Walnut Grove

Sermon: Praying for Your One

Sermon Date: 11/10/2024
Bible Verse: :1 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 John 5:16; Philippians 4:6-7; Ephesians 6:18-20; Colossians 1:9-12; Philemon 1:4-6
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Sermon: "Praying for Your One"
Introduction
Today, we’re focusing on an essential but often underused tool in our spiritual lives—prayer. Specifically, we’ll talk about praying for your one—one person whom God places on your heart to pray for consistently, with intentionality, love, and faith. We’ll look at what the Bible teaches us about prayer’s power, how it can impact our relationships, and how we can intercede effectively for others.
In the verses we’ll explore, we’ll find the power of petition, intercession, and thanksgiving, each of which strengthens our faith and calls us to care deeply for the spiritual growth and salvation of others. Our hope is that through our prayers, God’s love will reach hearts and transform lives.
1. Praying with Petition and Intercession (1 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 John 5:16)
2. Praying with Faith and Thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7)
3. Praying for Boldness and Open Doors (Ephesians 6:18-20)
4. Praying for Spiritual Growth and Wisdom (Colossians 1:9-12)
5. Praying for a Deeper Partnership in Faith (Philemon 1:4-6)
Conclusion
Praying for our one is an act of love and faith. As we petition God on their behalf, pray with thanksgiving, ask for boldness and open doors, seek their spiritual growth, and pray for partnership, we invite God to transform both their life and ours. Prayer has the power to bring the lost home, to strengthen the weak, and to unite us in the love and purpose of Jesus Christ.
Today, let’s each commit to praying for our one—consistently, with faith, and with love. In doing so, we become part of God’s work, believing that He can and will reach hearts, restore lives, and bring people into His light. Amen.

The Weekly Show: Episode 28 - Praise

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about praise.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
How Great Thou Art · David Phelps Hymnal ℗ 2017 Spring House Productions, Inc. Released on: 2017-03-24 Producer: David Phelps Composer Lyricist: Stuart K. Hine
Bible Study on Praise
Introduction: Praise is one of the most essential aspects of the Christian life. It is a response to God’s greatness, goodness, and love. This study will explore the biblical foundation for praise, why it is vital, and how we can incorporate it into our daily lives.
1. What is Praise?
Definition: Praise is expressing admiration, gratitude, and honor to God for who He is and what He has done. It can be verbal or expressed through actions, such as singing, prayer, or even daily living in obedience to God.
2. The Importance of Praise
Acknowledge God’s Worthiness:
3. Praise in the Psalms
The Psalms as a Book of Praise:
The Psalms are filled with expressions of praise for God’s creation, His deliverance, and His constant care.
4. Why We Praise God
Because of His Goodness:
Praise flows out of recognizing God’s goodness, mercy, and love.
Because of His Creation:
The beauty and complexity of the world point us to a Creator worthy of our praise.
Because of His Salvation:
God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ is the ultimate reason for praise.
 5. How to Praise God
Through Worship:
Worship in church services, personal devotions, and daily actions is one of the most common ways to express praise.
Through Obedience:
Living a life of obedience to God’s commands is an act of praise that reflects our reverence and devotion to Him.
Through Giving Thanks:
Gratitude for what God has done and what He will do is a form of praise.
 6. The Power of Praise
Praise as a Weapon Against the Enemy:
In the Bible, praise is shown to have power over spiritual battles.
Praise Brings Breakthrough:
When Paul and Silas were in prison, their praises led to a miraculous deliverance.
 7. Praise in the New Testament Church
8. Practical Application of Praise
 Final Thought:
Praise is not just an emotional response or a ritual; it is an intentional act of worship that brings us into the presence of God, aligns our hearts with His, and invites His power into our lives. Let us cultivate a lifestyle of praise, continually acknowledging God’s greatness and faithfulness in every aspect of our lives.

Sermon: Body Moving

Sermon Date: 11/03/2024
Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
"Getting the Body of Christ Moving"
Cross-References: Matthew 28:18-20, Hebrews 13:16, Hebrews 10:24, 1 Corinthians 10:31
The Body of Christ: Diversity in Unity
Moving the Body into the World: The Great Commission
Serving as a Function of Love and Sacrifice
Encouraging One Another to Good Works
Glorifying God in All Things

The Weekly Show: Episode 27 - Prayer

Join Tim and John as they give an informative and jam-packed episode about prayer.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
We talk about Justice for Peanut and Fred, the upcoming election, Tim also tells us his feelings on True Crime Podcast. 
 
Introduction: Prayer is the heart of a Christian's relationship with God. It is a means of communication, worship, and spiritual growth. This study aims to explore the nature of prayer, its importance in a believer's life, and how the Bible instructs us to pray.
What is Prayer?
The Importance of Prayer
Jesus' Teaching on Prayer
Types of Prayer
Praying with Faith
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Prayer
Praying for Others (Intercession)
Persistent Prayer
God’s Answers to Prayer
Closing: Practical Application
Develop a consistent prayer life by setting aside specific times each day.
Keep a prayer journal to track requests and note God’s answers.
Join a prayer group for encouragement and accountability.
Practice different types of prayer, including thanksgiving, intercession, and confession.
Memory Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5:17 – "Pray without ceasing."
Final Thought:
Prayer is more than a spiritual discipline—it’s a lifeline. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with God, grow in our faith, and align our lives with His will. Let us embrace the power and privilege of prayer, making it central in our walk with Christ.

Devotion: For Such a Time as This

Devotion Date: 10/27/2024
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Bible Verse: Esther 4:14 (NKJV)"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"
The story of Esther is a powerful reminder of the courage, faith, and responsibility we hold in sharing God’s truth. Esther, a young Jewish woman living in a foreign land, became queen during a time when her people faced great danger. When Haman, a high-ranking official, plotted to destroy the Jews, Esther's cousin Mordecai urged her to consider her unique position and opportunity: “Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
In the same way, each of us has been placed in this world with a purpose and with specific opportunities to reflect the love and truth of Christ. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be His witnesses—especially in times of moral confusion, uncertainty, and darkness.
Our Unique Position in God’s Plan
God strategically places His people in positions where they can make a difference. Esther wasn’t chosen as queen by chance. Her position gave her access to the king and a voice that could bring justice and mercy. In our lives, God also places us where we can be a light—within our families, workplaces, communities, and even in moments of hardship or uncertainty.
Like Esther, we may wonder why we’re in certain situations or even question our ability to make a difference. Yet, God’s plans are purposeful. He has equipped us with His Spirit to shine His light and spread His truth in every sphere we inhabit.
The Need for Boldness and Faith
Mordecai urged Esther not to remain silent, for her silence could have led to the destruction of her people. Similarly, in our world today, we see an urgent need for the message of Christ. Many people are hurting, lost, and seeking answers in the wrong places. We, as followers of Jesus, have the answer: the hope, love, and truth found in Christ alone.
This means we need to step out in faith, even when it may be uncomfortable or unpopular, and share the message of Jesus. In moments when speaking about our faith is challenging, we can rely on the boldness given by the Holy Spirit. God gives courage to those who seek to serve Him, just as He did with Esther.
Living for Christ in ‘Such a Time as This’
Esther embraced her role and, with courage, took a stand for her people. Today, we face a world that is in desperate need of the gospel message. We were born, saved, and called for such a time as this—to live and speak boldly for Christ. As we look around at the challenges of our generation, we must not shrink back or remain silent.
God has placed each of us here intentionally, in this time and season, to be His voice, His hands, and His ambassadors. We are not here by accident. We are His chosen people, placed exactly where we are to reflect the hope and love of Jesus.

The Weekly Show: Episode 26 - Halloween and Christianity

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about Halloween and Christianity. 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/something-weird and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Welcome, dear friends, to a night full of lore,A tale of old customs, traditions galore.We’ll travel through history, both sacred and strange,And witness how Halloween started to change.
It begins with the Celts, in fields turning brown,As the harvest was gathered, and Samhain came ‘round.A festival marking the year’s darker half,When spirits could walk in the night’s eerie draft.
Bonfires were lit, and the veil became thin,A time when the souls of the dead could slip in.Costumes were worn to confuse wandering eyes,To protect from the spirits beneath moonlit skies.
But then came the Church, with a feast of its own,All Saints’ Day was born from the papal throne.A time to remember the holy and pure,To honor the saints who forever endure.
As faith reformed, on that October day,The Reformers sought truth, clearing the way.They stood on the Word, breaking tradition,Reformation Day brought a new mission.
From ancient rites and the Church’s intent,Halloween’s path to the present was bent.Now children in costumes roam door to door,Echoing customs from centuries before.
So join us, dear friends, in this tale we retell,Of Samhain, the saints, and the Reformation’s swell.From past into present, we’ll see how it grew—The history of Halloween, presented for you.
Origins of Halloween:
Samhain
All Saints’ Day
Reformation Day
Modern Halloween
Christian Perspectives on Halloween
Biblical Principles to Consider
 Common Christian Objections to Halloween
Alternative Christian Approaches to Halloween
Halloween and Christian Freedom
Practical Guidelines for Christians
Conclusion: Navigating Halloween as Christians

Sermon: Pressing on Towards the Goal

Sermon Date: 10/20/2024
Bible Verse: Philippians 3:1-21
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Theme: Vision and Mission for the Future—Pursuing Christ above all and pressing on toward the eternal prize.
Rejoicing in the Lord and Guarding Against False Confidence (Philippians 3:1-6)
The Worthlessness of Earthly Achievements in Light of Knowing Christ (Philippians 3:7-11)
Pressing Toward the Goal (Philippians 3:12-16)
Our True Citizenship and Heavenly Focus (Philippians 3:17-21)
Conclusion: Pressing On Toward the Goal
Paul's message to the Philippians is both a challenge and an encouragement. It reminds us that life in Christ is a race toward an eternal prize—a prize that far surpasses anything this world can offer. But this race requires determination, focus, and perseverance. We must let go of what is behind and press on toward knowing Christ, trusting in His righteousness, and following His example.
Are we putting our confidence in Christ, or are we still clinging to worldly achievements?
Are we pressing on, leaving behind the past, and pursuing Christ with everything we have?
 

The Weekly Show: Episode 25 - The Christian Perspective on Fear and Faith

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about Fear and Faith in God. 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Introduction
Understanding Fear in the Bible
Healthy Fear:
Unhealthy Fear:
Faith as the Antidote to Fear
Faith Overcomes Fear:
Living by Faith:
How Fear Impacts Our Relationship with God
Fear Creates Doubt:
Faith Strengthens Our Relationship with God:
Practical Steps to Overcome Fear Through Faith
Pray and Seek God’s Presence:
Meditate on God’s Word:
Focus on God’s Love:
Take Action in Faith:
Surround Yourself with Godly Encouragement:
Fear and Faith in the Context of Halloween
 Application: How to Live Fearlessly in Faith
Faith in Everyday Life:
Faith in Uncertain Times:
 Conclusion