Walnut Grove

Sermon: Not a Normal Mother’s Day Message

Sermon Date: 5/11/2025
Bible Verses: Proverbs 31:25
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Not Your Normal Mother’s Day Message: A Call to Accountability and Grace
Introduction: Rethinking Mother's Day Messages
Traditional Approach: Typically, Mother's Day sermons focus on honoring mothers with appreciation and gratitude.
Contrast with Father's Day: Father's Day messages often challenge men to step up, emphasizing responsibility and leadership.
Today's Focus: While honoring mothers, we also aim to encourage accountability, spiritual growth, and a recommitment to biblical motherhood.
The Current Landscape: Sobering Statistics
Abortion Trends in the United States
Recent Increase: In 2023, the U.S. saw approximately 1,026,700 abortions—the highest number in over a decade .
Historical Context: This marks a reversal from previous declines, indicating shifting societal attitudes and challenges.
Declining Motherhood Among Younger Generations
Millennial Mothers: As of 2018, about 55% of Millennial women (born 1981–1996) had become mothers, compared to 62% of Gen X women at the same age .
Gen Z Mothers: Only 6% of Gen Z women are mothers, highlighting a significant generational shift .
Choosing Childlessness: A 2021 survey found that 44% of non-parents aged 18 to 49 said it is "not too likely" or "not likely at all" that they will have children someday, up from 37% in 2018 .
III. Biblical Foundations for Motherhood
Strength and Dignity
Proverbs 31:25: "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
Interpretation: A virtuous mother embodies strength and dignity, facing the future with confidence rooted in faith.
Comfort and Compassion
Isaiah 66:13: "As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."
Interpretation: God uses the metaphor of a mother's comfort to describe His own care, highlighting the nurturing role of mothers.
Gentle Leadership
1 Thessalonians 2:7: "Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children."
Interpretation: Spiritual leaders are encouraged to exhibit the gentle, caring nature of a mother.
Teaching and Guidance
Proverbs 1:8: "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching."
Interpretation: Mothers play a crucial role in imparting wisdom and guidance to their children.
The Church's Role: Encouraging Accountability and Support
Beyond Appreciation: While expressing gratitude is important, the church must also encourage mothers to pursue spiritual growth and responsibility.
Support Systems: Establish mentorship programs, parenting classes, and support groups to equip mothers in their roles.
Addressing Challenges: Open dialogues about the difficulties of motherhood, including societal pressures and personal struggles.
A Call to Action: Embracing Biblical Motherhood

The Weekly Show: Episode 48 - Weekly Show Birthday Celebration

Join Tim and John as they celebrate 1year of the Weekly Show. 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
The 1-Year Celebration of The Weekly Show Why I (Tim Shapley) Started The Weekly Show Podcast
I had been listening to several podcasts, and while many were interesting, some of them really began to trouble me. There was one in particular that I used to listen to regularly. I already knew they didn’t hold to a young earth creation view, but then I discovered they also rejected penal substitutionary atonement—a doctrine I believe is a foundational truth of Christianity.
That moment was a turning point for me. I realized I wanted to start a podcast that was firmly rooted in the Word of God. Matthew 7:24-27 reminds us to build our house on the rock. Hebrews 11:3 points to God as the Creator of all things. And Colossians 3:16 calls us to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly. These verses became the foundation for The Weekly Show.
At first, I tried doing a Bible study podcast on my own, but it wasn’t working the way I had hoped. That’s when I reached out to John and asked if he’d be interested in joining me. Funny enough, the podcast that stirred me to action was also hosted by a Tim and John. You could say it was more than a coincidence—it felt like confirmation.
Psalm 1:1-4
Blessed is the man[a]    who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,nor stands in the way of sinners,    nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2 
but his delight is in the law[b] of the Lord,    and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 
He is like a tree    planted by streams of waterthat yields its fruit in its season,    and its leaf does not wither.In all that he does, he prospers.
4 
The wicked are not so,    but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
Now here we are, a year later, and I’m so thankful for what God has done through The Weekly Show. We’re excited to keep sharing His Word and growing together.
A Study on Matthew 7:24-27
Building Your Life on the Rock
The Passage (ESV):
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” — Matthew 7:24-27
Context:
This passage concludes Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), His longest recorded teaching. He wraps it up by urging people not just to listen but to act on His words. This parable is a call to genuine discipleship—where hearing and doing go hand in hand.
Key Themes & Teachings:
1. The Two Builders: Wise vs. Foolish
The Wise Builder: Represents those who hear and obey Jesus’ words. They build on the rock—something stable and enduring.
The Foolish Builder: Represents those who hear Jesus but do nothing with what they hear. They build on sand—unstable, unreliable, and temporary.
2. The Foundation Matters
A house represents a life.
The foundation represents the beliefs and actions that life is built upon.
Both houses face storms, but only one stands because of its foundation.
Jesus is making it clear: hearing is not enough; it’s obedience that proves the foundation is solid.
3. The Storms of Life Are Inevitable
Jesus doesn’t say “if” the rain and floods come; He says when.
Storms = trials, hardships, temptations, and ultimately, the final judgment.
A life built on obedience to Christ is unshakeable, no matter what comes.
Why It’s Important Today:
1. It’s About More Than Just Knowing the Bible
Many people know Scripture, but Jesus calls us to live it out.
James 1:22 echoes this: "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
Obedience is the mark of true faith.
2. It Warns Against False Security
The foolish builder thought his house was fine—until the storm hit.
People may have confidence in religion, good works, or head knowledge but lack a personal, obedient relationship with Christ.
2 Timothy 3:5 warns of those who have "the appearance of godliness but deny its power."
3. Christ is the Rock
1 Corinthians 3:11 says, "For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ."
Jesus is the only sure foundation. A life centered on Him and His teaching will stand.
4. It’s a Call to Examine Our Lives
What are we building our life on?
Are we obeying the teachings of Jesus, or merely listening to them?
What happens when storms come—do we stand firm, or do we crumble?
Application:
Personal Reflection: Evaluate your foundation. Are you building on Christ?
Daily Obedience: Don’t just study the Bible—apply it. Let it shape your actions, relationships, and decisions.
Encourage Others: Help others see the importance of grounding their life in Jesus and His Word.
Closing Thought:
Jesus ends His sermon with a sobering warning and a hopeful promise. If we build our lives on Him, we will stand firm, no matter what storms may come. But if we neglect His Word, the collapse will be great.
 

Method of Murder – Episode 4: The Murder of Naboth

Series: Method of Murder: A Bible True Crime PodcastEpisode Summary:
In this gripping episode, Tim Shapley and John Howell uncover the chilling story of The Murder of Naboth—a crime driven by greed, executed through lies, and judged by divine wrath. When King Ahab sets his eyes on a humble vineyard owned by Naboth, a simple farmer in Jezreel, the king’s desires are thwarted by Naboth’s unwavering commitment to his ancestral inheritance. But Ahab’s disappointment turns deadly when his ruthless queen, Jezebel, takes matters into her own hands.
Through false witnesses and a rigged trial, Jezebel orchestrates Naboth’s execution, securing the vineyard for Ahab. But their triumph is short-lived. The prophet Elijah delivers a thunderous judgment, prophesying doom for the royal couple. In vivid detail, the episode follows Ahab’s slow unraveling and Jezebel’s grisly end, showing that divine justice may be delayed—but never denied.
From royal corruption to prophetic confrontation, The Murder of Naboth is a true crime story soaked in betrayal, power, and the justice of a holy God.
Themes: Greed, manipulation, spiritual decay, prophetic justiceScripture: 1 Kings 21; 2 Kings 9Runtime: ~35 minutes
Listener discretion is advised.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/coming-after-you

Sermon: Restored by Grace

Sermon Date: 5/4/2025
Bible Verses: John 21:15-19
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.”He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”“Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.”(This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
A Personal Conversation (vv. 15–17)
Jesus pulls Peter aside—not to shame him, but to restore him. Three times Peter denied Jesus before the crucifixion. Now, Jesus gives him three opportunities to affirm his love.
Jesus doesn’t call him “Peter” (the Rock), but “Simon, son of John.” This reminds Peter of his humanity, his weakness—but also his potential.
The question Jesus asks is simple: “Do you love me?” He doesn't ask, “Will you be perfect from now on?” or “Why did you fail me?”—He asks for love.
This is the heart of discipleship. Love for Jesus is the foundation. Not talent. Not success. Not knowledge. Just love.
Greek Words for Love in John 21:15–17
There are two primary Greek words used in this exchange:
Agapao (ἀγαπάω) — Often refers to selfless, unconditional, sacrificial love. It’s the kind of love associated with divine love — the way God loves humanity.
Phileo (φιλέω) — Refers to brotherly love, affection, or friendship love — the love of deep companionship and emotional closeness.
Now let’s walk through the conversation:
Verse 15
“Simon, son of John, do you agapao me more than these?”Peter responds: “Yes, Lord, you know that I phileo you.”Jesus says: “Feed my lambs.”
Jesus asks Peter if he loves Him with deep, sacrificial love — agape.
Peter, perhaps still aware of his past failure, responds with a more modest: “You know I love you like a friend.”
He might not feel worthy to claim “agape” yet.
Verse 16
Jesus said again, “Simon, son of John, do you agapao me?”Peter said, “Yes, Lord; you know that I phileo you.”Jesus said: “Tend my sheep.”
Jesus repeats the same high-level love word: agapao.
Peter again humbly responds with phileo — expressing sincere affection but perhaps still not confident enough to claim full devotion.
Verse 17
Jesus said a third time, “Simon, son of John, do you phileo me?”Peter was grieved… and said, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I phileo you.”Jesus said: “Feed my sheep.”
This time, Jesus meets Peter where he is and switches to phileo.
Peter is grieved—not because Jesus doubts him, but because He asks a third time (echoing the three denials) and because Jesus lowers the word.
It's as if Jesus says, “Peter, are you even my friend?” And Peter’s answer is heartfelt: “Lord, you know I am.”
What Does This Mean?
Jesus meets us in our weaknessHe doesn’t demand that Peter match Him word for word. He accepts Peter’s honest heart.
Love grows over timePeter wasn’t ready to declare agape yet. But later, through his life and martyrdom, Peter would live out that full, sacrificial love.
Restoration is not about the perfection of your love—it’s about the direction of your heart.Jesus doesn’t reject Peter’s phileo. He receives it and commissions him.
And each time Peter responds, Jesus gives him a mission: “Feed my lambs... tend my sheep... feed my sheep.”Love for Jesus overflows into care for others. Restoration leads to purpose.
A Sobering Prediction – The Cost of Love (v. 18)
“Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted,but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.”
Jesus shifts the conversation from restoration to reality. Peter, once impulsive and self-assured, is now being prepared for the true cost of following Christ.
From Freedom to Surrender
“When you were young…” points to Peter’s earlier life, full of independence and self-determination.
But now, Jesus foretells a time when Peter will no longer be in control. “Another will dress you…” is a clear allusion to Peter’s eventual martyrdom, crucified (according to tradition) upside down in Rome.
The phrase “stretch out your hands” was commonly used to describe crucifixion. Jesus is not just predicting suffering—He is revealing the depth of obedience through suffering.
This is Discipleship
Jesus is telling Peter: Love will cost you your life.This is not unique to Peter—it’s the call of every disciple:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
Jesus doesn’t hide the cost. There’s no sugarcoating here. Discipleship may lead to pain, loss, and even death—but it also leads to glory.
"This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God." Peter’s death would not be in vain. Even in death, his life would bring honor to Jesus.
Love that Endures
Peter had once vowed, “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you.” (Matt. 26:35)He failed then. But now, Jesus assures him: you will have a chance to make good on that promise—and this time, you won’t fail.
Grace restores us not just to peace, but to courage. Peter’s restoration enables him to face the cost without fear.
III. A Renewed Call – “Follow Me” (v. 19)
And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
These are the first words Jesus ever spoke to Peter (John 1:43). Now, they’re the last words He speaks to Peter in John’s gospel. Full circle.The call hasn’t changed—but Peter has.
Not a Second-Class Disciple
Jesus doesn’t give Peter a lesser role after his failure.There’s no “you can help, but from the sidelines.”Instead, He calls Peter again to lead: “Feed my sheep. Tend my flock. Follow me.”
Failure doesn’t disqualify us from God’s call—it refines us.Peter isn’t just forgiven. He’s recommissioned.
Follow Me… Where?
It’s not just an invitation to walk beside Jesus—it’s a call to walk in His steps, even to the cross.Jesus isn’t just restoring Peter’s identity—He’s revealing Peter’s destiny.
Peter’s future will mirror Jesus’ own: from sacrifice to glory.
A Life of Purpose, Not Comfort
Jesus doesn’t promise Peter an easy life. He promises a meaningful one.
The world offers success, safety, and comfort. Jesus offers truth, love, and eternal purpose—but it will cost everything.
And yet, Peter says yes.We know this because in Acts, we see a transformed Peter—bold, faithful, unshaken.
Application:
Jesus Restores What We Think Is BrokenNo failure is final when Jesus is involved. If Peter can be restored, so can we.Whatever guilt or shame you carry—bring it to Jesus. He doesn’t ask for perfection. He asks for love.
Love Leads to MissionIf we say we love Jesus, it must show in how we serve others. “Feed my sheep” means caring for the hurting, guiding the lost, and nurturing the faith of those around us.
Following Jesus Means SurrenderJesus doesn’t promise Peter an easy life. He promises meaning, glory, and purpose. Following Jesus will cost us—but it’s worth it.
Closing Thought:Peter failed spectacularly. But through love, Jesus lifted him back up.Today, Jesus asks each of us, “Do you love me?”If we say yes—He says, “Then follow me.”
 

The Weekly Show: Episode 47 - John 10:22-42

Join Tim and John as they serve up an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 10 Verses 22-42.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
Introduction to John 10:22-42
This passage takes place during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem, roughly two months after Jesus’ teaching about being the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-21). The setting is significant because Hanukkah commemorated the rededication of the Temple after it was defiled by foreign rulers—a time when the Jewish people longed for deliverance and a true leader.
As Jesus walks in Solomon’s Colonnade, a covered area of the Temple where rabbis often taught, the religious leaders confront Him directly, demanding:"If you are the Christ, tell us plainly!" (John 10:24).
In response, Jesus reaffirms His divine identity and unity with the Father, declaring:"I and the Father are one." (John 10:30)
This claim enrages the Jewish leaders, who attempt to stone Him for blasphemy, but Jesus points to His works as proof of His authority. Despite their opposition, some people believe in Him.
Themes in John 10:22-42:
Jesus is the Messiah and One with the Father – He clearly states His divine nature.
Spiritual blindness vs. faith – Many reject Jesus despite His miracles, while others believe.
The security of believers – Jesus teaches that no one can snatch His followers out of His hand.
Rejection and opposition – The religious leaders again attempt to arrest Jesus, but He escapes.
This passage marks a turning point, as the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders intensifies, leading toward His final journey to the cross.
 Key Theme One: Jesus’ Identity and the Security of His Sheep (John 10:22-30)
In this section, Jesus is confronted by the Jewish leaders during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) as He walks in Solomon’s Colonnade. They press Him, demanding a clear answer:
“If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” (John 10:24)
1. Jesus’ Response: His Works Testify of Him (v. 25-26)
2. The Security of the Sheep (v. 27-29)
3. Jesus Declares His Unity with the Father (v. 30)
Key Theme Two: Rejection and Attempted Stoning (John 10:31-39)
Following Jesus’ declaration, “I and the Father are one” (v. 30), the religious leaders respond with hostility, attempting to stone Him for blasphemy.
1. The Jews Attempt to Stone Jesus (v. 31-33)
2. Jesus’ Defense: Citing Scripture (v. 34-36)
3. Jesus Appeals to His Works as Proof (v. 37-38)
4. Another Attempt to Arrest Him (v. 39)
 Key Theme Three: Many Believe in Jesus (John 10:40-42)
After escaping from the religious leaders in Jerusalem, Jesus withdraws to a place of significance—the region where John the Baptist had ministered.
1. Jesus Goes Beyond the Jordan (v. 40)
2. The Testimony of John the Baptist Still Impacts People (v. 41)
3. Many Believe in Jesus (v. 42)
Conclusion to John 10:22-42
In this passage, we see a dramatic confrontation between Jesus and the Jewish leaders at the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). The chapter highlights the growing division over Jesus’ identity, His declaration of divinity, and the faith of those who truly believe in Him.
Key Takeaways:
Jesus Declares His Deity – When Jesus states, "I and the Father are one" (v. 30), He makes an unmistakable claim to divinity, leading to an attempted stoning.
The Sheep Know the Shepherd – Jesus affirms that His followers hear His voice, believe in Him, and have eternal security in the Father’s hands. This contrasts with the religious leaders, who reject Him despite His works.
Opposition Intensifies – The religious leaders, blinded by pride and resistance, attempt to seize Jesus again, but He escapes. Their refusal to believe is not due to a lack of evidence but a hardened heart.
Faith Beyond Jerusalem – While Jesus faces hostility in the temple, many outside of Jerusalem believe in Him, especially where John the Baptist once ministered. This shows that faith is not confined to religious institutions but thrives where hearts are open.
Final Thought:
John 10:22-42 serves as a transition between Jesus' public ministry and the rising hostility that will lead to His crucifixion. It reinforces that true believers recognize Jesus as the Good Shepherd, while those who reject Him will ultimately face judgment. As we move forward in John’s Gospel, the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders will continue to escalate, setting the stage for His final mission.

Devotion: Alive to God

Sermon Date: 4/27/2025
Bible Verses: Romans 6-14
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Alive to God: A Devotion on Romans 6:8–11
Scripture:
“Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God.So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.”— Romans 6:8–11 (ESV)
Devotional Thought:
In Romans 6, Paul paints a stunning picture of our identity in Christ. He reminds us that faith in Jesus is not just agreeing with facts—it is being joined to Him in His death and resurrection.
When Christ died, He died to sin once for all—sin's penalty was fully paid, and its power was broken. And when He rose, He rose never to die again, forever victorious over sin, death, and the grave.
Paul says something astonishing: because we are united with Christ, His victory becomes ours. If we have died with Christ, we are no longer under sin’s dominion. It doesn’t own us anymore.We are alive to God.
But notice: Paul doesn't just say, “Feel like you are dead to sin.”He says, "Consider yourselves" dead to sin and alive to God.It’s a command to think differently about yourself—to believe what God says is now true, whether or not you feel it in every moment.
You are not who you used to be.You are not a prisoner to sin anymore.You are alive, raised with Christ, called to walk in newness of life.
Personal Application:
Identity Check: Do you view yourself as dead to sin and alive to God? Or do you still live as if sin controls you?
Renew Your Mind: Take hold of God’s truth. Every time temptation whispers that you are still bound, answer it: "No, I have died with Christ. I am alive to God."
Live Resurrected: Being alive to God means pursuing Him passionately, living with hope, power, and joy that comes from belonging to Christ.

The Weekly Show: Episode 46 - John 10:1-21

Join Tim and John as they serve up an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 10 Verses 1-21.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
 Introduction to John 10:1-21
John 10:1-21 contains one of Jesus’ most profound teachings about His identity and mission through the imagery of a shepherd and his sheep. This passage follows the events of John 9, where Jesus healed a man born blind, leading to a confrontation with the Pharisees. Now, Jesus continues to reveal the stark contrast between true spiritual leadership and false shepherds who mislead God's people.
Context and Significance
Continuing the Theme of Spiritual Sight and Blindness – In John 9, the Pharisees showed their spiritual blindness by rejecting the miracle and casting out the healed man. In John 10, Jesus further exposes their false leadership by presenting Himself as the Good Shepherd who leads His sheep in truth.
Old Testament Background – The image of a shepherd was commonly used in Scripture to describe God’s care for His people (Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34). The leaders of Israel were also called to be shepherds, but many had failed in their responsibilities. Jesus now declares that He is the true Shepherd, fulfilling God’s promises.
The “I AM” Statements – In this passage, Jesus makes two significant "I AM" statements:
“I am the Door of the Sheep” (John 10:7, 9) – Jesus is the only way to salvation and safety.
“I am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11, 14) – Jesus lays down His life for His sheep, in contrast to hirelings who abandon them.
Key Themes in John 10:1-21
Jesus as the True Shepherd – He knows His sheep, calls them by name, and leads them to safety (vv. 1-6).
Jesus as the Door – He alone provides salvation, security, and abundant life (vv. 7-10).
Jesus as the Good Shepherd – He sacrifices Himself for His sheep, showing His deep love and commitment (vv. 11-18).
Division Among the People – Some believe in Jesus, while others reject Him, continuing the pattern seen throughout John’s Gospel (vv. 19-21).
Why This Matters
John 10:1-21 is a powerful declaration of Jesus’ identity and His mission to save and care for His people. It challenges us to ask:
Are we listening to the voice of the Good Shepherd, or are we following false voices?
Do we find our security and salvation through Christ alone, or are we looking elsewhere?
How do we respond to Jesus’ sacrificial love for His sheep?
As we explore this passage, we’ll see how Jesus calls His followers into a deep relationship with Him, offering them guidance, protection, and eternal life.
Key Theme One: Jesus as the True Shepherd (John 10:1-6)
In the first six verses of John 10, Jesus uses a parable to contrast true shepherds with false ones and to highlight His unique relationship with His followers.
1. The Sheepfold and the True Shepherd (v. 1-3)
2. The Shepherd Knows His Sheep (v. 3-5)
3. The Disciples Do Not Understand (v. 6)
Application for Today
Do we recognize the voice of Jesus? – Through Scripture, prayer, and the Holy Spirit, Jesus leads us in truth.
Are we following the Good Shepherd, or are we listening to false voices? – The world is full of false teachers and distractions that can lead us away from Christ.
Jesus knows us by name! – Our relationship with Him is personal, and He calls us to follow Him in faith.
In the next section, Jesus expands on this teaching by revealing He is the Door of the Sheep (John 10:7-10), showing that He alone is the way to salvation and abundant life.
Key Theme Two: Jesus as the Door (John 10:7-10)
After using the imagery of a shepherd and sheep in verses 1-6, Jesus clarifies His role by making a profound statement:
"I am the door of the sheep." (John 10:7)
This is the third of Jesus’ seven "I AM" statements in John’s Gospel, emphasizing His divine nature and exclusive role in salvation.
1. Jesus as the Only Way to Salvation (v. 7-9)
2. Thieves and Robbers vs. the True Shepherd (v. 8)
3. Jesus Brings Abundant Life (v. 10)
Application for Today
Have we entered through Jesus, the only door to salvation? – Many seek peace, joy, and purpose outside of Christ, but He alone provides true life.
Are we discerning the voices we listen to? – The world is full of false promises, but Jesus alone speaks truth.
Are we living the abundant life Jesus offers? – This doesn’t mean material wealth, but rather a deep, fulfilling relationship with Him.
In the next section, Jesus will expand on this teaching by declaring He is the Good Shepherd, who not only leads His sheep but lays down His life for them (John 10:11-18).
Key Theme Three: Jesus as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-18)
In this passage, Jesus declares one of His most well-known "I AM" statements:
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
Here, Jesus contrasts Himself with false shepherds and reveals His deep love, sacrifice, and care for His followers.
1. The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life (v. 11-13)
2. The Good Shepherd Knows His Sheep (v. 14-15)
3. The Good Shepherd Welcomes Other Sheep (v. 16)
4. The Good Shepherd’s Voluntary Sacrifice (v. 17-18)
Application for Today
Do we trust Jesus as our Shepherd? – He knows our struggles, fears, and needs—are we letting Him lead us?
Are we part of His flock? – Only those who listen to His voice and follow Him truly belong to Him.
Do we find security in His sacrifice? – Jesus laid down His life for us—our salvation is secure in His love.
In the next section, we’ll see division among the people in response to Jesus’ bold claims (John 10:19-21).
Key Theme Four: Division Among the People (John 10:19-21)
After Jesus’ powerful declaration that He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep, the response among His listeners is divided. This continues a pattern seen throughout Jesus’ ministry—His words and actions force people to make a decision about who He is.
1. A Divided Crowd (v. 19-20)
2. Others Recognize His Power (v. 21)
Application for Today
People are still divided about Jesus. – Just like in Jesus’ time, some see Him as Lord, while others reject Him outright.
Our response to Jesus determines everything. – Will we dismiss Him like the Pharisees, or recognize His truth?
True faith sees beyond expectations. – Many rejected Jesus because they wanted a different kind of Savior. Are we willing to trust Him as He truly is?
The next section (John 10:22-42) continues to explore this theme as Jesus makes another bold declaration about His identity during the Feast of Dedication.
Conclusion to John 10:1-21
In John 10:1-21, Jesus makes three profound declarations about Himself:
He is the True Shepherd – He leads, protects, and provides for His sheep (v. 1-6).
He is the Door – He is the only way to salvation and abundant life (v. 7-10).
He is the Good Shepherd – He lays down His life for His sheep (v. 11-18).
These teachings reveal Jesus’ deep love, authority, and mission as the Messiah. He contrasts Himself with false leaders (thieves and hired hands) and emphasizes His personal relationship with His followers, whom He calls by name.
However, His words cause division—some reject Him as insane or demon-possessed, while others recognize that His miracles prove His divine identity (v. 19-21).
Key Takeaways:
✔ Jesus is the only way to salvation – Just as the sheep must enter through the door, we must enter through Christ.✔ Jesus knows and cares for His followers – He calls His sheep by name and lays down His life for them.✔ Not everyone will accept Jesus – His words and actions force people to decide whether to follow Him or reject Him.
This passage sets the stage for John 10:22-42, where Jesus publicly affirms His identity as the Messiah and faces further opposition from the religious leaders.

Sermon: What Jesus Accomplished

Sermon Date: 4/20/2025
Bible Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:3-9
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
What Jesus Accomplished
An Easter Sunday Message
Introduction:Easter Sunday is the greatest day in history—the day Jesus rose from the grave! His resurrection is not just a historical event; it is the foundation of our faith, hope, and victory.
In John 19:30, before Jesus died, He declared:
"It is finished!"
What did He mean? What exactly did Jesus accomplish through His death and resurrection?
Today, we will look at four things Jesus accomplished through His victory over sin, death, and the grave.
Jesus Accomplished the Payment for Sin (Isaiah 53:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
The cross was not an accident—it was God’s plan to pay for our sins.
Isaiah 53:5 – "He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed."
2 Corinthians 5:21 – "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."
Jesus took our punishment upon Himself. The debt we owed because of sin was paid in full by His precious blood.
➡️ Application: Have you accepted the free gift of salvation?
Jesus Accomplished Victory Over Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)
Three days after Jesus died, He rose again—proving His power over death!
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 – "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!"
Before Jesus, death had the final say. But because of His resurrection, death is defeated!
➡️ Application: Do you fear death, or do you have the assurance of eternal life through Jesus?
Jesus Accomplished Reconciliation with God (Romans 5:8-10; Ephesians 2:13)
Because of sin, we were separated from God—but Jesus brought us back into a relationship with Him.
Romans 5:8 – "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
Ephesians 2:13 – "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
Jesus’ death and resurrection tore down the barrier between us and God. Now, we can boldly come before Him as beloved children!
➡️ Application: Do you live as someone who has full access to God’s presence?
Jesus Accomplished Eternal Life for All Who Believe (John 11:25-26; Romans 6:23)
Jesus didn’t just rise for Himself—He rose so we could have eternal life too!
John 11:25-26 – "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."
Romans 6:23 – "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Eternal life isn’t something we earn—it’s a free gift through Jesus Christ!
➡️ Application: Have you placed your faith in Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
Conclusion: What is Your Response?
Jesus accomplished everything necessary for our salvation.✔️ He paid for our sins.✔️ He defeated death.✔️ He restored our relationship with God.✔️ He gave us eternal life.
But the question is: Have you responded to what Jesus has done?
If you have never accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, today is the day of salvation!
If you are a believer, are you living in the victory and freedom Christ has accomplished?
Easter is not just a day—it’s a declaration of victory!Let’s rejoice today, knowing that because Jesus lives, we live too!
Hallelujah! Christ is risen!He is risen indeed!