Walnut Grove

Sermon: Spiritual Freedom

Sermon Date: 06/28/2026
Bible Verses:
Romans 8
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new
Introduction
Everyone wants freedom.
Nations fight for it.
People seek it.
Songs are written about it.
But the world's definition of freedom is often very different from God's.
The world says freedom means:
No restrictions
No authority
No accountability
Doing whatever feels right
But Scripture teaches something different.
Many people who claim to be free are actually slaves.
Slaves to sin.
Slaves to fear.
Slaves to guilt.
Slaves to addiction.
Slaves to pride.
Slaves to the approval of others.
The Bible teaches that true freedom is found only in Jesus Christ.
Romans 8 is one of the greatest chapters in all of Scripture because it describes what life looks like when a person has been set free by God.
Freedom from Condemnation
Romans 8:1 says:
“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
What an incredible promise.
Before Christ, every one of us stood guilty before God.
Not accused falsely.
Guilty.
Romans 3 tells us:
“All have sinned.”
We broke God's law.
We deserved judgment.
But through Christ, condemnation has been removed.
Not postponed.
Not reduced.
Removed.
The believer still struggles with sin.
But the believer is no longer condemned by sin.
The verdict has changed.
Because Jesus took our condemnation on the cross.
John 8:36 says:
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
That freedom begins with forgiveness.
Freedom from the Power of Sin
Romans 8:2 says:
“For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”
Notice what Paul says.
Not merely that we will be free someday.
We have been set free.
Before Christ, sin was our master.
We obeyed sinful desires.
We followed the flesh.
We lived according to our fallen nature.
But now the Holy Spirit lives within us.
The power of sin has been broken.
This does not mean Christians never struggle.
It means sin is no longer king.
The chains have been broken.
We now have the power to say no to sin and yes to God.
That is freedom.
Freedom Through the Holy Spirit
Romans 8 repeatedly emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit guides us.
Strengthens us.
Convicts us.
Transforms us.
2 Corinthians 3:17 says:
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Freedom is not found in independence from God.
Freedom is found in surrender to God.
The closer we walk with the Spirit, the freer we become.
The farther we drift from God, the more enslaved we become.
The Spirit produces:
Peace instead of anxiety.
Hope instead of despair.
Obedience instead of rebellion.
Life instead of death.
Freedom from Fear
Romans 8:15 says:
“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear.”
Fear enslaves people.
Fear of death.
Fear of failure.
Fear of rejection.
Fear of the future.
Fear of not being enough.
But Christians have received something greater.
We have received:
“the Spirit of adoption as sons.”
Through Christ, we are children of God.
Not strangers.
Not servants merely.
Children.
And because we belong to God, we can cry:
“Abba! Father!”
Freedom means we no longer live in terror before God.
We live in relationship with Him.
Freedom to Live for God
Galatians 5:1 says:
“For freedom Christ has set us free.”
But then Paul gives a warning.
Galatians 5:13:
“Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh.”
Christian freedom is not permission to sin.
It is freedom from sin.
Some people think freedom means:
"I can do whatever I want."
Biblically, freedom means:
"I can finally do what is right."
A fish is free in water.
A train is free on tracks.
A Christian is most free when living according to God's design.
Freedom is not the absence of boundaries.
Freedom is living as God intended.
Freedom Gives Us Hope
Romans 8 ends with one of the most encouraging promises in Scripture.
Paul speaks about suffering.
Trials.
Hardship.
Persecution.
Yet he declares:
“We are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
Then he says:
“Nothing shall separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
That is freedom.
Freedom from condemnation.
Freedom from sin's domination.
Freedom from fear.
Freedom from hopelessness.
Freedom to know that no matter what happens, we belong to Christ.
Application
Ask yourself:
What is trying to enslave me?
Fear?
Anger?
Bitterness?
Addiction?
Guilt?
Pride?
Jesus came to set captives free.
Am I living in the freedom Christ purchased?
Many Christians have been freed but continue living as though they are chained.
The prison door is open.
Walk out.
Believe God's promises.
Trust His Spirit.
Live as His child.
Am I using freedom to serve God?
Freedom is not self-centered.
Freedom is God-centered.
The truly free person delights in obeying Christ.
Conclusion
The world promises freedom but often delivers bondage.
Jesus promises freedom and delivers life.
Romans 8 reminds us that because of Christ:
There is no condemnation.
The power of sin is broken.
The Holy Spirit lives within us.
Fear no longer controls us.
Hope belongs to us.
And the greatest freedom of all is this:
We belong to Jesus.
We are His.
And nothing can separate us from His love.
As believers, we can stand with confidence and declare:
“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
That is spiritual freedom.
That is the freedom Christ died to give us.
Amen.
 

The Weekly Show - Episode 104: Names of God

Join Tim and John for the one hundredth episode, as they talk about the Names of God.
The Names of God
Knowing God Through His Names
Key Text: Exodus 3:13-15
Introduction
Names matter.
Throughout the Bible, names often reveal:
character
purpose
identity
mission
God could have remained distant and unknown.
Instead, He chose to reveal Himself.
One of the ways He did this was through His names.
Each name teaches us something about:
who God is
what God does
how He relates to His people
The names of God are not merely titles.
They are revelations of His character.
The more we understand His names, the more we understand Him.
1. Elohim
"The Creator God"
Genesis 1:1 (ESV)
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."
The word translated "God" is Elohim.
This is the first name of God found in Scripture.
It emphasizes:
God's power
God's majesty
God's sovereignty
Before there was:
light
stars
planets
humanity
There was God.
Everything begins with Him.
2. Yahweh (LORD)
"I AM WHO I AM"
Exodus 3:14 (ESV)
"God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.'"
This is God's covenant name.
Often represented as:
LORD (all capitals)
throughout many English Bibles.
Yahweh emphasizes:
self-existence
eternality
faithfulness
God depends on no one.
He simply is.
3. Adonai
"Lord" or "Master"
Psalm 8:1 (ESV)
"O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!"
Adonai emphasizes God's authority.
He is:
King
Ruler
Master
The question for believers becomes:
Is God merely my Savior, or is He also my Lord?
4. El Shaddai
"God Almighty"
Genesis 17:1 (ESV)
"I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless."
El Shaddai reminds us:
God is sufficient.
Nothing is impossible for Him.
Abraham heard this name when God's promises seemed impossible.
Sometimes God waits until situations look hopeless before reminding us He is El Shaddai.
5. Jehovah-Jireh
"The Lord Will Provide"
Genesis 22:14 (ESV)
"So Abraham called the name of that place, 'The LORD will provide.'"
God provided:
the ram for Abraham
manna for Israel
and ultimately Christ for sinners
God often provides:
not early
not late
but exactly on time.
6. Jehovah-Rapha
"The Lord Who Heals"
Exodus 15:26 (ESV)
"I am the LORD, your healer."
God heals:
physically
emotionally
spiritually
Not every healing happens immediately.
Not every healing happens on earth.
But all healing ultimately comes from Him.
7. Jehovah-Nissi
"The Lord Is My Banner"
Exodus 17:15 (ESV)
"The LORD is my banner."
A banner represented:
identity
allegiance
victory
Our victory is not found in:
politics
personalities
possessions
Our banner is God Himself.
8. Jehovah-Shalom
"The Lord Is Peace"
Judges 6:24 (ESV)
"The LORD is peace."
Biblical peace is more than the absence of conflict.
It is:
wholeness
security
rest
Jesus ultimately fulfills this name.
He is our peace.
9. Jehovah-Raah
"The Lord My Shepherd"
Psalm 23:1 (ESV)
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."
A shepherd:
leads
protects
feeds
guides
God is not merely powerful.
He is personal.
The Creator is also our Shepherd.
10. Jehovah-Tsidkenu
"The Lord Our Righteousness"
Jeremiah 23:6 (ESV)
"The LORD is our righteousness."
This points directly to Christ.
We are not righteous enough for heaven.
But Christ is.
His righteousness becomes ours through faith.
11. Immanuel
"God With Us"
Matthew 1:23 (ESV)
"They shall call his name Immanuel."
This may be the most comforting name of all.
God did not remain distant.
He came near.
In Jesus:
God walked among us
suffered with us
died for us
rose again for us
12. Abba, Father
"Our Heavenly Father"
Romans 8:15 (ESV)
"By whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'"
Through Christ, believers can know God not merely as:
Creator
Judge
King
But as Father.
This relationship is one of:
love
intimacy
adoption
security
Application Questions
Which name of God speaks most to your current situation?
Do you know about God, or do you truly know Him?
Which aspect of God's character do you most need to trust today?
Are you living under His lordship as Adonai?
Are you resting in Him as Jehovah-Shalom?
Conclusion
The names of God reveal the character of God.
He is:
Elohim — Creator
Yahweh — Eternal I AM
Adonai — Lord
El Shaddai — Almighty
Jehovah-Jireh — Provider
Jehovah-Rapha — Healer
Jehovah-Nissi — Banner
Jehovah-Shalom — Peace
Jehovah-Raah — Shepherd
Jehovah-Tsidkenu — Our Righteousness
Immanuel — God With Us
Abba — Father
Each name reveals another facet of the same glorious God.
The goal of studying His names is not merely gaining information.
It is growing in worship.
Because the more we know who God is,
the more we will trust Him, love Him, serve Him, and worship Him.

Devotion: The Joy of True Worship

Sermon Date: 06/28/2026
Bible Verses:
Psalm 95
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new
Reflection
When many people think of worship, they immediately think of music.
Singing hymns.
Listening to the choir.
Playing instruments.
While music is certainly part of worship, Psalm 95 reminds us that worship is much bigger than a song.
The psalm begins with joy:
"Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!"
Notice the invitation.
"Come."
Worship is not something we are forced into.
It is an invitation to draw near to God.
Why?
Because of who He is.
The psalm gives us several reasons to worship:
He is our salvation (v. 1).
He is the great King above all gods (v. 3).
He is the Creator of heaven and earth (vv. 4–5).
He is our Shepherd, and we are His people (v. 7).
True worship always begins with God, not ourselves.
We don't worship because life is perfect.
We worship because God is worthy.
Worship Is More Than Singing
Verse 6 changes the picture:
"Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker."
Now worship is described with physical actions.
Bow down.
Kneel.
These are acts of humility.
They remind us that worship is not just lifting our voices—it is lowering ourselves before God.
Real worship says:
"Lord, You are God, and I am not."
It is surrender.
It is reverence.
It is acknowledging that every good thing we have comes from Him.
Don't Harden Your Heart
The second half of Psalm 95 contains a warning.
God reminds Israel how their ancestors hardened their hearts in the wilderness and refused to trust Him.
It is possible to sing songs with our lips while our hearts remain far from God.
True worship is not measured by how loudly we sing.
It is measured by how willingly we obey.
A heart that worships on Sunday but refuses to follow God on Monday has missed the point.
Worship is a lifestyle.
Application
Ask yourself today:
Am I worshiping God because of who He is, or only when life is going well?
Is my worship just words, or is it reflected in the way I live?
Have I allowed my heart to become hard toward God, or am I listening to His voice?
Every day is an opportunity to worship—not only in church, but in our work, our homes, our conversations, and our obedience.
When we recognize who God is, worship becomes the natural response of a grateful heart.

The Weekly Show - Episode 103: Armor of God

Join Tim and John for the one hundredth episode, as they talk about the Armor of God.
The Armor of God
Standing Firm in Spiritual Battle
Text: Ephesians 6:10-18
Introduction
Every Christian is in a battle.
Not a battle against people. Not a battle against political parties. Not a battle against culture alone.
Paul reminds us that our real struggle is spiritual.
"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness..." (Ephesians 6:12, ESV)
Many believers are losing battles because they don't recognize they are in a war.
The good news is that God has not left His people defenseless.
He has provided armor.
Not our armor.
His armor.
1. The Call to Be Strong
Ephesians 6:10-11
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might."
Notice Paul does not say:
Be strong in yourself.
Be strong in your willpower.
Be strong in your experience.
He says:
"Be strong in the Lord."
The Christian life was never meant to be lived through human strength alone.
2. The Belt of Truth
Ephesians 6:14
"Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth..."
The Roman soldier's belt held everything together.
Truth does the same for believers.
Satan's primary weapon is deception.
Jesus said:
"Your word is truth." (John 17:17)
Questions:
Am I grounded in God's Word?
Am I allowing truth to shape my thinking?
3. The Breastplate of Righteousness
Ephesians 6:14
The breastplate protected the heart and vital organs.
Believers are protected by:
Christ's Righteousness
We stand justified before God.
Practical Righteousness
We pursue holy living.
Sin leaves gaps in our armor.
Obedience strengthens our walk.
4. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
Ephesians 6:15
Roman soldiers wore sturdy footwear designed for stability.
The gospel gives believers footing.
We stand firm because we know:
God has saved us.
God has forgiven us.
God has made peace through Christ.
A believer standing on the gospel is difficult to knock over.
5. The Shield of Faith
Ephesians 6:16
"In all circumstances take up the shield of faith..."
Faith is trusting God's character when circumstances say otherwise.
The enemy fires:
doubt
fear
temptation
discouragement
accusations
Faith responds:
"God is faithful."
Not because we understand everything.
Because we trust the One who does.
6. The Helmet of Salvation
Ephesians 6:17
The helmet protects the mind.
Many spiritual battles begin in our thoughts.
The assurance of salvation guards us against:
despair
fear
condemnation
Romans 8:1 reminds us:
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
7. The Sword of the Spirit
Ephesians 6:17
"The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
This is the only offensive weapon listed.
Jesus used Scripture against Satan during His temptation in the wilderness.
Not opinions.
Not feelings.
Not traditions.
The Word of God.
If we do not know Scripture, we cannot effectively wield our sword.
8. The Power of Prayer
Ephesians 6:18
After describing the armor, Paul immediately talks about prayer.
Prayer is not another piece of armor.
Prayer is how the soldier stays connected to the Commander.
"Praying at all times in the Spirit..."
Without prayer:
truth becomes information
faith becomes theory
spiritual strength fades
Prayer energizes every piece of armor.
Application Questions
Which piece of armor do you neglect most?
Are you trying to fight spiritual battles in your own strength?
How much time do you spend in God's Word each week?
Is prayer your first response or your last resort?
Are you standing firm or slowly retreating?
Conclusion
The Christian life is not a playground.
It is a battlefield.
But God has not called us to fight alone.
He has given us:
His truth
His righteousness
His gospel
His faith
His salvation
His Word
and access to Him through prayer
The goal of the Armor of God is not merely to help us survive.
It is to help us:
"stand firm." (Ephesians 6:13)
And when the battle is over, may we be found still standing—faithful, steadfast, and fully equipped by the grace and power of God.

Sermon: A Father After God’s Own Heart

Sermon Date: 06/21/2026
Bible Verses:
Deuteronomy 6:4–9
Ephesians 6:4
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new
Introduction
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate dads, grandfathers, stepfathers, adoptive fathers, and spiritual fathers who have invested in the next generation.
It is also a day that stirs many emotions.
Some have wonderful memories of a father who loved and guided them.
Others carry wounds from a father who was absent or failed them.
Still others long to be fathers or grieve the loss of one.
No earthly father is perfect.
But every good father can point us to our perfect Heavenly Father.
The Bible paints a beautiful picture of fatherhood—not as domination or distance, but as loving leadership, faithful instruction, and sacrificial care.
A Godly Father Loves God First
In Deuteronomy 6:5, Moses declares:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”
Before fathers can lead their families spiritually, they must have their own hearts devoted to God.
Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear.
A father who prays teaches prayer.
A father who worships teaches worship.
A father who trusts God teaches faith.
The greatest gift a father can give his children is not wealth or success.
It is a genuine love for Jesus Christ.
A child may forget many sermons, but they will remember seeing Dad kneel beside the bed in prayer.
A Godly Father Teaches God’s Word
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 says:
“These words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”
Notice that spiritual instruction is woven into everyday life.
“When you sit in your house…”
“When you walk by the way…”
“When you lie down…”
“When you rise…”
Faith is not meant to be confined to Sunday morning.
It belongs around the dinner table, in the car, on the front porch, and during ordinary conversations.
Fathers do not need seminary degrees to disciple their children.
They need willing hearts and open Bibles.
Teaching your children may look like reading a Psalm together, praying before bed, discussing a Bible story, or simply explaining why you trust God during difficult times.
A Godly Father Leads with Grace, Not Harshness
Ephesians 6:4 gives fathers both a warning and a calling:
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
Children need correction.
But they also need encouragement.
Discipline should never flow from uncontrolled anger.
It should flow from love.
A father reflects God's heart when he is patient, consistent, and compassionate.
The goal is not merely outward obedience.
The goal is a heart that learns to love what is right.
The Heavenly Father disciplines us because He loves us.
Earthly fathers should do the same.
A Godly Father Lives What He Teaches
Nothing undermines instruction faster than hypocrisy.
Children notice when our words and actions do not match.
If we tell them to forgive but refuse to forgive ourselves…
If we tell them to be honest while bending the truth…
If we tell them to trust God but constantly live in fear…
They notice.
But there is also good news.
Children notice repentance too.
One of the most powerful things a father can say is:
"I was wrong. Will you forgive me?"
Godly fathers are not perfect fathers.
They are fathers who continually point their families to a perfect Savior.
Every Father Points to the Heavenly Father
The best earthly fathers still fall short.
But God never does.
He is always faithful.
Always loving.
Always wise.
Always present.
For those who had wonderful fathers, thank God for them.
For those whose fathers failed them, remember that your Heavenly Father never will.
Psalm 68:5 describes God as:
“Father of the fatherless and protector of widows.”
God’s fatherly love is perfect.
And through Jesus Christ, all who believe are adopted into His family.
That is the greatest Father’s Day gift of all.
Application
To the fathers:
Love God passionately.
Lead your family spiritually.
Teach Scripture faithfully.
Discipline with grace.
Model humility and repentance.
Leave a legacy of faith.
To the children and grandchildren:
Honor those who have invested in your life.
Express gratitude.
Pray for them.
Encourage them.
And to all believers:
Seek to reflect the character of your Heavenly Father in the way you love, serve, and care for others.
Conclusion
At the end of life, few fathers will wish they had worked more overtime, bought more possessions, or accumulated more success.
But many will treasure the moments they spent teaching their children to know and love the Lord.
The greatest legacy a father can leave is not found in a bank account or a family name.
It is found in lives transformed by the gospel.
May every father strive to be a man after God’s own heart, trusting in Christ, leading with humility, and pointing the next generation to the Savior.
Because the best fathers are not the ones who make themselves the center of the family.
They are the ones who faithfully lead their families to Jesus Christ.

The Weekly Show - Episode 102: Forms and Types of Grace

Join Tim and John for the one hundredth episode, as they talk about the means of Grace.
Forms and Types of Grace
A Wesleyan Study on the Grace of God
Introduction
We first studied Grace back in Episode 17 (Aug 29, 2024), and Tim has done three sermons on Grace (Apr 22, 2024, May 4, 2025, Sep 7, 2025), now we are going to take a closer look at the types of grace.
Few words are more central to Christianity than the word:
Grace
Grace is the heartbeat of the gospel.
We are:
saved by grace
sustained by grace
transformed by grace
and one day glorified by grace
Without grace, no sinner could:
come to God
know Christ
resist sin
or endure faithfully
In Wesleyan theology, grace is not viewed as merely a one-time event.
John Wesley understood grace as:
God’s active, loving work in every stage of the Christian life.
Grace is:
God reaching toward humanity before salvation
God forgiving sinners through Christ
and God continually transforming believers into Christlikeness
Wesley taught that grace unfolds in a beautiful progression:
Prevenient Grace — God pursuing us before conversion
Justifying Grace — God forgiving and reconciling us through faith
Sanctifying Grace — God transforming us into holiness
And all of this is sustained through what Wesley called:
The Means of Grace
1. Prevenient Grace
“Grace That Comes Before”
The word prevenient comes from a Latin word meaning:
“to come before.”
Prevenient grace is God’s grace working in a person’s life before they consciously respond to Him.
What Prevenient Grace Does
Because of sin, humanity is spiritually broken and separated from God.
But God does not leave humanity alone in darkness.
Prevenient grace:
awakens the heart
stirs conscience
reveals moral truth
creates spiritual hunger
and enables people to respond to the gospel
It is the reason people begin asking:
“Is there more to life?”
“Why do I feel conviction?”
“Why do I long for God?”
Even the first desire to seek God is evidence of grace already at work.
Key Scriptures
John 6:44 (ESV)
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.”
Titus 2:11 (ESV)
“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people.”
Romans 2:4 (ESV)
“God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance.”
Important Truth
Prevenient grace does not save by itself.
But it makes salvation possible by awakening sinners and drawing them toward Christ.
God always moves first.
2. Justifying Grace
Grace That Forgives and Restores
Justifying grace is the moment when a sinner places faith in Jesus Christ and is declared righteous before God.
This is the grace of salvation.
What Justifying Grace Does
Justifying grace:
forgives sin
removes guilt
reconciles us to God
and restores relationship with Him
Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are no longer condemned.
They are adopted into God’s family.
Key Scriptures
Ephesians 2:8–9 (ESV)
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
Romans 5:1 (ESV)
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”
Important Truth
We are not justified because:
we are good enough
religious enough
or deserving enough
We are justified because of Jesus alone.
Grace is not earned.
It is received through faith.
3. Sanctifying Grace
Grace That Transforms
Sanctifying grace is the ongoing work of God in the believer after salvation.
It is the process of becoming more like Christ.
What Sanctifying Grace Does
Sanctifying grace:
changes desires
transforms character
strengthens obedience
and produces spiritual maturity
This is not instant perfection.
It is lifelong transformation.
God works from the inside out:
renewing the mind
purifying the heart
and shaping believers into Christlikeness
Key Scriptures
Titus 2:11–12 (ESV)
“For the grace of God has appeared… training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions.”
Philippians 1:6 (ESV)
“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)
“We… are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
Important Truth
Grace does not merely forgive sinners.
It transforms them.
The goal of sanctifying grace is holiness:
becoming more like Jesus in:
thought
word
attitude
and action
4. Common Grace
Grace Given to All Humanity
Common grace refers to God’s kindness shown to all people, whether they believe in Him or not.
Every good gift ultimately comes from God.
Examples of Common Grace
rain and sunshine
beauty in creation
moral awareness
human conscience
restraint of evil
acts of kindness and love
Key Scriptures
Matthew 5:45 (ESV)
“For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good.”
Acts 14:17 (ESV)
“He did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons.”
Important Truth
Common grace reveals:
God’s patience
His goodness
and His desire for repentance
Even unbelievers experience God’s kindness daily.
5. Sustaining Grace
Grace for Daily Strength
Sustaining grace is the grace that carries believers through:
suffering
trials
weakness
grief
and spiritual battles
It is the grace that keeps us going when life feels heavy.
Key Scriptures
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)
“Fear not, for I am with you… I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Important Truth
God’s grace does not always remove hardship.
But it sustains believers through it.
6. Forgiving Grace
Grace That Removes Guilt
Forgiving grace reminds us that God delights in mercy.
Because of Christ, believers do not have to remain trapped in:
shame
guilt
or condemnation
Key Scriptures
1 John 1:9 (ESV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.”
Psalm 103:12 (ESV)
“As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.”
Important Truth
God’s forgiveness is not partial.
In Christ, it is complete.
7. Enabling Grace
Grace That Empowers Service
Enabling grace gives believers strength and spiritual ability to serve God effectively.
God never calls believers to serve Him in their own strength alone.
What Enabling Grace Does
It empowers believers to:
minister
witness
teach
endure
lead
and use spiritual gifts faithfully
Key Scriptures
1 Corinthians 15:10 (ESV)
“By the grace of God I am what I am.”
Philippians 2:13 (ESV)
“For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
(John) The Means of Grace
Wesley taught that believers should actively participate in practices through which God works in their lives.
These are called:
The Means of Grace
Acts of Piety
prayer
Scripture reading
worship
fasting
sharing faith
Acts of Mercy
feeding the hungry
visiting the sick
helping the poor
seeking justice
generosity
Communal Means
Communion
baptism
Christian fellowship
accountability
Bible study
These practices do not earn grace.
But they place believers in position to receive and respond to God’s ongoing work.
Final Conclusion
Grace is not merely the doorway into Christianity.
It is the entire Christian life.
From beginning to end:
God seeks us by grace
saves us by grace
sustains us by grace
transforms us by grace
and empowers us by grace
Wesley understood salvation not as a single isolated moment, but as a lifelong journey of:
forgiveness
transformation
holiness
and communion with God
The story of the Christian life is ultimately not about human effort.
It is about:
the relentless, patient, transforming grace of God.
 
 

Sermon: Holiness in an Unholy World

Sermon Date: 06/14/2026
Bible Verses:
John 17:9-19
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new
Introduction
One of the greatest challenges Christians face is not simply pursuing holiness.
It is pursuing holiness in an unholy world.
Every day we live in a culture that often celebrates what God condemns.
We are surrounded by temptation.
Surrounded by compromise.
Surrounded by messages that constantly push us away from God.
And yet Jesus never prayed for His followers to be removed from the world.
In His High Priestly Prayer, Jesus said:
“I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:15)
Notice the balance.
We are not called to escape the world.
Neither are we called to become like the world.
We are called to live as holy people in the midst of an unholy culture.
That is not easy.
But it is exactly what Christ prayed for.
We Are In the World, But Not of the World
Jesus says in John 17:16:
“They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.”
Christians live in the world.
We work here.
Raise families here.
Attend school here.
Build friendships here.
But our identity is no longer rooted here.
Our citizenship is ultimately in heaven.
The problem arises when believers begin to blend into the culture around them.
When there is no visible difference.
When the world can no longer tell where culture ends and Christianity begins.
Paul wrote:
“Come out from them and be separate.” (2 Corinthians 6:17)
This does not mean isolation.
It means distinction.
God's people should look different.
Speak differently.
Think differently.
Live differently.
Not because we are better than others.
But because we belong to Christ.
Holiness Is Not Isolation
When Christians hear about separation from the world, some misunderstand it.
They think holiness means avoiding all contact with unbelievers.
But Jesus never lived that way.
Luke 5:30–32 tells us that Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners.
In fact, the religious leaders criticized Him for it.
Jesus replied:
“I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”
Jesus was among sinners constantly.
Yet He never became like them.
This is the balance Christians must learn.
Paul addresses this in 1 Corinthians 5:9–10.
He explains that believers are not expected to withdraw completely from unbelievers.
Otherwise:
“you would need to go out of the world.”
We are called to engage the world.
To love people.
To share the gospel.
To serve others.
But we must do so without adopting the world's values.
Holiness is not isolation.
It is influence without compromise.
The Word of God Sanctifies Us
Jesus prays:
“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17)
The word "sanctify" means to set apart for God.
How does God make His people holy?
Through His truth.
Through His Word.
Psalm 119:9 asks:
“How can a young man keep his way pure?”
The answer:
“By guarding it according to your word.”
We cannot live holy lives apart from Scripture.
The world constantly shapes our thinking.
Advertisements shape us.
Entertainment shapes us.
Social media shapes us.
Culture shapes us.
If we are not being shaped by God's Word, we will inevitably be shaped by something else.
Holiness grows when God's truth becomes the standard by which we live.
We Are Called to Shine
Jesus called believers:
“The salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13–14)
Salt preserves.
Light illuminates.
Both are most effective when surrounded by darkness and decay.
God never intended His people to hide.
Philippians 2:14–15 says:
“shine as lights in the world.”
In a culture filled with confusion, Christians should display clarity.
In a culture filled with hatred, Christians should display love.
In a culture filled with impurity, Christians should display holiness.
People should see something different.
Not perfection.
But Christlikeness.
Holiness Will Often Bring Opposition
Jesus warned His disciples:
“If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own.” (John 15:19)
The more faithfully we follow Christ, the more noticeable the difference becomes.
Paul says:
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12)
Not everyone will appreciate holiness.
Some will mock it.
Some will reject it.
Some will see it as judgment.
Peter writes:
“They are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery.” (1 Peter 4:4)
The world expects Christians to compromise.
But holiness means standing firm even when it costs us something.
Lot: A Warning and a Lesson
One of the clearest examples of living in a wicked culture is Lot.
In Genesis 19, Lot lived in Sodom.
A city marked by extreme wickedness.
Peter tells us:
“Righteous Lot was greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked.” (2 Peter 2:7–8)
Lot remained troubled by the sin around him.
That is good.
His conscience was not dead.
But his story also serves as a warning.
He stayed too close to Sodom for too long.
Its influence affected his family.
Its values seeped into his life.
The lesson is clear:
We can live among sinners without becoming like sinners.
But we must guard our hearts carefully.
Christ Is Our Perfect Example
Ultimately, Jesus is our model.
Hebrews 7:26 describes Him as:
“holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners.”
Notice the balance.
Separated from sinners in holiness.
Yet constantly among sinners in ministry.
No one was more holy than Jesus.
No one spent more time with broken people than Jesus.
He was perfectly holy without being isolated.
Perfectly compassionate without compromising truth.
That is our example.
Application
How do we live holy lives in an unholy world?
Stay rooted in God's Word.
Truth keeps us grounded.
Guard your heart.
Not everything that entertains you is helping you.
Choose your influences wisely.
What you continually consume eventually shapes you.
Engage people with grace and truth.
Love sinners without embracing sin.
Trust God in temptation.
1 Corinthians 10:13 promises:
“God is faithful.”
Temptation is real.
But God always provides a way of escape.
Conclusion
Jesus did not pray that His followers would escape the world.
He prayed that they would be sanctified within it.
The goal is not isolation.
The goal is holiness.
We are called to be in the world but not of it.
To shine in darkness.
To stand apart without standing aloof.
To love people without loving sin.
To represent Christ wherever He places us.
And the good news is that God never asks us to do this alone.
The same Savior who prayed for our holiness also provides the grace, truth, and power needed to pursue it.
So let us live as God's holy people in an unholy world.
Not blending in.
Not running away.
But shining brightly for the glory of Jesus Christ.

The Weekly Show - Episode 101: Articles of Religion Study (Part Four)

Join Tim and John for the one hundredth episode, as they talk about The Articles of Religion of the Southern Methodist Church.
 
Articles of Religion Study (Part Four)
The Last Study (For Now)
Today we conclude our study through the Articles of Religion—for now.
Over these studies, we have walked through foundational Christian doctrines:
the Trinity
salvation by grace through faith
the authority of Scripture
the church
sin
grace
and holy living
Now these final Articles move into very practical areas of Christian life and church practice:
the sacraments
baptism
the Lord’s Supper
marriage
church order
civil authority
stewardship
and truthfulness
What’s interesting is this:
Doctrine eventually becomes practice.
What we believe always shapes:
how we worship
how we live
how we treat others
and how we understand the Christian life itself
The Christian faith is not merely something we agree with intellectually.
It is something we live.
Article XVI — Of the Sacraments
(¶141)
The Article teaches that sacraments are not merely religious symbols or empty ceremonies.
They are:
“certain signs of grace and God’s good will toward us.”
God uses them to:
strengthen faith
encourage believers
and visibly proclaim gospel truth
Two Sacraments
The Southern Methodist Articles recognize two sacraments instituted directly by Christ:
Baptism
The Lord’s Supper
These alone were clearly ordained by Jesus in the Gospel.
Other practices such as:
confirmation
matrimony
penance
ordination
may be important practices or callings, but they are not sacraments in the same biblical sense.
Sacraments Must Be Used Properly
The Article also warns against treating sacraments as:
magical rituals
objects of superstition
or ceremonies detached from faith
The sacraments were not meant:
“to be gazed upon or carried about.”
They are meant to be received with:
faith
reverence
and obedience
Without faith, the outward ritual profits nothing spiritually.
Article XVII — Of Baptism
(¶142)
Baptism is more than a public religious label.
The Article calls it:
“a sign of regeneration or the new birth.”
What Baptism Represents
Baptism visibly proclaims:
union with Christ
cleansing from sin
entrance into the covenant community
and identification with the death and resurrection of Jesus
It does not save automatically.
But it points powerfully to the saving work of God.
Infant Baptism
The Article also teaches that:
“the baptism of young children is to be retained in the church.”
Historically, Methodists understood infant baptism as:
a sign of covenant inclusion
God’s prevenient grace
and the responsibility of raising children in the faith
Baptism is not the end of discipleship— it is the beginning of a life that must ultimately respond personally to Christ in faith.
(Tim) Article XVIII — Of the Lord’s Supper
(¶143)
The Lord’s Supper is far more than a memorial meal.
It is:
“a sacrament of our redemption by Christ’s death.”
Communion and Faith
Believers spiritually partake of Christ through faith as they receive the bread and cup.
The Article rejects the Roman Catholic doctrine of:
Transubstantiation
—the idea that the bread and wine literally become Christ’s physical body and blood.
Instead, Christ is received:
spiritually
truly
and by faith
Communion points believers back to:
the cross
grace
forgiveness
and the unity of the church
Not Superstition, But Worship
The elements themselves are not to be worshiped.
The focus is always:
Christ Himself.
The Lord’s Supper nourishes believers spiritually when received:
worthily
reverently
and in faith
Article XIX — Of Both Kinds
(¶144)
This Article simply teaches that all Christians should receive both:
the bread
and the cup
in Communion.
Historically, some traditions withheld the cup from ordinary church members.
But Christ gave both elements to His followers.
The gospel is not divided by spiritual class.
Article XX — Of the One Oblation of Christ
(¶145)
This Article powerfully emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.
Jesus offered Himself:
once for all.
His death completely accomplished:
redemption
atonement
and satisfaction for sin
Nothing needs to be added.
The Cross Was Enough
No repeated sacrifices are necessary.
No priest can re-sacrifice Christ.
The cross fully paid the debt of sin.
That is why Jesus cried:
“It is finished.”
The Christian life rests not on repeated atonement— but on a completed Savior.
Article XXI — Of Marriage
(¶146)
This Article begins with a foundational truth:
Marriage was instituted by God before human government.
Marriage is not merely a social contract or cultural invention.
It is part of God’s created order.
Biblical Marriage
The Article defines marriage as:
lifelong
monogamous
and between one natural man and one natural woman
It also teaches that sexual intimacy belongs only within that covenant relationship.
Marriage Reflects Christ and the Church
Ephesians teaches that marriage points beyond itself.
It reflects:
Christ’s relationship with His Church.
That is why Scripture treats marriage seriously.
It is not merely about personal happiness— but covenant faithfulness.
Ministers May Marry
The Article also rejects the idea that ministers are required to remain unmarried.
Marriage is honorable for both:
clergy
and laity alike
Article XXII — Of the Rites and Ceremonies of Churches
(¶147)
This Article teaches an important principle:
Not every church practice must look identical everywhere.
Styles and ceremonies may differ across:
cultures
nations
and time periods
As long as nothing contradicts:
the Word of God.
Order Matters
At the same time, Christians should not create division through unnecessary rebellion against legitimate church order.
Everything in worship should aim toward:
edification
unity
and faithful worship
Article XXIII — Of the Rulers of the United States of America
(¶148)
This Article teaches respect for lawful civil authority.
Government exists under God’s providence to maintain order and justice.
Christians are called to:
obey lawful authority
pray for leaders
and live as responsible citizens
God Above Government
However, government is not ultimate.
Christians honor civil authority— but worship God alone.
Whenever human authority contradicts God’s commands:
“We must obey God rather than men.”
Article XXIV — Of Christian Men’s Goods
(¶149)
This Article rejects the idea that private property itself is sinful.
But it also reminds believers:
wealth carries responsibility.
Christians are called to:
generosity
compassion
and care for the poor
The gospel changes how we view possessions.
We are stewards—not owners in the ultimate sense.
Article XXV — Of a Christian Man’s Oath
(¶150)
Jesus warned against:
careless swearing
manipulative promises
and dishonest speech
Christians should be truthful people whose words can be trusted.
At the same time, the Article recognizes that lawful oaths in matters of justice and truth are permissible when required properly.
Final Conclusion to the Articles of Religion Study
The Articles of Religion exist for one reason:
To keep the church anchored to biblical truth.
They remind us that Christianity is not built on:
shifting culture
personal preference
emotional experience
or human opinion
It is built upon:
the authority of Scripture
the gospel of Jesus Christ
the grace of God
and faithful obedience to His Word
Throughout these Articles, one truth keeps appearing again and again:
Christ is enough.
His Word is sufficient
His grace is sufficient
His sacrifice is sufficient
and His Spirit is sufficient
And because these things are true, Christians are called to:
worship faithfully
live holy lives
love others deeply
and remain anchored in truth
Because doctrine is never merely about information.
It is about knowing God rightly— so we may worship Him faithfully and live for Him fully.