Walnut Grove

The Weekly Show: Episode 39 - John 4:1-42

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 4 Verses 1-42.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
Introduction to John 4:1-38
John 4:1-38 records one of the most profound and personal encounters in Jesus’ ministry—the conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. This passage not only highlights Jesus’ compassion and willingness to break social and cultural barriers but also reveals deep theological truths about living water, true worship, and the mission of evangelism.
Context & Background:
Jesus’ Growing Influence (v. 1-3) – As Jesus’ ministry gains attention, particularly among the Pharisees, He leaves Judea and travels toward Galilee, passing through Samaria.
Cultural Tensions – Jews and Samaritans had a long-standing hostility due to historical, religious, and ethnic differences. Jews typically avoided traveling through Samaria, but Jesus intentionally goes there.
Setting at Jacob’s Well – Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well around noon, an unusual time for a woman to draw water, suggesting she may be an outcast.
Key Themes:
Jesus Breaks Barriers (v. 1-9) – He defies social norms by speaking with a Samaritan woman, showing that His mission includes all people.
Living Water (v. 10-15) – Jesus offers spiritual refreshment that satisfies far beyond physical needs.
True Worship (v. 16-26) – Jesus explains that worship is not about a location but spirit and truth.
Evangelism & Mission (v. 27-38) – The Samaritan woman becomes an unlikely witness, and Jesus teaches His disciples about the urgency of spiritual harvest.
Why This Passage Matters:
It reveals Jesus’ heart for the outcast and His willingness to engage with the broken.
It teaches that salvation is available to all—regardless of gender, race, or past mistakes.
It challenges believers to embrace true worship and actively participate in God’s mission to bring others to Christ.
This passage invites us to ask: Are we seeking the temporary water of the world or the eternal living water Jesus offers?
Key Theme One: Jesus Breaks Barriers (John 4:1-9)
One of the most striking aspects of John 4:1-9 is how Jesus intentionally crosses social, cultural, and religious barriers to reach an outsider. His interaction with the Samaritan woman reveals that the gospel is for all people, regardless of their background or status.
Key Theme Two: Living Water (John 4:10-15)
In this passage, Jesus introduces the concept of “living water,” a profound metaphor for eternal life and spiritual satisfaction. This conversation shifts the focus from physical needs to the deeper spiritual thirst that only Christ can quench.
Key Theme Three: True Worship (John 4:16-26)
In this passage, Jesus moves the conversation from physical water to spiritual transformation, ultimately revealing what true worship is and who He is as the Messiah.
Key Theme Four: Evangelism & Mission (John 4:27-42)
This passage highlights the power of personal testimony, the urgency of evangelism, and the mission Jesus calls His followers to participate in.
 
 Conclusion to John 4:1-42
The account of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well is a powerful demonstration of His mission to seek and save the lost, break societal barriers, and call people to true worship and evangelism.
Key Takeaways:
Jesus Breaks Barriers (v. 1-9) – He intentionally reaches out to a social outcast, showing that salvation is for all people, regardless of gender, race, or past mistakes.
Jesus Offers Living Water (v. 10-15) – He shifts the conversation from physical needs to spiritual fulfillment, revealing Himself as the only source of eternal life.
True Worship (v. 16-26) – Worship is not about location or rituals but about a genuine relationship with God, through Spirit and truth.
Evangelism & Mission (v. 27-38) – The Samaritan woman immediately shares her testimony, and Jesus reminds His disciples of the urgency of the spiritual harvest.
Many Come to Faith (v. 39-42) – The woman’s testimony leads others to Jesus, and they come to believe in Him as the Savior of the world.
Final Reflection:
This passage challenges us to:
Follow Jesus’ example in breaking cultural and social barriers for the sake of the gospel.
Seek true spiritual satisfaction in Christ, rather than temporary fulfillment in earthly things.
Worship God authentically, in Spirit and truth.
Recognize the urgency of sharing the gospel, as people are ready to hear and believe.
Ultimately, Jesus is the Living Water that satisfies our deepest thirst, and He calls us to share that life-giving truth with the world.
 
 
 

The Weekly Show: Episode 38 - John 3:22–36

Join Tim and John as they give an informative episode about The Gospel of John Chapter 3 Verses 22-36.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
Introduction to John 3:22–36
This passage marks the transition from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus to a scene involving John the Baptist and his disciples. Here, John the Baptist reaffirms Jesus’ supremacy and the necessity of believing in Him for eternal life. The focus shifts to the growing ministry of Jesus, while John humbly acknowledges that his own role is decreasing as Christ’s influence increases.
Key Themes:
Jesus' Growing Ministry (John 3:22-26) – Jesus and His disciples begin baptizing, which leads to concerns among John the Baptist’s followers.
John’s Declaration of Jesus’ Supremacy (John 3:27-30) – John emphasizes that his role was to prepare the way for Christ, not to compete with Him.
Jesus’ Divine Authority and the Call to Faith (John 3:31-36) – John proclaims that Jesus, as the One from heaven, speaks God’s words and offers eternal life to those who believe.
Why This Passage Matters:
It highlights the humility of John the Baptist, who willingly steps aside so that Jesus may be glorified.
It reinforces the truth that Jesus has divine authority because He comes from heaven.
It presents a clear contrast between belief and unbelief, emphasizing that rejecting Christ leads to judgment.
This passage challenges us to consider our own response to Jesus: Do we acknowledge His supremacy, or do we let pride, competition, or doubt hinder our faith?
Jesus' Growing Ministry (John 3:22-26)
22 After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he remained there with them and was baptizing. 23 John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there, and people were coming and being baptized 24 (for John had not yet been put in prison).
25 Now a discussion arose between some of John's disciples and a Jew over purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.”
John’s Declaration of Jesus’ Supremacy (John 3:27-30)
27 John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’ 29 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Jesus’ Divine Authority and the Call to Faith (John 3:31-36)
31 He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony. 33 Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. 34 For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. 35 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.
 Conclusion to John 3:22–36
This passage highlights the transition from John the Baptist’s ministry to the rise of Jesus’ public influence, while also reinforcing key theological truths about Jesus’ divine authority and the necessity of faith in Him for eternal life.
Key Takeaways:
Jesus’ Ministry is Expanding (v. 22-26) – His influence is growing, and people are flocking to Him, which causes concern among John the Baptist’s followers.
John’s Humility and Joy (v. 27-30) – John models the right response to Jesus’ increasing prominence: joyful humility and a willingness to step aside for Christ’s glory.
Jesus’ Divine Authority (v. 31-36) – Jesus is from heaven, speaks God’s truth, and offers eternal life to those who believe, while those who reject Him remain under judgment.
Final Reflection:
Do we, like John, joyfully point others to Jesus, or do we seek our own glory?
Have we fully embraced Christ’s authority, recognizing that He alone grants eternal life?
Will we choose faith in Jesus or remain under judgment?
Ultimately, Jesus must increase, and we must decrease. True life is found in surrendering to Him, trusting in His supremacy, and believing in His promise of eternal life.

Method of Murder – Episode 2: A King's Sin

Method of Murder: A Bible True Crime Podcast
In this episode, Tim Shapley and John Howell dive deep into one of the most infamous scandals in biblical history—the sin of King David. What began as a moment of desire led to deception, conspiracy, and ultimately, murder.
David, the beloved king of Israel, saw Bathsheba bathing from his rooftop and allowed his temptation to overpower his wisdom. What followed was a desperate attempt to cover up his wrongdoing, leading to the cold-blooded murder of Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband. But sin does not go unnoticed. The prophet Nathan would confront David, forcing him to face the weight of his actions and seek repentance.
Through dramatization and historical context, Tim and John unravel this tragic tale of lust, power, and redemption, showing that even the greatest of leaders are not immune to the darkness within. Join us as we uncover A King's Sin and the consequences that shaped a kingdom.
Listener discretion is advised.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/ra/coming-after-you

Devotion: Lent, repent

Sermon Date: 2/13/ 2025
Bible Verses: Isaiah 6:1-5, Psalm 51:10-19
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
A Season of Reflection and Renewal
Lent officially starts March 5th This year.
Lent is a time of self-examination, repentance, and drawing closer to God. It is a season where we intentionally reflect on God’s holiness and our need for His cleansing. As we journey toward the cross, we are reminded that holiness is not simply about avoiding sin—it is about being set apart for God, fully devoted to Him.
When the prophet Isaiah encountered God’s holiness, he was immediately aware of his own sinfulness:"Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts" (Isaiah 6:5).Isaiah saw his own impurity in the light of God’s perfect holiness. This moment of conviction led to his cleansing and his calling.
Like Isaiah, we are called to recognize the areas in our lives that do not reflect God's holiness. Lent is a season where we actively give up sin—not just in outward actions but in the hidden places of our hearts.
Repentance and Transformation
Psalm 51 is a prayer of deep repentance. David, after being confronted with his sin, cries out for God’s mercy and cleansing:"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10).
True repentance is not just feeling guilty—it is about turning away from sin and turning toward God. It is a longing to be made new, to have a pure heart and a steadfast spirit.
Lent is a time to ask:
What sins have taken hold in my life?
What habits or attitudes keep me from fully surrendering to God?
Am I seeking God’s holiness in my daily actions, words, and thoughts?
As we fast or give up certain things during Lent, let us also give up sin—not just for a season, but as an act of lifelong transformation.
The Joy of Holiness
Sometimes, holiness is seen as a burden, as if God is simply demanding perfection from us. But the truth is, holiness brings joy. Psalm 51 does not end in sorrow—it ends in rejoicing:"Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You. … My tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness" (Psalm 51:13-14).
Holiness is not about loss—it is about gaining more of God. When we give up sin, we are freed to experience the fullness of His presence. We no longer carry guilt and shame, but we walk in the joy of knowing we are set apart for Him.

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

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

Sermon: Be Holy

Sermon Date: 2/16/ 2025
Bible Verses: Leviticus 19:2, Matthew 5:48, 1 Peter 1:15-16
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction:
The word holy is often used in church, but what does it really mean? Many people associate holiness with strict rules or moral perfection, but the biblical meaning goes much deeper. Holiness is about being set apart for God, pure in character, and reflecting His nature.
God commands His people to be holy because He is holy (Leviticus 19:2). Jesus calls us to be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48). The New Testament teaches that holiness is not just about following rules but about living a transformed life through Christ (Romans 12:1-2).
Today, we will explore what holiness means, what it looked like in the Old Testament, how Jesus fulfills holiness, and how we are called to live holy lives as believers.
What Does "Holy" Mean?
The word holy in Hebrew (qadosh) and Greek (hagios) means set apart, sacred, pure, and morally blameless.
Four Key Aspects of Holiness:
Separate – God is separate from sin and calls His people to be different from the world. Leviticus 20:26 “ And you shall be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy, and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.”
Set Apart – Holiness is about belonging to God, being devoted to Him. Deuteronomy 7:6 “For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth.
Pure – Holiness involves moral purity and righteousness. Psalm 24:3-4 “Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, Nor sworn deceitfully.”
Perfect – True holiness reflects God's perfect nature. Matthew 5:48 “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.”
Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but about being fully dedicated to God in every area of life.
Holiness in the Old Testament (The Law)
Scripture: Leviticus 19:2, Exodus 19:6, Isaiah 6:1-5
In the Old Testament, holiness was central to Israel’s identity.
God is holy, and He calls His people to be holy. Leviticus 19:2  “Speak to all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.
Holiness in the Law was about obedience, separation, and purity:
Moral Laws – Honesty, justice, sexual purity (Leviticus 18-20).
Ceremonial Laws – Clean and unclean animals, rituals, sacrifices (Leviticus 11-15).
Priestly Holiness – The priests had to be extra set apart to serve in the temple (Exodus 28).
Isaiah’s Vision of God’s Holiness (Isaiah 6:1-5):
Isaiah saw God’s glory and holiness in the temple.
He immediately realized his own sinfulness and unworthiness.
Key Lesson: The Law showed that God is perfectly holy, and sinful people fall short. Romans 3:23  “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
III. Holiness in Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:48 and More)
Scripture: Matthew 5:48, John 17:17-19, Hebrews 7:26
Jesus is the perfect example of holiness. He is the Son of God, sinless and set apart for God's mission. Hebrews 7:26 “For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens.”
Matthew 5:48 – "Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
This is not about being sinless in our own strength.
It means living in complete devotion to God, just as Jesus did.
Jesus prays for our holiness (John 17:17-19) – "Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.”
Jesus sets believers apart through His word and truth.
Jesus fulfilled holiness for us:
He perfectly obeyed the Law. Matthew 5:17 – “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”
He made us holy through His sacrifice. Hebrews 10:10 – “By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Key Lesson: We cannot be holy on our own, but through Jesus, we are made holy and empowered to live differently.
Holiness in the Church (Romans, 1 Corinthians, 1 Peter)
Holiness is not just an individual pursuit—it is the calling of the entire church.
Holiness in Romans
Scripture: Romans 12:1-2"Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God… Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Holiness means offering our whole lives to God.
It requires a renewed mind and heart, not just outward obedience.
Holiness in 1 Corinthians
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20"Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit… Therefore, glorify God in your body."
As believers, we are God’s temple, and His Spirit dwells in us.
We must live differently—avoiding sin and honoring God in our bodies.
Holiness in 1 Peter
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:15-16"But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'"
Holiness is not optional—it is a command.
It affects every part of our lives: our thoughts, words, and actions.
We are set apart for God's purposes, just as Israel was.
Key Lesson: Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but about living fully for God in thought, speech, actions, and relationships.
How Can We Pursue Holiness Today?
Depend on Christ’s Righteousness – We are made holy through Jesus, not by our works. 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
Obey God’s Word – True holiness comes from following God’s commands. John 14:15 – “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
Be Filled with the Holy Spirit – The Spirit empowers us to live holy lives. Galatians 5:16 – “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”
Separate from Sin – We must actively turn away from sin (2 Corinthians 6:17).
Live as a Light to the World – Holiness is about reflecting God’s character to those around us (Matthew 5:14-16).
Conclusion: A Call to Holiness
Holiness is not just for pastors, missionaries, or "super-Christians"—it is the calling of every believer.
Old Testament: God’s holiness revealed in the Law.
Jesus: The perfect example of holiness.
The Church: Called to live holy lives through Christ.
Final Challenge:Are we living set apart for God? Are we pursuing purity, obedience, and Christlike character?

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

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

Sermon: Priorities of the Local Church

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