November 24, 2024 • Jonathan Pokluda • James 3:14–18
As we wrap up our series, “Peace Talks,” JP challenges us to adopt a perspective focused on humility and wisdom from God, which sets the stage for real peace in our lives. JP looks to James 3:14-18 to encourage us to follow a pattern of peace by being kind, pure, and open to others, creating stronger and healthier relationships. Finally, we are reminded that peace is a team effort—when we work with God and each other, we can build a life filled with love and purpose.
The perspective that leads to peace
The pattern that leads to peace
The partnership that leads to peace
Life Group Discussion:
Why do you think peace starts with a change in perspective rather than just actions?
Which of the traits listed in James 3:17 (pure, peace-loving, gentle, willing to yield, etc.) do you find the hardest to practice, and why?
Why is it important to partner with God in pursuing peace rather than trying to do it alone?
Peace When Life is Hard
November 17, 2024 • John Elmore • 1 Peter 5:6–14
In this powerful sermon by John based on 1 Peter 5:6-14, discover the transformative strength found in humility, as we are called to humble ourselves before God’s mighty hand. Learn to release the weight of life’s anxieties by casting them upon the One who deeply cares for you and stand firm in faith to resist the adversary’s schemes. Be inspired to depend wholly on God, trusting in His promise to restore, strengthen, and establish you for His eternal glory.
Humble yourself
Anxieties are cast
Resistance in faith
Depend on God
Life Group Discussion:
Can you think of a time when humility brought about unexpected blessings or growth?
How can sharing your struggles with a faith community help in casting your burdens to God?
In what ways does standing firm in faith encourage others in their spiritual journey?
Why is it important to remember God’s promise to restore and strengthen you when facing trials?
Peace with Difficult People
November 10, 2024 • Jonathan Pokluda • Romans 12:14–21
This powerful sermon on Romans 12:14-21 offers a fresh perspective on handling life’s challenges with humility, empathy, and unwavering faith. It’s a heartfelt reminder to counter negativity with kindness, seek peace in our relationships, and entrust justice to God. If you’re looking to deepen your faith and discover practical ways to live out love even in difficult situations, JP’s message will uplift and inspire you.
Proceed Humbly
Engage with empathy
Amend all you can
Counter evil with good
Entrust justice to God
Life Group Discussion:
What does humility look like in our daily interactions, especially when dealing with those who may oppose us?
How can we better understand the struggles or perspectives of those we disagree with?
How can we overcome fears or hesitations that might hold us back from seeking to make amends?
How does choosing goodness in the face of wrongdoing reflect God’s love to others?
How can we find peace in situations where we feel wronged but have chosen not to seek personal revenge?
Peace with Authority
November 3, 2024 • Nate Hilgenkamp • Romans 13:1–7
Discover the teachings of Romans 13:1-7 in this impactful sermon, where Nate points us to God’s divine role in establishing authority. Gain insight into how we're called to respectfully submit to those in positions of power as an act of faith and obedience. Finally, understand the importance of honoring and giving what we owe to authorities, embracing these principles as part of living a godly life.
God establishes those in authority
God calls us to submit to those in authority
God call us to give what we owe to those in authority
Life Group Discussion:
How does understanding that God establishes authority influence your view of government and leadership? In what ways can this belief strengthen our faith during times of political or social tension?
In what ways might our submission to authority reflect our trust in God’s overall plan? How can a willingness to submit impact our relationships with others and our witness to those around us?
In our daily lives, what are some practical ways we can "give what we owe" to those in authority, like teachers, employers, or government officials? How might showing respect and honoring these responsibilities reflect our values and faith, even if we don’t always agree with them?
Peace in Politics
October 27, 2024 • Jonathan Pokluda • 1 Timothy 2:1–2
Discover the power of purposeful prayer and learn how it can transform both personal lives and society in this inspiring sermon on 1 Timothy 2:1-2. Through insights on praying for others, practicing godly principles, and pastoring through tough times, JP provides a roadmap to bring hope and peace to our communities. As much as it depends on you, live out your faith with impact and compassion!
We are to pray for the people
We are to practice the policies
We are to pastor the predicament
Life Group Discussion:
How can praying for others, especially leaders, impact our perspective on current events and challenges?
How can our actions reflect God’s love in situations where we may disagree with societal policies or norms?
How can we effectively provide spiritual guidance to those struggling without overstepping or coming across as judgmental?
Peace with God
October 20, 2024 • Jonathan Pokluda • Romans 5:1–2
In this uplifting sermon on Romans 5:1-2, JP points us to discover how peace with God offers forgiveness for the past and freedom from guilt. You'll also learn how it provides access to God's grace in the present, empowering daily life with purpose. Finally, gain hope for the future, knowing God's love ensures a secure and eternal destiny.
Peace with God offers forgiveness from our past
Peace with God gives us present access to grace
Peace with God gives us hope for the future
Life Group Discussion:
How does understanding God’s forgiveness change the way we view our past mistakes and regrets?
How does having access to God's grace influence the way we handle challenges and struggles in our daily lives?
How can we encourage others to find hope in God, especially during times of hardship or doubt about the future?