Vital Signs

Pastor Jeff

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Vital Signs

October 15, 2023 • Dr. Jeff Schwarzentraub • James 2:14–26

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Pastor Jeff discusses the concept of spiritual vitality using the analogy of vital signs assessed by a doctor, emphasizing the importance of evaluating one's faith through evidence of good works. He highlights key biblical passages, particularly from James, to argue that faith without works is dead, stressing that genuine saving faith is always accompanied by a transformative work in a person's life. Citing examples from the lives of Abraham and Rahab,

Pastor Jeff illustrates how both faith and actions are integral to true belief. He urges listeners to examine their spiritual vitality, cautioning against empty professions of faith, careless compassion, and the necessity of a heartfelt relationship with Christ to ensure eternal salvation.

The Blessings of Trials

September 10, 2023 • Dr. Jeff Schwarzentraub • James 1:1–12

This week we began a new series in the book of James entitled, Walk Your Talk. The emphasis of the series is how a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ can live the life that God requires of His servants. James, the half-brother of Jesus, wastes no time as He makes the point that trials are good. No matter where a believer lives or what a believer does, they can be certain that trials will be a part of their life. However, when trials arrive the believer is to respond with gratitude because of all the great benefits and blessings that will occur if the trial is handled properly. These short twelve verses have great impact for every Christian in every generation. Our prayer is that this week’s message will be helpful to believers in their continued pursuit of the Lord.

How to Defeat Temptation

September 17, 2023 • Dr. Jeff Schwarzentraub • James 1:13–18

This week we continued our series in the book of James and learned How to Defeat Temptation. While God is the One who authors and allows trials in our life for spiritual maturity, the enemy attempts to get us to veer off course by using temptation. This temptation is nothing more than trying to get us to fulfill a good desire in an ungodly way. Temptation is always a short cut that may seem okay at the time but leads to sin and ultimately death. When we give into temptation, we can never be living the fullness of what God requires of us and desires for us. The reality is that God is good, abundant, and lavish and will not withhold His best from us. The enemy, on the other hand, lies to us about God’s character and attempts to have people believe that lie. When we ruminate on the lie then we get discouraged and frustrated, which often leads to taking the bait of temptation. Since temptation is pervasive, we must be aware of where it originates, its deadly effects, and how we can live victoriously. May this week’s message be an encouragement to you.

Growing in the Word

September 24, 2023 • Dr. Jeff Schwarzentraub • James 1:19–25

This week we continued our series in the book of James and learned about four distinct requirements in order to be growing in the Word. God wants you to be conformed to the image of the Lord Jesus Christ and to respond in the proper way. The trials and temptations we go through in life are opportunities for us to be conformed to the fullness of the Lord Jesus Christ. When we ask what God desires us to do and how to respond through those trials and temptation, the answer is that He desires for you to grow in Christ by growing in His word. May this week's message be an encouragement to you to build your spiritual muscles and grow in the midst of trials and temptations.