Throughout Scripture, God reveals Himself through various names that showcase different aspects of His character and relationship with His people. The most frequently used name, Yahweh (appearing over 6,000 times), represents God's self-existence and eternal nature. Other significant names include El Shaddai, emphasizing God's complete power and sufficiency, and Jehovah Rohi, which reveals His role as our caring Shepherd. These divine names serve multiple purposes in our faith journey. They help us understand who God is, teach us about His character, and personalize our relationship with Him. When Scripture describes God as jealous, it speaks to His desire for exclusive worship and His protection of His people from false gods. Understanding these names deepens our prayer life and helps us appreciate the privilege of having a personal relationship with the Creator of the universe.
Because They Feared God
January 5, 2025 • Pastor Seth Drayer
The story of Hebrew midwives Shiphrah and Puah illustrates the true meaning of fearing God - not terror, but a deep desire to please our Heavenly Father. Their courageous defiance of Pharaoh's evil command demonstrates how the fear of God empowers believers to stand firm against cultural opposition. This fear stems from God's forgiveness and mercy, leading to grateful obedience rather than forced compliance. Like these ancient midwives, we're called to be 'impossible people' who prioritize God's approval over earthly success or others' opinions.
God Revealed in Christ
December 29, 2024 • Pastor Matt Keller • John 1:14–18
In this insightful message, we explore the profound question, 'What is God like?' through the lens of the Gospel of John. Discover how Jesus, introduced as the eternal Word, reveals God's glory and attributes. John 1:1 and John 1:14 highlight Jesus' divinity and incarnation, showing that He is fully God and fully man. Through His life and ministry, Jesus displays God's holiness, wisdom, justice, mercy, and love. John 1:16-17 emphasizes that from Jesus' fullness, we receive 'grace upon grace,' offering forgiveness and redemption. John 1:18 explains that Jesus, who is at the Father's side, has made God known, challenging us to avoid cultural misconceptions and seek to know God through Jesus as revealed in Scripture. Reflect on how understanding Jesus as the full revelation of God can change your view of Him and motivate you to live in gratitude, humility, and obedience
I Will Go
October 24, 2024 • Pastor Matt Keller • Isaiah 6
Experiencing God can profoundly motivate us to share the gospel. Isaiah 6 illustrates how an encounter with God transformed Isaiah's willingness to spread His message. Despite knowing the people wouldn't listen, Isaiah's awe of God's glory drove him to say, 'Here I am, send me.' Every believer is called to be a missionary, sharing the gospel in their own context. This week, challenge yourself to trust in God's plan and share His message, even if immediate results aren't visible.
Living in Hope and Holiness
September 15, 2024 • Kellen Robbins • 1 Peter 1:13–15
Today's message focuses on 1 Peter 1:13-25, urging us to prepare for our spiritual journey like a marathon runner. We are called to live with hope, holiness, reverent fear, and love. By setting our minds on Christ's return, striving for holiness, acknowledging God's authority, and loving one another deeply, we reflect our new identity in Christ. Let us challenge ourselves to apply these principles in our daily lives.
This is Our Home–For Now
September 11, 2024 • Pastor Seth Drayer • Jeremiah 29:1–14
Feeling displaced and weary in today's world is a sentiment many share. In this message, we explore the exile of Judah in Jeremiah 29 to draw principles for living faithfully as spiritual exiles. The people of Judah felt abandoned in Babylon, but God had a plan for them, just as He has a plan for us. God commanded the exiles to build houses, plant gardens, marry, and seek the welfare of their city, showing that faithfulness involves active participation in our communities. By engaging in normal, everyday activities and seeking the welfare of our communities, we prove our faith in God's promises. As spiritual exiles, we are called to invest in our temporary home, trusting in God's ultimate plan for us.
Uncompromising Faith
September 8, 2024 • Nate Sexton • Daniel 3
Join Pastor Nate Sexton for a deep dive into Daniel 3 where we delve into the narrative of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who faced the ultimate test of faith when commanded to worship a golden image or face death. Their refusal to compromise their beliefs, despite the external temptations and the possibility of rationalizing their actions, serves as a profound lesson in steadfast faith. The sermon underscores the miraculous nature of their survival in the fiery furnace and the subsequent recognition of God's power by King Nebuchadnezzar.
God is Present
September 4, 2024 • Kim Landrum • Exodus 3
Exploring the story of Moses and the burning bush, we learn that God's presence is not limited to sacred spaces but is an active force in our daily lives. God's assurance to Moses, 'I will be with you,' extends to us, offering support and empowerment. By acknowledging God's presence, seeking His guidance, and reflecting His glory, we can experience the fullness of His companionship in every aspect of life.
God's Greater Purpose
August 14, 2024 • Pastor Matt Keller • Exodus 13
Exploring the narrative of Exodus 13-14, we uncover the profound truth that God leads us through trials for His glory and our good. The Israelites' journey through the wilderness and the parting of the Red Sea demonstrate God's sovereignty and the importance of our obedience and faith in action. This story encourages us to trust in God's greater purpose during our own difficult times.
Thinking Biblically About Identity
July 31, 2024 • Jackson Speakman • Galatians 2:20
In a world obsessed with self-definition, this Bible study challenges the modern concept of expressive individualism by presenting a biblical perspective on identity. It emphasizes that true identity is found not within our emotions or societal trends, but in our union with Christ, as stated in Galatians 2:20. This identity shapes our lives, redefining our values and actions in light of our relationship with Jesus, rather than our personal desires or achievements.
God's Everlasting Love
July 24, 2024 • Kim Landrum • Romans 8:31–39
Exploring Romans 8:31-39, we find assurance in the eternal and unbreakable love of God. Paul's letter affirms that nothing can separate us from God's love, not tribulations nor external forces. Through God's foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and glorification, we are secured in His love. Jesus' role as our intercessor and His sacrifice cement this truth, empowering us to live boldly and confidently in the face of life's challenges.
Love one Another
July 17, 2024 • Kim Landrum • 1 John 3:11, 1 Corinthians 13
Exploring the essence of biblical love, we learn from 1 John 3:11 that loving one another is a fundamental command and a mark of true faith. 1 Corinthians 13 further guides us on how to love, emphasizing that love is patient and kind, and without it, our spiritual gifts are meaningless. To live out this love, we must practice patience, even when wronged, and show kindness to all, reflecting Christ's love in our daily actions.
Be an Encourager
July 10, 2024 • Robert Stuart • Acts 4:36–37
Join CrossPointe teacher Robert Stuart to examine the profound nature of biblical encouragement through the life of Barnabas, a New Testament figure who exemplified lifting others' hearts towards God. Learn how his actions, such as supporting Saul and giving John Mark a second chance, demonstrate the characteristics of a true encourager—wholehearted devotion to Christ, recognizing God's grace, willingness to take risks, and selflessness.
What Makes God Happy?
June 19, 2024 • Kim Landrum
Exploring the concept of God's happiness reveals a deity who delights in His own perfection and sovereignty, rather than the stern figure often imagined. This happiness, rooted in His nature, assures us that God's plans are unfolding perfectly, unaffected by life's unpredictability. The ultimate expression of His joy is found in the redemptive suffering of Jesus, which fulfills His plan and brings salvation to humanity. Embracing this truth encourages us to trust more deeply in God's unwavering happiness and control.
What About the Migrants? Thinking Biblically About Those Who Cross The Border
April 10, 2024 • Pastor Matt Keller • Acts 17:26, Exodus 23:31, Numbers 34:1–12
Pastor Keller discusses biblical perspective on immigration, emphasizing the need to consider big issues like immigration through a biblical lens. He addresses the challenges and varying views on immigration, highlighting the desperation and risks faced by those seeking a better life in America. Keller argues against dismissing the significance of illegal immigration, stressing the importance of obeying the laws of the government. He concludes by outlining key points for a biblical understanding of immigration, emphasizing the balance between the rule of law and the rule of love while treating all individuals with dignity and respect.