Walnut Grove

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sermon Date: 10/19/2025
Bible Verses:
Psalm 71:1-8
Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-
Introduction: "Still Trusting"
Have you ever noticed that real faith doesn’t always look like loud declarations or perfect confidence?
It doesn’t always come wrapped in fireworks or mountaintop moments.Sometimes — maybe more often than we’d like to admit — real faith looks like a tired, battle-worn whisper:
“Lord… I still trust You.”
That kind of faith doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it’s the kind that endures.
Psalm 71 is a song of that kind of faith. It’s not written by a young, fearless warrior heading into battle — but likely by someone in their later years. Possibly David himself. Someone who has been through the battles. Who has failed. Who has limped away from some seasons. But who can still say with conviction:
“God has held me all the way.”
It’s not a psalm of naïve optimism.It’s a psalm of seasoned faith — tested in valleys, refined in fire, and strengthened in weakness.
What we read here is a prayer from someone who has lived long enough to know that God doesn’t always make life easy — but He always remains faithful.
This is not faith that only sings on the mountaintop.This is faith that crawls sometimes… that limps forward…That clings to God when everything else seems to crumble.
And it’s this kind of faith — enduring faith — that we desperately need in today’s world.
As we walk through Psalm 71:1–8, we are going to see what mature faith looks like. Not just in the triumphs, but in the trenches.Not just in the bright moments, but in the gray ones.And through it all, we will see this truth rise like a banner:
The God who carried you yesterday is the God who still holds you today.
So if you’ve ever wondered, “Can I still trust God when I’m tired? When I’m older? When I’m broken?” — this psalm is for you.
Let’s listen to a life that’s still trusting… and learn how to trust like that, too.
Trust Starts with God, Not with Circumstances
(Psalm 71:1–2)
“In You, O Lord, I put my trust; Let me never be put to shame.Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape;Incline Your ear to me, and save me.”
Right from the beginning of the psalm, the writer grounds his trust—not in himself, not in his track record, not in his ability to fix the situation—but in God. Notice the emphasis:
“In You, O Lord, I put my trust.”
“Deliver me in Your righteousness.”
This is one of the most important lessons mature faith learns:True trust begins with who God is, not how things look.We don’t build our faith on how steady the ground feels beneath our feet—We build it on the unchanging foundation of God’s character.
The psalmist doesn’t say, “Deliver me because I’ve been good,” or “because I deserve it.”He says, “Deliver me in Your righteousness.”
That’s humility. That’s dependence. That’s trust.
Cross-References:
Proverbs 3:5–6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Isaiah 26:3–4 — “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”
Key Thought:
When everything around you feels unstable, run to the One who never moves.
Application:
You don’t need to have all the answers.You don’t need to feel strong all the time.You just need to know where to run.
You may not understand what God is doing, but you can trust who He is.His character is your confidence. His righteousness is your rescue. His ear is always inclined to your cry.
God Is Not Just a Refuge—He’s Your Ongoing Refuge
(Psalm 71:3)
“Be my strong refuge,to which I may resort continually;You have given the commandment to save me,For You are my rock and my fortress.”
This verse is like an anchor. It’s not about a one-time emergency escape plan.It’s about a way of life. A relationship that doesn’t fade after the storm passes.
The word “continually” is key.
It means again and again.
Daily.
Consistently.
Not just when the pain spikes, or the bottom falls out.But even in the quiet moments. The normal days. The in-between seasons.
So many people treat God like a panic room—only used in a crisis.But the psalmist knows God as a dwelling place—a daily home.
He doesn't just cry for help in the moment. He says,
“You are where I want to live.”“You are my rock and my fortress.”
That’s intimacy. That’s consistency. That’s the kind of faith that endures.
Cross-References:
Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Psalm 90:1 — “Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.”
John 15:4 — “Abide in Me, and I in you…”
Key Thought:
Faith is not just about one great moment of trust—it’s about continual dependence.
✅ Application:
Don’t wait for the emergency to draw close to God.Start drawing near today. Build a rhythm of prayer, worship, and the Word.
Let your heart find its home in Him—not just its hiding place.
When God is your everyday refuge, you’ll have peace even in the storm.
From the Womb to Now — He Has Always Held You
(Psalm 71:4–6)
“Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked…For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my youth.By You I have been upheld from birth;You are He who took me out of my mother’s womb.My praise shall be continually of You.”
This is more than a cry for help—it’s a declaration of history.The psalmist isn’t just looking at what God might do.He’s remembering what God has already done.
He says:
“You are my hope… You are my trust from my youth… You upheld me from birth.”
This is powerful, because faith doesn’t grow in a vacuum—it’s watered by remembrance.We all have moments when the future looks uncertain.In those moments, one of the greatest tools God gives us is memory.
The enemy says, “You’re not going to make it.”But your testimony says, “Wait—I’ve already made it through so much.”
Cross-References:
Deuteronomy 1:31 — “The Lord your God carried you, as a man carries his son, in all the way that you went until you came to this place.”
Lamentations 3:22–23 — “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
Psalm 139:13–14 — “You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb…”
Key Thought:
God’s care didn’t start with your crisis—it started before you were born.
Application:
Look back.Think about the times God protected you, comforted you, carried you.Even if you didn’t see Him clearly at the time, you can look back now and say:
“That was You, Lord. You upheld me.”
When you’re unsure about what God is doing next, remind your heart of what He’s done before.
Build your trust not just on what you hope for—but on what He’s already done.
Our Response: A Mouth Filled with Praise
(Psalm 71:8)
“Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your glory all the day.”
When you’ve seen God’s faithfulness in every season…When you’ve known Him as your refuge…When you’ve been upheld from birth and rescued in battle…
The natural response isn’t pride.It’s not silence.It’s praise.
Praise becomes the soundtrack of a life built on trust.
The psalmist doesn’t say, “Let my mouth be filled with complaints.”He says, “Let it be filled with praise.”Why?Because praise does something.
It lifts our eyes above the storm.
It reminds our hearts who God is.
It pushes back darkness and declares that God is still good, even when life is hard.
Cross-References:
Psalm 34:1 — “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
Hebrews 13:15 — “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.”
Habakkuk 3:17–18 — “Though the fig tree may not blossom… yet I will rejoice in the Lord…”
Key Thought:
Praise isn’t reserved for good days. It’s the weapon we wield on hard days.
Application:
Praise is how we fight discouragement.It’s how we re-center our minds and hearts when the world feels overwhelming.If fear is loud, let your praise be louder.
Keep your mouth full of praise—and it will drive out the lies of fear and despair.
Conclusion: Still Trusting
Psalm 71:1–8 gives us a window into the heart of a seasoned believer—someone who has weathered storms, faced battles, felt heartache… and yet still trusts.
He still believes that God is good.
He still calls God his Rock.
He still fills his mouth with praise.
This isn’t just a psalm for the elderly—it’s a psalm for anyone who’s learning that real faith isn’t about being fearless.It’s about being faithful.Not loud. Not perfect. Just faithful.Still trusting.

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on why we should not fear.
Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time
Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/
Introduction: Fear Not!
Fear is one of the oldest emotions known to humankind—and still one of the strongest. From the first time Adam and Eve hid in the garden, to the present day, fear has followed us. It takes many forms: fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unknown, fear of loss, fear of death. For some, it’s a low hum in the background of life. For others, it’s a crippling force that steals sleep, joy, and peace.
We live in a world that thrives on fear. News cycles sensationalize danger. Entertainment profits from horror. Social media magnifies our anxieties. Even in the rhythms of our daily lives, we encounter fear: What if I lose my job? What if I get that diagnosis? What if I’m not enough?
Yet over and over again, God speaks to the fear in His people.
One of the most repeated commands in all of Scripture is this: “Do not be afraid.” Not because there is nothing scary in the world—but because God Himself promises to be with us.
When Abram was afraid of the future, God said, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield” (Genesis 15:1).
When Joshua was afraid to step into Moses’ shoes, God said, “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
When Mary trembled at the angel’s words, “Do not be afraid” was the message (Luke 1:30).
When Jesus approached His disciples walking on water, as they screamed in fear, He told them, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).
God doesn’t minimize fear—but He does outmatch it. He doesn’t say “fear not” as a suggestion or motivational quote. He commands it—because He backs it up with His power, His presence, and His promises.
This message comes at a time when fear is even celebrated in culture. As the so-called “spooky season” rolls around, we find haunted houses, horror films, costumes, and ghost stories. While some of it is playful, much of it glorifies fear. But the Christian response is not to retreat into denial or to pretend fear doesn’t exist—it’s to confront fear with truth.
And that truth is this:
You are not alone. You are not abandoned. You are not without hope.
This study will explore what the Bible actually says about fear, and why followers of Christ can live differently in a fearful world. We'll look at real stories—of people who faced terrifying odds—and how God met them. We'll examine the commands, the encouragements, and the comfort that Scripture offers.
Because at the heart of the gospel is a God who steps into darkness, speaks peace into storms, and leads His people through the valley of the shadow of death—not around it.
So the question isn’t, “Will we feel afraid?”
The question is, “What will we do with our fear?”
This is a message of courage—not rooted in ourselves, but rooted in Christ. He is our strength. He is our peace. He is the reason we can stand firm and say with confidence: “I will not fear… for You are with me.”
Key Theme One: Why Fear Not?
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Fear Is Natural—But Not Sovereign
Fear is one of the most instinctive human reactions. It’s hardwired into us for survival. A sudden noise, an uncertain future, a threatening situation—fear tells us to pay attention. But while fear is natural, it was never meant to rule us.
God never condemns His people simply for feeling fear—but He does command us not to remain in it. Isaiah 41:10 shows us why.
Why Not Fear? Because God Is With You
The first reason God gives is His presence:
“Fear not, for I am with you.”
When fear shouts, “You’re alone!”—God gently but firmly says, “No, you’re not.”
This is not empty reassurance. It is the steady, unchanging promise of the Almighty. The same God who walked with Abraham, stood beside Moses, and filled the temple in Isaiah’s vision now stands with you. Not just beside you—but fighting for you.
“I am your God.” That’s not a generic blessing. It’s personal. Covenantal. Relational. He doesn't just say, “I am God,” but “I am your God.”
Fear Not—Because You Are Not Powerless
“I will strengthen you, I will help you…” God doesn’t just sympathize—He strengthens. He helps. He upholds.
When your legs feel like they’re giving out from stress, He gives you strength.
When the pressure mounts and the path forward seems impossible, He helps.
When everything is falling apart, He holds you up.
He never commands what He won’t equip you to do. If He says “Fear not,” it’s because He will supply everything you need to stand.
“Fear Not” Is a Command—Not a Suggestion
This is important: “Fear not” is not a comforting phrase meant only to soothe. It is a command from the Lord.
Why? Because fear left unchecked becomes a prison. It steals clarity. It breeds confusion. It paralyzes purpose. And ultimately, it pulls us away from trust in God.
To live in fear is to live in functional atheism—as if God were not present, not powerful, and not good.
But Isaiah 41:10 breaks that lie:
God is present — “I am with you.”
God is powerful — “I will uphold you.”
God is good — “I will help you.”
Application: Faith Doesn’t Deny Fear—It Defeats It
Faith doesn’t mean you’ll never feel afraid. It means you refuse to let fear have the final word.
When fear whispers, “You’re not enough”—remember, God is your strength.
When anxiety tells you, “You’ll be overwhelmed”—remember, God will help.
When worry grips you, “This is too much”—remember, God is upholding you.
Fear is real. But so is God. And God is greater.
Key Theme Two: Faith Over Fear – Peter Walks on Water
Matthew 14:27–31 (ESV)
But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Fear Comes in the Storms of Life
Peter and the other disciples were caught in a storm, battered by waves and fear. Then they saw Jesus—walking on the water.
They didn’t recognize Him at first. In fact, they were terrified, thinking He was a ghost.
Jesus’s first words? “Take heart. It is I. Do not be afraid.”
In the middle of the storm—Jesus speaks peace.
He doesn’t calm the storm immediately. He speaks into it. And in doing so, He teaches us that His presence is our peace, not our circumstances.
Faith Steps Out of the Boat
Peter does something remarkable—he steps out of the boat. His faith, even if imperfect, responds to Jesus’s call.
For a moment, faith overcomes fear. Peter does what should be impossible—he walks on water. But then…
“When he saw the wind, he was afraid…”
Fear crept in the moment Peter took his eyes off Jesus and placed them on the storm.
This is often how it works:
As long as our focus is on Christ, we can do what fear says is impossible.
But when we obsess over the wind and waves—our circumstances, dangers, worst-case scenarios—we sink.
Jesus Catches Sinking Saints
Peter begins to sink, but he does the right thing:
“Lord, save me!”
He doesn’t try to swim back to the boat on his own. He doesn’t give up. He calls out to Jesus—and Jesus immediately grabs hold of him.
Jesus doesn’t shame Peter. He doesn’t let him drown. He rescues—and then gently corrects.
“O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Not, “How dare you.” But, “You were doing it! You just needed to keep trusting.”
Application: Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
Fear isn’t conquered by self-confidence. It’s conquered by God-confidence.
Storms will come.
Fear will rise.
But Jesus says, “Do not be afraid… Come.”
We walk above the waves when we walk with Him. And when we start to sink—He still holds us.
Reflection Questions:
Where is fear trying to keep you in the boat?
What storms are pulling your eyes away from Jesus?
How can you respond in faith this week—even if your voice shakes?
Key Theme Three: Surrounded by God – Elisha and the Invisible Army
2 Kings 6:15–17 (ESV)
When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Fear Sees the Enemy—Faith Sees the Lord
Elisha’s servant wakes up to a nightmare: The city is surrounded by a hostile army. The enemy has come with horses and chariots. There’s no way out.
He panics—understandably.
“Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
This is fear’s favorite question: “What are we going to do?” It assumes we’re alone. That it’s up to us. That we’ve already lost.
But Elisha responds with faith and vision:
“Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
The servant couldn’t see it yet—but Elisha could. The hills were filled with heavenly forces: horses and chariots of fire.
Faith Prays, and Eyes Are Opened
Elisha doesn’t argue. He prays:
“O Lord, open his eyes that he may see.”
That’s what we need most when fear comes—not more facts, but clearer faith.
When the servant’s spiritual eyes are opened, he sees what was true all along: They weren’t surrounded by the enemy. The enemy was surrounded by God.
Application: You Are Never Alone
Fear lies. It says you are abandoned. But faith says, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (Psalm 46:7)
What you see in the natural may be terrifying— but what’s true in the spiritual is even greater.
You are not alone.
God surrounds His people with protection.
He commands unseen armies.
His presence goes before, behind, and beside you.
Even if you feel surrounded—you’re surrounded by Him.
Reflection Questions:
Are you more focused on what the enemy is doing—or what God is doing?
When fear floods your heart, do you stop to ask God for vision?
How would your choices change if you truly believed God’s army is with you?
Key Theme Four: Jesus in the Storm – Fear Meets the Voice of Peace
Matthew 14:26–27 (ESV)
But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Fear Looks at the Storm—Faith Looks at the Savior
The disciples were seasoned fishermen, used to storms. But this one was different. They were exhausted, battered, and alone in the dark.
Then—something appears on the water. A figure walking toward them.
They don’t recognize Him. They assume the worst—“It’s a ghost!” Fear always fills in the blanks with panic.
But immediately, Jesus speaks.
“Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Three short commands that can anchor the soul:
Take heart – have courage.
It is I – the same voice that spoke creation is here.
Do not be afraid – because fear must bow in His presence.
Application: Jesus Doesn’t Remove Every Storm—But He Joins Us In It
Sometimes God doesn’t calm the sea immediately. Sometimes He walks across the waves to meet us in it.
He doesn’t shame the disciples for their fear—He speaks into it.
He meets us in our lowest, darkest moments.
He reveals Himself in the storm, not just after it.
And He reminds us that His presence is our peace.
Conclusion: “Fear Not”—Because He Is With You
The command to “Fear not” appears over 300 times in the Bible. It’s not because we never have reason to feel fear— but because we have a greater reason not to stay in it.
Isaiah 41:10 — “I am with you.” 2 Kings 6 — “Those who are with us are more…” Matthew 14 — “It is I.”
The answer to fear is always God’s presence.
So whether you're facing:
Inner anxiety
Real enemies
Overwhelming circumstances
Or uncertainty about the future
God's Word is clear: Fear not. You are not alone. He is with you.
Reflection Questions:
Where have you allowed fear to take root in your life?
Have you asked God to open your eyes to what He’s doing behind the scenes?
What would it look like this week to walk in courage instead of fear?