Walnut Grove

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. 

Sermon: The Hope of Emmanuel

Sermon Date: 12/01/2024
Bible Verse: : Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 35:10, Matthew 1:21-23, Matthew 24:30, Revelation 19:11-16
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
"The Hope of Emmanuel – God With Us"
Introduction
The Advent season is a time of anticipation and preparation, marked by the lighting of the Advent candles. Today, we light the Prophecy Candle, also known as the Candle of Hope. This candle reminds us of the promises of God fulfilled in the first coming of Jesus and the hope we have as we await His second coming.
The hymn O Come, O Come Emmanuel echoes this longing for deliverance, celebrating the promise that God is with us. Let us explore the hope we have in Emmanuel, God with us, by looking at His first coming, His presence, and the promise of His return.
 
1. The Hope of the First Coming
Isaiah 7:14 – "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel."Isaiah 35:10 – "And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away."
2. The Hope of Emmanuel (The Meaning)
Matthew 1:21-23 – "And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us.'"
The name Emmanuel carries the profound truth of God’s presence. Jesus was not merely a prophet or teacher; He was God Himself, dwelling among us to reconcile us to Him. His presence offers:
Forgiveness: Jesus came to save us from our sins.
Comfort: God is with us in every circumstance, bringing peace and strength.
Purpose: Emmanuel reminds us that we are never alone; God is actively working in our lives.
3. The Hope of the Second Coming
Matthew 24:30 – "Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory."Revelation 19:11-16 – "Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war... And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS."
Conclusion: Living in Hope
The Prophecy Candle represents the hope of a God who keeps His promises:
The hope of Jesus’ first coming, where He became God with us.
The hope of Emmanuel’s presence in our lives today.
The hope of His second coming, where He will reign forever as King.
As we sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel, let it be a reminder of the hope we have in Christ. This Advent season, may we hold onto this hope and share it with a world that desperately needs to know Him.

Devotion: Thankfulness in Unity

Sermon Date: 11/24/2024
Bible Verse: : Colossians 3:15-17
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Key Passage:Colossians 3:15-17 – “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
Reflection:
Thanksgiving is not merely a seasonal activity but a continuous posture of the heart. In the body of Christ, thanksgiving has a unique role—it unites us, strengthens our faith, and glorifies God.
Thanksgiving Fosters Unity in the Body of Christ
Paul reminds us that we are called to peace as one body. Gratitude helps us focus on God’s blessings rather than our differences.
When we give thanks together, we grow closer, celebrating God’s goodness as a family of believers.
Thanksgiving Strengthens Our Faith
By reflecting on what God has done, we are reminded of His faithfulness in the past and His promises for the future.
Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness encourages us and those around us.
Thanksgiving Glorifies God
When we live with a grateful heart, we reflect God’s goodness to the world.
Every act of gratitude, whether in word or deed, points others to the Lord who is the source of all blessings.
Application:
Cultivate Gratitude Daily: Begin and end your day with thanksgiving to God. Reflect on how He has blessed you and others in the body of Christ.
Encourage One Another: Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness with fellow believers. Gratitude is contagious and inspires others to give thanks.
Practice Thanksgiving in Worship: Use songs, prayers, and Scripture to thank God as a community, reminding one another of His steadfast love and mercy.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, and for calling us into Your family. Help us to live with grateful hearts, united in thanksgiving as the body of Christ. May our gratitude glorify You and encourage others to know Your love and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Sermon: Pray for Unity

Sermon Date: 11/17/2024
Bible Verse: : John 17:15-23, John 15:5, 11-17, Matthew 16:18
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
"Praying for Unity"
Introduction
Unity is a theme woven throughout Jesus’ ministry, and it’s a prayer that echoes in His final hours before the cross. In John 17, Jesus prays not only for His disciples but for all believers—that they may be one, as He and the Father are one. This prayer calls us to pursue a unity that reflects the very nature of God Himself. It’s no easy call; it’s a unity forged in faith, strengthened through love, and aimed at fighting against the Evil One who seeks division. Today, we’ll explore why Jesus prayed this prayer, the impact of unity on the church, and how we can respond to His call by praying and working for unity.
 
Fighting the Evil One (John 17:15-16, Matthew 16:18)
The Specific Prayer (John 17:20-21)
The Reason for the Prayer (John 15:5, 11-17)
We Pray for Unity (John 17:22-23)
For humility, that we see others as Christ sees them.
For love, that we can lay aside grudges, preferences, or pride.
For grace, that we forgive one another and seek reconciliation where there is division.
Conclusion
Jesus’ prayer for unity is not only a model for us; it’s a mission. Unity is the foundation that allows us to stand against the Evil One, it’s the specific prayer Jesus made for us, and it’s essential for our witness to the world. When we are united in love, abiding in Christ, and working together in His mission, we reflect the love of God and the truth of the gospel.
So, let’s take this prayer seriously. Let’s make it a priority to pray for unity, to ask God to guard our church against division, to give us love for one another, and to let our unity be a powerful witness to the world of His transforming love. As we pray for unity, may we see it grow in our hearts, our church, and our community, for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. Amen.

The Weekly Show: Episode 29 - Thanksgiving

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about Thanksgiving.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive (Single Version)
Bing Crosby, The Andrews Sisters
Selections from Irving Berlin's White Christmas
 
Thankful Heart
The Muppet Christmas Carol Directed by Brian Henson Released: 1992/01/01 Starring Frank Oz, Steve Whitmire, Jerry Nelson, Dave Goelz and Michael Caine
 
Bible Study on Thanksgiving
Introduction: Thanksgiving is a central theme in the Bible and an essential practice in the Christian life. Gratitude reflects a heart that recognizes God's goodness and His provision, even in difficult times. This study will explore the biblical foundation of thanksgiving, its importance, and how to cultivate a heart of gratitude.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
1. What is Thanksgiving?
2. Thanksgiving in the Psalms
3. Why We Give Thanks
4. Thanksgiving in the New Testament
5. The Power of Thanksgiving
6. Thanksgiving as a Daily Practice
7. The Role of Thanksgiving in Worship
8. Practical Applications of Thanksgiving
Final Thought:
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday; it is a way of life. When we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we align ourselves with God’s will and experience His peace and contentment. By giving thanks in all circumstances, we honor God, acknowledge His goodness, and invite His presence into our daily lives. Let us practice thanksgiving every day, trusting that God is faithful and worthy of our praise.

Sermon: Praying for Your One

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

The Weekly Show: Episode 28 - Praise

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