Walnut Grove

Sermon: More Then Conquers

Sermon Date: 1/12/ 2025
Bible Verses: Romans 8:26-39
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction:
Open with the question: "What can separate us from the love of God?"
Life is full of uncertainties, hardships, and doubts, but Paul’s declaration in Romans 8 is a bold assurance of victory and security in God’s love.
1. The Assurance of God’s Support (vv. 31-32)
“If God is for us, who can be against us?”
God’s power is unmatched, and His willingness to give His own Son for us is the ultimate demonstration of His love and commitment (John 3:16).
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 41:10—“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Key Point:
If God gave us Jesus, He will graciously give us all things necessary for our good. “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
Application:
Reflect on your moments of fear and doubt—recall that the God who gave His Son for you will never abandon you.
2. No Condemnation for Believers (vv. 33-34)
“Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect?”
Paul reminds us that God is the one who justifies, and Jesus intercedes for us.
Cross-Reference: Hebrews 7:25— “Therefore He is also able to save [a]to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.”
Jesus lives to intercede for us continually before the Father.
Cross-Reference: 1 John 2:1— “My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”
Jesus is our advocate, silencing every accusation from the enemy.
Key Point:
Our justification is based on Christ’s completed work on the cross, not our own efforts.
Ephesians 2:8-9 -  “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Application:
When guilt and shame threaten to overwhelm you, remember that Jesus has already paid the price for your sins.
Psalm 103:12 – “As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.”
3. Victory in the Face of Hardship (vv. 35-37)
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?”
Paul lists trials: trouble, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, and sword. These are real and present struggles, but none of them can separate us from God’s love.
Cross-Reference: John 16:33—“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.””
Cross-Reference: James 1:2-4— “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Trials produce perseverance and maturity in faith.
Key Point:
In all these things, we are more than conquerors through Christ, who turns even hardships into blessings (Romans 8:28).
Illustration: A conqueror defeats their enemies, but being “more than conquerors” means that even what was meant for harm will be used for our good.
Genesis 50:20 – “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.”
Application:
Trust in God’s love to sustain you through life’s darkest and most difficult moments.
4. The Inseparable Love of God (vv. 38-39)
“For I am convinced…”
Paul confidently declares that nothing—death, life, angels, demons, present, future, powers, height, depth, or anything else—can separate us from the love of God in Christ.
Cross-Reference: Jeremiah 31:3—“I have loved you with an everlasting love.”
Cross-Reference: Psalm 136:1—“His love endures forever.”
Key Point:
God’s love is eternal, unchanging, and unshakable. No external force or internal failure can undo His love for us.
Application:
Anchor your identity and hope in the love of God, not in your circumstances, feelings, or the opinions of others.

The Weekly Show: Episode 31 - John 1:1-5

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 1 Verses1-5.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
Background to the Gospel of John
 The Author
The Gospel of John is traditionally attributed to the Apostle John, the son of Zebedee and brother of James, who was one of Jesus' closest disciples. John is often referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23), which emphasizes his close personal relationship with Jesus.
 
Key evidence for John as the author includes:
Internal Evidence: The writer displays detailed knowledge of Jewish customs, geography, and events during Jesus' ministry, suggesting an eyewitness account (John 19:35).
Church Tradition: Early church fathers like Irenaeus, who was a disciple of Polycarp (a disciple of John), affirm John’s authorship.
The Date It Was Written
The Gospel of John was likely written between AD 85–95, although some argue for an earlier date (AD 70-80).
Why It Was Written
John explicitly states the purpose of his Gospel:
“But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:31)
Evangelistic Purpose:
To lead readers to believe in Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God.
John emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature and His role in salvation.
Theological Focus:
To provide deeper insights into Jesus' identity and mission.
John's Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the Logos (Word), the incarnate God who brings eternal life (John 1:1-14).
Addressing Challenges:
By the time John wrote, heretical movements like Gnosticism and opposition from Jewish leaders were growing. John’s Gospel confronts these by affirming Jesus' humanity and divinity.
Unique Features of John’s Gospel
Focus on Jesus’ Divinity:
John presents Jesus as the eternal Word who existed before creation (John 1:1-5).
Signs and “I Am” Statements:
John records seven miraculous signs to reveal Jesus’ divine authority.
Includes seven “I Am” statements where Jesus identifies Himself as God (e.g., “I am the bread of life,” John 6:35).
Distinct from Synoptic Gospels:
John excludes events like the parables and the Last Supper institution, focusing more on Jesus' identity and theological significance.
Personal Encounters:
Highlights unique interactions, such as Jesus with Nicodemus (John 3), the Samaritan woman (John 4), and Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (John 11).
Bible Study on John 1:1-5
The Gospel of John opens with a powerful, poetic prologue that reveals the divine nature of Jesus Christ, known here as "the Word." These opening verses set the tone for the entire Gospel by emphasizing Christ's eternal nature, His role in creation, and His relationship to life and light. In this study, we will explore the deep theological truths presented in John 1:1-5 by comparing them with key scriptures, beginning with the eternal nature of God, moving to His role as Creator, and concluding with His identity as life and light.
1. In the Beginning was the Word: The Eternal Nature of God
2. Through Him All Things Were Made: God the Creator
3. In Him Was Life: God is Life
4. The Light Shines in the Darkness: God is Light
Conclusion
The opening verses of John’s Gospel lay a rich theological foundation, emphasizing the eternal, creative, life-giving, and illuminating nature of Jesus Christ. As "the Word," Jesus is not only preexistent but divine, participating in creation and sustaining life. He is the light that overcomes darkness, and through Him, we find life and truth.

Sermon: Revelation of Our King, Our High Priest, and Our Savior

Sermon Date: 1/5/ 2025
Bible Verses: John 1:1-18, Matthew 2:11
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction: Today, we gather to celebrate Epiphany, the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the world. This day reminds us of the visit of the Magi, the Wise Men, who brought gifts to the Christ child. These gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—carry profound significance. They reveal who Jesus is: our King, our Great High Priest, and our Sacrificial Savior. Let us turn to Scripture to understand how these truths come together in the Word made flesh.
The Word Became Flesh (John 1:1-18)
John 1:1 declares, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This eternal Word, Jesus Christ, became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). In Him, we see the fullness of God’s grace and truth.
Jesus as the Light of the World:
John 1:5 tells us, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Jesus came to dispel the darkness of sin and bring life to all who believe.
Isaiah 9:2 prophesied, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” This light has come in the person of Christ, revealing God’s glory to both Jew and Gentile.
God’s Grace Manifested:
John 1:16-17 reminds us, “From His fullness we have all received grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
Jesus’ incarnation is the ultimate expression of God’s love and His desire to redeem humanity.
Jesus as King (Gold)
When the Magi arrived, they presented gold, a gift fit for a king (Matthew 2:11). This act signifies Jesus’ kingship over all creation.
Jesus as the Sovereign King:
Revelation 19:16 proclaims, “On His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”
Jesus’ authority was evident from His birth. The Wise Men worshipped Him, acknowledging His divine kingship.
Our Response to the King:
Psalm 2:10-12 exhorts rulers to “serve the LORD with fear…blessed are all who take refuge in Him.”
As believers, we are called to bow before Jesus as King, submitting our lives to His rule.
III. Jesus as High Priest (Frankincense)
The Magi’s gift of frankincense symbolizes Jesus’ role as our Great High Priest. Frankincense was used in temple worship, representing prayers rising to God.
Jesus’ Priestly Ministry:
Hebrews 4:14-16 assures us, “We have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God…Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace.”
Jesus intercedes for us, bridging the gap between humanity and God.
The Invitation to Worship:
1 Timothy 2:5 declares, “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
Just as the Magi worshipped Jesus, we too are invited to offer our prayers and worship to Him.
Jesus as Sacrifice (Myrrh)
The gift of myrrh, used in embalming, foreshadows Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. He came not only to live among us but to die for us.
Jesus’ Sacrificial Death:
John 1:29: John the Baptist declared, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
Isaiah 53:5 prophesied, “He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities.”
Victory Through Sacrifice:
Hebrews 10:10: “We have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Jesus’ death and resurrection secure our salvation and give us hope for eternal life.
Conclusion:
The gifts of the Magi reveal the profound truth of who Jesus is:
Gold for the King of kings who reigns over all.
Frankincense for the Great High Priest who intercedes for us.
Myrrh for the Sacrificial Savior who gave His life for our redemption.
As we celebrate Epiphany, let us respond to these truths with hearts of worship. Like the Magi, let us offer our treasures—our time, talents, and lives—to the One who is worthy. And let us proclaim to the world the good news that the Word became flesh, full of grace and truth, so that all might know the light of Christ.

Devotion: Trust in God’s Way

Sermon Date: 12/29/2024
Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Isaiah 43:18-19, Proverbs 3:5-6
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Starting the New Year with renewed purpose and dedication to God.
Introduction
Reflection on the past year:
Challenges, victories, and lessons learned.
Recognizing God’s faithfulness throughout the year.
Purpose of the New Year:
A time to reset, refocus, and realign our lives with God’s will.
Scripture Foundation
2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”
Embrace the transformation through Christ.
Leave behind old habits, sins, and burdens.
Isaiah 43:18-19 – “Remember not the former things; I am doing a new thing.”
Letting go of the past to make room for God’s new work.
Trusting in God’s provision for the future.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.”
Seeking God’s guidance for the year ahead.
Committing to follow His path, even when uncertain.

Sermon: The Love of God Revealed in Christ

Sermon Date: 12/22/2024
Bible Verses: Luke 2:1-7, John 3:16-17, John 8:12
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
This week, as we light the Angel’s or Mary Candle, we reflect on love, the heart of the Christmas story. The hymn Silent Night reminds us of the calm, holy night when the world first encountered God's immeasurable love through the birth of Jesus Christ.
In the stillness of Bethlehem, love came down in the person of Jesus—a love that would change the world forever.
Love Came Down: The Birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-7 – “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
A Humble Arrival: God chose to enter the world not in grandeur but in humility. Jesus was born in a manger, showing that God's love is accessible to all, no matter their status.
A Gift of Love: The incarnation is the ultimate expression of God’s love, stepping into our brokenness to bring redemption.
Just as Mary lovingly cared for the infant Jesus, we are invited to care for the gift of Christ’s love in our hearts and share it with the world.
Application:
Recognize the humility of Christ’s birth as a demonstration of God’s love for all people.
Reflect on how you can respond to God’s love through your actions.
The Depth of God's Love: A Savior for the World
John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
Love That Gives: God’s love is sacrificial, offering His only Son for our salvation.
Love That Saves: Jesus came not to condemn but to save—a powerful message of hope for a weary world.
This love is not just for those who feel worthy but for the entire world, a gift freely given to anyone who believes.
Application:
Embrace God’s love personally, knowing it is unconditional and redemptive.
Share this love with others, pointing them to the hope found in Christ.
Walking in Love: Jesus, the Light of the World
John 8:12 – “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’”
Jesus Illuminates Love: Christ’s light dispels the darkness of sin and shows us the path of love and righteousness.
Living in the Light: When we walk in His light, we reflect His love to others, becoming lights in a dark world.
As Silent Night reminds us, the night of Christ’s birth was not just holy but transformative, bringing light and love into a weary world.
Application:
Follow Christ daily, walking in His light and love.
Let your life reflect His love, becoming a beacon of hope to those around you.
Conclusion: Love in Action
The Angel’s Candle reminds us of the boundless love God displayed in sending His Son. As we celebrate this Advent season, let us:
Reflect on the manger: Where love came down for all humanity.
Rejoice in the cross: Where love paid the ultimate price for our salvation.
Look to the light: Where love guides us toward a life of purpose and joy.

Sermon: The Joy of the Christ

Sermon Date: 12/15/2024
Bible Verses: Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:8-20 , Philippians 4:4
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
As we light the Shepherd's Candle, we focus on joy. This candle reminds us of the shepherds, the first to hear the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth, and the joy that flooded their hearts as they encountered the Savior.
The hymn God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen beautifully captures this theme. The phrase “God rest ye merry” means “may God grant you peace and happiness” and can also mean “God make you mighty, humble men.” It is a call to experience the joy and strength that come from knowing Christ, even in humble circumstances.
The Source of Joy: Jesus Became Like Us
Hebrews 2:14-18 – "Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil."
Jesus came as a humble infant, sharing in our humanity, to bring us eternal joy.
He came to break the chains of sin and death, giving us reason to rejoice, even in trials.
Just as the shepherds were ordinary people, we, too, are invited to partake in the joy of Christ's birth. Joy is rooted not in our circumstances but in the truth of the Savior’s arrival.
Application:
Reflect on the incarnation as a source of joy: God became flesh to redeem us.
Find strength in the humility and might of Christ, who meets us in our human frailty.
The Announcement of Joy: Good News to the Humble
Luke 2:8-20 – The angels appeared to the shepherds, proclaiming, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”
Good News for all people: The joy of salvation is for everyone, regardless of status or background.
The Shepherds’ Response: They immediately went to see the Christ-child, and then they shared the news with others.
The shepherds remind us that true joy leads to action. Their encounter with Jesus compelled them to glorify and praise God, spreading the good news.
Application:
Share the joy of the Gospel with others, just as the shepherds did.
Let your life be a reflection of the joy you have in Christ.
Living in Joy: Rejoicing Always
Philippians 4:4 – "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!"
Joy is not a fleeting emotion but a steady state of being rooted in Christ.
Even in challenges, we are called to rejoice because of the unchanging promises of God.
The joy of the Lord strengthens us (Nehemiah 8:10) and reminds us that we are never alone. Christ's birth is a declaration that God is with us—Emmanuel.
Application:
Cultivate joy through gratitude, prayer, and worship.
Remember that joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and grows as we abide in Christ.
Conclusion: Resting Merry in Christ
The Shepherd's Candle teaches us about the joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Like the shepherds, may we respond to the good news with worship and a commitment to share this joy with others.
As we sing God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, let us embrace its message:
Peace and happiness: Joy comes from trusting in God’s plan.
Mighty humility: Christ's birth calls us to live humbly yet boldly for Him.
This Advent, let us rejoice in the Lord, who has come to bring salvation to all people.

Sermon: The Peace of Bethlehem

Sermon Date: 12/08/2024
Bible Verse: : Micah 5:1-2, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 2:14-22
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
The Advent season brings us to the second candle, the Bethlehem Candle, symbolizing peace. Bethlehem, though a small and humble town, was chosen by God to bring forth the Prince of Peace. In this message, we will reflect on the prophecy of Bethlehem, the story of Christ’s birth, and the lasting peace Jesus brings to our lives and the world.
The hymn O Little Town of Bethlehem captures the profound truth that in the stillness of a quiet town, the Savior of the world was born, bringing peace to a broken and weary world.
The Prophecy of Bethlehem: Peace Foretold
Micah 5:1-2 – "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting."
Application:
God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways. Trust Him even when things seem small or insignificant.
The peace Jesus brings was planned from the beginning of time.
The Birth of Christ: Peace Arrived
Matthew 2:1-12 – The story of the wise men visiting Jesus reflects the fulfillment of prophecy and the peace Jesus brings to all people.
The Star of Peace: The wise men followed the star, a sign that the Prince of Peace had come into the world.
The Worship of Peace: The wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, acknowledging Jesus as King, Priest, and Sacrifice.
Application:
Like the wise men, seek and worship the Prince of Peace.
Share the peace of Christ with those around you during this season.
Jesus, Our Peace: Peace Proclaimed
Ephesians 2:14-22 – "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation."
Jesus brings peace with God: Through His death and resurrection, Jesus reconciled us to God, breaking the barrier of sin.
Jesus brings peace with others: He unites people from all backgrounds into one body, the Church.
Jesus is our eternal peace: He offers a peace that transcends circumstances and assures us of our place in His kingdom.
Application:
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts (Colossians 3:15).
Be peacemakers, reflecting the peace of Christ to a divided world (Matthew 5:9).
Conclusion: Living in the Peace of Bethlehem
The Bethlehem Candle reminds us that true peace is found only in Jesus Christ:
Peace foretold through prophecy.
Peace arrived in the humble town of Bethlehem.
Peace proclaimed through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The Weekly Show: Episode 30 - Anniversary Episode!

Join Tim and John as they celebrate one year of the Walnut Grove Podcast. 
Opening Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/simon-folwar/elves-workshop
Tim and John do a Q&A, talk about their favorite episodes and have a special anointment.