Walnut Grove

Devotion: Division and Unity in the Kingdom of God

Sermon Date: 05/26/24
 
Bible Verses: Various 
 
Theme Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/hometown

Weekly Show: Episode 4 - Idolatry

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and Idolatry.
 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Show Notes for "Understanding Idolatry: A Biblical Perspective"
Hosts: Tim Shapley and John HowellDuration: 60-90 minutes
Introduction
Tim starts it off:
Welcome listeners and introduce the episode's theme: Idolatry.
Explanation of why idolatry is a significant issue for Christians today.
Friendly Chat
Casual conversation between Tim and John.
Personal anecdotes and experiences related to the topic of idolatry.
Recent Events
Discussion of current events or news related to faith and spirituality.
Connection of these events to the theme of idolatry.
Bible Study: Idolatry
Overview
Tim introduces the Bible study topic:
Emphasis on cultivating a direct, personal connection with God without idols.
Brief overview of the episode's focus on idolatry.
Introduction to the main sources:
"The Return of the Gods" by Jonathan Cahn
"Gods at War: Defeating the Idols that Battle for Your Heart" by Kyle Idleman
Mention of the key Bible verses to be discussed: Exodus 20:1-11, 1 Corinthians 10:7, 1 Corinthians 10:14, 1 John 5:21, Colossians 3:5.
Importance of Discussing Idolatry
Explanation of why idolatry is relevant to contemporary Christians.
Connection to personal and societal issues.
Biblical Foundation
Exodus 20:1-11:
"And God spoke all these words, saying, 'I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me...'"
Discussion of the Ten Commandments with a focus on the prohibition of idolatry.
Historical context and significance.
1 Corinthians 10:7 and 1 Corinthians 10:14:
"Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: 'The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.'"
"Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry."
Examination of Paul's warnings against idolatry.
Application to early Christian communities and modern believers.
1 John 5:21:
"Dear children, keep yourselves from idols."
Analysis of John's simple yet profound warning.
Relevance of this verse today.
Colossians 3:5:
"Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry."
Breakdown of what Paul means by idolatry in the context of sinful behaviors.
Application to contemporary life and personal introspection.
Ezekiel 36:25-27:
"I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you..."
Discussion on God's promise of cleansing and renewal.
Exploration of Modern Idolatry
Overview of Modern Idolatry:
Definition of idolatry in the modern context.
Examples of contemporary idols (e.g., money, success, technology, relationships).
The Return of the Gods by Jonathan Cahn:
Summary of Cahn's main arguments about ancient gods influencing modern culture.
Discussion on the concept of the "Dark Trinity" (Baal, Ishtar, Molech).
How these ancient entities manifest in today's society.
Gods at War by Kyle Idleman:
Summary of Idleman's perspective on everyday idols.
Examination of Idleman's approach to identifying and overcoming idolatry.
Personal stories and practical advice from the book.
Personal and Practical Application
Identifying Personal Idols:
Techniques and questions to help listeners identify idols in their own lives (inspired by Idleman's book).
Discussion on the subtlety of idolatry and its impact on personal faith.
Overcoming Idolatry:
Practical steps to dethrone idols and refocus on God.
Insights from both Cahn and Idleman on maintaining a God-centered life.
Importance of community, accountability, and spiritual disciplines.
Conclusion
Recap of key insights and principles learned about idolatry.
Encouragement to continue exploring and addressing idolatry in one's life.
Closing
Final thoughts from Tim and John.
Invitation to tune in for the next episode.

Sermon: Psalm 19

Sermon Date: 05/19/24
 
Bible Verses: Psalm 19
 
Theme Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/hometown

Weekly Show: Episode 3 - Man's Relationship with God

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and Man's Relationship with God.
 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
Show Notes for "Exploring Man's Relationship with God: A Biblical Study"
Hosts: Tim Shapley and John HowellDuration: 60-90 minutes
Introduction
John starts it off:
Brief overview of the episode's theme and purpose.
Importance of understanding man's relationship with God.
Friendly Chat
Casual conversation between Tim and John.
Personal reflections and anecdotes related to the topic.
Recent Events
Discussion of current events or news related to faith and spirituality.
How these events tie into the theme of the episode.
Bible Study: Exploring Man's Relationship with God
Introduction
John introduces the study:
Psalm 8:4: “What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?”
Importance of man's relationship with God throughout the Bible.
Overview of the study’s structure.
Session 1: God's Design for Relationship
Tim leads the session:
Genesis 1:26-28: Man created in God's image for fellowship and dominion.
Genesis 3:8-9: God's pursuit of man after disobedience.
Discussion:
Understanding God's original design for relationship.
Implications for our purpose and identity.
Session 2: The Impact of Sin on Relationship
John leads the session:
Genesis 3:1-13: Man's fall into sin and resulting separation from God.
Romans 3:23: The universal condition of sin.
Discussion:
How sin hinders our relationship with God.
Steps to address this barrier.
Session 3: Redemption and Reconciliation
Tim leads the session:
John 3:16-17: God's love in sending Jesus for restoration.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19: The ministry of reconciliation.
Discussion:
How Jesus provides means for reconciliation with God.
Session 4: Faith and Trust in Relationship
John leads the session:
Hebrews 11:6: Importance of faith in pleasing God.
Proverbs 3:5-6: Trusting in the Lord with all our hearts.
Discussion:
Impact of faith on our relationship with God.
Session 5: Nurturing Relationship through Spiritual Disciplines
Tim leads the session:
Psalm 119:105: Role of God's Word in guiding us.
Philippians 4:6-7: Prayer as communication with God.
Discussion:
Importance of Bible study, prayer, worship, and fellowship.
Session 6: Living in Relationship with God
John leads the session:
Colossians 3:1-4: Setting our minds on things above.
Galatians 5:16-25: Walking by the Spirit and bearing its fruit.
Discussion:
Practical steps to live in alignment with God's will.
Conclusion
Recap of key insights and principles learned.
Encouragement to continue exploring and deepening relationship with God.
Closing
Final thoughts from Tim and John.
Invitation to tune in for the next episode.

Sermon: The Good News of the Resurrection

Sermon Date: 05/05/24
 
Bible Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
 
Theme Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/hometown

Weekly Show: Episode 2 - The World of God

Join Tim as John and they talk about life and how to study the World of God.
 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
 
Show Notes:
Hosts: Tim Shapley and John HowellDuration: 60-90 minutes
Introduction: Technical Difficulties
Tim and John kick off the show with a light-hearted acknowledgment of some technical difficulties, setting a relaxed tone for the rest of the episode.
Friendly Chat:
Recent Events (John takes the lead): Boy Scouts - “The Scouts”
John dives into a discussion about recent changes in the Boy Scouts organization, now known as "The Scouts." He explores the reasons behind their decision to become more inclusive and the impact it's having on membership.
Bible Study: Introduction on How to Study the Bible
Tim:Tim welcomes listeners to their journey through the Bible, emphasizing the book's profound impact and relevance. He highlights the goal of making biblical study engaging and accessible to all.
John:John underscores the importance of studying the Bible, not merely for academic or theological reasons, but for the transformative power it holds.
What is The Bible:
Tim:Tim provides an overview of the Bible's origins and unique characteristics, emphasizing its divine inspiration and authority.
John:John delves deeper into the divine authorship of the Bible, discussing its inerrancy and infallibility, supported by relevant biblical passages.
Three Steps to Studying Scripture:
John:John introduces a simple yet effective method for studying the Bible: Observe, Interpret, and Apply. He explains each step and its significance in unlocking the truths of Scripture.
Tim:Tim expands on the first two steps—Observation and Interpretation—offering practical tips and insights for approaching biblical texts.
John:John concludes the segment by discussing the final step, Application, and its importance in translating biblical truths into personal transformation.
The Story of Scripture:
Tim:Tim explores the overarching narrative of the Bible, starting with Creation, and highlights the key attributes of God as revealed in this foundational story.
John:John delves into the subsequent parts of the narrative—Fall, Redemption, and Restoration—underscoring their significance in understanding God's plan for humanity.
Closing:
Tim and John wrap up the show with a brief recap of the key points discussed and invite listeners to join them on future episodes as they continue their exploration of the Bible and its profound truths.
Stay Connected:
Website: walnutgrovechurchwm.com
Facebook: Walnut Grove Southern Methodist Church
Discord
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Sermon: Mother's Day 2024

Sermon Date: 05/12/24
 
Bible Verses: 1 Kings 3:16-28, Isaiah 49:15, 1 Samuel 1:10-11, 27-28, Luke 1:38, 46-55, 2 Timothy 1:5, 3:14-15, Proverbs 31:28-29
 
Theme Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/hometown

Weekly Show: Episode 1 - Biblical Worldview

It's our first weekly show and it is pretty good. Join Tim and John as they talk about life and what it means to have a Biblical Worldview.
 
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning
 
Walnut Grove Podcast Show Notes
Hosts: Tim Shapley and John Howell
Duration: 60-90 minutes
Episode Outline:
Introduction
Tim and John welcome listeners to the podcast and explain why they are co-hosting the show.
A brief history of their relationship and how they started working together.
What listeners should expect from this weekly show.
Friendly Chat
Tim and John engage in a casual conversation, sharing updates on their personal lives, recent experiences, and interesting anecdotes.
They discuss current events and what's been happening in their church community.
Recent Events
Discussion of Russell Brand's baptism. The hosts explore the significance of his journey and share their thoughts on the videos detailing his experience. (Links to videos can be found in the show description.)
Other recent events relevant to the Walnut Grove community.
Bible Study
Topic: The Importance of a Biblical Worldview
Tim and John explore what it means to have a biblical worldview and how it shapes our thoughts, beliefs, and actions.
Four Parts to the Story of Scripture:
Creation
Fall
Redemption
Restoration
Six Important Components of a Biblical Worldview:
God as Creator (Genesis 1:1)
The Bible as God's Word (2 Timothy 3:16)
Absolute Moral Truth Exists (Psalms 102:25–27; Malachi 3:6)
Jesus Christ as the Only Begotten Son of God (1 Corinthians 15:3–4; 1 John 4:9–10)
Satan as a Real Being (1 Peter 5:8)
Salvation by Faith Alone (Ephesians 2:8–9)
Three Dangers Facing a Biblical Worldview:
Not viewing all of life through the Bible
Viewing opposing worldviews as enemies
Not believing your worldview is absolute
Conclusion
Tim and John conclude by emphasizing the importance of adopting a biblical worldview and how it can guide Christians in living with integrity and compassion.
They encourage listeners to apply biblical principles in every aspect of life and to remain steadfast in their faith.
Call to Action
Visit the Walnut Grove website at walnutgrovechurchwm.com for more information about the church and upcoming events.
Follow the Facebook page at "Walnut Grove Southern Methodist Church" for news and updates.
Join the Discord community for more discussions and fellowship.
If you enjoyed the show, like and share the podcast to help spread the word.
Tune in next week for another episode of the Walnut Grove Podcast!