Walnut Grove

Devotion: Trust in God’s Way

Sermon Date: 12/29/2024
Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Isaiah 43:18-19, Proverbs 3:5-6
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Starting the New Year with renewed purpose and dedication to God.
Introduction
Reflection on the past year:
Challenges, victories, and lessons learned.
Recognizing God’s faithfulness throughout the year.
Purpose of the New Year:
A time to reset, refocus, and realign our lives with God’s will.
Scripture Foundation
2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”
Embrace the transformation through Christ.
Leave behind old habits, sins, and burdens.
Isaiah 43:18-19 – “Remember not the former things; I am doing a new thing.”
Letting go of the past to make room for God’s new work.
Trusting in God’s provision for the future.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.”
Seeking God’s guidance for the year ahead.
Committing to follow His path, even when uncertain.

Sermon: The Love of God Revealed in Christ

Sermon Date: 12/22/2024
Bible Verses: Luke 2:1-7, John 3:16-17, John 8:12
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
This week, as we light the Angel’s or Mary Candle, we reflect on love, the heart of the Christmas story. The hymn Silent Night reminds us of the calm, holy night when the world first encountered God's immeasurable love through the birth of Jesus Christ.
In the stillness of Bethlehem, love came down in the person of Jesus—a love that would change the world forever.
Love Came Down: The Birth of Jesus
Luke 2:1-7 – “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
A Humble Arrival: God chose to enter the world not in grandeur but in humility. Jesus was born in a manger, showing that God's love is accessible to all, no matter their status.
A Gift of Love: The incarnation is the ultimate expression of God’s love, stepping into our brokenness to bring redemption.
Just as Mary lovingly cared for the infant Jesus, we are invited to care for the gift of Christ’s love in our hearts and share it with the world.
Application:
Recognize the humility of Christ’s birth as a demonstration of God’s love for all people.
Reflect on how you can respond to God’s love through your actions.
The Depth of God's Love: A Savior for the World
John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
Love That Gives: God’s love is sacrificial, offering His only Son for our salvation.
Love That Saves: Jesus came not to condemn but to save—a powerful message of hope for a weary world.
This love is not just for those who feel worthy but for the entire world, a gift freely given to anyone who believes.
Application:
Embrace God’s love personally, knowing it is unconditional and redemptive.
Share this love with others, pointing them to the hope found in Christ.
Walking in Love: Jesus, the Light of the World
John 8:12 – “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’”
Jesus Illuminates Love: Christ’s light dispels the darkness of sin and shows us the path of love and righteousness.
Living in the Light: When we walk in His light, we reflect His love to others, becoming lights in a dark world.
As Silent Night reminds us, the night of Christ’s birth was not just holy but transformative, bringing light and love into a weary world.
Application:
Follow Christ daily, walking in His light and love.
Let your life reflect His love, becoming a beacon of hope to those around you.
Conclusion: Love in Action
The Angel’s Candle reminds us of the boundless love God displayed in sending His Son. As we celebrate this Advent season, let us:
Reflect on the manger: Where love came down for all humanity.
Rejoice in the cross: Where love paid the ultimate price for our salvation.
Look to the light: Where love guides us toward a life of purpose and joy.

Sermon: The Joy of the Christ

Sermon Date: 12/15/2024
Bible Verses: Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:8-20 , Philippians 4:4
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
As we light the Shepherd's Candle, we focus on joy. This candle reminds us of the shepherds, the first to hear the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth, and the joy that flooded their hearts as they encountered the Savior.
The hymn God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen beautifully captures this theme. The phrase “God rest ye merry” means “may God grant you peace and happiness” and can also mean “God make you mighty, humble men.” It is a call to experience the joy and strength that come from knowing Christ, even in humble circumstances.
The Source of Joy: Jesus Became Like Us
Hebrews 2:14-18 – "Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil."
Jesus came as a humble infant, sharing in our humanity, to bring us eternal joy.
He came to break the chains of sin and death, giving us reason to rejoice, even in trials.
Just as the shepherds were ordinary people, we, too, are invited to partake in the joy of Christ's birth. Joy is rooted not in our circumstances but in the truth of the Savior’s arrival.
Application:
Reflect on the incarnation as a source of joy: God became flesh to redeem us.
Find strength in the humility and might of Christ, who meets us in our human frailty.
The Announcement of Joy: Good News to the Humble
Luke 2:8-20 – The angels appeared to the shepherds, proclaiming, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”
Good News for all people: The joy of salvation is for everyone, regardless of status or background.
The Shepherds’ Response: They immediately went to see the Christ-child, and then they shared the news with others.
The shepherds remind us that true joy leads to action. Their encounter with Jesus compelled them to glorify and praise God, spreading the good news.
Application:
Share the joy of the Gospel with others, just as the shepherds did.
Let your life be a reflection of the joy you have in Christ.
Living in Joy: Rejoicing Always
Philippians 4:4 – "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!"
Joy is not a fleeting emotion but a steady state of being rooted in Christ.
Even in challenges, we are called to rejoice because of the unchanging promises of God.
The joy of the Lord strengthens us (Nehemiah 8:10) and reminds us that we are never alone. Christ's birth is a declaration that God is with us—Emmanuel.
Application:
Cultivate joy through gratitude, prayer, and worship.
Remember that joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and grows as we abide in Christ.
Conclusion: Resting Merry in Christ
The Shepherd's Candle teaches us about the joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Like the shepherds, may we respond to the good news with worship and a commitment to share this joy with others.
As we sing God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, let us embrace its message:
Peace and happiness: Joy comes from trusting in God’s plan.
Mighty humility: Christ's birth calls us to live humbly yet boldly for Him.
This Advent, let us rejoice in the Lord, who has come to bring salvation to all people.

Sermon: The Peace of Bethlehem

Sermon Date: 12/08/2024
Bible Verse: : Micah 5:1-2, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 2:14-22
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Introduction
The Advent season brings us to the second candle, the Bethlehem Candle, symbolizing peace. Bethlehem, though a small and humble town, was chosen by God to bring forth the Prince of Peace. In this message, we will reflect on the prophecy of Bethlehem, the story of Christ’s birth, and the lasting peace Jesus brings to our lives and the world.
The hymn O Little Town of Bethlehem captures the profound truth that in the stillness of a quiet town, the Savior of the world was born, bringing peace to a broken and weary world.
The Prophecy of Bethlehem: Peace Foretold
Micah 5:1-2 – "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting."
Application:
God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways. Trust Him even when things seem small or insignificant.
The peace Jesus brings was planned from the beginning of time.
The Birth of Christ: Peace Arrived
Matthew 2:1-12 – The story of the wise men visiting Jesus reflects the fulfillment of prophecy and the peace Jesus brings to all people.
The Star of Peace: The wise men followed the star, a sign that the Prince of Peace had come into the world.
The Worship of Peace: The wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, acknowledging Jesus as King, Priest, and Sacrifice.
Application:
Like the wise men, seek and worship the Prince of Peace.
Share the peace of Christ with those around you during this season.
Jesus, Our Peace: Peace Proclaimed
Ephesians 2:14-22 – "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation."
Jesus brings peace with God: Through His death and resurrection, Jesus reconciled us to God, breaking the barrier of sin.
Jesus brings peace with others: He unites people from all backgrounds into one body, the Church.
Jesus is our eternal peace: He offers a peace that transcends circumstances and assures us of our place in His kingdom.
Application:
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts (Colossians 3:15).
Be peacemakers, reflecting the peace of Christ to a divided world (Matthew 5:9).
Conclusion: Living in the Peace of Bethlehem
The Bethlehem Candle reminds us that true peace is found only in Jesus Christ:
Peace foretold through prophecy.
Peace arrived in the humble town of Bethlehem.
Peace proclaimed through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The Weekly Show: Episode 30 - Anniversary Episode!

Join Tim and John as they celebrate one year of the Walnut Grove Podcast. 
Opening Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/simon-folwar/elves-workshop
Tim and John do a Q&A, talk about their favorite episodes and have a special anointment. 

Sermon: The Hope of Emmanuel

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

Devotion: Thankfulness in Unity

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

Sermon: Pray for Unity

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