Walnut Grove

Sermon: God’s in His Heaven, All’s Right with the World

Sermon Date: 11/16/2025
Bible Verses:
Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that He pleases.”
Psalm 115:12–18 – The Lord remembers us, blesses us, and His praise endures forever.
1 Chronicles 29:11–12 – “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory… for all that is in heaven and earth is Yours.”
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good.”
Psalm 103 – He rules over all; His steadfast love is from everlasting to everlasting.
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction
A few weeks ago, Sarah and I watched an adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne Shirley series — Anne of Green Gables, Anne of Avonlea, and Anne of the Island. I grew up watching other adaptations, so I was familiar with the story. However, I had never actually read the books themselves. Recently, I decided to change that and read Anne of Green Gables. It only took me a day, but it stayed with me long after I finished.
The book closes with a line that struck me deeply:
“God’s in His heaven, all’s right with the world.”— Robert Browning, Pippa Passes
In Browning’s poem, young Pippa walks through town singing this line, imagining the happiness of others — unaware of the darker realities surrounding her. The phrase, however, carries something profound. For Anne, it expresses a confidence that even in hardship, the world is still good because God reigns.
Some critics have misunderstood the quote, taking it to mean “As long as God stays out of our affairs, everything will be fine.” But that reading misses the point entirely.The truth is this: because God is on His throne, all is right — not because life is easy, but because His rule is sure.
That thought has been turning over in my heart these past few weeks. The more I read Scripture, the more I see it affirmed again and again: God’s sovereignty is not distant; it is deeply involved in the details of our lives.
So today, as we open God’s Word, I want us to hold on to this truth:If God is in His heaven — not absent, but active — then all is right in His kingdom.That doesn’t mean everything feels right. But it means that everything is being made right under His sovereign hand.
God Is Sovereign Over All
Psalm 115:3 – “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that He pleases.”
God’s sovereignty is not passive; it is absolute, active, and intentional. He is not reacting to the chaos of the world — He is reigning over it. He does not need permission to act; He acts according to His perfect will and wisdom.
When the psalmist says, “He does all that He pleases,” it reminds us that God’s desires are always holy and good. What pleases God is never arbitrary or cruel — it’s consistent with His character of love, justice, and truth.
This truth means:
Nothing surprises Him. He’s not caught off guard by history or our personal struggles.
Nothing limits Him. His power is unchallenged by earthly rulers or spiritual forces.
Nothing escapes Him. Even the smallest details of life fall under His watchful care.
We may not understand all His purposes, but we can rest knowing His rule is righteous and His plan is flawless.
Isaiah 46:10: “My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.”Daniel 4:35: “He does according to His will among the host of heaven and the inhabitants of the earth.”
Application:When life feels uncertain, remember that God has never once lost control. The throne of heaven is not vacant — and that truth anchors us when the world around us shakes.
God’s Rule Is Good and Faithful
Psalm 115:12–18 – “The Lord remembers us and will bless us…”
The God who reigns above also remembers those below. His sovereignty is not cold bureaucracy; it’s covenant love in action. He rules the universe, yet He is mindful of His people — caring for the weak, defending the humble, and blessing those who fear Him.
God’s rule is not merely about power; it’s about presence. He is not a distant monarch who governs from afar — He is a faithful Father who blesses from near. His reign is relational, not mechanical.
Notice the repeated pattern in these verses:
“He will bless the house of Israel… He will bless those who fear the Lord.”
“May the Lord cause you to flourish.”
“The dead do not praise the Lord… but we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore.”
God’s faithfulness isn’t seasonal; it is from generation to generation. His promises never expire. His blessings aren’t based on our perfection but on His steadfast covenant.
Lamentations 3:22–23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.”Psalm 100:5: “For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.”
Application:When we doubt God’s goodness, we must look not at our pain, but at His proven history. Every sunrise is a sermon of His faithfulness. Every heartbeat is evidence that His mercy still endures.
God Owns Everything and Shares His Strength
1 Chronicles 29:11–12 – “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory…”
This passage, part of David’s prayer at the dedication of the temple offerings, is a stunning declaration of God’s ownership and majesty. David acknowledges that everything — from the smallest coin to the greatest kingdom — belongs to the Lord.
“Yours is the kingdom… and You are exalted as head above all.”That means God is not merely wealthy in resources — He is the source of all resources. Every good thing flows from His hand. Strength, wisdom, wealth, victory — all come from Him, and all return to Him in glory.
David’s perspective teaches humility: nothing we achieve is truly ours. Every success, every possession, every breath is borrowed grace. But it also teaches peace: if it all belongs to Him, then He can be trusted to provide what we need and sustain what He gives.
James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.”Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it; the world, and all who live in it.”
Application:We find rest when we remember that our lives, our resources, and our future are in His hands. He doesn’t just own everything — He shares His strength with His children.
When we stop trying to control what belongs to Him and start trusting the One who provides, peace replaces striving.
God Works All Things for Good
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Paul doesn’t say some things — he says all things. Every joy, every heartbreak, every detour and delay is somehow woven into God’s redemptive tapestry. Nothing is wasted in His hands.
God’s sovereignty isn’t abstract or theoretical; it’s intimately personal. The same God who governs galaxies also orders your steps. The same One who set the stars in their places orchestrates the details of your life for eternal good.
The verse does not promise that all things are good — some things are deeply painful, unjust, and confusing — but it promises that God can and will bring good out of all things.This is divine alchemy: God turns suffering into strength, testing into testimony, and tragedy into triumph.
This truth doesn’t erase our pain; it redeems it.The “good” Paul speaks of isn’t always our comfort, but our conformity to Christ (Romans 8:29). God’s highest goal isn’t to make us happy — it’s to make us holy, to shape us into the image of His Son.
Genesis 50:20: “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”2 Corinthians 4:17: “This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory.”
When you can’t see the plan, remember that the Planner never fails. When your story feels fragmented, trust that He is still the Author — and He only writes redemptive endings.
Application:We live in a fallen world where not everything feels right, but faith clings to this truth: God’s goodness is never suspended by our circumstances. If you belong to Him, there is no situation He cannot redeem and no season He cannot use for His glory and your good.
God’s Kingdom Rules Over All
Psalm 103:19–22 – “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.”
The psalmist ends this great hymn of praise with a sweeping truth: God’s kingdom extends everywhere and over everything. His rule is not regional or temporary — it’s cosmic and eternal.No force in heaven or on earth can rival or overthrow Him. His throne is established, unshakable, and everlasting.
God’s kingdom is not limited to heaven; it is active on earth through His people. Where His will is done, His kingdom is at work (Matthew 6:10). His rule is marked not by tyranny but by truth, not by domination but by love.
When we remember that, peace replaces panic, and worship replaces worry. Anxiety often grows when we feel like we have to rule our own little kingdoms. But when we realize that He already rules all — we can rest, worship, and obey with confidence.
The presence of chaos in the world does not mean God’s throne has fallen; it means His redemption is still unfolding. His reign ensures that one day justice will roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream (Amos 5:24).
Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations.”Revelation 11:15: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”
Application:When the world feels unstable, remind yourself: the throne of heaven has not shifted one inch. Because He reigns, evil has an expiration date. Because He reigns, hope will outlast sorrow. Because He reigns, all things will one day be made right.
Conclusion
When Browning’s Pippa sings,
“God’s in His heaven, all’s right with the world,”she doesn’t deny the world’s pain — she declares faith in the One who rules over it.
Like Anne Shirley, we too can see beauty through hardship because our God still sits on the throne.The world may not always feel right, but the King still reigns — and His plan still stands.

The Weekly Show - Episode 75: Freedom & Purpose

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on Freedom.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
 Introduction: “Forgiven for a Reason”
Forgiveness was never meant to be the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new one. When Jesus sets you free, He doesn’t just wipe your slate clean; He hands you the pen and says, “Now let’s write something beautiful together.”
Too many believers stop at “I’m forgiven,” but never step into “I’m free.” They live as though they’re still chained to the past—defined by what was done to them or what they’ve done wrong. But forgiveness isn’t just a pardon; it’s a passport. You’ve been released from prison not to wander, but to walk in purpose.
True freedom in Christ isn’t doing whatever you want—it’s finally being able to do what you were created for. It’s the power to say no to sin, yes to righteousness, and amen to God’s calling on your life. And purpose isn’t something you chase out there somewhere; it’s something that flows from who you are in Him.
As Paul wrote in Galatians 5:1,
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
This study is about learning to live unburdened. To trade the guilt that held you down for the grace that lifts you up. To discover that freedom and purpose aren’t two separate journeys—they’re the same road, paved by mercy and walked by faith.
So take a deep breath. The chains are off. Let’s find out what you were made for.
Key Theme One: Freedom Has a Purpose
Galatians 5:1, 13–14
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
1. Freedom Isn’t a Feeling — It’s a Calling
Freedom in Christ isn’t just emotional relief or a moment of peace—it’s a new way of living. Jesus didn’t die so you could feel better; He died so you could live better. Paul reminds the Galatians that freedom isn’t permission to drift, it’s power to stand firm.
Freedom means you are no longer a slave— Not to sin. Not to shame. Not to anyone’s approval but God’s.
Question: What “yokes” do you tend to pick back up after God’s already taken them off your shoulders?
 2. Freedom Without Love Becomes Selfishness
Paul warns: “Do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh.” In other words, don’t confuse freedom with self-centeredness. Real freedom isn’t doing whatever I want—it’s finally being able to do what pleases God.
Freedom in Christ is liberation from self so that we can serve others. Love becomes the natural overflow of a freed heart. When you’ve been forgiven, you don’t hoard grace—you hand it out like candy on Halloween.
Question: How does freedom in Christ change the way you treat difficult people?
3. Freedom Fulfills the Law Through Love
Paul ties freedom and law together in a shocking way—he says the entire law is summed up in one command:
“Love your neighbor as yourself.”
That’s not a soft version of Christianity; it’s the deepest one. Freedom isn’t rebellion against God’s standards—it’s finally alignment with them. When you live free, you live loving. And when you live loving, you live like Jesus.
Reflection Prompt: Write down one way you can use your freedom this week to serve someone else. It doesn’t have to be dramatic—just intentional. Freedom grows when it’s given away.
Key Theme Two: Freedom from Condemnation
Romans 8:1–4
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
1. No Condemnation Means No More Chains
Romans 8 opens with a thunderclap of grace: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
That’s not “less condemnation.” That’s not “temporary parole.” That’s none. Zero.
If you’re in Christ, you are not on trial anymore. God has already rendered the verdict: “Forgiven. Free. Family.”
Yet many believers still live like they’re waiting for the other shoe to drop—haunted by past sins or fearing they’ll lose God’s favor. But when Jesus took your place, He took your sentence. Your case was closed at the cross.
Question: What’s one “old charge” the enemy keeps bringing up that God has already dismissed?
 2. The Spirit Rewrites the Rules
Paul contrasts two laws:
The law of sin and death (what condemns us)
The law of the Spirit of life (what frees us)
The first law says, “Do good or die.” The second says, “You live—so now do good.”
Freedom doesn’t mean the rules disappeared; it means the rules were rewritten inside your heart. The Spirit empowers what the flesh could never accomplish—obedience rooted in love, not fear.
Question: How does living “by the Spirit” change your motivation to do what’s right?
 3. The Cross Condemned Sin, Not You
Look closely—God didn’t condemn you. He condemned sin in the flesh. Jesus took the blow so that you could walk free, not just forgiven but transformed.
Freedom isn’t pretending you’re perfect; it’s walking in the truth that Jesus already paid for your imperfection. You don’t fight for victory—you fight from it.
Reflection Prompt: Write this somewhere you’ll see it daily:
“My freedom was purchased. My past was pardoned. My purpose is possible.”
Then thank God that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in you.
Key Theme Three: Freedom That Lasts
John 8:36
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
1. Freedom Isn’t Earned — It’s Given
The crowd Jesus spoke to already thought they were free. They said, “We’ve never been slaves to anyone!” (John 8:33) — which is ironic, given their history. But Jesus wasn’t talking about political or social freedom. He was talking about spiritual captivity—the kind you can’t escape through effort, wealth, or self-help.
Freedom doesn’t start with your willpower; it starts with His power. You don’t work your way to freedom; you wake up to it. The Son doesn’t just unlock the door—He carries you out of the cell Himself.
Question: What false kind of “freedom” do people chase today that still leaves them in chains?
2. Free Indeed — Not Halfway, Not Someday
Jesus doesn’t do partial freedom. He doesn’t loosen the chains just enough for you to move around. He breaks them.
“Free indeed” means completely, permanently, unmistakably free. No strings. No probation. No return policy.
Sin may still tempt you, but it no longer owns you. The voice of shame may still whisper, but it no longer defines you.
Question: When you struggle or fall, what would it look like to respond as someone who’s still free—not condemned?
3. Freedom Is Found in Relationship, Not Rebellion
The world says, “Freedom is doing what I want.” Jesus says, “Freedom is belonging to Me.”
The more you surrender, the freer you become. That’s the paradox of grace— True liberty is found not in independence from God, but in dependence on Him.
When your heart is tethered to Christ, sin loses its grip, fear loses its voice, and the future loses its threat. That’s not just freedom—that’s peace.
Reflection Prompt: Write this truth where you’ll see it often:
“Freedom isn’t the absence of limits—it’s the presence of Jesus.”
Then take five minutes to thank God for one specific way He’s set you free—spiritually, emotionally, or relationally.
Conclusion: Walking in the Freedom You’ve Been Given
Freedom in Christ isn’t a theory to memorize; it’s a reality to live. Galatians told us why we’re free — because Christ broke the yoke. Romans showed us what we’re free from — guilt, shame, and condemnation. And John reminded us Who made it possible — the Son who frees us indeed.
But here’s the truth most believers miss: Freedom isn’t the absence of rules — it’s the presence of purpose. It’s not permission to do whatever you please; it’s the power to finally do what pleases God.
You are not who you were. You are not bound by what broke you. You are not defined by what you did — or what was done to you. The cross didn’t just set you free from something; it set you free for something.
Now you are free to forgive. Free to love. Free to serve. Free to walk boldly in the purpose God handcrafted for your life.
Don’t go back to old chains just because they feel familiar. Don’t keep checking if the door is locked when Jesus already blew it off the hinges. Stand firm in grace. Breathe deep in mercy. And move forward in purpose.
Because if the Son has set you free — you are free indeed.

Sermon: The Cross-Shaped Path

Sermon Date: 11/02/2025
Bible Verses:
1 Corinthians 4:6-13
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction: The Cross-Shaped Life
We live in a culture driven by appearance, platform, and performance.Success is measured by likes, followers, resumes, and the ability to impress. Even within the church, there’s a subtle temptation to chase recognition, elevate certain leaders, and draw lines between “those who have it” and “those who don’t.”
Corinth was no different.
The church there had become entangled in spiritual pride—dividing over favorite preachers, boasting in their wisdom, and acting as though they had arrived. Some claimed superiority because of who baptized them. Others looked down on fellow believers who didn’t fit their mold of “spiritual success.” The result was a fractured, puffed-up church obsessed with human labels instead of godly humility.
So Paul writes not just to correct their view of leadership—but to reframe their understanding of the Christian life altogether.
In 1 Corinthians 4:6–13, Paul contrasts the self-exalting, worldly version of Christianity with the cross-shaped path of true discipleship. He exposes the difference between empty pride and humble faithfulness. He reminds them—and us—that to follow Christ means choosing the path of sacrifice, not applause.
This isn’t a call to be admired.It’s a call to carry a cross.
Let’s walk through this together.
Don’t Go Beyond What Is Written (v. 6)
“…that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other.”
Paul begins his correction by calling the Corinthians back to Scripture.They had started drawing their own lines, playing favorites, and making judgments based not on God’s truth—but on personal opinions, appearances, and pride.
Paul says, “Don’t go beyond what is written.”In other words, don’t elevate manmade preferences over the Word of God.Don’t make your favorite preacher the standard.Don’t build your identity on your spiritual performance.Don’t twist the gospel to support your ego.
God’s Word—not charisma, not giftedness, not influence—is the measuring line.
The Corinthians had gone beyond it.They were using human wisdom to judge spiritual matters.And it was puffing them up instead of building them up.
Key Point:The Word of God is our guardrail.It protects us from pride and keeps us rooted in truth.
The moment we go beyond it—adding to it, twisting it, or ignoring it—we fall into the same trap as Corinth: making ourselves the standard.
Cross-References:
Deuteronomy 4:2 — “You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it…”
2 Timothy 3:16–17 — “All Scripture is breathed out by God… that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
These verses remind us that the Bible is not just advice—it’s authority.It is not a suggestion—it is sufficient.
Application:
Evaluate your life by what is written—not by what is trending.Test your values, opinions, and attitudes by Scripture—not by applause or ego.
Ask yourself:
Do I admire people more for their platform or their faithfulness?
Am I more concerned with how I look to others than how I stand before God?
Have I added my own ideas to what God has said?
We are not called to build our own kingdom—but to follow God’s Word, even when it humbles us.
Let the Scriptures correct you, confront you, and conform you to the image of Christ.
Pride Distorts Our Perspective (v. 7)
“For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?”
Paul doesn’t just warn the Corinthians about going beyond Scripture—he goes straight to the root issue: pride.
They were acting like their gifts, positions, and spiritual insights were things they earned. They were dividing from others based on the illusion of superiority.
Paul reminds them with three piercing questions:
Who makes you different?
What do you have that wasn’t given to you?
If it was given, why are you boasting as if it wasn’t?
Here’s the truth:Everything you have is a gift from God—your salvation, your talents, your opportunities, your breath. Nothing about the Christian life is self-made.
So where does boasting belong?Nowhere.
Key Point:Grace destroys boasting.When you realize everything you are is by grace, all you can do is worship—not brag.
Cross-References:
Proverbs 16:18 — “Pride goes before destruction…”
Jeremiah 9:23–24 — “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom… but let him who boasts boast in this: that he understands and knows Me.”
Romans 12:3 — “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…”
Application:
Think about your attitude when someone else succeeds…Think about how you respond when someone challenges your ideas…Think about how you view people with less talent, status, or knowledge…
Is there any part of you that silently says, “I deserve this… I earned this…”
If so, you’ve forgotten grace.
Let gratitude replace ego. Let humility replace comparison.
The Cross-Shaped Life Does Not Impress the World (vv. 8–10)
“You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign…”
Paul uses sharp irony here.The Corinthians were acting as if they had already arrived spiritually—like reigning kings—while Paul and the apostles were suffering like fools.
They lived as if Christian life meant comfort, applause, and status.Paul reminds them: that’s not the way of the cross.
He says:
We are fools for Christ’s sake
We are weak, but you are strong
You are honored, we are despised
This wasn’t self-pity—it was a reality check.
The Christian life is not a path of worldly glory. It's a path of sacrifice, service, and sometimes suffering.
Key Point:If your Christianity costs you nothing, it may mean nothing.
Paul isn't saying every believer must live in misery. Rather, he’s saying:Faithfulness to Jesus will often make you look foolish in the eyes of the world.
Cross-References:
Matthew 16:24 — “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross…”
Philippians 1:29 — “To you it has been granted… to suffer for Christ’s sake.”
2 Timothy 3:12 — “All who desire to live godly… will suffer persecution.”
Application:
Ask yourself:Is my faith too comfortable?Does my life make sense to unbelievers?Am I more concerned with fitting in than standing out for Christ?
If your life feels crossless, you may not be carrying one.
We Labor with Love, Even When We Are Treated Like Nothing (vv. 11–13)
“To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed… being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat…”
Paul shows what a faithful servant of Christ really looks like.
He isn’t living in luxury.He isn’t treated like a celebrity.He isn’t celebrated by culture or even always by the church.
He is hungry, mistreated, mocked, persecuted—and yet, he keeps serving with grace.
“Being reviled, we bless.”“Being persecuted, we endure.”“Being defamed, we plead.”
This is not weakness. This is strength under the Spirit’s control.
He even says:“We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things.”
That’s how the world views true followers of Jesus—like garbage.
And Paul says:We keep going. We labor on.
Key Point:The measure of your ministry is not how you are treated—but how you respond.
Cross-References:
Matthew 5:11–12 — “Blessed are you when men revile you…”
1 Peter 2:23 — “When He was reviled, He did not revile in return…”
2 Corinthians 6:4–10 — “As unknown, and yet well known… as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing…”
Application:
Are you willing to be overlooked if Christ is honored?Are you willing to bless those who insult you?Will you keep serving even when no one applauds?
This is not the Christianity of comfort—this is the Christianity of Christ.
Conclusion: The Cross-Shaped Life
The Corinthian church had gotten it backwards.
They confused status with spirituality, eloquence with authority, and comfort with calling.
Paul’s words cut through the noise—not with condemnation, but with clarity:
Don’t go beyond what is written.
Remember: Everything you have is a gift.
Stop living for admiration. Start living for Jesus.
Embrace the cross—even if it costs you.
This is not the path of the spotlight. It’s the path of the Savior.
In a world obsessed with status, God calls us to servanthood.In a culture addicted to admiration, Christ calls us to humility.And in a church tempted to follow charisma, Paul reminds us to follow the cross.
So… what are you chasing?
Applause—or obedience?
Recognition—or surrender?
A platform—or a towel and basin?
God is not impressed by outward success. He’s drawn to humble hearts that say,“Jesus, I’ll follow You—even when it hurts.”

The Weekly Show - Episode 74: Forgiveness

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on  Forgiveness.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Introduction: The Gift We Struggle to Give
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful and necessary acts in the Christian life—and one of the hardest. It is a gift we desperately long to receive but often struggle to offer.
We come before God, acknowledging our failures and asking for mercy. We plead for grace, hoping He will cover the stains of our mistakes and restore us to right relationship with Him. The relief, the peace, the freedom that comes from knowing we are forgiven is profound—a quiet joy that settles deep in the soul.
Yet, when the roles are reversed and we are asked to extend that same mercy to someone who has hurt us, betrayed us, or wronged us, our hearts often resist. Anger simmers, pride whispers that justice must be served, and bitterness takes root like a stubborn weed. The wound feels too deep, the betrayal too great, and our natural instinct is to hold tight—to protect ourselves from further pain. Forgiveness can seem impossible.
And yet, Scripture leaves no room for compromise: forgiveness is not optional. It is essential. Jesus doesn’t say we may forgive—He commands us to forgive, as God forgives us. Forgiveness is not simply a suggestion or an ideal; it is a reflection of God’s character and a pathway to freedom. To withhold it is to remain chained to our own hurt, anger, and resentment.
This study invites us to explore what God says about forgiveness—how we receive it, how we extend it, and how it transforms us from the inside out. We will confront the barriers that keep us from releasing others, wrestle with the raw emotions that make forgiveness feel impossible, and discover the deep, liberating truth that forgiveness is not just about releasing the other person—it is about freeing our own hearts.
Through Scripture, practical examples, and reflective exercises, we will learn that forgiveness is more than a moral duty. It is a gift we give, a choice that mirrors God’s mercy, and a spiritual power that changes everything—from our relationships to our peace of mind, from our hearts to our very souls.
In the pages ahead, we will wrestle with the hard questions, confront the painful realities, and open ourselves to the miraculous work God wants to do in us—and through us—when we choose to forgive.
1. Forgiveness Starts with God – 1 John 1:9
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Before we can forgive others, we must first understand and receive the forgiveness of God. This is the foundation of the Christian life. God’s forgiveness is not earned by good behavior, clever arguments, or moral effort—it rests entirely on His faithfulness and justice. Christ has already paid the penalty for our sins, and God’s mercy is freely available to all who come to Him in genuine repentance.
Key Truths:
Forgiveness is freely offered to the repentant. We do not bargain, manipulate, or prove our worthiness. God’s forgiveness is a gift, ready for anyone who humbly acknowledges their need
Psalm 103:12 - “As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.”
Isaiah 1:18 - “Come now, let us reason[a] together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.”
God does not hesitate—He is ready to cleanse. The moment we confess, God acts. There is no delay, no holding back; His mercy meets us where we are
Psalm 34:18 - “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
Proverbs 28:13 - “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”
This is not just pardon; it is purification. Forgiveness isn’t merely God saying, “I’ll overlook that.” It is a complete cleansing from the guilt and stain of sin, restoring us to wholeness
Hebrews 10:17 - “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”
Acts 3:19 - “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out”
Application:
Ask yourself honestly: have you truly received God’s forgiveness, or are you still carrying shame and self-condemnation? Sometimes we try to forgive ourselves in our own strength before God’s grace has fully taken root (
Romans 8:1- “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 32:5 - “I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.”
Confession is not about groveling in fear—it is about returning to a faithful God who welcomes, restores, and transforms us. When we admit our failures, we open the door for God to wash away the guilt, reset our hearts, and prepare us to extend forgiveness to others.
Remember: we cannot give what we have not received. To forgive like Christ, we must first let God’s forgiveness wash over our own hearts. Only then can we reflect His mercy in our relationships with others.
2. Forgive Others—or Forfeit Forgiveness – Matthew 6:14–15
"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
This passage is not a threat—it is a mirror. Jesus shows us that our willingness to forgive others reflects whether we truly understand and have received God’s grace ourselves. Forgiveness is not optional; it is the visible fruit of God’s mercy working in our hearts.
Key Truths:
Unforgiveness hardens the heart and blocks spiritual growth. Holding onto grudges and resentment creates bitterness that can poison our prayer life, distort our view of God, and prevent us from walking in freedom
Hebrews 12:15 – “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble.”
Forgiveness is not excusing sin—it’s releasing the debt to God’s justice. Forgiving does not mean we ignore wrongdoing or pretend the offense didn’t happen. Instead, we entrust the situation to God, who alone judges rightly 
Romans 12:19 - “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
Luke 17:3-4 - “Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, 4 and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”
God takes our relationships seriously. Our fellowship with Him is inseparable from how we relate to others. Harboring anger or refusing to forgive is ultimately a barrier between us and God (
Mark 11:25 - “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
Application:
Ask yourself: Is there someone you’re refusing to forgive? Name it honestly before God.
Reflect: How can I withhold what I have been freely given? God’s forgiveness is lavish, undeserved, and complete—yet He asks us to reflect that same mercy toward others.
Take action: Prayerfully release the debt to God. Begin small if necessary—sometimes forgiveness is a process, not a single moment. Write a letter, pray for the person, or speak a word of release aloud. Every step aligns your heart with God’s grace.
Reflection: Forgiveness is a reflection of God’s heart. When we withhold it, we imprison ourselves. When we release it, we mirror His mercy, restore relationships, and open our hearts to spiritual freedom.
3. Forgiveness Is Kind – Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Kindness and forgiveness are inseparable—they are sisters in the family of God’s grace. To forgive is to choose tenderness over retaliation, to extend grace instead of insisting on strict justice. It is an act of the heart that mirrors God’s own mercy toward us.
Key Truths:
The model is not our standard—it’s Christ’s forgiveness of us. We often measure forgiveness by our feelings or the offense’s severity. God calls us to model our forgiveness after the limitless mercy He has shown through Christ
Matthew 18:21-35 - “Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times. 23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants.[b] 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents.[c] 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant[d] fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii,[e] and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers,[f] until he should pay all his debt. 35 So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting—it means releasing. Letting go of resentment and surrendering the debt to God does not erase the memory of the wrong—it frees us from carrying the burden of anger and bitterness.
It requires heart-softening humility. True forgiveness is impossible without humility, acknowledging that we too have fallen short and stand in need of mercy.
Philippians 2:3-4 - “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others”
James 4:6 - “But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Application:
Ask yourself: Are you cultivating kindness toward those who’ve wronged you? Often, forgiveness begins with small acts of compassion—words, gestures, or prayers of goodwill—before the full release of the heart follows.
Remember: forgiveness grows in soil tilled by kindness. A soft heart nurtures the seeds of mercy, making it possible to extend grace even when emotions resist.
Consider practical steps: pray for the person, speak gentle words, or perform acts of service toward them. Each step aligns your heart with God’s tender, forgiving nature.
Reflection: Forgiveness is not only an act—it is a posture of kindness. When we soften our hearts, release resentment, and choose mercy over retaliation, we reflect Christ’s love in tangible ways. Kindness prepares the ground for forgiveness to grow, transforming our relationships and drawing us closer to God’s heart.
4. Forgiveness Is an Ongoing Commitment – Colossians 3:13
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
The phrase “bear with” implies patience, endurance, and long-term commitment. In life, people will disappoint, hurt, or fail us repeatedly. Forgiveness is not a one-time act—it is a rhythm of grace, a continual choice to release others and extend mercy. Just as God’s forgiveness toward us is ongoing, so must ours toward others be.
Key Truths:
We forgive not because people deserve it, but because we’ve been forgiven. God’s mercy is the model and the motivation for every act of forgiveness.
Real relationships require real grace. Love is sustained not by perfection, but by patience and repeated acts of forgiveness.
This isn’t weakness—it’s strength in the Spirit. Continually forgiving requires humility, courage, and reliance on God’s power, demonstrating spiritual maturity and resilience
Galatians 5:22-23 - “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
2 Timothy 2:24-26 - “And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.”
Application:
Reflect: Who do you need to forgive… again? Name the person or situation, even if you’ve forgiven them before.
Pray: Ask God to help you release lingering anger, resentment, or bitterness. Forgiveness is as much for your freedom as it is for theirs.
Take action: Small reminders—journaling, prayer lists, or verbal declarations of release—can reinforce your commitment to ongoing forgiveness.
Reflection: Forgiveness is a lifelong practice, not a one-time decision. Each act of releasing others strengthens our hearts, aligns us with God’s Spirit, and allows relationships to flourish under the weight of grace. By forgiving repeatedly, we echo the unending mercy of Christ and cultivate hearts that reflect His love in both small and profound ways.
Conclusion: Set Free to Forgive
Forgiveness is not easy—but it is essential. It is the heartbeat of the gospel, the expression of God’s mercy in our lives, and the pathway to true freedom. Jesus died to set us free from the weight of sin and shame—and He calls us to extend that same freedom to others (Colossians 3:13; Matthew 18:21-22).
When we receive God’s forgiveness, we are transformed from the inside out. The burden of guilt lifts, our hearts are softened, and we gain a deeper understanding of God’s love (1 John 1:9; Psalm 103:12). When we extend forgiveness to others, we participate in the very work of Christ, reflecting His grace in the world and opening the door for healing and restored relationships (Ephesians 4:32; Luke 6:37).
Forgiveness does not require waiting:
Don’t wait for the other person to change. Forgiveness is about your heart, not their behavior.
Don’t wait until it feels easy or right. Obedience often comes before emotion.
Start the process of release. Even a small step—praying for the person, letting go of resentment, speaking a word of reconciliation—sets you on the path of spiritual freedom (Mark 11:25; Romans 12:19).
Reflection Questions:
Have you truly accepted God’s forgiveness for your own sin? (1 John 1:9; Romans 5:1)
Is there someone you are refusing to forgive? (Matthew 6:14-15; Colossians 3:13)
How does unforgiveness affect your prayer life, your emotions, and your spiritual growth? (Mark 11:25; Hebrews 12:15)
What specific step can you take this week to begin healing a broken relationship? (Luke 17:3-4; James 5:16)
Closing Thought: Forgiveness is not merely a moral duty—it is a gift and a discipline that transforms both the giver and the receiver. By choosing to forgive, we release ourselves from the prison of bitterness, step into the freedom Christ offers, and allow God’s grace to flow through us. The journey may be hard, but the freedom and peace it brings are eternal.

Sermon: Mind of Christ - True Wisdom from the Spirit

Sermon Date: 11/02/2025
Bible Verses:
1 Corinthians 2:6–16
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction: Hidden Wisdom
We live in an age of unparalleled access to knowledge.
With just a few taps on a screen, you can look up any fact, stream lectures from Ivy League professors, learn a new skill, or analyze world events in real time. Our generation has more data than ever before—but somehow, still feels lost.
Despite all the education, information, and innovation, people still ask the most basic and eternal questions:
What’s the point of my life?
Why is the world the way it is?
What happens when I die?
How do I know what’s true?
It’s proof that information does not equal wisdom.And just because you’re smart doesn’t mean you’re right with God.
Paul writes 1 Corinthians to a church in Corinth—a city that was obsessed with knowledge, rhetoric, philosophy, and status. To them, eloquence was power. Education was everything. Sound familiar?
But Paul doesn’t try to outwit them with higher philosophy. Instead, he points to something deeper, older, truer.
“We do speak wisdom... but not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.” (1 Corinthians 2:6)
He’s saying:There is a wisdom that this world can’t see.There is a truth that isn’t found in books or scrolls, but only in the Spirit.There is a mind available to those in Christ—a mind the world cannot comprehend.
And that’s what we’re unpacking today.
What is this hidden wisdom?Why can’t the world see it?How does the Spirit reveal it?And what does it mean that we have the mind of Christ?
If you’re tired of shallow answers, surface-level religion, and worldly confusion—this passage invites you deeper.Not into speculation or philosophy—but into revelation.
Let’s dive in.
God’s Wisdom Is Not of This World (vv. 6–8)
“Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature—but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.”(1 Corinthians 2:6)
Paul is making a bold distinction: There is wisdom in the Christian faith, but it isn’t the kind the world praises.
It doesn’t appeal to pride.It doesn’t feed the ego.It doesn’t promise comfort or applause.
It’s a crucified King.It’s a blood-stained cross.It’s love that looks like surrender… and a victory that came through death.
The rulers of this age couldn’t see it—so they crucified the Lord of Glory (v. 8).To them, the cross looked like failure.But to us who believe, it is “the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24).
Cross-reference:
Isaiah 55:8–9 –“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
💭 Key Thought:
If your life makes perfect sense to the world, you might not be living by God’s wisdom.
When you walk in the wisdom of God, people might call you foolish:Why forgive when it hurts?Why stay when it’s hard?Why give away when you could hold on?Why live for eternity instead of this moment?
Because you’re living for a kingdom they can’t yet see.
Application:Don’t be surprised when the world doesn’t understand your faith.Be faithful anyway.We’re not here to impress the world—we’re here to obey the wisdom of Heaven.
God’s Wisdom Is Revealed by the Spirit (vv. 9–13)
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit.”(vv. 9–10)
These verses are not just about heaven—Paul is talking about wisdom and understanding that is unseen by the world, but revealed to the believer through the Spirit.
You don’t stumble into God’s truth by accident.You don’t reason your way to salvation.You don’t earn revelation with IQ or education.
It’s revealed.It’s a gift.It’s Spirit-given.
Paul gives us three essential truths about the Spirit’s role in wisdom:
🔹 1. The Spirit Searches All Things (v. 10)
“For the Spirit searches all things—yes, the deep things of God.”
There are depths in God that human minds can’t fathom—but the Spirit searches them.
Do you want to grow in wisdom, depth, discernment?You need more than study. You need the Spirit.
🔹 2. The Spirit Knows God Fully (v. 11)
“No one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.”
Just like only you know your deepest thoughts, only God’s Spirit knows His—and He shares them with us.
This isn’t surface-level religion. This is intimate knowing.And that’s what the Holy Spirit invites you into.
🔹 3. The Spirit Teaches Us Spiritual Truth (v. 13)
“These things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit…”
There is a language of Heaven.There is a discernment that comes not by debate, but by revelation.There are things only the Spirit can make you understand.
Cross-reference:
John 14:26 –“The Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
Romans 8:16 –“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.”
Application:
Don’t settle for a shallow, cultural version of Christianity.
You weren’t saved just to attend church—you were saved to walk with the Spirit.
Ask Him to:
Reveal what you can’t see on your own.
Teach you what your soul longs to understand.
Grow you into the mind of Christ.
The Natural Man Cannot Grasp Spiritual Truth (v. 14)
“But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”(1 Corinthians 2:14)
Paul delivers a sobering truth here: Without the Holy Spirit, a person simply cannot understand the things of God.
It’s not that spiritual truth is too complicated—it’s that it’s incomprehensible to the flesh.
The message of the cross? Foolishness.
Sacrificial love? Nonsense.
A Savior dying for His enemies? Utterly irrational.
Without spiritual birth, we are blind to spiritual beauty.Without the Spirit, God’s Word sounds like gibberish—because it’s not naturally understood, but spiritually discerned.
Warning:
You can sit in church your entire life.You can know every Bible story, recite every verse from memory…And still be spiritually dead—if the Spirit hasn’t made you alive.
Cross-reference:
John 3:3 –“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
Romans 8:7 –“The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God…”
Application:
Before you ask, “Why don’t they get it?”Ask, “Have they been born again?”
This truth should humble us—and stir us to pray for spiritual awakening in the hearts of others.Because the greatest barrier to salvation isn’t ignorance—it’s spiritual blindness.
But We Have the Mind of Christ (vv. 15–16)
“But he who is spiritual judges all things… For ‘who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?’ But we have the mind of Christ.”(1 Corinthians 2:15–16)
This is breathtaking.
Paul says: We have been given the mind of Christ.
Not because we’re smarter.Not because we’ve earned insight.But because the Spirit of Christ now lives in us.
Through Him, we:
Begin to value what Jesus values
Think how Jesus thinks
See the world through a kingdom lens
You don’t have to drift through life guessing what matters.You can walk in the wisdom of Heaven.
Cross-reference:
Philippians 2:5 –“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus…”
Romans 12:2 –“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”
This doesn’t mean we’re perfect or omniscient.It means we are being shaped—day by day—into the heart and mindset of Jesus Himself.

The Weekly Show - Episode 73: Light and Darkness

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on Light and Darkness.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Introduction: Light in the Darkness
Theme Verse:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
Every generation faces darkness. Sometimes it’s the kind you see on the news—war, corruption, confusion. Other times, it’s the quiet kind—fear, loneliness, temptation, doubt. But darkness doesn’t get the last word. It never has.
From the very first words of Genesis to the final vision in Revelation, light has always been God’s answer to chaos. And in Jesus Christ, that light didn’t just appear—it invaded. When the world was at its darkest, God didn’t shout from heaven; He stepped into the night. John says it beautifully:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness can resist the light, but it cannot defeat it. It can whisper lies, but it cannot silence the truth. It can cover, but it cannot conquer.
In this study, we’ll see how Jesus is the Light of the World—the One who reveals, rescues, and restores. And then, we’ll turn to Matthew 5, where Jesus flips the script: He calls us the light of the world. His followers become lanterns—carrying His truth into a world addicted to shadows.
So as you open your Bible and your heart, remember this: You weren’t made to curse the darkness. You were made to shine in it. The darker the night, the brighter your light becomes.
Part I: Jesus, the Light of the World
Key Passages:
John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 9:5 – “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
1. Light That Reveals
When Jesus said, “I am the light of the world,” He wasn’t describing something He does — He was declaring something He is. Light reveals what darkness hides. It shows truth for what it really is. When you walk with Jesus, things that once confused you begin to make sense. You start to see sin for what it costs, grace for what it gives, and yourself for who you are in Him.
The light of Christ doesn’t just expose — it illuminates. He doesn’t reveal your mess to shame you, but to redeem you.
His light doesn’t blind you; it guides you.
Reflection Question: What’s one area of your life where you need God’s light to bring clarity or truth right now?
2. Light That Rescues
In John 9, Jesus healed a man born blind — not just to restore his sight, but to show what divine light does. The world offers spotlights of self-help and false hope, but they burn out fast. Jesus offers something different — a steady, saving light that breaks the darkness of sin and despair.
Light doesn’t run from darkness; it invades it. That’s what the cross did. That’s what grace still does.
The same light that exposes your brokenness is the one that heals it.
Question: What difference does it make to know that Jesus is the light, not just someone who points to it?
3. Light That Remains
Jesus said, “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Then — after His resurrection — He passed that light to His followers. He left, but the light didn’t leave. It lives in us.
The world’s light fades with time, but Christ’s light only shines brighter in the dark. When you feel like the world is getting darker, that’s not proof God has left — it’s proof He’s about to shine through His people.
The darker the world grows, the more distinct His light becomes in you.
Reflection Prompt: Take a quiet moment and ask: “Lord, what are You illuminating in me — not to expose, but to transform?”
Part II: Believers, the Light of the World
Key Passage:
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:14–16
1. Light Has a Purpose
Jesus doesn’t say, “Try to be the light.” He declares, “You are the light.” That’s not a goal—it’s your identity.
If Christ lives in you, then His light isn’t just near you—it shines through you. Every word, every act of kindness, every prayer whispered in secret is a beam cutting through the world’s fog of confusion and despair.
You were never meant to blend in with the darkness. You were designed to disrupt it.
Light doesn’t ask permission to shine—it just does.
Reflection Question: What’s one way you can live so that your presence brings light instead of just noise?
2. Light Costs Something
Candles don’t glow without burning. To shine in a world obsessed with self, you’ll have to surrender some comfort. Loving people who hurt you. Forgiving when no one deserves it. Speaking truth when it’s unpopular.
That’s what real light does—it sacrifices to serve. And when you shine like that, you reflect Jesus more clearly than any sermon could.
Every time you choose grace over bitterness, your flame grows brighter.
Question: When have you felt the cost of shining your light? What did God teach you through it?
3. Light That Points Back to God
The goal isn’t for people to say, “Wow, look at them.” It’s for them to say, “Wow, look at God.” Jesus said, “Let your light shine… that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Our light doesn’t exist to get attention—it exists to give direction. We’re lanterns, not spotlights. The light we carry is borrowed, but it’s still powerful enough to change everything around us.
The greatest compliment a Christian can receive isn’t “You’re amazing.” It’s “You remind me of Jesus.”
Reflection Prompt: Ask yourself this week: Does my light lead people to me—or to Him?
Part III: Lanterns of Truth — Shining in a World of Shadows
Key Passage:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
1. Lanterns Don’t Compete with the Sun — They Shine Where It’s Dark
When Jesus said, “You are the light of the world,” He wasn’t asking for perfection—He was giving direction. You don’t have to outshine the sun; you just have to light your space. A lantern doesn’t light the whole forest, but it’s enough to guide the next step for whoever’s walking beside you.
You don’t have to be brilliant—just faithful.
Sometimes the smallest acts of obedience glow the brightest: a kind word when the world’s cruel, a prayer whispered for someone who’d never ask, a refusal to let cynicism harden your heart.
Reflection Question: Where has God placed you to shine right now—home, school, church, or community?
2. The World Loves the Glow but Fears the Source
Let’s be honest—the world is fascinated by light, but allergic to truth. It loves inspiration without repentance, positivity without conviction, glow without flame. But Jesus calls His people to be more than ambiance—we are lanterns of truth.
Lanterns don’t just make people comfortable; they help them find the way. That means sometimes your light will expose what others want hidden—and that’s okay. Truth that never challenges darkness isn’t light—it’s a night-light.
The gospel’s light doesn’t just comfort; it transforms.
Question: What’s one way you can speak truth in love this season—without dimming your light to stay liked?
3. Keep the Flame Fed
No lantern burns long on an empty tank. The glow that shines outward depends on the oil that fills within. Stay close to the Source—time in prayer, time in Scripture, time in worship.
Let Jesus refill what the world drains. Don’t let busyness, bitterness, or burnout snuff out your flame.
The world doesn’t need perfect Christians. It needs consistent ones.
Reflection Prompt: What practices (spiritual “refuels”) keep your light burning brightest? Write one you’ll commit to this week.
 Conclusion: Shine Anyway
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
Darkness is loud. It fills headlines, dominates conversations, and creeps quietly into hearts that have forgotten how to hope. It mocks faith, twists truth, and tries to convince you that shining doesn’t matter anymore — that one small light can’t possibly make a difference.
But it’s wrong.
Because light doesn’t argue with darkness. It simply shines — and darkness loses by default.
When Jesus said, “I am the light of the world,” He didn’t just describe Himself; He defined your mission. When He ascended, He handed you the torch and said, “Now you are the light of the world.” That means your life, no matter how ordinary it feels, is part of God’s plan to push back the shadows.
1. Shine When It’s Uncomfortable
You won’t always feel like glowing. Some days, it will be easier to blend in than to stand out, to stay quiet rather than speak truth, to scroll rather than pray. But light wasn’t made to hide — it was made to reveal.
When you choose kindness in a culture that rewards cruelty, when you forgive instead of getting even, when you tell the truth even if it costs you — that’s light breaking through. That’s Jesus shining in you.
The world doesn’t need a perfect you; it needs a lit-up you.
2. Shine When It’s Lonely
Lanterns don’t compare brightness — they cooperate. One candle in the dark can seem small, but together they drive back the night. The enemy loves to isolate believers because he knows that scattered flames burn out faster. Stay close to your church family, your friends of faith, your community of light.
You’re not meant to carry your flame alone. When we walk together, our combined glow can turn a fearful world into a field of hope.
Even the smallest light becomes powerful when it burns beside others.
3. Shine Because You’ve Been Shined Upon
We shine not to prove ourselves, but to point to Someone greater. You’re not the source — you’re the reflection. Everything bright in you comes from the One who lit your soul in the first place. So don’t shine to be seen. Shine so He will be.
When people see peace that shouldn’t exist, joy that makes no sense, or forgiveness that defies logic — they’re seeing Him. They’re seeing the Light of the World through you.
The most powerful sermon you’ll ever preach might just be your attitude when life gets dark.
4. Shine Anyway
Maybe you’re tired. Maybe the darkness feels heavier than usual. Maybe the news is grim, your prayers feel unanswered, or your faith flickers in the wind. Shine anyway.
Because your light isn’t fueled by circumstances — it’s fueled by Christ. The same God who said “Let there be light” still speaks those words over your life. And every time you say yes to Him, another shadow loses its grip.
Darkness doesn’t win when it’s loud — it loses when you shine.
So light your lamp. Hold it high. And when the night feels endless, remember this: you are proof that the darkness hasn’t won — because you’re still glowing.
The world doesn’t need more noise. It needs more light. So go out there… and shine anyway.

Devotion: Walk in Wisdom

Sermon Date: 10/26/2025
Bible Verses:
Ephesians 5:15–21
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction:
Wisdom isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you walk.
In Ephesians 5, Paul gives us a roadmap for living wisely in a world that is anything but. He’s not talking about academic smarts or clever strategies. He’s calling believers to a lifestyle shaped by spiritual clarity, urgency, humility, and joy.
The command is clear: Pay attention. Be intentional. Walk wisely.Because wisdom is not automatic. It’s a daily choice.
1. Walk Carefully – Not Carelessly (v. 15)
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise.”
Paul is saying: Don’t just drift. Don’t just go with the flow.Wise walking requires watching. Pay attention to your habits, your priorities, your direction.
Proverbs 4:26 — “Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure.”
Application: Ask yourself—Am I walking intentionally with God today, or just coasting?
2. Make the Most of the Time (v. 16)
“Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”
Time is a precious gift, and we’re called to redeem it.That doesn’t mean filling our schedules to the brim—it means living purposefully.
Colossians 4:5 — “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.”
Application: We can’t control the evil around us—but we can control how we live in the midst of it.
3. Know God’s Will, Don’t Assume It (v. 17)
“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
Wisdom isn’t guessing what God wants—it’s seeking to know Him deeply so His will becomes clear.
Romans 12:2 — “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God…”
Application: You don’t discover God’s will by accident. You grow into it by walking with Him daily.
4. Be Filled with the Spirit, Not the World (v. 18)
“Do not get drunk with wine... but be filled with the Spirit.”
The world offers empty highs. The Spirit offers lasting fullness.
Being filled with the Spirit isn’t just an emotional moment—it’s a continual surrender and renewal.
Galatians 5:16 — “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Application: What are you letting influence and fill your heart right now?
5. Let Worship Be Your Atmosphere (vv. 19–21)
“Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs…”
When we are filled with the Spirit, our relationships shift.Joy becomes contagious. Gratitude becomes a habit. Unity becomes a goal.
Psalm 100:2 — “Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!”
Application: Your life is a song—what kind of melody are you singing to the world?
Reflection Questions:
Am I walking carefully or carelessly right now?
What area of my life needs more wisdom and less impulse?
Am I using my time for eternal things—or just urgent things?
What’s filling me: the world’s noise or the Spirit’s voice?

The Weekly Show - Episode 72: Suit Up - Prepared for Spiritual Battle

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on why we Should Suit UP!
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Introduction: We’re at War—Whether We Know It or Not
The Christian life isn’t a playground—it’s a battlefield.
When the Apostle Paul writes his final words to the church in Ephesus, he doesn’t end with a blessing or a benediction. He ends with a battle cry:
“Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God…” (Ephesians 6:10–11)
Why? Because whether we realize it or not, we are at war.
Not with people. Not with politics. Not with culture. But with spiritual forces of evil that war against our souls.
This battle isn’t always obvious—but its impact is real: Temptation creeps in where we’re weakest. Discouragement weighs heavy like armor we didn’t ask to wear. Division slices through churches, families, and friendships. Doubt haunts our minds. Fear paralyzes our actions. Apathy numbs our faith.
And in the middle of it all, we often feel under-equipped—maybe even helpless.
But here’s the good news: God hasn’t left us unarmed.
He has given us everything we need—not in ourselves, but in Him. He offers divine armor: truth that secures us, righteousness that protects us, faith that shields us, and salvation that defines us.
Paul doesn’t call us to fight in our own strength—he calls us to stand firm in the strength of the Lord. To suit up not once, but daily. To recognize the battle—and choose not to be passive participants, but active warriors.
This study explores how to wear the armor of God with confidence and clarity. Not as an abstract metaphor, but as a daily, practical, and spiritual reality. Because the battle is already here—and you were never meant to face it alone.
Key Theme One: We Do Not Wrestle Against Flesh and Blood (vv. 10–12)
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
 A Different Kind of Enemy
Paul wants the church to see clearly: our real enemy isn’t visible. We aren’t in battle with people, institutions, or even circumstances. The true fight is spiritual—against Satan and the organized forces of darkness that operate behind the curtain of everyday life.
It’s not your boss. It’s not your neighbor. It’s not your ex. It’s not even you.
This battle is against rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers—terms Paul uses elsewhere (cf. Ephesians 1:21, Colossians 2:15) to describe layers of demonic influence and spiritual corruption in the world.
What Paul Wants Us to Understand
1. The Battle Is Real
Just because it’s invisible doesn’t mean it’s imaginary. Spiritual warfare is not a metaphor—it’s a daily reality for every believer.
You don’t have to go looking for it—it finds you in your thoughts, your temptations, your relationships, and your distractions. The question is: Are you aware of it?
2. The Enemy Is Deceptive
Satan’s greatest tactic is disguise. He doesn’t come wearing horns—he comes as a voice of reason, a nudge toward compromise, a subtle question like, “Did God really say…?”
He fuels pride in the name of self-esteem, Bitterness in the name of justice, Fear in the name of safety, And disunity in the name of truth.
He doesn’t just want to hurt you—he wants to confuse you, distract you, divide you, and ultimately destroy your witness.
3. We Can’t Win in Our Own Strength
This is not a battle we can fight with good vibes, clever arguments, or strong willpower. Human weapons don’t work in spiritual war.
Our charisma, cleverness, and self-discipline are not enough. We need something supernatural—something only God can provide.
 Application
Stop seeing people as the enemy. That family member, that co-worker, that stranger on the internet—they are not your enemy. When we demonize people, we forget who the real enemy is.
Fight with the right weapons. When you face temptation, conflict, or spiritual dryness—don’t respond with sarcasm, anger, escapism, or self-help. Respond with prayer, truth, and Scripture. Suit up with the armor God provides.
Trust God’s strength. Verse 10 reminds us: “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” You’re not alone. And you’re not unarmed. God’s strength is greater than the enemy’s attack.
Key Theme Two: Take Up the Armor (Ephesians 6:13–17)
13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,
Paul has revealed the nature of our battle: invisible, spiritual, dangerous. Now he gives the solution—not retreat, not panic—but readiness.
We are not sent into battle defenseless. God provides a complete set of spiritual armor—every piece with a purpose. But we must take it up. We must choose to wear it. It’s not automatic. It’s active.
The Purpose of the Armor
The armor of God is not decorative—it’s functional. It’s not for ceremony—it’s for survival. It’s meant to help us stand when everything else is falling. To resist temptation, lies, discouragement, fear, pride, shame, and spiritual attacks.
This is God’s armor, not ours. It carries His strength, not just our effort. It reflects His truth, His righteousness, His salvation, and His Spirit.
The Armor Itself
Paul outlines six specific pieces:
The Belt of Truth Truth holds everything together. Without truth, everything collapses—our morality, our identity, our purpose. We must fasten our lives with God’s truth, not the world’s shifting opinions.
The Breastplate of Righteousness Righteousness protects our heart—the core of who we are. Not our own perfection, but the righteousness of Christ lived out in daily obedience.
The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace We don’t run into battle barefoot. We are grounded, ready, and steady because the gospel gives us peace with God and purpose in this world. This peace makes us mobile—not afraid to go where He sends.
The Shield of Faith Faith extinguishes the flaming arrows of doubt, accusation, fear, and temptation. We don’t need to catch those darts—we block them with trust in God’s promises.
The Helmet of Salvation Salvation protects the mind. When the battle hits your thoughts—condemnation, insecurity, fear—you need the confidence of knowing you are saved, secure, and sealed in Christ.
The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God The only offensive weapon in the list. God’s Word isn’t just for study—it’s for battle. Jesus used it in the wilderness to silence Satan. So must we.
Application
This armor is not metaphorical fluff—it’s a divine necessity. Without it, we’re exposed. With it, we stand firm.
Don’t leave your armor in the corner of your spiritual closet.
Pray it on. Practice it. Live it.
Let God’s truth shape your thinking. Let righteousness guide your actions. Let faith defend your heart. Let salvation renew your mind. Let Scripture empower your words.
Victory is not in having the armor. Victory is in using it.
Key Theme Three: How We Fight (Ephesians 6:18–20)
18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
The Battle Plan: Prayer
After describing the armor of God, Paul shifts the focus—not to swords or strategy, but to prayer.
Why?
Because prayer is how we fight.
Prayer isn’t the post-battle debrief—it’s the battle itself. It’s not optional. It’s not decorative. It’s not something we do when we’re out of options. It is the primary way we engage the spiritual war around us.
Four Ways Paul Describes Our Prayer Life in Battle:
"Praying at all times in the Spirit" This is about consistency and communion. We stay connected to God throughout the day—moment by moment—seeking His strength, wisdom, and presence. It’s not about reciting religious phrases. It’s Spirit-filled, Spirit-guided, real prayer.
"With all prayer and supplication" That means every kind of prayer: Private and public. Short and long. Intercession and thanksgiving. Urgent cries and silent surrender. We use every form of prayer available to us.
"Keep alert with all perseverance" We don’t fall asleep spiritually. We stay watchful, vigilant, ready. The enemy doesn’t rest—so neither can we grow lazy or distracted. Persevering in prayer is often the difference between collapse and standing firm.
"Making supplication for all the saints" This is not a solo fight. We fight for each other—lifting up our brothers and sisters in prayer. Churches that pray together are strengthened together. Soldiers who watch each other’s backs don’t fall easily.
Paul's Personal Request
Paul—this bold apostle, chained for the gospel—ends with a humble plea:
“…pray also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel…”
Even Paul knew that boldness wasn’t automatic. He needed courage, strength, clarity—and he knew it came through prayer.
Application: Prayer is Power
If you try to wear the armor of God without a life of prayer, you’ll end up exhausted and exposed.
Prayer is the fuel for the armor.
It activates the Sword of the Spirit.
It strengthens your faith.
It reminds you of salvation.
It keeps your eyes on truth.
You fight spiritual battles by kneeling first.
Conclusion: Stand Firm, Fight Well
The Christian life is not casual—it’s combat.
Paul ends his letter to the Ephesians not with pleasantries, but with a call to arms. He reminds us that every believer is in a spiritual war—whether we realize it or not. But the good news is this: we are not left defenseless.
We are given everything we need to stand firm:
We recognize the real enemy. It’s not other people. It’s not flesh and blood. Our battle is against spiritual forces that aim to steal, kill, and destroy. (vv. 10–12)
We are equipped with divine armor. Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. These aren’t abstract virtues—they are spiritual weapons for real resistance. (vv. 13–17)
We are empowered by prayer. Without prayer, we’re just well-dressed targets. But with prayer—constant, Spirit-led, alert, and united—we are active soldiers. Prayer keeps our armor strong and our hearts ready. (vv. 18–20)
This passage doesn’t promise the fight will be easy. But it does promise that with God’s strength, we can withstand every scheme of the enemy.
Final Challenge
Are you suiting up daily, or walking into battle unarmed?
Are you praying as you fight, or trying to fight in your own strength?
The enemy may be strong—but God is stronger. You are not alone. You are not unprotected. So—stand your ground. Take up your armor. And fight in the strength of the Lord.