Walnut Grove

The Weekly Show: Episode 37 - John 3:1-21

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 3 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 3:1-21
John 3:1-21 is one of the most well-known and theologically rich passages in the entire Bible. It contains Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews, where He explains the necessity of being born again to enter the kingdom of God. This passage also includes John 3:16, one of the most famous verses in Scripture, summarizing God's love and the gift of eternal life through Jesus.
Context & Background
This event takes place in Jerusalem, following Jesus’ cleansing of the temple (John 2:13-25).
Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council (Sanhedrin), approaches Jesus at night—possibly out of fear or seeking a private, in-depth conversation.
This conversation contrasts superficial faith (John 2:23-25) with true spiritual transformation.
Key Themes in This Passage
Spiritual Rebirth (John 3:1-8) – Jesus introduces the concept of being born again, explaining that entrance into God's kingdom requires a transformation by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus' Authority & Heavenly Truth (John 3:9-15) – Jesus clarifies that this rebirth comes from above, and that He, as the Son of Man, has come to bring salvation.
God’s Love & the Offer of Eternal Life (John 3:16-21) – The passage culminates in the powerful declaration that salvation is available to all who believe in Christ, but those who reject Him remain in darkness.
Why This Passage Matters
John 3:1-21 challenges religious assumptions and emphasizes that salvation is not about outward rituals or human effort but about a personal transformation through faith in Jesus. It lays the foundation for Christian doctrine, emphasizing that:
Salvation is by grace through faith (not by works or religious status).
Jesus is the light of the world, calling people out of darkness.
God’s love is universal, but people must choose to respond to it.
This passage sets the stage for understanding the gospel message and invites us to examine whether we have truly experienced spiritual rebirth through Christ.
 Spiritual Rebirth (John 3:1-8)
Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again[b] he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The windblows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
John 3:1-8 introduces one of Jesus’ most profound teachings: the necessity of being born again to enter the kingdom of God. In this passage, Jesus engages with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council, who seeks to understand Jesus’ message.
Jesus’ Authority & Heavenly Truth (John 3:9-15)
9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
In this section, Jesus continues His conversation with Nicodemus, addressing his confusion and revealing deeper truths about His divine authority and the necessity of faith for salvation.
 God’s Love & the Offer of Eternal Life (John 3:16-21)
16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”
This passage contains one of the most well-known verses in the Bible, John 3:16, which summarizes the heart of the Gospel. Jesus explains the depth of God's love, the purpose of His coming, and the consequences of belief versus unbelief.
 Conclusion to John 3:1-21
John 3:1-21 presents one of the most foundational teachings of Jesus regarding salvation, spiritual rebirth, and the necessity of faith in Him. Through His conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus explains that entering the Kingdom of God is not about religious background or good deeds, but about being born again—a transformation that comes only through the work of the Holy Spirit.
The passage highlights three key truths:
Spiritual rebirth is necessary for salvation (John 3:1-8) – No one can enter God’s kingdom without being born of water and the Spirit. This rebirth is a work of God’s grace, not human effort.
Jesus alone has the authority to offer eternal life (John 3:9-15) – As the Son of Man, He has descended from heaven and will be lifted up (on the cross) so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.
God’s love is the foundation of salvation (John 3:16-21) – Jesus did not come to condemn the world, but to save it. However, those who reject Him remain in darkness and judgment, while those who believe step into the light of truth.
Key Takeaways:
Salvation is a gift from God, not something we can earn.
Jesus is the only way to eternal life.
Belief in Christ brings freedom, transformation, and light, while rejection of Him leads to judgment.
The Gospel is an invitation to accept God’s love and step into a new life in Christ.
Final Reflection:
This passage challenges us to examine our own faith: Have we truly been born again? Are we living in the light of Christ or hiding in the darkness? The choice is clear—eternal life or eternal separation from God. The good news is that God’s love has made a way for all to be saved through Jesus Christ.

Sermon: Be Holy

Sermon Date: 2/16/ 2025
Bible Verses: Leviticus 19:2, Matthew 5:48, 1 Peter 1:15-16
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction:
The word holy is often used in church, but what does it really mean? Many people associate holiness with strict rules or moral perfection, but the biblical meaning goes much deeper. Holiness is about being set apart for God, pure in character, and reflecting His nature.
God commands His people to be holy because He is holy (Leviticus 19:2). Jesus calls us to be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48). The New Testament teaches that holiness is not just about following rules but about living a transformed life through Christ (Romans 12:1-2).
Today, we will explore what holiness means, what it looked like in the Old Testament, how Jesus fulfills holiness, and how we are called to live holy lives as believers.
What Does "Holy" Mean?
The word holy in Hebrew (qadosh) and Greek (hagios) means set apart, sacred, pure, and morally blameless.
Four Key Aspects of Holiness:
Separate – God is separate from sin and calls His people to be different from the world. Leviticus 20:26 “ And you shall be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy, and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.”
Set Apart – Holiness is about belonging to God, being devoted to Him. Deuteronomy 7:6 “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth.
Pure – Holiness involves moral purity and righteousness. Psalm 24:3-4 “Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, Nor sworn deceitfully.”
Perfect – True holiness reflects God's perfect nature. Matthew 5:48 “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”
Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but about being fully dedicated to God in every area of life.
Holiness in the Old Testament (The Law)
Scripture: Leviticus 19:2, Exodus 19:6, Isaiah 6:1-5
In the Old Testament, holiness was central to Israel’s identity.
God is holy, and He calls His people to be holy. Leviticus 19:2  “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.
Holiness in the Law was about obedience, separation, and purity:
Moral Laws – Honesty, justice, sexual purity (Leviticus 18-20).
Ceremonial Laws – Clean and unclean animals, rituals, sacrifices (Leviticus 11-15).
Priestly Holiness – The priests had to be extra set apart to serve in the temple (Exodus 28).
Isaiah’s Vision of God’s Holiness (Isaiah 6:1-5):
Isaiah saw God’s glory and holiness in the temple.
He immediately realized his own sinfulness and unworthiness.
Key Lesson: The Law showed that God is perfectly holy, and sinful people fall short. Romans 3:23  “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
III. Holiness in Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:48 and More)
Scripture: Matthew 5:48, John 17:17-19, Hebrews 7:26
Jesus is the perfect example of holiness. He is the Son of God, sinless and set apart for God's mission. Hebrews 7:26 “For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens.”
Matthew 5:48 – "Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
This is not about being sinless in our own strength.
It means living in complete devotion to God, just as Jesus did.
Jesus prays for our holiness (John 17:17-19) – "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.”
Jesus sets believers apart through His word and truth.
Jesus fulfilled holiness for us:
He perfectly obeyed the Law. Matthew 5:17 – “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”
He made us holy through His sacrifice. Hebrews 10:10 – “By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Key Lesson: We cannot be holy on our own, but through Jesus, we are made holy and empowered to live differently.
Holiness in the Church (Romans, 1 Corinthians, 1 Peter)
Holiness is not just an individual pursuit—it is the calling of the entire church.
Holiness in Romans
Scripture: Romans 12:1-2"Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God… Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Holiness means offering our whole lives to God.
It requires a renewed mind and heart, not just outward obedience.
Holiness in 1 Corinthians
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20"Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit… Therefore, glorify God in your body."
As believers, we are God’s temple, and His Spirit dwells in us.
We must live differently—avoiding sin and honoring God in our bodies.
Holiness in 1 Peter
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:15-16"But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'"
Holiness is not optional—it is a command.
It affects every part of our lives: our thoughts, words, and actions.
We are set apart for God's purposes, just as Israel was.
Key Lesson: Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but about living fully for God in thought, speech, actions, and relationships.
How Can We Pursue Holiness Today?
Depend on Christ’s Righteousness – We are made holy through Jesus, not by our works. 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.”
Obey God’s Word – True holiness comes from following God’s commands. John 14:15 – “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
Be Filled with the Holy Spirit – The Spirit empowers us to live holy lives. Galatians 5:16 – “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”
Separate from Sin – We must actively turn away from sin (2 Corinthians 6:17).
Live as a Light to the World – Holiness is about reflecting God’s character to those around us (Matthew 5:14-16).
Conclusion: A Call to Holiness
Holiness is not just for pastors, missionaries, or "super-Christians"—it is the calling of every believer.
Old Testament: God’s holiness revealed in the Law.
Jesus: The perfect example of holiness.
The Church: Called to live holy lives through Christ.
Final Challenge:Are we living set apart for God? Are we pursuing purity, obedience, and Christlike character?

The Weekly Show: Episode 36 - John 2:13-25

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 2 Verses 13-25.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
John 2:13-25 – Jesus Cleanses the Temple & His Authority
Introduction
Brief overview of today’s passage (John 2:13-25)
Context: Jesus’ early ministry, His first recorded visit to Jerusalem during the Passover
Key themes: True worship, Jesus’ authority, and genuine faith
I. Jesus’ Zeal for True Worship (John 2:13-17)
A. The Setting: Passover in Jerusalem (v. 13)
Passover was the most important Jewish festival
Thousands of worshipers traveled to Jerusalem and the temple
Jesus arrives and finds a marketplace in the temple courts
B. The Problem: Corruption in the Temple (v. 14)
Merchants selling oxen, sheep, and pigeons for sacrifices
Money changers exchanging foreign currency at unfair rates
This marketplace was in the Court of the Gentiles, turning a place of worship into a business
C. Jesus’ Response: Righteous Anger (v. 15-16)
Makes a whip of cords and drives out the merchants and animals
Overturns tables and spills money—disrupting corrupt practices
Declares, “Do not make My Father’s house a house of trade”
Shows His divine authority—calls it His Father’s house
D. Fulfillment of Prophecy (v. 17)
Disciples recall Psalm 69:9 – “Zeal for Your house will consume me.”
Jesus’ passion for pure worship foreshadows His suffering and opposition
II. Jesus’ Authority and the Prophecy of His Resurrection (John 2:18-22)
A. The Challenge from the Jewish Leaders (v. 18)
Religious leaders demand a sign to prove Jesus’ authority
Instead of recognizing the temple’s corruption, they question Jesus
B. Jesus’ Prophetic Statement (v. 19)
“Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
Misunderstood—leaders think He refers to the physical temple
Jesus actually speaks about His body, predicting His death and resurrection
C. The Misunderstanding & John’s Clarification (v. 20-21)
Leaders argue—“The temple took 46 years to build!”
John explains Jesus was referring to His body as the new temple
D. The Disciples’ Later Understanding (v. 22)
After Jesus’ resurrection, they remember His words
This deepens their faith in Scripture and Jesus’ teachings
III. Superficial Faith vs. True Faith (John 2:23-25)
A. Many Believe Because of Miracles (v. 23)
During Passover, many people believe in Jesus after seeing His signs
Their belief is based on miracles, not genuine faith
B. Jesus’ Discernment (v. 24)
Jesus does not entrust Himself to them—He knows their hearts
Not all belief is true saving faith—some just seek signs
C. Jesus’ Omniscience (v. 25)
He doesn’t need human approval—He knows what is in man
This leads into John 3, where Nicodemus struggles with true faith
Conclusion & Reflection
Key Takeaways:
True worship is about honoring God, not self-interest or corruption.
Jesus is the new temple—the true way to meet God.
Signs don’t guarantee true faith—real belief is trusting in Jesus Himself.
Reflection Questions for Listeners:
Is my faith based on who Jesus is, or just what He can do for me?
Am I worshiping God with a sincere heart, or have I let distractions take over?
How does Jesus’ cleansing of the temple challenge my view of worship and holiness?

Sermon: Priorities of the Local Church

Sermon Date: 2/9/ 2025
Bible Verses: Colossians 1:18, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:42-47
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction:
Every church has priorities, whether stated or unstated. But what are the right priorities? How do we ensure that our church is functioning according to God’s design? The Bible gives us clear direction on what the local church should focus on. Today, we will look at three essential priorities that every church must uphold: The Lordship of Christ, The Body of Christ, and The World.
We Need Biblical Priorities
Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
Every local church must be founded and grounded in the Word of God.
The church is not built on human wisdom, traditions, or opinions but on the truth of Scripture (Matthew 7:24-27).
Our priorities must begin with and be shaped by God's Word, not culture or personal preference.
If our priorities do not align with biblical priorities, we will drift into compromise.
The First Priority: The Lordship of Christ
Scripture: Colossians 1:18"And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence."
The highest priority of the church is Jesus Christ Himself.
Jesus is the Head of the Church—not the pastor, the deacons, or any committee.
Every decision, ministry, and action must reflect Christ’s Lordship and supremacy.
Worship must be Christ-centered, not entertainment-driven (John 4:24).
“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
We must exalt Christ in everything we do (Philippians 2:9-11).
“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Application:
Is Jesus truly Lord over every area of our church?
Are we seeking His will first in everything we do?
III. The Second Priority: The Body of Christ (The Church Community)
Scripture: Acts 2:42-47"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers… Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common."
The local church is a family—we are not just individuals, we are the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
We must love, serve, and build up one another (Galatians 6:2).
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
The early church gathered together, studied the Word, prayed, shared their lives, and supported each other.
Fellowship is not just socializing—it is deep, spiritual connection with other believers (Hebrews 10:24-25).
“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Application:
Are we actively engaged in discipleship, fellowship, and prayer with one another?
Are we helping each other grow spiritually or just attending church passively?
How can we better serve one another?
The Third Priority: The World (Evangelism and Missions)
Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
The church does not exist for itself—we are called to reach the lost (Luke 19:10).
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
Jesus commanded us to go into the world, not just stay within the walls of the church.
Missions, evangelism, and serving our communities must be a priority.
The world needs the Gospel of Jesus Christ—are we sharing it?
Application:
Are we actively making disciples in our community?
How are we supporting missions and outreach?
Are we living as a light to the world (Matthew 5:14-16)?
Conclusion:
The Priorities of the Local Church Must Be:
The Lordship of Christ – Jesus must be at the center.
The Body of Christ – We must love, serve, and build each other up.
The World – We must share the Gospel and make disciples.
Final Challenge:
Are our priorities aligned with God’s priorities?
How can we, as a church, realign ourselves with these biblical priorities?
What step can you personally take to strengthen Christ’s Lordship, church fellowship, or evangelism?

The Weekly Show: Episode 35 - John 2:1-12

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 2 Verses 1-12.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
We did a thing: https://walnutgrovechurchwm.podbean.com/e/method-of-murder-%e2%80%93-episode-1-blood-in-the-fields/
Bible Study: John 2:1-12
The Wedding at Cana: Jesus’ First Miracle
1. Context of the Passage
John 2:1-12 records the first miracle of Jesus—turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana. This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, revealing His divine power and foreshadowing His greater work of spiritual transformation.
In this passage, we see several key themes unfold:
The Role of Jesus in Everyday Life – Jesus' first miracle takes place at a wedding, showing that He is involved in the ordinary joys and needs of life.
The Power of Christ to Transform – Turning water into wine is not just about meeting a need; it symbolizes the greater transformation Jesus brings into our lives.
The Importance of Faith and Obedience – Mary, the mother of Jesus, demonstrates faith in her son’s ability, and the servants obey His instructions, leading to the miraculous event.
As we study this passage, we will explore how Jesus’ presence and power can transform not only situations but also hearts. Just as He turned ordinary water into the finest wine, He offers to make something new and extraordinary out of our lives when we trust in Him.
First-Century Jewish Weddings in the Bible
Weddings in first-century Israel were deeply significant and highly structured events, reflecting Jewish customs, community involvement, and religious traditions. Understanding these customs helps provide context for biblical passages such as John 2:1-12, where Jesus performed His first miracle at a wedding in Cana.
I. The Stages of a Jewish Wedding
A Jewish wedding had three main stages:
A. The Betrothal (Kiddushin) – The Legal Engagement
The marriage process began with a formal betrothal, a legally binding agreement between the bride and groom’s families.
The groom’s family would negotiate a bride price (mohar), which symbolized the groom’s commitment and provided security for the bride.
A ketubah (marriage contract) was signed, outlining the groom's responsibilities and the bride’s rights.
Though legally married, the couple did not yet live together. The groom would return to his father’s house to prepare a home for his bride (John 14:2-3).
B. The Procession and Wedding Ceremony (Nissuin) – The Bridegroom Comes
After about a year of preparation, the groom would travel to the bride’s house, often at night, accompanied by friends carrying torches.
The bride and her attendants had to be ready, watching for his arrival (Matthew 25:1-13, the Parable of the Ten Virgins).
The groom would take the bride back to his home for the wedding celebration.
C. The Wedding Feast – The Grand Celebration
The highlight of the wedding was a feast that could last for up to seven days.
Friends and family gathered for food, wine, music, and dancing.
The couple was publicly presented as husband and wife.
2. Social and Cultural Significance of Weddings
Weddings were community events—everyone in the village or town was invited.
Running out of food or wine would be a major embarrassment, which is why Mary was concerned in John 2:3 when the wine ran out.
The father of the groom paid for the wedding, and it was a matter of honor to provide well for guests.
The best wine was served first, followed by lower-quality wine later (John 2:10).
3. Biblical Imagery of Weddings
Jewish weddings were not just social events; they symbolized God’s relationship with His people.
God is portrayed as the bridegroom, and Israel as His bride (Isaiah 54:5, Hosea 2:19-20).
Jesus used wedding imagery to describe the coming Messianic banquet (Matthew 22:1-14, Revelation 19:7-9).
The church is called the Bride of Christ, awaiting His return (Ephesians 5:25-32, Revelation 21:2).
The Role of Jesus in Everyday Life:
1. Scripture
“On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. 2 Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples.”
The Power of Christ to Transform – John 2:3-10
1. The Problem: A Shortage of Wine (John 2:3-5)
“And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, ‘They have no wine.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.’ His mother said to the servants, ‘Whatever He says to you, do it.’”
2. The Miracle: Water Turned into Wine (John 2:6-8)
“Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. Jesus said to them, ‘Fill the waterpots with water.’ And they filled them up to the brim. And He said to them, ‘Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.’ And they took it.”
3. The Master’s Amazement: The Best Saved for Last (John 2:9-10)
“When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. And he said to him, ‘Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!’”
4. The Importance of Faith and Obedience – John 2:11-12
Text:
“This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. After this, He went down to Capernaum, He, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples; and they did not stay there many days.”
Closing Thought
The wedding at Cana reminds us that Jesus is not only concerned with our spiritual needs but also with our everyday joys and struggles. His presence transforms ordinary situations into opportunities to experience His glory and deepen our faith. May we trust in His timing, obey His commands, and glorify Him in all we do.
 

Walnut Grove Podcast Announcement about March

📢 Walnut Grove Podcast Announcement from Rev. Tim Shapley 📢
For most of the month of March, we will not be posting new sermon episodes, as our church has several special services planned. However, The Weekly Show will continue to release new episodes as usual.
Here’s what’s coming up at Walnut Grove:
📅 March 2 – A guest from one of our local Christian schools will share about their ministry.
📅 March 9 – A representative from The Gideons International will speak about their mission and work.
🔥 March 14 & 15 (6:00 PM) | March 16 (11:00 AM) – Revival Services with Rev. Dan Shapley—come prepared for a time of renewal and worship!
🎉 March 23 – Youth Sunday! Join us as our young people take an active role in leading worship.
We encourage you to join us in person for these special services, and as always, thank you for your continued support of the Walnut Grove Podcast! 🙏🎙️
— Rev. Tim Shapley

Sermon: Sweet and Bitter

Sermon Date: 2/2/ 2025
Bible Verses: Revelation 10 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
Revelation 10 presents a striking vision of a mighty angel, a small scroll, and the paradox of God's word being both sweet and bitter. The passage reminds us that while the message of Christ and the gospel brings salvation and hope, it also carries judgment and responsibility.
This theme is not unique to Revelation. Throughout Scripture, God's Word is described as both a source of joy and a burden to bear. Today, we will explore how the Word of God and Jesus Himself are both sweet and bitter, and what that means for us as followers of Christ.
The Mighty Angel and the Small Scroll (Revelation 10:1-4)
“I saw still another mighty angel coming down from heaven, clothed with a cloud. And a rainbow was on his head, his face was like the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire.” (Revelation 10:1, NKJV)
This powerful figure in John's vision resembles descriptions of Jesus in Revelation 1:13-16, leading some to believe this angel represents Christ. Whether it is Jesus or a mighty angel carrying His authority, the imagery reminds us that God's power and message come with divine authority.
The small scroll in the angel’s hand holds God’s revelation, just as the Word of God reveals His will to us. But before John can fully understand its contents, he hears a voice saying:
“Seal up the things which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them.” (Revelation 10:4, NKJV)
Not everything is revealed to us immediately. There are mysteries in God’s plan that remain hidden until the right time.
Cross References:
Daniel 12:9 – “Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.”
Deuteronomy 29:29 – “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever.”
Application:God's Word is powerful, but we must accept that He reveals things in His perfect timing. Are we patient enough to trust Him when we don't have all the answers?
The Sworn Oath and God's Plan Unfolding (Revelation 10:5-7)
The angel raises his hand and swears by God that the delay will soon be over. The mysteries of God will be completed when the seventh trumpet sounds.
“But in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.” (Revelation 10:7, NKJV)
This moment reminds us that Jesus Himself spoke of the end times, assuring us that God’s justice will not be delayed forever (Matthew 24:36).
Cross References:
2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
Matthew 24:14 – “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”
Application:God's plan is moving forward, even when it seems delayed. Are we living in expectation, preparing our hearts for the fulfillment of His promises?
III. Eating the Scroll: Sweet and Bitter (Revelation 10:8-11)
John is told to take the scroll and eat it:
“Then I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth. But when I had eaten it, my stomach became bitter.” (Revelation 10:10, NKJV)
This imagery reflects how God's Word is both a delight and a burden.
The Sweetness of God's Word
God's Word brings life, joy, and salvation.
Psalm 119:103 – “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!”
Jeremiah 15:16 – “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart.”
The Bitterness of God's Word
God's Word also brings conviction, judgment, and responsibility.
Ezekiel 2:8–3:3 – The prophet Ezekiel was also told to eat a scroll, and while it was sweet, it carried a message of lament and woe.
Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.”
Application:The gospel is sweet because it offers eternal life, but it is also bitter because it confronts sin, demands repentance, and brings judgment. Are we willing to accept both the joy and the responsibility of God’s Word?
The Call to Proclaim God's Message (Revelation 10:11)
“And he said to me, ‘You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.’” (Revelation 10:11, NKJV)
John is called to proclaim the message of God despite its bitterness. We, too, are called to share the gospel, even when it is difficult.
Cross References:
2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.”
Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
Application:Are we willing to share God's truth, even when it is unpopular? The gospel is sweet, but it also calls people to repentance—a bitter truth many reject.
Conclusion
Revelation 10 teaches us that God's Word and Jesus Himself bring both sweetness and bitterness.
Sweet – The gospel offers salvation, hope, and eternal life.
Bitter – It also brings conviction, judgment, and rejection by the world.
Just as John was called to eat the scroll and proclaim its message, we are called to embrace all of God's truth and boldly share it with the world.
Final Reflection:
Have you tasted the sweetness of God's Word?
Are you prepared for the bitterness that comes with living and sharing the gospel?
Will you boldly proclaim His message, no matter the cost?

Method of Murder – Episode 1: Blood in the Fields

In the debut episode of Method of Murder: A Bible True Crime Podcast, Tim and John take listeners back to the very first recorded murder in human history—the shocking and tragic story of Cain and Abel.
From the fields of ancient Eden to the weight of God’s judgment, this episode explores the jealousy, rage, and ultimate betrayal that led one brother to spill the blood of the other. Tim and John break down the motives behind Cain’s deadly act, God’s warning that went unheeded, and the devastating consequences that followed. Was Cain’s crime a simple act of jealousy, or was there something deeper at play?
Join us as we unravel this ancient true crime story, examining its moral, spiritual, and psychological implications. Because while this tale is thousands of years old, its lessons remain hauntingly relevant today.
Listener discretion is advised.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/coming-after-you