(un) Expected Study Guide

Hope Valley Church

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(un) Expected Study Guide

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Get the most out of the sermon series by working through this study guide.

(Un)Expected Access | Pastor David Hermes

December 22, 2024 • David Hermes • Matthew 1:23, John 1:1, John 1:14, Galatians 3:28, Psalm 139:7–12

This Christmas season, we're invited to embrace an unexpected gift - the gift of access to God's presence. The message reminds us that Emmanuel, 'God with us,' isn't just a distant concept but a personal reality. Drawing from Matthew 1:23, we're challenged to recognize that Jesus came for each of us individually, not just for others. The sermon beautifully parallels the story of a guest speaker hesitant to enjoy hospitality with our own hesitation to fully embrace God's love. It encourages us to move beyond general worship to personal revelation, understanding that God's love isn't based on our worthiness but on His faithfulness. As we celebrate the nativity, let's remember that God pursues us relentlessly, crossing every barrier to be with us. This message is a powerful call to take possession of the promises and access God has given us through Christ, regardless of our past, present circumstances, or self-perceived limitations.

Unexpected Trouble - Pastor David Hermes

December 15, 2024 • David Hermes

In this powerful message, we're reminded that God is not afraid of trouble. Through the story of Jesus' birth and the subsequent flight to Egypt in Matthew 2, we see how God works even in the darkest times. The key lesson here is that God knows about our troubles before they happen and provides for us in advance. Just as He supplied gold, frankincense, and myrrh for Jesus' family, He equips us with resources - sometimes financial, sometimes relational, sometimes spiritual - to face our challenges. We're encouraged to take stock of these provisions, especially when we're not in crisis. This message challenges us to trust God's plan, even when we can't see the timeline, and to recognize that He often uses unexpected sources to bless us. It's a call to be with the right people in the right place, as God prepares both for us in times of trouble. Chapter 1: God's Foreknowledge and Preparation 0:00 - 10:00 God knows and prepares for the trouble we will face. Chapter 2: Leveraging Trouble for Good 10:00 - 20:00 God uses even wicked plans to fulfill His purposes. Chapter 3: The Expiration of Trouble 20:00 - 30:00 Every trouble has an end, and God offers hope beyond our trials.

Unexpected People | Pastor David Hermes

December 8, 2024 • David Hermes

This Sunday, we reflected on the story in Luke 2:8-20 and how it reminds us that God often chooses the most unexpected people to be part of His extraordinary plans. The shepherds, humble and overlooked by society, were the first to hear the angel's proclamation of Jesus' birth: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). These ordinary men became the first messengers of the Savior’s arrival. They responded with faith, running to see the baby Jesus and sharing the news with everyone they met. Through this story, we see that God doesn’t choose based on status, power, or wealth. Instead, He invites the unexpected—those who are willing to listen, trust, and act—to play a role in His plans. Our hope is that this message inspires you to see how God can work through your life, no matter where you are or what you feel you lack. Just like the shepherds, you are invited to respond with faith and be part of sharing His good news with the world. We’d love for you to join us on Sundays at 9am or 11am at Industry in RiNo. We offer validated parking, awesome Kids Classes for ages 6 months through 5th grade, and a Youth Group for 6th-12th grade!