Walnut Grove

The Weekly Show: Episode 67 - God’s Will: A Study on Purpose, Sovereignty, and Guidance

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on God's Will.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Recent Events: Charlie Kirk’s Assassiantion (September 10th), Iryna Zarutska’s murder (August 22, 2025, at the East/West Boulevard station on the Lynx Blue Line, in Charlotte, North Carolina). 
Introduction: God’s Will – Purpose, Sovereignty, and Guidance
Few questions stir the heart of a believer more than: “What is God’s will for my life?”
Whether facing a major decision, a painful season, or a new opportunity, we often long for divine clarity. Behind this desire is a deeper question about meaning, direction, and the assurance that we are not wandering aimlessly.
The Bible teaches that God’s will is not random, cruel, or hidden beyond reach. Rather, it is deeply personal and purposeful. Scripture reveals a God who not only governs the universe with sovereign wisdom but also guides His children with intimate care.
Throughout the Bible, we encounter different aspects of God’s will:
His sovereign will – the unstoppable plan He is carrying out in history.
His moral will – the clear commands and values He has revealed in Scripture.
His personal will – how He leads individuals through prayer, counsel, and faith.
This study will explore what the Bible says about God’s will, addressing questions like:
Is there a “perfect” will of God?
Can someone else ruin God’s plan for my life?
How do I know what God wants me to do?
As we walk through key Scriptures, we’ll discover that the will of God is not a code to crack—it’s a relationship to cultivate. God’s will is not merely about making the right choices, but about walking with the right Person.
Let’s begin this journey with open hearts, willing minds, and a desire not just to find God’s will—but to know the God who wills.
Key Theme One: Is There a “Perfect” Will of God?
1. Defining the Term
Many Christians speak of the “perfect will of God” as though it’s a single ideal path for life—one perfect job, one perfect spouse, one perfect location—and anything less is “Plan B.” But the Bible presents a more nuanced view of God’s will.
There are at least three aspects to God’s will in Scripture:
Sovereign Will – God’s ultimate plan that cannot be thwarted. (Isaiah 46:9–10 – “My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.”)
Moral Will – What God has revealed in Scripture about right and wrong. (1 Thessalonians 4:3 – “For this is the will of God, your sanctification...”)
Personal Will – How God leads His people in specific life situations (e.g., marriage, calling, service). (Proverbs 3:5–6 – “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”)
2. Romans 12:1–2 (ESV)
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Paul speaks of God’s will as discernible—not mysterious or unreachable.
God’s will is described as good, acceptable, and perfect—not something to fear but something to embrace.
The key to knowing God’s will is transformation through renewed thinking, not anxiety over getting every decision “right.”
3. God’s “Perfect” Will Is Relational, Not Just Directional
God is more concerned with who you are becoming than where you’re going.
Seeking God’s will is not about guessing a hidden blueprint—it’s about walking with Him daily and trusting Him to lead.
He is faithful to work all things for good even when our steps are imperfect (Romans 8:28).
Key Theme Two: Can Others Mess Up God’s Will for Your Life?
1. Short Answer: No—But They Can Affect Your Journey
People may hurt you. People may betray, delay, or discourage you. But they cannot overturn God’s ultimate plan for your life.
Genesis 50:20 (ESV)
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good…”
Joseph’s brothers tried to destroy his life.
Yet God sovereignly used their sin to position Joseph exactly where he needed to be—to save many lives.
This is not a call to minimize human sin, but to magnify divine sovereignty.
2. Romans 8:28 (ESV)
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
“All things” includes failure, betrayal, delay, and injustice.
God does not cause all things, but He can redeem all things.
3. Human Choices Have Real Consequences
The Bible is full of stories where people's sin affects others—David and Bathsheba, Saul and Jonathan, Judas and the disciples.
Yet even in the midst of human failure, God’s will is not overruled.
He may redirect, redeem, or rebuild, but He does not lose control of the outcome.
Encouragement: No one can ruin your life so badly that God cannot still fulfill His purpose for you. What others intend for harm, God weaves into your destiny.
Key Theme Three: How to Know God’s Will for Your Life
Knowing God’s will is not meant to be a spiritual mystery reserved for the elite—it is an invitation to a relationship of trust and obedience. Scripture gives us a clear path for discerning His will:
1. God’s Will Is First About Who You Are, Then What You Do
Before asking what should I do, Scripture emphasizes who you are becoming.
1 Thessalonians 4:3 (ESV)
“For this is the will of God, your sanctification…”
God's will starts with your character—your growth in holiness, love, humility, and obedience.
The right actions will flow from the right heart.
2. God’s Will Is Revealed in His Word
The Bible is the clearest, most reliable source of God's revealed will.
Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Scripture guides us in decision-making.
God’s moral will is never contrary to Scripture.
3. Prayer and Surrender Are Essential
We discern God’s will by aligning our desires with His through prayer.
Romans 12:1–2 (ESV)
“…be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God…”
A surrendered heart is required to discern God’s leading.
Ask: Am I willing to obey whatever God reveals?
4. The Holy Spirit Guides
The Spirit prompts, convicts, and confirms.
John 16:13 (ESV)
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth…”
He leads through peace, conviction, and clarity—not confusion or fear.
5. Wise Counsel and Community
God often speaks through trusted believers who know Scripture and know you.
Proverbs 15:22 (ESV)
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
Seek godly, mature voices—not just agreeable ones.
Your church family, mentors, and friends are part of God’s guidance system.
6. Circumstances and Open Doors
God often uses opportunities, resources, timing, and outcomes to direct you.
Revelation 3:8 (ESV)
“Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.”
But circumstances alone shouldn’t lead you—confirm them through prayer and Scripture.
In Summary:
To know God’s will:
Grow in Christlike character
Study and obey His Word
Surrender your plans in prayer
Listen for the Spirit’s prompting
Seek wise counsel
Pay attention to how God opens and closes doors
God’s will is not a puzzle—it is a path of daily trust.
Conclusion: Trusting and Walking in God’s Will
The will of God is not a hidden blueprint meant to frustrate or confuse. It is the loving purpose of a Sovereign Father who invites His children to walk with Him daily in trust and obedience.
Yes, God has a perfect will—rooted in His sovereign power, goodness, and eternal plan. He is never surprised, never thwarted, and always working for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
No, others cannot ruin God’s ultimate plan for your life. While people may cause real pain or delay through sin or disobedience (their own or yours), God’s redemptive power can take even broken pieces and weave them into beauty. What others mean for evil, God can use for good (Genesis 50:20).
Yes, you can know God’s will. Not always in full, and rarely all at once—but as you walk closely with Christ, He guides you. The more you seek Him, the more He transforms your heart to desire what He desires.
Knowing God’s will is less about finding “the one perfect path” and more about:
Trusting God’s character,
Obeying His Word,
Becoming more like Jesus,
And following Him step by step.
“The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way.” – Psalm 37:23 (ESV)
Let your pursuit of God’s will lead you deeper into a life of faith, not fear. He is not just interested in getting you to the right destination—He’s walking the journey with you.

Sermon: The Harvet Is Now

Sermon Date: 9/14/2025
Bible Verses:
:John 4:27–38
Matthew 9:36
Ecclesiastes 11:4–6
Matthew 11:28–30
Matthew 10:16–26
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction: “What Do You See?”
This week has reminded us, once again, of the darkness in the world.
War. Injustice. Violence. Division.When we look out at the world, it’s tempting to say:
“It’s too far gone. It’s too broken. What can I do?”
But here’s the question:When Jesus looked at the world, what did He see?
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” – Matthew 9:36
Jesus saw what we see—and more.But instead of despair, He saw opportunity.He saw a harvest.
Jesus Saw the Harvest (John 4:27–38)
Context:Jesus had just finished a conversation that, by all cultural standards, shouldn’t have happened. A Jewish man speaking to a Samaritan woman—let alone a woman with a reputation—was scandalous. But where the world saw an outcast, Jesus saw a witness. Where others saw shame, He saw potential.
The disciples returned and were surprised, perhaps even embarrassed. They were focused on practical concerns: getting food, resting, staying out of trouble.
But Jesus was focused on the eternal mission:
“Lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.” (v. 35)
Jesus saw the unseen.
While others saw obstacles, He saw opportunity.While others were distracted, He was determined.While others worried about lunch, He saw a city ready to meet God.
He knew that hearts were being stirred. The Samaritan woman had already gone back to her village and shared the news:
“Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did.” (v. 29)
This wasn’t just one woman’s transformation—this was about to become a community revival.
Jesus then says:
“One sows and another reaps… I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor.” (vv. 37–38)
He was telling the disciples: Get ready. You’re about to walk into someone else’s planting season. The harvest is here. Don’t miss it.
Key Truth:
Jesus saw brokenness and stepped in, not away.He saw harvest where others saw ruin.
Application Questions:
Do you see the people around you the way Jesus does?
Are your eyes lifted—or are you focused on lunch, comfort, and distraction?
Who in your life looks like a “lost cause” to the world… but is really a harvest waiting to happen?
Sometimes the ones who seem the furthest are actually the closest to belief.But you must lift your eyes.
The Harvest Can’t Wait (Ecclesiastes 11:4–6)
“He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap.” (v. 4)
If you’re waiting for the perfect day to follow God…If you’re waiting for a comfortable time to step into the mission…You’ll never move.
Solomon cuts through our excuses.Just like a farmer who refuses to plant because of the weather forecast, we too can let fear, uncertainty, and inconvenience paralyze us.
“Now’s not a good time.”
“Maybe when I have more money.”
“Once I’ve figured out my own issues.”
“When the culture’s not so hostile.”
But the kingdom of God doesn't wait for clear skies.
“As you do not know the way the spirit comes to the bones in the womb of a woman with child, so you do not know the work of God who makes everything.” (v. 5)
We don’t always understand how God works.We don’t always see the fruit right away.But our job is to sow, not to control outcomes.
“In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand…” (v. 6)
Keep planting. Keep sharing. Keep loving.Because we don’t know which seed will prosper—but God does.
Application:
Stop hesitating.If you’re always “waiting for the right moment,” you’ll never reap a harvest.
The Gospel is not just for “someday”—it’s for today.
Start the conversation.
Send the invitation.
Pray the prayer.
Serve the person.
Speak the truth.
Illustration:
You don’t have to be an expert gardener to plant a seed—you just need to trust that the ground is ready and God will bring the growth.
Challenge Question:
What “clouds” are you watching today that keep you from sowing?
Fear of rejection?
Waiting for approval?
Fear of discomfort?
Don’t let passing clouds steal your eternal harvest.
The Harvest Is Heavy, But Jesus Carries It With Us (Matthew 11:28–30)
Let’s be real: the harvest is not light. The weight of people’s needs, the brokenness of the world, and even our own weaknesses can feel crushing. Some of us know what it’s like to drag ourselves out of bed thinking, “I can’t do this anymore.”
But Jesus doesn’t deny the heaviness—He promises rest in the midst of it. He invites us:“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (v. 28).
Notice what He doesn’t say. He doesn’t say, “When you finally get strong, then come.” He doesn’t say, “When you’ve carried it far enough, then I’ll help.” He says, “Come.” Come tired. Come broken. Come overwhelmed.
Then He adds: “Take my yoke upon you… my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (vv. 29–30). A yoke is still a tool for work—He doesn’t promise escape from the harvest. He promises partnership in it. We don’t labor for Him, like unpaid interns scrambling to impress the Boss. We labor with Him, yoked side-by-side with the Lord of the Harvest.
And when the weight threatens to bury us, we remember: the One pulling with us has already carried a cross heavier than any burden we will ever know.
Application: Don’t mistake exhaustion for failure. Rest isn’t quitting—it’s re-yoking with Jesus. Stop trying to plow the field alone.
The Harvest Is Risky, But Worth It (Matthew 10:16–26)
Jesus doesn’t sell the harvest like a late-night infomercial: “It’ll be fun, easy, and risk-free!” No—He tells the truth: “I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves” (v. 16). The mission is dangerous.
You’ll be opposed (v. 17).
You’ll be hated (v. 22).
You may even be persecuted (v. 23).
This is not a safe calling. Paul echoes it: “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, authorities, cosmic powers of darkness…” (Eph. 6:12).
But here’s the key—Jesus says, “Do not fear” (v. 26). Why? Because the wolves do not have the final word. The truth will be revealed. Justice will roll down. And the God who counts sparrows—those tiny, cheap birds—is the same God who counts every hair on your head (vv. 29–31). You are seen. You are known. You are protected.
Key Point: Risk is real, but so is the reward. Don’t let fear stop your witness. Don’t let hatred extinguish your love. Don’t let evil keep you from shining your light. The harvest is costly—but eternity is worth it.
Conclusion: What Will You See This Week?
When you step into this new week, your eyes will fall on brokenness. You’ll see sin, sorrow, injustice, and pain. The temptation will be to turn away, to keep walking, to say, “That’s too heavy for me.”
But Jesus says: “Lift up your eyes.” (John 4:35)
The harvest is not somewhere far off in the future. It is right in front of you. That neighbor who feels forgotten. That co-worker who hides their hurt behind a smile. That friend who pretends to have it all together. That family member you’ve stopped praying for.
The harvest is now.
So what will you do?
Will you speak truth in love?
Will you offer hope to the weary?
Will you invite the hurting to Jesus?
The field is full, but the laborers are few (Matt. 9:37). The risk is real, the burden is heavy—but remember: you don’t carry it alone. The Lord of the Harvest walks beside you.
This week, may your eyes be open. May your heart be willing. And may your hands be ready for the work of eternal significance.
Because the harvest can’t wait.The harvest is now.

The Weekly Show: Episode 66 - Suffering and the Christian Life

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study Suffering and the Christian Life
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Introduction: Suffering and the Christian Life
Suffering is one of the most difficult realities of human existence. No one is immune—pain, loss, and trials touch every life. For the follower of Christ, the question is not if suffering will come, but how we will respond when it does.
Many ask: Why would a good God allow His people to suffer? Or, What possible purpose could pain serve in the life of a believer? These are not new questions, and Scripture does not shy away from them.
In fact, the Bible presents suffering not as a sign of God’s absence or punishment, but often as a means of grace—a crucible in which our faith is tested, refined, and strengthened. Through suffering, God draws us closer, shapes our character, and prepares us for deeper joy.
In this study, we will explore what the Bible says about suffering—not only to understand it theologically, but to engage with it spiritually and practically. We will look at the joy that can be found in trials (James 1), the character that suffering produces (Romans 5), the restoration that follows hardship (1 Peter 5), and the comfort God gives so we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1).
Above all, we will look to Jesus Christ, who did not avoid suffering but embraced it—for our sake—and now walks with us through every storm.
Suffering is not meaningless. In the hands of God, it becomes a tool of sanctification and a pathway to hope.
1. Joy in Trials – James 1:2–4 (ESV)
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." — James 1:2–4
Key Insight: Joy is Rooted in Perspective, Not Circumstance
James doesn't suggest that trials feel joyful—but he calls us to count them as joy, which means to consider or regard them with a different mindset.
This is a spiritual discipline: choosing to look at trials through the lens of faith, not feelings. We don't rejoice in pain, but in what God does through it.
What Trials Do in the Life of a Believer:
Test the genuineness of our faith Trials reveal what’s really inside us—what we trust, how we respond, what we believe deep down. They refine the soul like fire purifies gold (cf. 1 Peter 1:6–7).
Produce steadfastness The word "steadfastness" (also translated as endurance or perseverance) speaks of a spiritual resilience—not giving up, even when it’s hard. This isn’t about passive survival, but active faith in the middle of hardship.
Lead to maturity and completeness God allows trials not to harm us, but to shape us into Christlikeness—"perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." This is about becoming spiritually whole—growing in grace, patience, humility, and trust.
Practical Takeaways:
Trials are not a sign of God’s disapproval, but often evidence that He is working in us.
Endurance isn’t developed in ease—it’s forged through adversity.
True Christian joy isn’t rooted in the absence of pain, but in the presence of purpose.
God uses trials as tools—not punishments—to complete the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6).
2. Perseverance and Hope – Romans 5:3–5 (ESV)
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” — Romans 5:3–5
Key Insight: Suffering Sets in Motion a Divine Chain Reaction
This passage shows that Christian suffering is never wasted. Paul maps out a powerful spiritual sequence—a divine chain of transformation that suffering initiates:
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
“We rejoice in our sufferings” Again, not because suffering is enjoyable, but because we know what it leads to. Paul, like James, calls believers to a higher spiritual vision.
Suffering → Endurance Trials teach us how to keep going—how to rely on God day by day. This is a muscle of the soul that only grows under pressure.
Endurance → Character Steady perseverance over time shapes who we are. The word “character” here implies tested, proven reliability—someone who has been through the fire and remained faithful.
Character → Hope This is not wishful thinking. Biblical hope is a confident expectation—rooted not in circumstances, but in the faithfulness of God. A person shaped by trial is anchored deeper in eternal hope.
Hope “does not put us to shame” Why? Because it rests not in ourselves, but in God’s love poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. That love is present, active, and personal—a divine assurance that God is with us and for us.
Practical Takeaways:
Don’t shortcut the process. The journey from suffering to hope takes time, but God uses every step.
Character matters. God is more interested in forming who we are than in making life easy.
Hope in Christ will never disappoint. It’s grounded in God’s own love and sealed by His Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is our inner witness. He continually reminds us of God’s love—even when we can’t see it.
3. Restoration After Suffering – 1 Peter 5:10 (ESV)
“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
Key Insight: Suffering Is Temporary, but God’s Restoration Is Eternal
Peter writes to believers undergoing persecution, hardship, and fear. His words offer deep comfort and clear perspective—suffering does not have the final say. God does.
Phrase-by-Phrase Breakdown:
“After you have suffered a little while…” Even if suffering feels endless, in God’s eyes it is “a little while”—brief compared to the weight of eternal glory (cf. 2 Cor. 4:17). Suffering has a limit. God will not allow it to last forever.
“The God of all grace…” This is who God is—not just gracious occasionally, but the source of all grace. His posture toward us in suffering is not condemnation, but compassion.
“Who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ…” God’s calling is unshakable. No suffering can cancel it. Our future is secure: eternal glory with Christ. That’s the destination.
“Will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” Four promises—each deeply personal:
Restore: God repairs what was broken—emotionally, spiritually, even relationally.
Confirm: He reaffirms your identity and calling. Trials don’t remove your worth.
Strengthen: He builds you up from within. Your soul is fortified.
Establish: God plants your feet on solid ground—you won’t be shaken.
Notice: God Himself does this. He doesn’t outsource it to angels or systems. It’s His own hands that heal.
Practical Takeaways:
Don’t believe the lie that God is distant in suffering. He’s the God of all grace, personally involved.
The end of your suffering will be restoration, not ruin. That’s God’s promise.
Let your hope stretch beyond the pain. God has called you to eternal glory—this moment is not your forever.
Hold on to His promises, not your feelings. He will restore.
4. The Example of Christ in Suffering
Key Texts: Isaiah 53; Hebrews 12:2–3; Philippians 2:5–11
Core Idea: Christ’s Suffering Was Intentional, Redemptive, and Exemplary
Jesus didn’t suffer as a victim of fate—He chose the path of suffering in obedience to the Father and out of love for us. His suffering wasn’t just substitutionary—it was also instructive. It shows us how to endure, why to endure, and where suffering ultimately leads.
Isaiah 53 – The Suffering Servant
“He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief…” (Isaiah 53:3) Jesus knew pain intimately—emotional, physical, and spiritual. He was wounded, crushed, chastised, and oppressed—all on behalf of others.
“He was pierced for our transgressions… with his wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5) Christ’s suffering had purpose: the redemption of humanity. His pain was not random—it was sacrificial and healing.
“It was the will of the Lord to crush him…” (Isaiah 53:10) This difficult phrase reminds us that suffering—even crushing suffering—can be part of God’s redemptive plan.
Hebrews 12:2–3 – Enduring for the Joy Set Before Him
“Looking to Jesus… who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross…” Jesus wasn’t blind to His suffering—but He had His eyes fixed on something greater: joy on the other side.
“Consider him who endured… so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” His endurance becomes our inspiration. If He endured the cross for our sake, He can help us endure our trials with purpose and hope.
Philippians 2:5–11 – Humility, Obedience, Exaltation
“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death…” Christ's suffering was voluntary and obedient—He lowered Himself for love’s sake.
“Therefore God has highly exalted him…” His suffering didn’t end in defeat. It ended in glory. The cross led to the crown. His path becomes the pattern for our own lives.
Application & Reflection:
Suffering can serve a greater purpose. Jesus shows that pain can lead to redemption, transformation, and resurrection.
Christ’s suffering gives dignity to our own. He does not ask us to endure anything He hasn’t already endured.
When we suffer, we follow in His footsteps. He walks with us. He strengthens us. He sets the example we follow.
Practical Takeaway:
When life feels unbearable, look to the Cross. Not just to be saved, but to understand that suffering can hold eternal weight. Christ's suffering wasn't wasted—and neither will yours be, if it's entrusted to God.
5. Coping with Suffering – Faith and Community
Key Scriptures: Galatians 6:2; Philippians 4:6–7; Psalm 34:18 (ESV)
Core Idea: God Never Intended for Us to Suffer Alone
In seasons of suffering, isolation can amplify pain. But Scripture points us toward community, prayer, and the presence of God as key sources of strength. The Christian life is not solitary—it is a shared journey, where burdens are lifted together and peace is found in God’s nearness.
Galatians 6:2 – “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
Suffering shared is suffering lightened. The church is called to be a place of mutual support—bearing each other’s griefs, pains, and needs.
The “law of Christ” is love. Loving one another means being willing to enter into each other’s struggles, offering practical help and presence.
Philippians 4:6–7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Prayer is not a last resort—it is the first response. In trials, we’re invited to bring everything to God—honestly, humbly, and with gratitude.
God’s peace is not circumstantial. His peace “guards” our hearts and minds—like a sentry at the gate—against fear, despair, and anxiety.
Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
God is not distant in your pain—He is present. His nearness is not just emotional—it is spiritual, protective, and restorative.
“Brokenhearted” and “crushed in spirit” describe real human pain—and God doesn’t ignore it. He draws near to heal, not to shame.
Application & Reflection:
Lean into community. Don’t isolate yourself in hard times—reach out. Let others pray for you, serve you, sit with you.
Pray honestly and often. Your burdens are not too heavy or too small for God.
Rest in God’s presence. He sees your hurt. He hears your prayers. He promises to be near.
Practical Takeaway:
Suffering may be inevitable, but suffering alone is not. In the body of Christ, there is help for today and hope for tomorrow. Let faith, prayer, and godly community carry you forward—you are not forgotten.
6. God’s Comfort and Our Responsibility – 2 Corinthians 1:3–11 (ESV)
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (2 Corinthians 1:3–4)
Core Idea: God Comforts Us So That We Can Comfort Others
Suffering is never wasted in God’s hands. Not only does He meet us with compassion, but He also equips us through that experience to care for others who are suffering. God’s comfort becomes our calling.
Key Insights:
God is the “Father of mercies” and the “God of all comfort.” He is not indifferent or passive—His very nature is to draw near, console, and strengthen.
Comfort is not meant to end with us. Paul emphasizes that we are comforted so that we may comfort others. Suffering produces compassion—a ministry born of empathy.
Suffering forms spiritual community. As we endure and are comforted, we become bridges of God’s grace to others who are hurting.
Paul’s own example (vv. 8–10): He recalls a moment of deep affliction “beyond [his] strength,” where he despaired of life itself. Yet through this, he learned to “rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.”
Application & Reflection:
Who has comforted you in your past trials? How did God use them?
Who can you comfort today? Is there someone suffering in silence who needs your presence or encouragement?
Are you learning to rely on God—or still trying to carry it alone? Let your hardship deepen your dependence on Him.
Practical Takeaway:
We are not reservoirs of comfort—we are conduits. When God brings you through something hard, He’s also preparing you to walk with someone else through their valley. Let your pain become part of your purpose.
Conclusion: Suffering and the Christian Life
Suffering is one of life’s deepest realities—and for the Christian, one of its most transformative. Though painful and often bewildering, Scripture makes it clear: suffering is not pointless. It is a crucible through which God shapes hearts, deepens faith, and prepares His people to reflect Christ more clearly.
Summary of the Journey:
James 1:2–4 reminded us to count it joy when trials come—not because pain is pleasant, but because endurance leads to spiritual maturity.
Romans 5:3–5 built on that by showing us how suffering produces hope—a hope grounded not in circumstances but in the love of God.
1 Peter 5:10 assured us that suffering is temporary and that God Himself will restore and strengthen us.
Christ’s example in Isaiah 53, Hebrews 12, and Philippians 2 taught us that Jesus embraced suffering, and through it, achieved eternal victory—for us.
Galatians 6, Philippians 4, and Psalm 34 reminded us that we are not alone—God gives peace, draws near to the brokenhearted, and calls us to support one another.
2 Corinthians 1:3–11 pulled everything together: the God who comforts us in suffering uses us to bring comfort to others. Our suffering becomes part of our ministry.
Final Reflection:
Suffering is not a sign of God's absence. It is often the arena of His deepest work.
It builds character.
It teaches dependence.
It produces compassion.
It unites us with Christ.
In Christ, suffering is never the end of the story. It becomes part of the redemptive process—a thread in the tapestry of grace.
So, when suffering comes, we don’t run—we press in. We look to Christ, walk with community, trust God’s promises, and allow His Spirit to shape us.
Because even in the fire, He is refining us.

Sermon: God’s Provision and Sustaining Grace

Sermon Date: 9/7/2025
Bible Verses:
Matthew 6:26 – “Look at the birds of the air…”
Philippians 4:19 – “My God shall supply all your need…”
2 Corinthians 9:8 – “God is able to bless you abundantly…”
Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd…”
Psalm 103:2–5 – “Bless the Lord, O my soul…”
Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you…”
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction:
In times of uncertainty—when our finances run thin, our strength fades, and the future feels unsure—it’s easy to forget one of the most repeated promises in Scripture: God will provide.
But His provision is more than material. It is also emotional, spiritual, and eternal. His sustaining grace is what holds us up when we’re too weak to stand on our own.
Today, we will explore how God not only meets our needs, but surrounds us with grace that sustains us through all seasons of life.
God Cares for the Smallest Things — and for You
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air: they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
Jesus points to the birds—not as majestic creatures, but common ones. Creatures who do not stress, budget, or hoard.And yet—they eat. They live. They sing.
Key Point:If God cares for the sparrow, He cares far more for you. You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned.
Application:Let go of the anxiety that makes you live as though God is unaware of your needs. He sees. He provides.
God Will Supply ALL Your Needs
Philippians 4:19
“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Not some of your needs. Not most. All.
That doesn’t mean He gives us everything we want—but everything we need to do His will and endure with joy.
Key Point:His supply is not based on the economy, your performance, or your bank account—it’s “according to His riches in glory.”
Application:Trust His timing. His provision may come differently than expected—but it will come.
God Provides More Than Enough Grace
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times… you will abound in every good work.”
Notice the alls in this verse: all grace, all things, all times. That is sufficiency. That is sustaining grace.
Key Point:Grace isn’t just for salvation—it’s for daily strength, for hard days, for good works.
Application:Stop trying to work in your own strength. Receive His grace—not just for forgiveness, but for endurance.
God Is Your Shepherd and Sustainer
Psalm 23:1
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
The sheep doesn’t worry when the shepherd is near. Why? Because it’s the shepherd’s job to protect, to guide, to provide.
Key Point:When the Lord is your shepherd, you lack nothing essential.
Application:Return to the Shepherd. Follow His voice. Let Him lead you beside still waters—even in stormy times.
God Nourishes Body, Soul, and Spirit
Psalm 103:2–5
“Bless the Lord, O my soul… who forgives… who heals… who redeems… who crowns… who satisfies…”
David doesn’t just praise God for forgiveness—but for every layer of blessing: body, mind, and soul.
Key Point:God’s provision is holistic—He restores what life has broken.
Application:Reflect on what God has already done. Gratitude renews strength.
God Holds You Up With Strength and Presence
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God…”
God’s provision is not always an answer—it’s often a presence.
Key Point:The greatest provision is not stuff—it’s God with you. Sustaining grace is the promise: “I will strengthen you… I will uphold you.”
Application:You may not feel strong, but you are not alone. He is holding you—right now.
Conclusion:
When we feel depleted, anxious, or uncertain, God reminds us:
“I am your Shepherd. I will provide. I will strengthen. I will uphold.”
Whether you are waiting for provision or walking in it, God’s sustaining grace is active in your life.
So rest in His promises.Rely on His strength.And rejoice in His goodness.

The Weekly Show: Episode 65 - Abortion & The Sanctity of Life

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study Abortion & The Sanctity of Life
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
https://youtu.be/gzEbhcq1fyo
Introduction: Abortion & The Sanctity of Life
“Fearfully and Wonderfully Made”
In every generation, some issues touch not just politics, but the soul. One of the most sensitive and significant of these is abortion.
This study isn’t about condemnation. It’s about truth, grace, and the sacred value of life as revealed in the Word of God. We live in a world where the value of life is often measured by convenience, capability, or circumstance—but God sees it differently.
Throughout Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, we see a God who forms, knows, and loves human life from the very beginning—even before birth. He does not treat life as accidental or disposable. He calls it sacred.
"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you…" (Jeremiah 1:5)
As followers of Christ, we’re called to see the world—and the womb—through God’s eyes. This includes defending the vulnerable, offering compassion to the wounded, and boldly speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8).
But we must also remember: grace is available. There is no sin too dark for the blood of Jesus, no past too broken for His healing. Whether someone is hurting from a past abortion, wrestling with guilt, or seeking truth—this study is for them too.
We approach this subject not with pride, but with humility. Not with shouting, but with clarity. Not with fear, but with hope—because God is both the Creator and Redeemer of life.
Let’s open His Word and see what it really says about the Sanctity of Life.
Key Scripture Study 1: Psalm 139:13–16 – “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made”
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. 
Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. — Psalm 139:13–16 (ESV)
1. God Is the Creator of Life — Even in the Womb
David acknowledges that it is God who forms every human being—not just at birth, but from conception.
The imagery is intimate and deliberate: “knit together”, “woven in the secret place.”
Life in the womb is not impersonal or incomplete to God—it is sacred, handcrafted by Him.
 2. Human Value Comes from God’s Design
The phrase “fearfully and wonderfully made” means that each human is made with awe-inspiring care and divine intention.
This means no human life is a mistake, an inconvenience, or a random occurrence.
3. Life Begins Before We Fully Understand It
God’s knowledge and care extend even to the “unformed body.”
From the moment of conception, a person’s value and purpose are already known to God.
This challenges the cultural view that life is only valuable after birth, or only when “wanted.”
 4. God Ordains Purpose Before Birth
“All the days ordained for me…” — This speaks of divine purpose and planning before a baby ever draws breath.
God not only forms life, He writes its story—He has a plan for each child, long before the world recognizes them.
Application & Reflection
How does this passage shape your understanding of when life begins?
What does it mean to you personally that God “knit you together” with care and intention?
How can we, as believers, honor the value of life in how we speak, serve, and stand for the vulnerable?
Key Scripture Study 2: Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I Formed You”
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” — Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV)
1. God’s Knowledge of Life Begins Before Conception
This verse reveals an astonishing truth: God knows us before we even exist biologically. Jeremiah is told that his calling and identity were established before his physical body was ever formed. This emphasizes that life is not merely a biological process but a divine intention.
2. Life in the Womb Is Known and Set Apart by God
The word “consecrated” means to be set apart for a holy purpose. Before Jeremiah took his first breath, God had already set His purpose upon him. This reveals that the unborn are not only alive—they are seen, known, and purposed by God.
3. God’s Plans for the Unborn Are Personal and Missional
Jeremiah was appointed a prophet to the nations even before he was born. This shows us that God can place divine assignments on lives from the womb, and it reinforces the truth that no child is “accidental” or “unworthy.” Every life—regardless of circumstances—has potential, purpose, and calling.
Reflection
This verse challenges us to see unborn life not only as human but as holy in origin.
If God can know and call a child before they’re born, what does that mean for our view of the unborn today?
How should this shape our prayers, our policies, and our compassion toward both unborn children and their mothers?
Key Scripture Study 3: Exodus 20:13 – “You Shall Not Murder”
“You shall not murder.” — Exodus 20:13 (ESV)
1. The Commandment Protects Human Life
This sixth commandment is short but absolute. It reflects God’s high value for human life, which is uniquely made in His image (Genesis 1:27). Murder is not simply a social offense—it is a spiritual violation of God’s design and dominion over life and death.
2. The Term “Murder” Indicates Intentional Killing of the Innocent
The Hebrew word used here (ratsach) refers specifically to intentional and unjust killing, as opposed to killing in war or accidental death. This prohibition includes the taking of innocent life—and no life is more innocent or defenseless than that of an unborn child.
3. God Reserves the Right to Give and Take Life
Throughout Scripture, life is seen as God’s domain. When humans take life for convenience, fear, or control, we are stepping into a role that belongs only to the Creator. This commandment reminds us that we are stewards, not owners, of life—and that includes life in the womb.
Reflection
What does this commandment reveal about how seriously God views life?
How do we reconcile the value of unborn life with a culture that treats it as optional?
How can we honor this commandment both in our convictions and in our compassion?
Key Scripture Study 4: Romans 1:28–32 – A Culture That Forgets God
“And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them.” — Romans 1:28–32 (ESV)
1. When God Is Rejected, Morality Collapses
Paul describes a society that has deliberately turned away from God. When God is removed from the center, the result is not neutral—it leads to moral decay. A debased (or depraved) mind is not simply confused; it is willfully twisted and resistant to truth.
2. Murder Is a Symptom of Deeper Spiritual Rebellion
Murder, along with many other evils, is named as a fruit of a godless culture. This includes the intentional taking of life—including unborn life—as part of a broader pattern of rebellion and rejection of God’s authority.
3. Approval of Evil Is Just as Damaging as the Act Itself
Paul doesn’t only condemn those who commit these sins—he also condemns those who celebrate, excuse, or approve of them. In today’s culture, abortion is not just permitted—it is often praised as a “right” or even a “virtue.” But Scripture reminds us: what culture applauds, God may judge.
Reflection
How do these verses describe the moral condition of modern society, especially regarding life?
In what ways are we tempted to compromise or be silent when life is devalued?
How can we bear faithful witness to God’s truth in a culture that calls evil good?
Key Scripture Study 5: Proverbs 6:16–19 – “Hands that Shed Innocent Blood”
“There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.” — Proverbs 6:16–19 (ESV)
1. God Hates the Shedding of Innocent Blood
Among the things that are “an abomination” to God is the deliberate taking of innocent life. Few could be more innocent than the unborn—those without voice, defense, or protection. To take their life is to commit an act especially offensive to the heart of God.
2. The Heart Behind the Act Matters
These verses connect sinful actions with the heart that devises them. Abortion is not just a medical procedure—it often reflects deep cultural values rooted in pride, fear, selfishness, or deception. God sees not only the act, but the intentions and motivations behind it.
3. God’s Hatred of Evil Is Rooted in His Love for Justice
It’s important to remember: God’s hatred of sin is not arbitrary—it stems from His love for righteousness, justice, and life. He is not indifferent when the vulnerable are harmed; His holiness demands a response. These verses are a call for us to share His values—and to reflect His protective care for the weak and voiceless.
Reflection
What does it mean for something to be “an abomination” to God?
Are there ways we’ve grown numb to what God hates?
How can we act justly and advocate for the innocent, especially the unborn?
Key Scripture Study 6: Isaiah 5:20 – “Woe to Those Who Call Evil Good”
“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” — Isaiah 5:20 (ESV)
1. A Culture of Moral Reversal
This verse warns of a time when moral clarity is lost, and people redefine good and evil according to their own preferences. Abortion is often presented in modern society as compassionate, empowering, or even moral. But God’s Word says: woe to those who twist truth.
2. Deception Is Not Just Personal—It Becomes Cultural
Isaiah speaks to entire systems and cultures that reverse moral values. When evil is praised and righteousness mocked, it is a sign of deep spiritual sickness. This applies directly to how unborn life is treated—the most vulnerable are often sacrificed in the name of convenience or autonomy.
3. God Warns, Not to Condemn Only, But to Call to Repentance
“Woe” is not just a threat—it is a lament, a divine sorrow over people walking into judgment. It is God’s way of crying out, “Turn back before it’s too late.” This verse urges us to examine how we align with culture or with God’s truth—and to boldly stand for what is truly good.
Reflection
Have we allowed cultural definitions of “good” to influence our moral decisions?
How can we speak truth with both courage and compassion?
Are we willing to suffer rejection or misunderstanding to defend life?
Conclusion: Upholding the Sanctity of Life
Throughout Scripture, we have seen a consistent, sacred theme: life is God’s creation, from the womb to the grave, and it is not ours to discard or redefine. The Bible does not remain silent on the value of life—it shouts it clearly across every book, every covenant, every command.
Summary of Key Truths:
Psalm 139 reveals that life begins in the womb—woven by God’s own hands, with care, intention, and love.
Jeremiah 1 affirms that God knows us and calls us even before we are born.
Exodus 20:13 reminds us that human life is not to be taken unjustly—murder is forbidden, including the innocent unborn.
Romans 1 describes how a godless society descends into depravity, including the celebration of evil like abortion.
Proverbs 6 tells us God hates the shedding of innocent blood, holding the heart accountable as well as the hands.
Isaiah 5 calls out moral reversal—calling evil good and good evil—a warning our modern world desperately needs.
A Call to the Church:
As followers of Christ, we must speak truth, show love, and protect life. This isn’t just about political debates—it’s about faithful witness, compassionate action, and Christ-like conviction.
We are called to:
Defend the voiceless (Proverbs 31:8)
Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)
Offer hope and healing to those impacted by abortion (Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted…”)
There is forgiveness for every sin, including abortion. There is grace for every story. There is hope through Jesus Christ.

Sermon: What’s Hidden in the Camp?

Sermon Date: 8/31/2025
Bible Verses:
Joshua 7
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Main Passage: Joshua 7Theme: Hidden sin brings defeat, but confession and repentance restore fellowship and victory.
Introduction
Last week, we saw the walls of Jericho fall in Joshua 6—not because of Israel’s might, but because of their faithful obedience. God gave them a great victory.
But today, in Joshua 7, the tone shifts.
Israel suffers a stunning defeat at Ai, a much smaller and weaker city. They had every reason to win—yet they are driven back and demoralized. Joshua falls on his face, crying out to God.
What happened?
One man sinned—and the whole camp suffered.This chapter reveals the seriousness of sin, the necessity of holiness, and the hope of restoration when we return to God in repentance.
Victory Can Be Lost Through Disobedience
(Joshua 7:1, 2–5)
“But the people of Israel broke faith in regard to the devoted things…” (v.1)
After the victory at Jericho, God had given clear instructions: all the spoil was devoted to Him (Joshua 6:18-19). But Achan disobeyed. He took what God said was off-limits—and no one knew, except God.
The result?Israel, full of confidence, marches to Ai—and gets routed.Thirty-six men die. The people are devastated. The blessing of God is withdrawn.
Key Point:Private sin can have public consequences.Even hidden disobedience can break fellowship with God and hinder the entire community.
Cross-Reference:Psalm 66:18 – “If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”
God Cares About Holiness More Than Hype
(Joshua 7:6–12)
Joshua cries out, confused and distraught.But God’s response is startling:
“Get up! Why have you fallen on your face? Israel has sinned...” (v.10-11)
Joshua expected victory because he assumed God was with them. But God reveals the truth: there is sin in the camp. One man’s secret act had defiled the whole community.
Key Point:God will not bless a people who tolerate sin in their midst.God desires purity, not performance.
Cross-Reference:1 Peter 1:15–16 – “Be holy, for I am holy.”
Hidden Sin Will Be Brought to Light
(Joshua 7:13–18)
God tells Joshua to sanctify the people and bring them tribe by tribe.The process is slow and deliberate—God gives Achan plenty of time to come forward voluntarily. But Achan remains silent.
Eventually, the lot falls on him.
Key Point:We can hide sin from others. We can even hide it from ourselves.But we can’t hide it from God.
Cross-Reference:Numbers 32:23 – “Be sure your sin will find you out.”
Sin’s Consequences Are Serious
(Joshua 7:19–26)
Achan confesses—but only after he’s caught. He admits to coveting and stealing and hiding the goods in his tent.
And though he confesses, the consequences are grave. Achan and all that belonged to him were destroyed. The valley was named Achor, meaning “trouble.”
This is hard. But we must remember:
Achan’s sin cost lives.
It threatened the entire mission.
It was willful rebellion against a holy God.
Key Point:Sin is never a private matter. It always affects others.And its wages are death—unless it’s brought to the cross.
Cross-Reference:Romans 6:23 – “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
There Is Hope in the Valley of Trouble
(Hosea 2:14–15)
God later promises in Hosea:
“I will make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.”
Though judgment fell on Achan, God would one day turn that place of trouble into hope.
That’s the promise of the Gospel:Our sin is real. Its consequences are real. But Christ has borne them all.
Jesus died to cleanse our hearts, restore our fellowship with God, and return us to victory.
Application Questions
Is there hidden sin in your life that you’ve excused or ignored?
Have you allowed compromise to slip into your home, your leadership, your church?
Do you need to bring something into the light today?
Remember:The way back is always open—but it begins with honesty and repentance.
Conclusion
Joshua 7 is a warning, but also an invitation:
God sees.
God judges.
But God also forgives.
Let’s not wait until the defeat comes.Let’s deal with our sin today—at the foot of the cross—where mercy is already waiting.
 

The Weekly Show: Episode 64 - John 21

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 21 Verses 1-25
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
 Introduction to John 21:1–25
“Restoration by the Sea” – When Grace Starts the Fire Again
John 21 serves as a powerful epilogue to the Gospel—a final chapter that brings closure not just to the story of Jesus, but to the hearts of His followers, especially Peter.
After the resurrection, Jesus doesn’t go straight to heaven. Instead, He returns to meet His disciples again—not in a temple, not on a throne, but on a beach, by the familiar rhythm of water and waves. There, He kindles a fire of forgiveness, provision, and recommissioning.
This chapter is deeply pastoral. It shows us that:
Jesus still pursues the weary,
Still feeds the hungry,
Still calls the fallen,
And still sends the willing.
It is a chapter about second chances, about calling renewed, and about the kind of grace that cooks breakfast for the man who denied Him three times.
Key Themes You’ll Encounter:
Provision in Failure – The disciples go fishing and catch nothing… until Jesus shows up. (vv. 1–14)
Restoration of Peter – Jesus doesn’t ignore Peter’s denial—He heals it, one question at a time. (vv. 15–19)
The Call to Follow – Jesus clarifies the cost of discipleship and the nature of calling. (vv. 20–23)
Eyewitness Testimony – John signs off with confidence and purpose: “We know his testimony is true.” (vv. 24–25)
Contextual Setup:
Location: Sea of Tiberias (Sea of Galilee)—a return to the place where it all began.
Timing: After the resurrection, before the ascension.
Characters: Jesus, Peter, Thomas, Nathanael, the sons of Zebedee (James & John), and two unnamed disciples.
This isn’t just a reunion—it’s a re-commissioning. Jesus doesn’t just prove He’s alive—He restores broken men and reignites their calling.
Why This Chapter Matters:
John 21 reminds us that even when we fail spectacularly, Jesus is not finished with us. He meets us not with shame, but with firelight, bread, and a question:
“Do you love Me?”
And when we say yes—however imperfectly— He says:
“Then feed My sheep.”
Key Theme One: A Night of Failure, a Morning of Provision
(John 21:1–14)
 
From Empty Nets to Overflowing Grace
This section opens with a scene both familiar and symbolic: the disciples return to fishing. It’s what they knew before Jesus called them. After the trauma of the cross and the mystery of the resurrection, they’re adrift—not in belief, but in purpose.
Yet Jesus meets them not with rebuke, but with miraculous provision and a charcoal fire. It’s a story about grace in ordinary places and the quiet abundance of a Savior who still serves.
1. A Return to Familiar Waters (vv. 1–3)
“Simon Peter said to them, ‘I am going fishing.’ They said to him, ‘We will go with you.’”
Peter initiates a return to his old trade—perhaps from uncertainty, perhaps simply from need.
The disciples join him, indicating a sense of aimlessness after Jesus’ resurrection.
Insight: When we don’t know what to do, we often retreat to what we know. But Jesus doesn’t call us backward—He meets us there to move us forward.
2. A Night of Emptiness (v. 3b)
“They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.”
Just like in Luke 5, their efforts produce no results.
It’s not just a bad night—it reflects the futility of striving without Jesus.
Reflection: Labor apart from the Lord leads to exhaustion without fruit. He is the one who brings increase.
3. The Stranger on the Shore (vv. 4–5)
“Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know it was Jesus.”
At dawn, Jesus appears—unrecognized at first.
His question is tender and probing: “Children, do you have any fish?” It invites reflection, not shame.
Application: Jesus often comes to us unrecognized, asking questions that reveal our need before He meets it.
4. A Miraculous Catch (v. 6)
“Cast the net on the right side of the boat…”
Simple obedience leads to staggering results: 153 large fish, more than they could manage.
The net doesn’t break—unlike earlier (Luke 5). This time, grace holds.
Symbolism: This is a picture of the fruitfulness of ministry empowered by Jesus. When He directs the work, the nets fill.
5. Recognition and Response (vv. 7–8)
“It is the Lord!”… Peter threw himself into the sea.”
John recognizes Jesus first—Peter responds with reckless love, diving in fully clothed to reach Jesus.
The others bring in the catch. It’s a moment of both reverence and urgency.
Note: Different personalities, same response—run to Jesus.
6. Breakfast by the Fire (vv. 9–14)
“They saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread.”
Jesus already has food prepared—He doesn’t need their catch, but He invites them to bring it.
The charcoal fire echoes Peter’s earlier denial (John 18:18)—setting the scene for restoration.
Jesus feeds them—serving again, even in His resurrection.
Theological Beauty: The Risen Lord is still the humble Servant, inviting weary disciples to rest, eat, and be restored.
Summary: Grace After Failure
Symbol
Meaning
Empty nets
Our efforts without Jesus
Miraculous catch
Fruitfulness when we obey Him
Charcoal fire
A place of both memory and mercy
Bread and fish
His sustaining presence—He still provides
 
Reflection Questions:
Where in my life am I laboring without Jesus’ direction?
Have I mistaken His silence for absence?
Am I willing to obey even simple instructions and trust Him with the results?
Do I recognize His provision and invitation when He calls me to the shore?
Key Theme Two: Peter’s Restoration and the Call to Love
(John 21:15–19)
From Denial to Devotion — Grace that Restores and Commissions
Peter had denied Jesus three times by a charcoal fire (John 18:18). Now, standing before another charcoal fire, the risen Jesus gently leads him through a moment not of shame, but of restoration.
Jesus doesn’t merely forgive Peter—He recommissions him. This is the kind of grace that heals and sends.
1. “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” (v. 15)
“When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter…”
Jesus addresses him not as “Peter,” the Rock, but as “Simon, son of John”—his given name.
This echoes the moment of Peter’s original calling (John 1:42)—it’s a restart, not a rebuke.
Insight: Jesus brings Peter back to the beginning. Grace starts where failure ends.
Jesus asks: “Do you love Me more than these?”
“These” could mean: more than fishing? More than the other disciples?
Peter once claimed he would never fall away—even if all the others did. Now, he simply says: “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.”
Reflection: Grace softens pride. Peter doesn’t compare anymore—he just confesses.
2. “Feed My Lambs” – The Call to Shepherd (vv. 15–17)
Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him, mirroring the three denials.
Question
Peter’s Response
Jesus’ Commission
“Do you love Me?”
“You know that I love You.”
“Feed My lambs.”
“Do you love Me?”
“Yes, Lord.”
“Tend My sheep.”
“Do you love Me?”
“Lord, You know everything…”
“Feed My sheep.”
The repetition is painful, but intentional. Jesus is healing Peter’s past with grace-laced precision.
The wordplay shifts between agape (self-giving love) and phileo (brotherly affection), but the heart is clear: Do you love Me? Then care for My people.
Application: Love for Jesus always results in love for others—especially His flock. True devotion is never just emotional—it’s active.
3. “Lord, You Know Everything” – The Honest Surrender (v. 17)
By the third question, Peter is “grieved”—not just because of repetition, but because Jesus is probing the wound.
Yet Peter leans into relationship, not performance: “You know that I love You.”
Insight: Grace invites us to be known—fully and freely. Jesus doesn't need perfection; He wants honesty and love.
4. “Follow Me” – A Costly Call (vv. 18–19)
“When you were young… you went where you wanted. But when you are old…”
Jesus now foretells Peter’s death—he will be led where he does not want to go. (Tradition holds Peter was crucified upside down.)
Even in this hard truth, Jesus’ voice is steady: “Follow Me.”
Takeaway: Restoration is not just for healing—it’s for calling. Jesus doesn't just clean up our mess—He entrusts us with His mission.
Summary: Grace That Restores Purpose
Element
Meaning
Charcoal fire
Echo of Peter’s failure, now a place of healing
Three questions
Mirror the three denials—grace rewrites the story
Feeding sheep
Love in action—spiritual responsibility
“Follow Me”
Lifelong call, even unto death
 
Reflection Questions:
What charcoal fires of failure is Jesus inviting me back to—not for shame, but for restoration?
Am I ready to accept that Jesus can still use me—even after I’ve failed?
What does “feeding His sheep” look like in my life today?
Do I love Jesus enough to follow Him—even when it costs me something?
Key Theme Three: The Mystery of Calling and Final Testimony
(John 21:20–25)
“What About Him?” — Fixing Our Eyes on Our Own Race
As John’s Gospel draws to a close, we’re left with one final conversation—one that highlights a deeply human question: “What about them?” Peter has just been recommissioned, but now turns and sees John, prompting a question that opens up a profound teaching about calling, contentment, and trust.
1. Peter Looks at John (v. 20)
“Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them…”
This is John, the beloved disciple, likely walking close behind.
Peter, still processing his own restoration, becomes distracted by comparison.
Insight: Even after encountering grace, we can be tempted to look sideways—wondering how God will use someone else.
2. “What About Him?” (v. 21)
“Lord, what about this man?”
Peter wants to know John’s future. Will he suffer too? Will he lead differently? What’s his path?
It’s a natural question—but it reveals the ongoing battle between faith and comparison.
Reflection: Comparison robs us of calling. It shifts the focus from faithful obedience to insecure measurement.
3. Jesus’ Response: “Follow Me” (v. 22)
“If it is My will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!”
Jesus doesn’t rebuke the question harshly—but redirects Peter’s heart.
In essence: “His path is not your path. Your job is to follow Me.”
Core Truth: Your faithfulness is not measured against anyone else’s story.
4. A Misunderstood Prophecy (v. 23)
“So the saying spread… that this disciple would not die.”
A misunderstanding spreads—a reminder that rumors can distort the truth, even with good intentions.
John clarifies: Jesus wasn’t predicting his longevity—only affirming His authority over each disciple’s journey.
Takeaway: Don’t base theology on speculation. Stay rooted in what Jesus actually said, not what others assume He meant.
5. John’s Testimony and Final Words (vv. 24–25)
“This is the disciple who is bearing witness…”
John identifies himself as the author of this Gospel. He stands not as a mythmaker, but as a faithful eyewitness.
His closing thought is breathtaking: “There are also many other things that Jesus did… the world itself could not contain the books…”
Beautiful Truth: The Gospel is true—and yet it’s only a glimpse of the full glory of Jesus. Eternity will be the library where we explore the rest.
Summary: Stay in Your Lane, Follow Your Call
Focus
Response
Peter’s comparison
Jesus says, “What is that to you?”
John’s future
Left a mystery—because that’s okay.
The command
“You follow Me.”
John’s witness
Honest, humble, enduring.
Jesus’ works
More than we could ever imagine.
 
Reflection Questions:
Where am I tempted to compare my calling to someone else’s?
Have I lost sight of Jesus’ simple command: “Follow Me”?
Am I content with the role He’s given me, or distracted by someone else’s?
Do I trust that Jesus writes each story with wisdom, even if I don’t understand it?
Conclusion to John 21:1–25 & the Gospel of John
“That You May Believe…and Follow”
John’s Gospel doesn’t end in a palace or a courtroom, but on a shoreline, with firelight, forgiveness, and a quiet recommissioning. It closes not with thunderous miracles, but with a personal conversation—Jesus, the risen King, restoring a broken disciple and calling him forward in love.
This is no accident. John ends here because this is where the Gospel always leads:
From glory to humility
From cosmic truth to personal transformation
From belief to following
1. The Gospel Ends Where Discipleship Begins
Jesus doesn’t just rise from the dead—He goes after His people. He finds them weary, confused, drifting. And He does what only a Shepherd can do:
Feeds them
Restores them
Sends them
Peter’s story becomes our story. Grace finds us not just to forgive us, but to reignite our purpose. He calls us not to prove ourselves, but to follow Him.
2. The Heartbeat of John’s Gospel: Believe
“These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31)
John isn’t just writing history—he’s writing for transformation.
His Gospel gave us:
The mystery of the Word made flesh (John 1)
The signs that revealed Jesus’ glory (water to wine, feeding the 5,000, raising Lazarus)
The intimate moments of love, loss, betrayal, and grace
The upper room discourse, where Jesus poured out His heart
The cross, where the Lamb was lifted up
The empty tomb, where death was defeated
And the fire by the sea, where calling was rekindled
3. The Journey Forward: Follow Me
The final command to Peter—“Follow Me”—rings out like a seal on the scroll of the Gospel.
It’s not just for Peter. It’s for us.
Not “perform for Me.”
Not “fix yourself first.”
Not “compare yourself to others.”
But:
“Follow Me.” In your failure. In your questions. In your love.
Reflection & Application:
Have you truly encountered the Jesus of John’s Gospel—not just the Teacher or the Miracle Worker, but the Lamb of God and Risen Lord?
What part of your life still needs the healing of that charcoal fire?
Where is Jesus calling you to follow Him today—not later, not perfectly, but honestly?
Final Word: The Gospel Is Bigger Than the Page
“Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books…” (John 21:25)
The Gospel of John ends not with a period, but with an open invitation.
Because the story of Jesus didn’t stop at the resurrection— it continues in you.
Believe. Behold. Follow. And let the world see the living Christ in your story.

Sermon: By Faith the Walls Fell Down

Sermon Date: 8/24/2025
Bible Verses:
Joshua 6
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Theme: Victory comes by faith, not by force. Spiritual battles are won when we trust God, obey His commands, and consecrate ourselves to His purposes.
Introduction to the Message: “By Faith the Walls Fell Down”
Good morning, church!
Today we turn to Joshua 6, a passage that reminds us of something crucial—faith doesn’t always look impressive to the world, but it’s powerful in the eyes of God.
Israel stood before the mighty, walled city of Jericho. A city built for war. A city humanly impossible to conquer. But God had already declared the outcome: “See, I have given Jericho into your hand.”
From that moment, the battle was no longer about military strategy—it was about obedience and trust.
God didn’t ask Israel to storm the gates. He didn’t call them to catapults or battering rams. He called them to walk, to wait, and to worship—in faith.
This chapter isn’t just ancient history. It’s our story, too.
Some of you are facing walls today—of fear, addiction, doubt, family struggles, spiritual fatigue.
Some of you are wondering how to take back ground the enemy has claimed.
And some of you feel disqualified because of your past.
But today’s message is this: Through faith, the walls can fall.
Let’s open our hearts as we walk with Joshua and the people of Israel around Jericho, and see how God brings victory—not through might, but through faith.
Have Faith Because God Has Already Won the War
Joshua 6:1–2
“See, I have given Jericho into your hand…” (v. 2)
Key Idea:Even before a single step was taken or a shout was raised, God had already declared the victory. Faith doesn’t begin with what we see—it begins with trusting what God has said.
Cross References:
Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
2 Chronicles 20:15 – “The battle is not yours, but God’s.”
Hebrews 11:30 – “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days.”
Application:Are you walking like the victory is already yours? Faith means walking in obedience before the results.
Through Faith Alone, God Will Bring Down the Enemy’s Strongholds
Joshua 6:3–14
God’s battle plan made no worldly sense: march around the city in silence. Blow trumpets. Wait.
But God’s way brings down strongholds when we obey by faith.
Cross References:
2 Corinthians 10:3–4 – “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.”
Isaiah 55:8–9 – “My thoughts are not your thoughts… my ways are higher…”
Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and he will make your paths straight.”
Application:You may face walls of addiction, fear, bitterness, or anxiety—but God tears down what we cannot.
Through Faith, God Will Restore Your Spiritual Inheritance
Joshua 6:15–16
“Shout, for the Lord has given you the city!” (v. 16)
This wasn’t just about Jericho—it was about reclaiming the Promised Land, the inheritance that was delayed by unbelief.
Cross References:
Joel 2:25 – “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…”
Acts 20:32 – “…the word of his grace… is able to build you up and give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.”
Ephesians 1:11 – “In him we have obtained an inheritance…”
Application:Has sin or fear robbed you of what God intended for your life? God restores by faith what was lost through disobedience.
Through Faith, Seize God’s Gifts, But Not the Evil Things of the World
Joshua 6:17–19
God gave them the city—but not to plunder for personal gain. They were to devote everything to the Lord and not take the accursed things.
Key Warning: Not everything within reach is meant to be grasped.
Cross References:
1 John 2:15–17 – “Do not love the world or the things in the world…”
James 1:14–15 – “Each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire…”
Proverbs 16:25 – “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”
Application:God wants to bless you—but not at the cost of your holiness. Let go of the things He has marked for destruction.
Make the Sabbath a Time For Spiritual Warfare
Joshua 6:20–21
The final march and shout occurred on the seventh day—the Sabbath. On a day of rest, God brought the walls down.
Key Point:Rest is not idleness. Resting in God is a weapon of faith.
Cross References:
Exodus 14:14 – “The Lord will fight for you; you have only to be silent.”
Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Hebrews 4:9–11 – “So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God… Let us strive to enter that rest…”
Application:Your spiritual rest is not passivity—it’s trust in God’s power. Set apart time to worship, reflect, and trust Him to fight on your behalf.
God Can Use You No Matter How Bad You Have Sinned in the Past
Joshua 6:22–25
Rahab, a prostitute, believed God. She hid the spies. And she and her family were saved.
Not only that—she became part of the lineage of Jesus.
Cross References:
Matthew 1:5 – “…Boaz by Rahab…”
Hebrews 11:31 – “By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish…”
1 Corinthians 6:11 – “And such were some of you. But you were washed, sanctified, justified…”
Application:Don’t count yourself out of God’s story.Your past doesn’t define your future—your faith does.
Conclusion:
Joshua 6 isn’t just about walls falling down—it’s about the faith that brings them down.
Faith walks before it sees.
Faith obeys when it doesn’t understand.
Faith honors what God says is holy.
Faith enters into rest.
Faith rewrites your legacy.
Final Challenge:
Where do you need to walk by faith?
What walls are standing between you and the next step in your calling?
The same God who brought down Jericho will bring you through.But He calls for your faith, your obedience, and your full surrender.
Will you walk in faith today?