How the Gospel Shapes Our Liberty (BG)
April 3, 2022 • Tim Furnanz • Galatians 5:1–15
Freedom is a topic of conversation that evokes a range of responses—what does it mean? How is it best expressed? What should be done to receive or protect it? For many, freedom is the same as autonomy; the freedom of rejecting any authority but our own and ridding ourselves of restrictions we consider inconvenient or undesirable. However, when we explore the biblical definition of freedom, it contradicts this image many of us hold. In this passage of Galatians, Paul takes on a pastoral tone and provides a practical depiction of the type of life that is honoring to God and marked by freedom. Paul contends that those who have been set free by Jesus, are to live lives of freedom characterized by self-control, obedience to God's Word, and loving service to their neighbors.
December 11: Podcast, A Heart Prepared
December 11, 2021 • Tim Furnanz
REFLECT: In this week’s passage, Gabriel’s describes how John would prepare the people of Israel: “He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their http://god...turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” Is your heart prepared to receive what God has for you this Christmas season? What might be keeping you from hearing from Him or being receptive to His refining hand? Sometimes it’s as simple as too many distractions, as complicated as past hurts driving us to hold tightly to a sense of control, or as straightforward as unrepented sin. This Christmas, how do you need to prepare to celebrate King Jesus? What does it look like for you turn your heart to God? RESPOND: As we anticipate celebrating Jesus, we don’t have to wait to engage Him; He doesn’t require us to submit a request for an audience with Him but rather invites us to talk with Him anytime and anywhere—even in the midst of our mess. Today, spend some time preparing your heart to celebrate Jesus at Christmas. Ask Him to reveal what distractions you might need to eliminate, the uncovering of sin requiring confession, and the softening of your heart to trust Him in all areas of your life. Invite the Spirit to prepare your heart for the King’s arrival and celebrate with joy.
Faith in Temptation (WS)
July 4, 2021 • Tim Furnanz • 1 John 1:9, 1 Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 13:8, James 1:13–18
The way we respond to tests and trials reveals a lot about the inner workings of our hearts. Do you give in, blame, or play the victim? Or do you take a step back to look at what’s going on? Unfortunately, it’s quite natural to blame others, and even to blame God. However, James tells us that God tempts no one to sin. Ever. To tempt is to be deceitful, and there is no deceit in God. We are tempted when our desire is contrary to God’s will; we think we can find satisfaction outside of His will. It’s literally the oldest trick in the book: “Did God really say...?” (Gen. 3:1). God knows just what we need and He doesn’t withhold it from us because He is a good Father who cares for His children.
Peace Inward (WS)
December 20, 2020 • Tim Furnanz • Philippians 4:4–13
What troubles loom in your thoughts? What concerns distract your focus? God invites His children to bring our circumstances to Him. He walks with us and gives us true peace, regardless of what swirls around us. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:7). Join us Sunday as we look at Philippians 4:4-13 and see how God’s peace reaches inside our hearts.