Snapshots Of Advent

Grace Chapel Wilsonville

Snapshots Of Advent

December 22, 2024 • Jake Schwein • Luke 1:26–38, Matthew 1:18–25, Luke 2:8–20, Isaiah 9:6

In his sermon, Jake emphasizes the Christmas story's foundational importance, exploring themes of hope, peace, joy, and love within the context of Advent. He discusses the contrasting emotions often felt during the holiday season, such as despair and loneliness, stemming from societal pressures and the commercialization of Christmas. Through snapshots of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the Magi, he illustrates how each figure teaches us valuable lessons about trust, obedience, worship, and passionate pursuit of Jesus. Ultimately, he invites everyone—whether close to God or feeling distant—to draw near to the manger and experience the transformative power of Christ this Christmas.

Pneumatology

December 15, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • John 3:16, Acts 1:4, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 2:9

In his sermon, Mike discusses the importance of living with both consecration and captivation, framing them as essential postures for experiencing God’s presence and power in our lives. He emphasizes that true maturity in faith requires a childlike wonder and an expectancy of God's movement, highlighting the need for believers to invite God into every area of their lives. Mike shares impactful anecdotes to illustrate how we can actively engage with God and others, urging the congregation to break free from cynicism and busyness, which often dulls their spiritual sensitivity. Ultimately, he encourages everyone to cultivate a lifestyle of anticipation, being fully open to the revelations and amazing works that God has in store for them.

Ecclesiology - Part 3

December 8, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • 1 Peter 2:9, 1 Corinthians 1:27, Matthew 16:24–25, 2 Corinthians 8:1–5

In his sermon, Mike emphasizes the power of consecration, urging the congregation to offer their weaknesses, will, wealth, wilderness, and work to God. He highlights that while everyone has weaknesses, these can be the very areas through which God performs extraordinary deeds. As a response to the message, he encourages attendees to identify and write down what they are consecrating in their lives, moving from a focus on personal capacity to a posture of surrender. The message closes with a call for the Holy Spirit's guidance and the intention to cultivate a life that is flammable for God's power to ignite.

Ecclesiology - Part 2

December 1, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • 2 Corinthians 3, Romans 8:29, Isaiah 66, 1 Corinthians 3

In his sermon, Mike discusses the importance of understanding our purpose as followers of Jesus, emphasizing that it goes beyond mere religious practices to living a transformed life through the Holy Spirit. He highlights the struggle between our flesh and spirit. By examining what we feed—the algorithms of our lives—we can choose to nurture our relationship with the Holy Spirit, leading to true transformation and a deeper understanding of our identity in Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for humility and a longing for God's glory, encouraging the church to live in freedom and purpose, reflecting the radiance of Jesus in a broken world.