Sermon on the Plain (Part 1)

Conrad Hilario

Luke 6:17-36

Jesus teaches the Sermon on the Plain including the Beatitudes. He explains three lessons to the crowd: 1) those who want to serve God will suffer; 2) God will generously reward in heaven those who make sacrifices in this life; and 3) service for God is characterized by sacrificial love.

Live with the End in View

Jim Leffel

Luke 12:35-40

Looking at three short parables in Luke 12, three main practices stand out as being critical to living in faith and hope in the time until Christ's return: 1.) Living in readiness to meet the King, taking part in the work of the Kingdom today; 2.) waiting patiently, but not idly; and 3.) being alert to the opportunities God brings for us, fighting distractions.

Eternal Weight of Glory

Gary DeLashmutt

Hebrews 12:1-2

Christians are called to a life of endurance and perseverance. One biblical key to endurance is having an eternal perspective. The New Testament is full of references to Heaven and what it will be like, so there are many things we can know about Heaven and choose to focus on. It is important to cultivate this focus by looking for and meditating on passages in Scripture that talk about the topic of Heaven as well as emphasizing it in teachings and personal discipleship time.

Three Perspectives on Eternity

Pat Reeder

John 13:1-37

Judas, Peter, and Jesus all show very different views on eternity, demonstrated in the conversation that takes place between them shortly before Jesus was to be betrayed. Judas held the perspective that this life is all there is, which both affected how he lived in this life and the next. Peter, zealous for Jesus, focused on the coming of the Messianic Kingdom and experienced spiritual breaking in this life, but reward and rest in the next. Finally, Jesus himself anticipated his future glory and thus lived his life in obedience to the Father, serving others sacrificially. As we examine our own perspectives on eternity, we should evaluate the lifestyle and results to which those views ultimately lead.

What Will Heaven Be Like?

James Rochford

Ephesians 5:27

Heaven is an often overlooked topic even though the vast majority of Americans believe in its existence. Because of this, it is common to have some confusion on the reality of Heaven. Scripture speaks extensively on the topic of Heaven however. By studying the descriptions God gives us in His Word, we can get a sense for what it will be like someday when we stand before Christ.

Imaginations on Fire - Talking to Kids about Heaven

Jeff Risley

Ephesians 5:27

It's important to talk to kids about heaven. When communicating with kids, you need to connect with your own child-like sense of wonder about heaven because you can't give a child what you don't have. The message should be crafted in a way that helps it stick in the kids' minds. Practical tips include: 1) staying focused, 2) using stories and pictures to help kids connect with the concrete aspects of heaven, 3) remembering boredom is your worst enemy, and 4) taking into account gender difference when teaching children.

What If There's No Heaven?

James Rochford

Matthew 6:19

Without the existence of heaven, the question of significance stands without resolution. This workshop explores the implications on life here on earth if there truly is no afterlife or heaven as many people believe. On the other hand, for Christians who do choose to set their perspective onto heaven, they can act in this life in a way that provides objective meaning and purpose.

Five Myths About Heaven

Derek Sanford

Revelation 21:1-6

Far too often, people are not excited about heaven because of the misconceptions around it. But if God calls us to look forward to our afterlife, we need to address five particular myths about heaven. First, heaven will not be boring. Second, we will not lose our identities. Third, heaven is not just a spiritual existence rather than a tangible, physical reality. Fourth, everyone will not be equal but instead be rewarded for their good works in heaven. And finally, we must remember the somber reality that not everyone will get to heaven. As we address these myths, we can grow in our understanding and excitement for our future home.

Why the Son of God Became a Son of Man

Scott Risley

Hebrews 2:5-18

The Son of God had to become a son of man, fully human in every way for four reasons: 1. to reclaim our lost dominion, 2. to bring us into God's family, 3. to disarm death, and 4. to become our High Priest. We are helpless and He made Himself nothing so He could offer us everything.