and how he would have planned nothing the way it happened in his life, yet God had a plan that worked best for everyone. The parable from the reading (Matt. 21: 33-41) was discussed as what seemed like a strange plan which ended in the death of the landowner's son, but we know that in God's plan for the world it worked best for everyone to offer His son. We need to put our trust in God always because God knows what he is doing in our lives and in his plan for the earth.

November 7, 2010

Nathan Richard

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Using passages from Nehemiah 2 and 4, as well as select passages from the 1st book of the Psalms (tying those to Matthew 27:46-50 (and the corresponding passages, Mark 15:34-37 and Luke 23:46)), that Nehemiah prayed to God before he answered King Artaxerxes, which involved the application of thought. Jesus did the same before his encounters that are recorded in the Gospels. This includes the responses he gave to the Sanhedrin and Pontius Pilate, as well as his calling out to God while on the cross.


October 31, 2010
Chuck Runge
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Discipleship and Politics

October 24, 2010
Trent Johnson
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We must be careful not to look at the speck in others eye when we have a log in our own. We are called to help each other, but not force our help on anyone. Positive encouragement is better then negative reprimanding.

October 17, 2010
Dan Richard
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Hiram

October 10, 2010
Alex Johnson
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Anger

October 3, 2010
Trent Johnson

Trent led a discussion discussing the moments when Jesus healed someone with out them asking to be healed. Interestingly enough, almost every time when this type of miracle is performed, it happened on the Sabbath. Due to the discussion format, there is no audio available.

September 26, 2010
Church Runge
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Using passages from Zecharaiah 3, as well as Romans 5, Philippians 2, and Hebrews 2, 5 , 7 and 9, and referencing Jesus’ Transfiguration, Bro. Chuck showed that, although the blood of bulls and goats sufficed in Aaron’s time for the atonement for sins, Jesus is now the Atonement for our sins, having given his life for us. 

Chicago Gathering 2010

Gathering Part 1(Saturday Morning)
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Horst Truestedt: "Israel, God Chosen People"
Steve Johnson: "Israel, God's Chosen Land"

Gathering Part 2 (Saturday Morning)
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Steve Johnson (Continued)
Mike Stull: "Running To & Fro, Knowledge Shall Increase"
Norm Fadelle: "Last Day Birth Pangs"

Gathering Part 3 (Saturday Morning)
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Norm Fadelle (Continued)

Gathering Part 4 (Saturday Night)
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Dean Brown: "All Nations Gathering Together Against Jerusalem"
Hymn Sing

Gathering Part 5 (Saturday Night)
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Hymn Sing (Continued)

Gathering Part 6 (Sunday Morning)
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Jared Johnson: "Falling Away From the Faith"

Gathering Part 7 (Sunday Morning)
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Bruce Parker: "Jesus is Coming to Set Up His Kingdom"
 


September 12, 2010
Marc Williams
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The question of materialism in our own lives was raised. Are our treasures here on earth, or do they lie in heaven? We should attempt to be like Jesus, and reduce the material possessions in our lives. Strive to imitate Jesus always!

September 5, 2010
Nicolas Pratt 
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Comparisons between us and the lame beggar at the gate in Acts 3 were drawn. We are in need of mercy (alms), and God has given it to us, even though we don't deserve it.


August 29, 2010
Cec Treadway
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Following his previous exhortation on old age, Cec looked at the concept of remembrance. What should we remember, especially regarding Jesus at the memorial table?

August 22, 2010
Nathan Richard
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Lessons were drawn from a motorcyclist' eye glasses and helmet. Do you wear your spiritual helmet when you face trials in the world? Practical lessons were given as to how we can strengthen our helmet.

August 8, 2010
Alex Johnson
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A clear message was given as to the dangers of anger. We were advised to take steps to control our anger, and were shown the importance of doing so.
 

August 1, 2010
Chuck Runge
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David's words in Psalms 69 were closely examined, and parallels to Christ were drawn.

July 25, 2010
Dan Richard

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What is the hope offered by the Bible? Is it one of temporary, worldly gain, or do we have a deeper, more satisfactory hope?

July 18, 2010
Cec Treadway
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Am I getting old? Brother Cec passes down wisdom he has gained from his long life, as well as expounding on the concept of aging. 

July 11, 2010
John Hadfield
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A far-ranging, interact talk covered the concepts of judgement, mercy, love, Jonah, and of course combined with the message of Jesus Christ.  

June 27, 2010
Nathan Richard
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The unique story of Shammah in 2 Samuel 23 was examined, and lessons and connections to Christ's sacrifice were drawn.

June 20, 2010
Chuck Runge
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The book of Colossians was examined, as we were reminded that we must follow practical, simple doctrine, as opposed to complex dogma. God wants us to live holy, unconcerned with the world.

The first two minutes of the audio is static, while the rest of the exhortation continues from there.
 

June 13, 2010
Norm Fadelle
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June 6, 2010
Dan Richard
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The origins of the doomsday clock, as well as its relevance to our spiritual lives was examined. We are ever nearing Christ's return.

May 30, 2010
Trent Johnson
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The meaning of an exhortation was given, as its purpose of encouragement was stressed. Exhortations from personal testimonials were also presented. 

May 23, 2010
Nathan Richard
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Our word choices were examined, and silence was stressed. We must think before we speak, and only speak when it is profitable.


May 16, 2010
Chuck Runge
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We explored the book of Colossians, in particular the first two chapters. Here, Paul is giving us instruction on how to live holy, while always keeping the image of Christ forefront in our minds.

May 9, 2010
Marc Williams
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The concept of baptism was looked at. What is baptism? Is it really necessary? A beautiful example of Matthew account of the crucifixion was read to help us learn why we should want to become baptised. 

May 2, 2010
Dan Richard
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The hymn "To Be a Pilgrimn" was examined, as we learned new lessons from the true meaning of a pilgrim. We should follow Abraham's example of being a pilgrim in a strange world.

April 25, 2010
Trent Johnson
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The end days, and our participation in them were discussed. We are living in the Days of Noah, where immorality is becoming acceptable. 
 

April 18, 2010
Nathan Richard 
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Figurative meanings of lightness and darkness were examined in multiple stories. It was suggested that we wake up 30 minutes earlier than necessary every morning, so that we can start our day by reading and meditating on God's word. We concluded by examining light and dark in the context of Jesus' resurrection.
 

April 11, 2010
Jeff Maney
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The biblical definitions of light and dark were established, and we discovered how we need to live in the light, or in God's love.

April 4, 2010
Cec Treadway
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March 28, 2010
Alex Johnson
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March 21, 2010
Dan Richard
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The church has a problem with people who are lost at church. How do we correct this problem, and get everyone actively involved in service?

March 14, 2010
Chuck Runge
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We examine Psalm 69, and draw many example and illustrations of Christ. Jesus is demonstrated in almost every verse, and we draw conclusions that help give us insight into Christ's life.

March 7, 2010
John Millay
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Life is compared to a relay race. We need to depend on Jesus as our starting and anchor leg, but we need to run the middle legs.

February 28, 2010
Chuck Runge
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Psalm 51 is looked at, and David's mistakes are revealed for our understanding. Humility and service is stressed, with Jesus as our example.

February 21, 2010
Bruce Parker 
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February 14, 2010
Dan Richard
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The sun, moon, and stars that are mentioned in Matthew 24 are closely examined for their relevance to Christ's return. How can we use these celestial signs to help prepare us for the return of our Lord?

February 7, 2010
Nathan Richard
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New insights into the meaning of the Magi's gifts are shown. Who are the Magi, and why are they important? How does this relate to Jesus' walk through his life?

January 31, 2010
Nicolas Pratt
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Jesus' role as a Messiah is explored. What were some symbols that proved Jesus was our Messiah, and how does his role as a Messiah affect us?

January 24, 2010
Horst Truesedt, "Light"
Recently, the world celebrated two festivals that revolved around Light – the Jewish festival called Hanukkah and the Christian (pagan) holiday called Christmas. This morning, I'd like us to consider these festivals as well as that the Jews are supposed to be a light to the Gentiles and we are supposed to be a light to those around us.

January 8, 2010
Russ Johnson, "Weakness Turned into Strength"
Our survival, both physical and spiritual, depends completely on God. We may be like Moses, Jeremiah, Joshua, or Gideon, and have a fear of being inadequate of doing God's word. However, with God, we can overcome whatever test is given to us (John 15:16). We must trust in God, as in the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego in Daniel 3, who remembered the words from Isaiah 43:3. We may be weak, but God is strong. Jesus was not strong in man, but in his Father.

January 3, 2010
Dan Richard
Almost half of all American adults make New Year's resolutions each year. While 75% succeed past the first week, only 12% accomplish their goal six months later. The odds are stacked against changing bad habits in the same way that gravity pulls our spiritual levels down. While we don't find "Resolutions" in the Bible, we do find people who "resolved" or "determined" to do certain things. Examples considered were from: Josh 24:15, Neh 2:17-18, Matt 26:35 (failure), 1 Cor 2:1-2, Luke 16:1-4, Luke 9:51-53 & Matt 26:41-46. We should all resolve to be more givers and less takers. We should resolve to be more like Jesus as found in Phil 3:10-14.
Let us resolve to remember Jesus daily.
Let us resolve to seek first His Kingdom.
Let us resolve to be born again, and again, and again.
Let us resolve to do His commandments.
Let us resolve to hear His voice as our Shepherd and do His will.
Let us resolve to give food, clothing & care to others.
Let us resolve to let our light shine thru good works.
Let us resolve to examine ourselves positively for what we can do better.
Let us resolve to watch and be ready for Jesus return to Jerusalem.

December 20, 2009
Jeff Maney
The original question was asked about God's control over the world. Why does he always seem to have to redo his work? We saw a diagram showing that God started on a universal scale with creation, then downscaled to a global scale with the flood, and then moved to the national scene with Moses and the children of israel. After this, God focused on the individual, Jesus Christ. After Jesus, he enlarged his view to the national scene, the Gentiles, the global scene, with knowledge of Jesus' resurrection spreading, and then finished it off with the universal view of a new creation. God's plan is well organized, and centered around Jesus.

December 13, 2009
Casey Opitz, "Mental Health" (Mark 5:1-20)
We looked at the story of Legion of an example of an obviously mentally ill human. However, the notion was put forth that we are all mentally ill. We all listen to voices like Legion, except our voices are voices of sin and temptation. We are the spirituall weak, the ill (Matthew 9:12), and the mentally ill. However, we know that Jesus will soon heal us of our infirmities, and our brain will function 100%, as we wholeheartedly serve Him.

December 6, 2009
Cec Treadway, "The Feeling of Our Infirmities" (1 Corinthians 1)
1 Corinthians 1 - Paul tells us that the gospel message was a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks (Gentiles). The Jews sought a messiah - a king that would come and immediately free them from the Roman rule - they could not accept a Christ that was humble and was crucified - hung on a tree. The Greeks were under the influence of the Stoic philosophy which meant that all should accept whatever befell without any emotion - joy or grief, happiness or sadness.
Jesus was in all points like we are - tempted and tried and he was the epitome of the "fruit of the spirit" - Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness & temperance. He did have the feelings we feel. When he saw the grief of Mary and Martha and the mourners at Lazurus' death - he wept and groaned within himself for their anguish even though he knew that he was to raise Lazarus to show the "glory of God".

Genesis records that God was grieved at his heart at the wickedness of mankind that he had created and found only Noah a righteous man. We need to follow the examples of God & Jesus in our daily walk with our brothers and sisters as well as the world with which we come in contact. The gospel message that proclaims the coming Kingdom of God and the salvation in Jesus Christ need to be proclaimed. to those we meet.. Paul's words to Timothy in 1 Tim 2:1-3 should be
our rule. " Prayers, intercession, and giving of thanks , be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all goodliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

November 22, 2009
Chuck Runge, "Christ as a living image" (2 Corinthians 4)
2 Corinthians was closely examined, and lessons from jars of clay were mentioned. The necesity of us seperating us from the world was stressed. We have 2 choices: yes, and no. We can either say yes to the world and no to God, or we can say no to the world, and yes to God. Which one will your actions say?

November 15, 2009
Bruce Parker, (Genesis 19:1-29)
Lot and Abraham's lives were examined, including looking at Genesis chapter 20 from Sarah's point of view, and the trust she placed in God. Lessons were drawn from Job that often in life, we are going along great, but then something drastically changes, and we need to rely on God to strengthen us. Also with Lot, we need to ask ourselves, are we compromised with the world? Finally, these stories revealed a theme constant throughout the Bible: God is always at work.

November 1, 2009
Dan Richard, "Religious Efficiency"
Warren Buffett and Bill Gates are two of the richest men in the world and extremely smart. Unfortunately, neither believes in God and Bill Gates said this about his religion: "Just in terms of allocation of time resources, religion is not very efficient. There's a lot more I could be doing on Sunday morning." God's Word tells us the opposite. Through verses such as 1 Tim 6:17-19, Matt 11:25-26 & 1 Cor 1:26-27 we learn about being called to true service through Jesus Christ. The question for each of us to consider is: Are there better things we should be doing with our time? The difference between those who will be in God's Kingdom, and those who won't, will be in the way they spent their time on earth. God wants all of our time, not just one hour each week. He wants us to serve and glorify Him continually. Other verses considered were: Deut 6:4-9, Ps 119:44, Luke 2:36-38 & Eph 5:15-16. As the good hymn says, "Life is the time to serve the Lord, to do His will, to learn His Word."

October 25, 2009
Chuck Runge, "Apart From the Law" (Romans 3:1-8)
Romas 3:1-18 was closely examined, and various lessons were drawn. Everyone has the same problem against God: sin. Since we are all sinners, Romans 5:6 tells us that Christ died for us, and to save us from our sins. We need to present ourselves humbly, and we must be honest with ourselves.

October 4, 2009
Nicolas Pratt, "Can the Ends Justify the Means?"
Do we live our lives in a way that in all aspects glorifies God? Many lessons can be learned from the numerous Biblical characters who struggled with similar issues that face believers today. The hope for eternal life is the end goal, and while the path may be difficult, trusting that God knows what is right is always the best way.

September 13, 2009
Dan Richard, "Entitled Like Jesus"
Entitlement is a word that was personified by Absalom, son of King David. He was very entitled as the son of the King, with royal blood on both sides of his family. Absalom had stunningly good looks, was wealthy and so confident from his experiences that he felt entitled to be the best judge in the land. Because of his entitlements, Absalom justified lies, sex, rebellion and murder, sometimes even in the name of serving his God. The lesson for us is that, unfortunately, we have much in common with Absalom. We also sin with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. We think we're entitled to judge others and we often let our Father down when we sin. Contrasted to Absalom is Jesus, who though entitled (to have a title), he chose to deny himself and humbly offer himself as the ultimate sacrifice. We inherit Jesus' true entitlements: persecution, hardship, tribulation, betrayals, hatred, judgement and ultimately death. Our hope is to be entitled WITH Jesus as we embrace and live the title of our Master, Savior, and King Jesus.

August 10, 2009
Nathan Richard, "Unity within our Church"
Unity within our own ecclesia is necessary. Every member needs to be a active church member. We need to draw closer together, and in turn draw closer to Christ. If we act as one body, we will appear that way to the world in our preaching efforts.

August 2, 2009
Chuck Runge, "Entering His Rest"
The promise of entering God’s Sabbath rest has never been fulfilled. The promise still stands, and the Kingdom of God is ready to appear. The best days of days is still to come.

June 14, 2009
Ray Pratt, "Good Works" (Matt 25:31-40)
Purpose of Good Works:
We are not saved by good works
We are saved to do good works
We are to do good works
Good works we should do:

  • Care for widows and orphans

  • Support the weak

  • Visit the sick

  • Entertain strangers - show hospitality

  • Share our wealth

  • As we have ability and opportunity, we are to do good to all men, especially our brethren (Ga 6:10)

June 7, 2009
Chuck Runge, "The Great Deception"
Life is too short to pick up narrow causes as our own. We cannot offer unswerving allegiance to human causes. Christians have a vision of their own – Jesus returning to set the world right. A vision of a world made perfect – and that is the Kingdom of God.

May 31, 2009
Dan Richard, "Church, Life or Death"
Reading: 2 Chron 30 Christians in the Western world are shrinking and church attendance in the US is declining dramatically. What can we do? Here are7 ideas to help:

  1. We must believe in our product (church/faith)

  2. We must believe that people NEED our product (church/faith)

  3. We must understand the needs of customers/potential members.

  4. We must offer an excellent product in our services.

  5. We ALL must embody our church - live & breath it!

  6. We must effectively market our church & faith.

  7. Perseverance & prayer are the keys to success.

We looked at the following verses in support of building God's church and our responsibilities: Matt 28:19-20; Acts 8:12; Jn 17:3; 2 Tim 3:16; 1 Cor 9:19-23

May 24, 2009
Brian Riley
Using the story of the woman at the feast at Bethany (Matthew 26) as a beginning point, Memorial Day is given a fresh look. Old Testament examples of memorials are used, as well as looking at the New Testament "Soldiers of Faith", to include Jesus, to draw the audience towards the emblems of memorial, the reason for meeting together every Sunday.

May 3, 2009
Cecil Treadway, "Christ In The Four Gospels"
Bible students sometimes wonder about the fact that the four Gospel writers do not always agree in their accounts of Jesus’ life. Matthew and Luke both have a genealogy of Jesus but they trace his ancestry from two different lines - Joseph, Mary’s husband and Mary. Some of the writers do not mention important aspects of Jesus’ life while others go into great detail causing Bible critics to doubt the authenticity. The gospels were written to different audiences and were written by holy men as God directed them through the Holy Spirit (1 Peter 1:21). The gospel writes each show a different aspect of Jesus ministry. The standards of the children of Israel in the wilderness point the way with their heraldic standards. Judah - a Lion, Ephraim - an Ox, Reuben - a Man and Dan - an Eagle. These same symbols are found in Ezekiel Chapter 1 and Revelation 4. The Lion Depicting Jesus kingship , The Ox - his service - they man - his humanity and the Eagle as the Son of God. Matthew addresses his kingship and coming Kingdom - tracing his genealogy back to David Abraham to who the promise was made of kingship and a kingdom. He speaks of the power of the King, mentioning the kingdom many times Matthew is the only gospel that speaks of wise men coming with gold, frankincense myrrh asking “Where is he that is born King of the Jews?” Mark tells of Jesus as a a “servant - offering himself as a sacrifice. Luke addresses Jesus as the “son of Man” and traces his genealogy through Mary back to Adam. Luke speaks of an angel speaking to lowly shepherds - “I bring you good tidings of great joy - Unto you this day is born in the city of David, a savior which is Christ the Lord”: John speaks of Jesus as the “Son of God” - - the Eagle soaring in the heavens. There are no problems with the gospels when we realize the task that each writer was presenting as we wait his return to establish his kingdom once more here upon the earth.

April 26, 2009
Chuck Runge, "The Very Next Day"
As much as we desire to see the miracles witnessed by others, miracles were never enough. The people who left Jesus had heard the word of life and eaten the miraculous bread just the day before, but then fell away at the first difficulty. So God provided nourishment for us. He gave us the Lord Jesus. Jesus said “I am the bread of life”, and demonstrated that the eternal life He gives is better than the manna which perished and which could not offer eternal life.

April 19, 2009
Norm Fadelle, "Exhortation from Psalm 46"
I think Jesus would have seen the OT as the perfect instruction book for himself (as provided by his Dad). Since he would have identified with David in many ways, Jesus would have learned much from the Psalms. Ps 46 is a tightly-written, deliberately-structured, 11-verse song written to be given much thought (Selah). Verses 1,7 and 11 make the same key point: the God of Jacob is our refuge and strength. So when Jesus read, The LORD of hosts is with us, he believed it, and would apply personally as we should: the LORD is with me ... in this situation ... and therefore earthquake, flood, raging nation, hostile Roman governor, or any seemingly overwhelming life problems are to be regarded as relatively little pains to be endured and temporary obstacles to overcome. Why? Because God, with a proven record of delivering His people, helping them right early, will likewise save me (us). If we die, He can make us live again! To believe this is an active response; sometimes our only part is to be still, and know that I am God (v. 10, cf. Ex 14:14). Or as Ex 14:13 says, Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will work for you today.

April 5, 2009
Brian Riley
Using the story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem from Matthew 21, the speaker uses this traditional Palm Sunday passage to examine the symbolism and lessons that can be learned by focusing on a study of the palm tree, the fig tree and the donkey on which Jesus rode.

March 29, 2009
Dan Richard, "No Turning Back"
Reading Genesis 19:12-26 The exhortation started with an example of driving a car through an intersection and how each person must decide whether to stop, and when there's no turning back. Spiritually, the Bible speaks about people who turn back on their faith, and turn back on God. Two key examples were considered. 1. A negative example cited was Lot's wife from Genesis 19. She was famous for turning back to Sodom Gomorrah and she paid for her error with her life. Key passages considered were: Luke 17:28-33, 2 Pet 2:7-8, and 1 Cor 7:14. We learned that believer's families are sanctified or set apart, but not saved - as Lot's wife proved. The lesson we learned was Don't turn back to Sodom. 2. Paul was a positive example as one who bounced back from many persecutions, including being stoned in Acts 14:4-6, 19-21. Paul knew a lot about stonings from his past at Stephen's stoning, including five reason's where the law prescribed stonings for specific sins. (Lev 20:2; 20:27; 24:14; Numb 15:36 Deut 21:21). We looked at Deut 13:6-10 for the Jews justification for stoning Paul and other verses which showed that Paul never turned back - despite intense troubles. Finally, we saw Jesus as our greatest example for never turning back. Verses included: Is 50:7; Luke 9:51; 9:62; Matt 16:24-25. The exhortation to all is: Don't turn back. Don't return to the sins of Sodom. Follow Jesus don't turn back!

March 22, 2009
Cecil Treadway, “It's Time To Clean House" (John 2)
The exhortation examined the account in John 2 of the “Cleansing of the Temple” by Jesus at the Passover feast. The incident is carried in all four Gospels (Matt 21:12-13; Mark 11: 15-17 Luke 19: 45-46) but only the account in John 2 seems to place the cleansing of the temple early in Jesus ministry. The other three gospels place it at his final trip to Jerusalem prior to his crucifixion suggesting that it was one of the first acts and one of the last acts that Jesus performed. In study, we find that he made a scourge with which he drove out the sellers of the cattle, sheep doves as well as the money changers who were making the Temple a market place where overcharging those who came was being done in an atmosphere of noise confusion. Jesus said “ make not my Father’s house a house of merchandise” and further recorded in the other gospels “ but you have made it a den of thieves”. The lesson for today comes from the words of the apostle Paul who points out in I Cor 3:16 “Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the spirit of God dwells in you?” Also compare I Cor 6:19; 2 Cor. 6:16; and Eph 2:12-20 which point out our position as lively stones in the temple. Jesus in his sacrifice has cleansed our temple – making the way to salvation available to us and also giving us the example of “cleansing our temple” Reflecting on our actions and thoughts and seeking God’s mercy and grace as we daily repent and clean up our own lives. It’s time to clean house!

March 8, 2009
Bro Chuck Runge, "Angels in Darkness"
Jude and 2nd Peter have been used to justify strange ideas about chained angels held in dark dungeons, and eternal punishment by fire, but that's not what the authors are telling us. They are teaching us from Bible history, and name Cain, Baalam, and Korah as examples. These were leaders who should have known better than to oppose God, because God knows how to save the righteous and punish the wicked. And we can take courage because God has done it before.

March 1, 2009
Dan Richard, "Judas Me"
Main points included:

  • We are naturally more like Judas than like Jesus

  • We need to overcome our spiritual weaknesses, just as Judas was challenged by his lust for money (John 12:6 as thief)

  • We shouldn't judge others as Judas did to Mary (Matt 26:13-16)

  • Like Judas, we too sometimes justify our sins wrongly

  • Ultimately, our life depends on our faith in Jesus, acceptance of His sacrifice and belief he will forgive me

Key verses we considered included: John 11:1-2, 12:1-8; Luke 7:37-39, Mak14:1-11; Ps 41:9, 55:12-13 Matt 27:1-5.

February 15, 2009
Cec Treadway, "Abraham - God's Friend"
The faith of Abraham is often taken for granted - that it was easy for him because God communed with him - but was it? Abraham faced many trials by God before he truly found the faith that allowed him to offer his son Isaac as a sacrificial burnt offering. He was told to Get out of his country - Ur of the Chaldees, from his kindred to a land that God would show him - the land of Caanan

  • He was tested in Haran - where his father Terah died.

  • Tested with famine when he reached Caanan

  • Tested in Egypt when he used lies and deceit with Sarai.

  • Tested when he separated from Lot - Tested with the decision to have Ishmael by Hagar,

  • Tested in believing that Sarah could provide a son in her old age.

He learned from each of these tests in his life which did develop his faith to the point that he believed that God would raise his son Isaac from the dead - his ultimate test of faith. We face trials in our own lives - We should not look at God through our difficulties but look at our difficulties through God. God's final promise to Abraham of an eternal possession of the land and a blessing to all nations includes us at Paul tells us in Galations 3:26-28 As many as have been baptized in Christ have put on Christ -- and if you are Christ's, then are you Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise.

February 1, 2009
Chuck Runge, "The Days of the Son of Man"
Jesus and the prophets have warned us to live holy and godly lives because a time is coming like the days of Noah, when all the wicked of the earth perished in a day. We need to be looking forward - not to the failures of the past or the fears of the present, but to the future, to the new heavens and the new earth. A place where we are strangers and sojourners no more!

January 25, 2009
Nathan Richard, "100% Devotion to God"
Main points discussed included:

  • Talked about many Bible characters who showed devotion to God. Any other examples?

  • What holds us back from complete devotion?

  • How do we rid ourselves of our stumbling blocks?

  • How did Jesus live a sin-free life? What was it about him that allowed him to never sin, while we struggle every day? How can we imitate Christ in that way?

  • Why are some still unbaptized? What holds them back?

  • Barack Obama; how his devotion to our nation has parallels to our lives.