Grace Community Church

“The Greatest Gift”

~Selected Scriptures

Pastor Kirk Larson

We all can remember a time when we received a gift, and that gift was one of the greatest gifts we had ever received.  The Apostle Paul reminds Christians of a gift that we have received and how it’s changed our lives both in the present and the future.  This is the greatest gift.

5. The Gift of God

5. The Gift of Blessings

5. The Gift to Share

“The Coming of God’s Grace”

~Titus 2: 11-15

Pastor Kirk Larson

Without the Grace of God, we would have no hope, no life, no meaning, no purpose. In fact, we would have nothing.  But the good news is, that God’s grace has come through the person of Jesus Christ.  God’s grace provides us with everything we need in this life.

5. The Message of Grace
6. The Mandate of Grace
7. The Motivation of Grace

"Living a Life of Thankfulness”

~Selected Scriptures

Pastor Kirk Larson

Thankfulness is a prominent Bible theme.  The Bible is filled with commands to give thanks to God.  Giving thanks to God keeps our hearts in a right relationship with Him and saves us from a host of harmful emotions and attitudes.

5. The Importance of Giving Thanks

5. The Insult of Ingratitude and Ungratefulness

5. The Investment of Giving Thanks in Everything

     “Mature Faith”

           ~Philippians 1: 1-11

          Pastor Nathan Davis

God desires all of His children to grow in their faith

and draw closer to their Savior during their time on

 earth.  This may see like a burden to some, but for Paul

 and the Philippian church, it was a joyful experience

to mature in their faith, and it can be for us as well.

5. Mature Faith Serves Consistently

5. Mature Faith is not Ashamed of the Gospel

5. Mature Faith Overflows with Love

5. Mature Faith Establishes Godly Priorities

5. Mature Faith Encourages Others

“Mission Readiness”

~Ephesians 6: 11-13

Jim Nelson

Our Mission

Our Struggle is not Against Flesh and Blood

Compromise is the Battleground

Ours is the Victory

“The Secret of Contentment”

~Philippians 4: 10-14

Pastor Nathan Davis

We are not born with contentment in our heart.  Because of sinfulness and pride, we are naturally inclined to discontentment and restlessness.  Today we are going to see how we can live a life of contentment and not be a victim of our circumstances, but a victor over our circumstances.

5. The Lesson of Contentment (4: 11)

5. The Teacher of Contentment (4: 12)

5. The Power for Contentment (4: 13-14)

                                               “Not of this World”

                                                                         ~John 17: 13-19

                                                                    Pastor Nathan Davis

Christians are unique.  Some may say we are quirky, strange, and weird.  They are correct, we are weird.  Christians are indeed different because we are not of this world.  However, the world is exactly where Christ wants us, and we can live in the world with…

5. Joy.
6. Protection.
7. Purpose.
8. Mission

                                        “The Election and the Christian”

                                                                       ~Selected Scriptures

                                                                         Pastor Kirk Larson

Every four years, Americans have the privilege and opportunity to cast their vote for the next President of the United States.  How one goes about determining who to vote for varies from person to person.  But as Christians, we should have a set of guidelines and principles to guide us in our vote.

5. Should Christians Vote?

5. How Should a Christian View Politics

5. Two Parties’ Platforms

                                      “The Starting of a Good Work”

                                                                       ~Philippians 1: 6

                                                                     Pastor Kirk Larson

The “Good Work” which God begins in us is salvation through His Son Jesus Christ. But salvation is just the starting point of the good work that God will accomplish in us.  The Apostle Paul provides insight into what God can do, and will do, as we respond to Him. 

5. God Working in Us

5. The Means of God’s Work

5. The Result of God’s Work

                                  “The Starting of a Good Work”

                                                                 ~Philippians 1: 6

                                                               Pastor Kirk Larson

The “Good Work” which God begins in us is salvation through His Son Jesus Christ. But salvation is just the starting point of the good work that God will accomplish in us.  The Apostle Paul provides insight into what God can do, and will do, as we respond to Him. 

• God Working in Us
• The Means of God’s Work
• The Result of God’s Work

“Letting Go of Hurt”

~Matthew 6; 9-15

Pastor Kirk Larson

We all have been hurt in one way or another.  How we have dealt with hurt has allowed us to either be set free or placed under bondage.  God wants us to know and experience the gift of forgiveness in our lives, regarding Him and others.

5. Importance of Forgiveness

5. How do we Forgive?

5. How do we Walk in Forgiveness?

“Handling Stress”

~Psalm 46

Pastor Kirk Larson

Have you ever said, “I’m stressed out!”? I’m sure you have and I have confidence that most others have said it too. Stress robs life, peace and comfort.  It interrupts our joy and impacts our relationship with God. Someone has said, “Three words describe our times:  hurry, worry, and bury.”

• Natural Events

• Civil Disturbances

• Personal Crisis

“Prepared for Good Works”

~Ephesians 2: 10, Titus 3: 3-8

Pastor Kirk Larson

You were created in Christ Jesus for good works!  These works have been prepared by God for you to walk in them.  The Apostle Paul challenges us with three attitudes that can motivate us to live out the works that God has prepared.

• Never Forget the Life from which you have been Rescued.

• God’s Grace has Freely Forgiven and Transformed.

• New Identity energizes and equips to do good.

“Pillars of Stability”

~Philippians 4:1

Pastor Kirk Larson

What is the foundation of your life?  How stable are you in life?  How do you face difficult times and situations?  In Philippians, Chapter four, Paul states, “Stand firm…in the Lord.” What does that mean for sure?  In this chapter, Paul provides us with four pillars of stability that enable us to stand firm.

• Persistent Prayer

• Proper Thinking

• Practical Obedience

“Tips for the School Year”

~Proverbs 1: 8-9

Pastor Kirk Larson

The school year has begun and for some, that brings excitement and joy, and for others, sadness and sorrow.  Regardless of how you view the school year, learning is an ongoing part of our lives and that is a good and exciting opportunity.  As we go through this school year, here are three practical tips that can enrich and bless our lives and the lives of others.

• Pay Attention to All in Authority

• Don’t Give in to Peer Pressure

• Make Jesus the Lord of your Life

“The Persistence of Faith”

~Luke 18: 35-43

Pastor Nathan Davis

A mass of people headed in the same direction is powerful force, and can be a good thing when the crowd is pursuing the right things.  When the crowd is headed in the wrong direction, our faith and beliefs can be challenged. We need to persist in our faith no matter what, because the result is worth it.

• The Knowledge of the Savior (vs. 35-38)

• Fuels the Persistence of Faith (vs. 39-41)

• Resulting in Blessing and Glory (vs. 42-43)

                                        “Pick Your Way”

~Psalm 1

Pastor Kirk Larson

Every day we have been given the opportunity to choose the way we want to live.  In Psalm 1, we find the contrasting differences between man’s way and God’s way.  One way is fruitful and blessed and the other way is barren and hopeless.

• Man's Way

• God's Way

“Finding Fulfillment”

~Colossians 2: 6-15

Pastor Nathan Davis

God wants Christians to experience the fullness they have in Christ, and we are given a blueprint to finding fulfillment.  When we follow the path and avoid the danger, we can find fulfillment as we trust the Guide.

• Follow the Path (2: 6-7)

• Avoid the Danger (2:8)

• Find Fulfillment (2: 9-10)

• Trust the Guide (2: 11-15)

“If I Only had Today”

~Selected Scriptures

Pastor Kirk Larson

What would you do if you only had today?  What would your priority list look like? James asks us that question by saying that life is like a vapor; it appears for a little while and then vanishes away.  Are we making the most of our time?

• Foolish Living
• Wise Living

“Losing Freedom”

~Galatians 5: 1-25

Pastor Kirk Larson

Freedom is a blessed thing in the lives of people and a country.  We know that freedom is not free but comes as a result of sacrifice and cost. Our freedom as a country however, is slowly being lost as people and leaders devalue Christian morals and principles. The Apostle Paul speaks to this issue of losing freedom personally and as a nation.

• Keep Standing Firm (vs. 1)

• Who Hindered You? (vs. 7-10)

• Freedom is not a License to Sin (vs. 13-15)

• Selfish Lusts Leads to Bondage (vs. 16, 19-21)

• Freedom in the Fruit of the Spirit (vs. 22-25)

“Living for What?”

~II Corinthian 5:9

What would you say that you are living for?  Many people go through life, from one event to another, from one day to the next, without ever considering what they are living for. God’s Word challenges us to establish a worthy goal for living.

• We are a New Creation

• We have Experienced the Love of God

• We have ministry from Christ

• We will Spend Eternity with God

• We will ALL Stand before Christ

“Recognizing God’s Voice”

~Selected Scriptures        Pastor Kirk Larson

There are times in our lives that we need to hear from God. We need to hear what God is saying.  In those times, how do we know if we are hearing from God, somebody else, or the devil himself? Who or what is influencing me in this decision or direction?

• Consistent with the Word
• Conflict with Human Reason
• Led to Humility of Heart
• Challenge our Faith
• Calls for Courage
• Requires Patience
• Will be Consequences
• Peace of God
• Devotion to Prayer

“A Simple Message, Spoken Simply”

~1 Corinthians 2: 1-5

Pastor Nathan Davis

One of the true joys of being a Christian is telling others about Jesus.  This morning, we will look at a simple plan for sharing our faith.  It does not have to be intimidating or overwhelming.  When we get out of the way and put the entire focus on Christ, we can share a simple message in a simple way.

• Method of Evangelism

• Message of Evangelism

• Mindset of Evangelism

“Do This is Remembrance of Me”

~Selected Scriptures

The night that Jesus was betrayed, He introduced a new covenant through the Passover Meal Celebration. Taking bread and wine, He used these common elements to represent this broken body and shed blood.  We call this the “Lord’s Supper,” also called communion or the Eucharist. The Lord’s Supper enables us to identify with God’s deliverance from sin and its penalty through Jesus’ death on the cross.

1. Remembrance of Jesus

2. Old/New Covenant

3. Examine Yourself

“God’s Open Doors”

~Revelation 3: 7-8

Each day of our lives, God puts open doors before us to be involved in His work and service.  These open doors can be general opportunities for ministry in the lives of others, or they can be more specific in God’s direction for us personally. How we respond to these open doors determines our spiritual growth and usefulness to our Lord.

1. Why We Don’t’ Open the Door

2. God’s Open Doors

“A Good Soldier”

~II Timothy 2: 3-4

This weekend we observe “Memorial Day,” in which we honor all the “Good Soldiers” who gave their lives for this country and secured the freedoms we enjoy.  There is also the call to believers to be “Good Soldiers” in the spiritual fight, and freedom over sin.  God’s Word provides us with some marks of a “Good Soldier.”

1. A Good Soldier is a Follower

2. A Good Soldier is a Fighter

3. A Good Soldier is Familiar

4. A Good Soldier is Faithful

5. A Good Soldier is Focused

"The Blessing of Mom”

~Proverbs 31

Perhaps of those who have the greatest impact on our lives, are “Mothers.”  God created something special in mothers that influences us with inspiration, courage, tenderness, comfort, forgiveness, instruction and much more.  May the Lord strengthen and bless all mothers for their labor of love and work of faith.

 The Blessing of Availability

 The Blessing of Involvement

 The Blessing of Teaching

 The Blessing of Training

 The Blessing of Discipline

The Blessing of Nurture

The Blessing of Integrity

“Being in Tune with God”

~Matthew 4: 17-22

When God speaks to you, revealing what he wants for you, that revelation is your invitation to adjust your life to Him. When you adjust to Him, you are in a position to obey.  At this point you are “in tune with God.”

• What You Believe?

• What Adjustments are Needed?

• What Will You Do?

“What Happens when God is Removed?

~Daniel 1

  In America, we are witnessing what happens when God is removed from our lives and our society.  This process has been occurring over a number of centuries.  It is said that God died in the nineteenth century; man died in the twentieth century.  For when God is dead, man becomes an untamed beast.  But Daniel shows us how to put God back into our living and society.

• We Must be People of Conviction

• We Must be People of Character

• We Must be People of Courage

Follow the link to watch the FaceBook livestream video from 4-19-24.

                            “What are you Passing On?

~Deuteronomy 6: 1-9

  As Christians, we have an obligation and opportunity to pass on and share the things of God with our family, friends and others who come into our lives.  In Psalm 145, Verse 4, it says, “One generation shall praise Thy works to another, and shall declare Thy mighty acts.”

• What to Pass On

• God’s Presence and Assurance

• How to Pass On

                               “What is Your Level of Commitment?”

~Romans 12: 1-2

 These two verses form a bridge between principles and practice; a link between theology and life. Romans 1-8 sets forth the principles of the Gospel and chapters 12-16 deal with the practice of the Gospel. Therefore, it requires a thorough understanding and an obedient application to the believer’s life.

• The Appeal for our Commitment

• The Attitude of our Commitment

• The Arrangement of our Commitment

• The Affects of our Commitments

“The Road to the Final Four”

~Selected Scriptures

There is nothing like the thrill of victory!  Whether it is in sports, overcoming a challenge, fighting through a difficulty or achieving a goal, victory is a sweet and glorious moment.  In a very real sense, we can summarize Jesus’ work on earth in one word~ VICTORY! It is through the victory of Jesus that we too can experience victory in our lives.

• Suffering Savior
• Dying Conqueror
• Rising Victor
• Interceding Lord

“The Meaning of Palm Sunday”

~John 12: 12-19

What is Palm Sunday all about?  What was Jesus’ agenda in this event?  The multitude wanted a different Jesus than the Jesus that rode in to Jerusalem. Do we all miss the true Jesus?  Do we follow Him for the wrong reason?

• Attention to His Purpose

• Comprehension of His Purpose

• Devotion to His Purpose

“Does Jesus Know You?”

~Matthew 7: 21-23

The Apostle Paul says in II Timothy 3: 5, that in the last days, people will have a form of godliness, but no real change in their lives.  In our Scripture text, Jesus confronts this form of godliness and tells the religious crowd that, “I never knew you.”  People may know about Jesus, but does Jesus know them?

• More than Profession
• More than Production
• More than Performance

“Two Ways in Life”

~Matthew 7: 13-14

Everyone is faced with a decision and that decision determines our pathway in life, now and forever.  In Jesus’ message, He contrasts two ways that we can live our lives.  Each way has a final destination.  There is no middle ground.  Which way have you chosen?

• Two Gates

• Two Ways

• Two Destinies

• Two Groups

“Ask, Seek, Knock”

                                                                              ~Matthew 7: 7-11

Prayer is the opportunity to invite the power of God into our lives on a daily basis. When we don’t pray, we cut ourselves off from God’s power.  But through prayer we invite God to be involved in our daily challenges and needs.

1. ASK

2. God’s Answers

3. Prayer Steps

“Hypocritical Judging”

                           Matthew 7: 1-6

In this scripture text, Jesus warns about being hypocritical in judging others. The kind of judging Jesus condemns is that which comes from a critical, complaining spirit.  Jesus provides us with some understanding about judging and gives us some principles of judgement.

1. Know the Facts

2. Know Your Weaknesses

3. Know the Repercussions

4. Know and Check Yourself

5. Know Your Own Problem First

“What’s the Worry?”

                                                                          Matthew 6: 25-34

Doctors tell us that worry can shorten our life.  Jesus said that He came to give us life.  In our Scripture text, Jesus provides us with insight on LIVING life, rather than worrying about life. There are two ways to approach life…faithfully or fearfully.  Worry is the main indicator that we are approaching life with fear, not faith.

1. The Life Test
2. The Value Test
3. The Addition Test
4. The Eternal Test
5. The Who We Are Test
6. The Priority Test
7. The Sufficiency Test

“Laying Up Treasures”

~Matthew 6: 19-24

Every day we are making investment decisions, whether it’s with our time, our abilities, or our finances.  We look for the investments with the lowest risk and highest reward. Jesus addresses this topic of investments and provides us with insight on making the best investment in this life and the eternity.

5. Treasures on Earth

5. Treasures in Heaven

“To God be the Glory”

~Romans 11: 33-36

It is hard to be impressed in the world today.  While there will be new innovations and inventions in the future, for the most past, we have seen it all.  But when we take the time to think about God and what He has done, and who He is, we should be amazed!

5. Be Amazed by God’s Activity (vs. 33)

5. Be Amazed by God’s Position (vs. 34-35)

5. Be Amazed by Who God Is (vs. 36)

“Loving your Enemies”

~Matthew 5: 43-48

In a day of terror attacks and wars between nations and people groups, the idea of loving one’s enemy does not seem to fit.  However, that is the message that Jesus is telling.  It is the Christian’s responsibility to love their enemies.  How does a person do this in our hateful world?

5. Love How?
6. Love in Action
7. Love Reveals Ownership

“Responding to Mistreatment”

~Matthew 5: 38-42

As we live in this world, it’s likely we will be the object of someone’s unkindness, whether intentional or unintentional.  How should we respond?  In our scripture text, Jesus explains how to respond to someone who treats us unfairly.

5. Response to Insult

5. Response to Injustice

5. Response to Inconvenience

5. Response to Inadequacy

“Marriage & Divorce” (Part 1)

~Matthew 5: 21-26

Jesus focuses the attention of the people on marriage and divorce and reminds them that marriage was meant to be special. God instituted marriage as part of His special plan for mankind.  Though divorce was permitted, it was not God’s plan.

1. Marriage- God’s Plan

2. Divorce- Not God’s Plan

3. Protecting Your Marriage

  “Anger & Be Reconciled”

~Matthew 5: 21-26

It has been said that, “ANGER is one letter from DANGER.”  Anger is like a bomb hidden in one’s heart. It lies there, corroding the soul, waiting to go off.  Jesus speaks to the seriousness of anger and how we are to deal with it and be reconciled.

1. How Anger Works & What Anger Does

2. Be Reconciled

  “Preservation & Illumination”

~Matthew 5: 13-16

Jesus called His followers to be salt and light in the world.  What does that mean and how do we live that out?  Our Christian lives must be lived out in the world.  It is not only having a private relationship with Jesus Christ but also being a public witness and taking a stand for the things of God.

1. The Ministry of Preservation

2. The Ministry of Illumination

“The Past Reveals the Present, and Determines the Future!”

~Judges

The period of the Judges was a time in which Israel was caught in the web of religious pluralism.  A time of moral decline in which the people of God found themselves surrounded by a culture that flaunted bad, sinful behavior.  This sounds much like America today. What can we learn and gain from this period and turn things around?

1. The Past

2. Revealing the Present

3. Determining the Future

“Living Right in a Wrong World”

~Selected Scriptures

Our world is headed in the wrong direction and it looks like a run-away train. Those in authority seem to be content to run things over the cliff.  And so, as believers, how shall we live?  How can we be influencers in a world gone mad?

1. Places of Authority

2. Responding to Peer Pressure

3. Making Jesus Lord of Your Life

“Unfinished Business!”

~Philippians 1: 3-6

We all have had, or have now, projects that are unfinished.  We may have started something and then something else comes up that caused us not to finish.  The Apostle Paul reminds us that God is not finished with us.  The good work He began in us through Christ, He will finish.  This side of heaven, God continues to work in us, for His Glory.

1. Remember God’s Great Love for You.

2. Remember God is Working in You.

3. Remember God Doesn’t See Failure in You.

“Being a Voice of Good News!”

~Acts 17: 17-34

What does it take to clearly and effectively communicate the “Good News” of the Gospel?  To answer this question, we look at the Apostle Paul, who was an effective communicator of the “Good News.”  In Paul’s life, we find some important elements that equipped and guided him in sharing the “Good News.”

1. Powerful Passion
2. Engage People on Common Ground
3. Keep it Simple
4.  Leave it to God

  “Turning America Around”

~Selected Scriptures

America has been moving away from its foundational principles for sometime and we are witnessing and living today with the results.  Whether it’s a nation, city, family or a person, anytime we forsake and replace the Word of God and the things of God out of our lives, the outcome will be a downward spiral of destruction and demise.

1. America was settled for religious freedom.

2. Our Founders wanted to please God and do His will.

3. America acknowledged God’s Supreme Rule.

“A Father’s Mission”

~Psalm 78: 5-8

As fathers, God has instructed us regarding our responsibilities and our accountability within the family.  The Psalmist provides us with a mission statement and commands fathers to carry it out with their families.  What God calls us to do, He will also provide what is necessary to make it happen.

1. Teaching God’s Word

2. Put Confidence in God

3. Don’t Forget what God has Done

4.  Keep His Commandments

“A Living & Walking Model”

~Selected Scriptures

Parenting is a two-way relationship…from the parents to the children and from the children to the parents.  The Bible says that parents are to be examples to their children and should find reason to be proud of their children.  This message challenges us as parents, to live and walk responsibly and consistently because our children will follow.

1. Live and Walk Responsibly

2. Live and Walk Consistently

3. Live and Walk Truth

“Faithful Family Investing”

~Deuteronomy 6: 1-9

The cultural environment in which God has called us to raise our children and bring them to faith is a troubling one.  Almost everything we see goes against the grain of Christian values and virtues.  Therefore, we must be faithful and steadfast to instill the things of God and His Word into the hearts and minds of our children.

1. Why Invest in our Children

2. What to Invest in our Children

3. When to Invest in our Children

“Are you Making a Difference?”

~Selected Scriptures

There is one thing that each of us wants to know concerning any activity we do in life…Are we making a difference? I believe each of us can make a difference and that difference in Christ can be eternal. 

JESUS plus YOU equals A DIFFERENCE.

1. Run to Win

2. Strict Training

3. Prioritize Your Relationship with Jesus Christ

“The Law of Love”

~Matthew 5: 43-48

What is your response to those who hurt you, or offend you or even those you don’t like?  Jesus speaks to the issue of dealing with our enemies and how we should respond to them. Christian love is an act of the will, and not simply an emotion.

1. The Mark of Maturity

1. A Climate of Blessing

1. A Testimony to Others

"Jesus Parade”

~Luke 19: 41-44

Who doesn’t love a parade?  It’s an exciting time of joy and celebration.  People are all in and having a good time.  These same feelings and emotions were a part of the crowd as Jesus rode into Jerusalem.  However, Jesus was experiencing a different mixture of emotions.

1. Jesus Wept Over the City

2. Peace was Hidden

3. The Time of Your Visitation

“Worthy Walking”

~Colossians 1: 9-12

In the scripture text, Paul challenges the believers at Colossae to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, and this challenge is for us as well.  As Paul prayed for them and their walk, he provides three areas in which they need to walk worthy.

1. Spiritual Intelligence

2. Practical Obedience

3. Moral Excellence

“Adding to Your Faith”  (Part 2)

~2 Peter 1: 3-11

The Christian life begins with saving faith; faith in the person of Jesus Christ.  God gives us everything we need to be partakers of the divine nature and to grow to be Christ-like. Peter encourages us to add to our faith, Godly attributes that produce fruit and maturity in our lives.

1. Godly attributes

• Goodness (Moral Excellence) The Word of God is the moral foundation for the believer.
• Knowledge The believer’s source of knowledge is God’s Word for daily living.
• Self-Control Attained knowledge; must be transformed into a disciplined life.
• Perseverance Staying power under adversity.  Trust God to work in us through our trials.
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2. Evidences of Spiritual Growth

                                         ” The Source of Conflict”

~James 4: 1-10

We all have found ourselves in a quarrel or conflict with someone.  It divides us and separates us from each other.  Relationships can be severed and friendships can end.  James outlines the causes and cures for conflicts and how we can overcome them for the glory of God and for the good of one another.

• Conflict with Each Other

• Conflict with Ourselves

• Conflict with God

• Instructions to Overcome

~Understanding the Christian Life ~

~Philippians 3: 7-14

In this passage of Scripture, the Apostle Paul provides us with some insightful truth concerning the Christian life. He lays out the losses and gains. He speaks of the on-going steps of maturity. He challenges us to press forward.  He tells us to forget the past and he exhorts us toward the goal of Christ Jesus.

• Losses and Gains
• Dissatisfaction
• Devotion
• Direction
• Determination

Welcome                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Pastor Kirk

Video                                                                                                                              A Christmas Welcome 

The Fulfillment of God’s Promise through Scripture and Song

Hymn # 172, vs. 1                                                                                                Tell Me the Story of Jesus

• The Prophesies
  • Jeremiah 33: 14
  • Micah 5:2

Hymn # 141. Vs. 1, 4                                                                                          O Little Town of Bethlehem

• Isaiah 11: 1-2
• Malachi 3:1
• Isaiah 7:14

Special Music                                                                                                         Breath of Heaven                                              Kerra Cossman

• Mark 1: 1-3
• John 1: 1-5

• The Angel Visits Mary and Joseph
  • Luke 1: 26-28
  • Luke 1: 29-33
  • Luke 1: 34-38
  • Luke 1: 46-55

Video                                                                                                                              God with Us

Flute Solo                                                                                                                    In the Bleak Mid-Winter                          Felicity Campfield

• Matthew 1: 18-19
• Matthew 1: 20-21
• Matthew 1: 22-25

Hymn #123, vs. 1, 2                                                                                           O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

• The Birth of Jesus

• Luke 2: 1-7

Hymn #147, vs. 1, 3                                                                                            Silent Night

• • Luke 2: 8-12

Hymn #157, vs. 1, 2                                                                                            Away in a Manger

• • Luke 2: 13-16

Hymn #131, vs. 1, 2                                                                                             Angels from the Realms of Glory

• • Luke 2: 17-20

Hymn #125, vs. 1, 4                                                                                           Joy to the World

• The Visit of the Magi
  • Matthew 2: 3-8

Hymn #166, vs. 1-4                                                                                          We Three Kings

• Matthew 2: 9-12
• Isaiah 9:6

• Galatians 4: 4-5

Special Music                                                                                                         O Holy Night                                                          Ella Gallagher

• 2 Corinthians 9:15
• Luke 2: 30-32

Devotion                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Pastor Kirk Larson

Song  (Insert)                                                                                                            O Come, Let Us Adore Him (His Name Shall Be)           

Video                                                                                                                                 Tiny Child, Mighty God

Benediction                                                                                      

“What does God Want??

~Selected Scriptures

With Christmas around the corner, and the getting of presents on our minds, we often ask each other, “What do you want?” Our intent is to get something for each other that is wanted.  Have you ever thought, “What does God want?  What could I give Him?”

• He wants us to be saved.

• He wants us to obey.

• He wants us to serve.

• He wants us to witness.

“Thanksgiving Ingredients”

~Colossians 1:12

Thanksgiving is once again upon us. Today’s message looks at the idea of the ingredients of Thanksgiving.  What specific things are a part of being thankful and expressing thanksgiving in our daily lives?

• An Appropriate Attitude
• The Acknowledge Agent
• The Acceptance of Abundance

   “Understanding Obedience”

~Selected Scriptures

        Obedience is an essential part of the Christian faith.  The act       of obedience in our lives determines the depth of our relationship with God.  In fact, Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”  (John 14:15) If we love God, we will obey Him.  Obedience to God’s commands will make us light and salt in a dark and tasteless world.

1. What is Obedience?

2. Two Concepts of Obedience

3. Does God Reward Obedience?

“Devouring What God has Created”

~Selected Scriptures

We are living in destructive days in which Satan and demonic forces are attacking and trying to destroy the things that God has created. As Christians, we need to understand our times and stand and live out the Word of God.

• Attacks on the Family

• Attacks on the Government

• Attacks on the Church

“Living with Integrity”

~Psalm 26

What a challenge it is to live with integrity in our corrupt society and world.  The Bible describes integrity as the condition of being without blemish, uprightness, blameless, honest, and an adherence to a pattern of good works. King David asked God to check out his integrity.  This message does that for us with four examples of Biblical Integrity.

1. Integrity doesn’t cover sin, but forsakes it

2. Integrity isn’t faultless, but blameless

3. Integrity isn’t manipulation but pure motives

4. Integrity isn’t hypocritical but genuine

                                 “What Happens When God is Removed?”

Selected Scriptures

     Consider this thought in your life, “If God was removed…” How would this affect your life, your values, and your world?  What would be the consequences in society if God was removed? Are we witnessing the reality of the removal of God in our country and our lives?

1. We Lose Our Standard

2. We Lose Our Purpose

3. We Lose Our Worship

“The Faith of the First Christians”

Acts 1

The faith of the first century Christians changed the world by the advancement of the Gospel.  Through the power and leading of the Holy Spirit in the believers’ lives, the message of Jesus Christ was proclaimed.  Our world today needs a change. Are you available to change the world through Christ Jesus?

1. They Believed in the Risen Christ

2. They Believed in Each Other

3. They Believed in Prayer

4. They Believed in God’s Leading

“Wearing Jesus”

Colossians 3: 12-14

In our text, Paul provides us with some important imagery of “taking off” and “Putting on.”  This is in keeping with the idea of being dressed spiritually according to God’s plan for our lives.  Romans 13:14 says, “…put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh…”

1. Clothe Yourself with Compassion

2. Put on Kindness

3. Bundle Up with Humility

4. Wrap Up with Gentleness

5. Cover Up with Patience

Sermon notes                Pastor Kirk Larson        August 14, 2022

“Before & After Christ”

Ephesians 2: 1-10

What a contrast there is in the life of a person who knows Jesus and one who doesn’t know Him. Knowing Jesus takes us out of the great hopelessness of sin and places us in the glorious riches of Christ Jesus. Our text describes the contrast of life before and after Christ.

1. Sin’s Work Against Us

2. God’s Work For Us

3. God’s Work Through Us

“In Tune with God”

Selected Scriptures

Can we live our own lives and be in tune with God? Can you do your own thing and be walking with God?  Our relationship with God requires each of us to make some adjustments in order to be in tune with Him.

• What You Believe

• What Areas of Adjustment

• What Will You Do?

“A Faith to Stand On!”

Selected Scriptures

What is it in the Christian’s life that empowers us to stand?  That enables us to overcome? That makes it possible for us to be victorious? It is our “faith,” and that “faith” is in the person of Jesus Christ.  Faith plays a vital part in our everyday living and without faith, it is impossible to please God.

1. Four Facts about Faith

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2. How to Know if You are Living and Acting by Faith

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3. How to Encourage Faith to Grow

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“The Declaration of Independence”

Selected Scriptures

The Declaration of Independence in this country points us to the One who provides true freedom.  The early settlers were people who came primarily looking for religious freedom.  They proclaimed that they came to the new world for the “glory of God and the advancement of the Christian faith.”

• Self-Evident Truths

• The Mayflower Compact

• America’s Demise

• What Must We Do as God’s People in America?

“A Man of God”

Micah 6:8

How would you describe a “Man of God” or “Person of God?” In Micah 6:8 we find God’s description of what the Lord requires. To do justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.

• To Do Justice

• To Love Mercy (Kindness)

• To Walk Humbly with God

“Born of God”

II Peter 1:1-4

Birth!  What a miracle of God in which He forms and shapes us according to both our physical birth as well as to our spiritual birth.  It is God who makes it possible to be born.  When we are born of God, there is a change that occurs within our hearts and lives that assures us that we are children of God.

• You Don’t Practice Sin

• Your Life is Motivated by Love

• You Overcome the World

• You Overcome the Devil

“What it Means to be a Soldier”

Selected Scriptures

Memorial Day is a special time in our country to remember and honor the men and women who have fought and died to secure and protect our freedoms.  These soldiers have made tremendous sacrifices for our country and its citizenship. As Christians, we too, are called to this higher service of sacrifice.

• Called and Equipped to Fight (Psalm 18: 31-35)

• Fighting is Necessary for Freedom (Matthew 10:34-38)

• Fighting Can Also Be Good (1 Timothy 6:12)

• A Good Soldier is Committed (2 Timothy 2: 3-4)

• A Soldier is Faithful Until Death (2 Timothy 4: 7-8)

A Full Course Meal”

Selected Scriptures

The Lord’s Supper is a reminder of God’s redemptive love and grace through Jesus Christ.  It is a meal in which everything is provided for you and me by God.  This message takes a look at each of the servings of this “Full Course Meal.”

• The Serving of the Elements

• The Serving of Fellowship

• The Serving of Anticipation

“Responding

to God’s Ways”

John 6: 16-21, Mark 6: 45-52

God speaks to us in different ways and at different time, but it is at these moments that our response is critical. We have a choice given by God to choose to obey God’s voice or not.  Our response affects our relationship with God, as well as with others.

• Understanding God’s Ways

• Responding to God

“Believe it or Not”

Selected Scriptures

What do you believe about the person of Jesus Christ?  While you may not completely understand everything found in the Scriptures, what do you believe concerning the life and ministry of Jesus?  How critical is His death and resurrection to your faith and belief?

• The Women Came   (Matt. 28:1)

• The Earthquake Came  (Matthew 28:2)

• The Angel Came  (Matthew 28: 2-8)

• Peter and John Came  (John 20: 1-9)

• Jesus Came

“The Mission of Edification”

Selected Scriptures

We live in the midst of a culture that is tearing down the fabric of our society, our value system and even the mission of the church.  This “dog-eat-dog” mentality is tearing down others in an effort to somehow elevate self. As God’s people in this world, we have the opportunity to build up and edify one another both inside church and in society.

• Edification- It’s Building up Others

• Edification- It’s What We Pursue

• Edification- It’s How We Care

• Edification- It’s About God’s Word

March 27, 2022 Special Speaker, "David Beauchamp" from Kansans for Life gives information about "Value Them Both Amendment" that Kansans will vote on in August, 2022.

“Knowing the Time of Christ’s Return”

Selected Scriptures

We are just like the disciples, who were curious about the Lord’s return.  When the disciples asked Jesus concerning His return, He answered them, but He didn’t give them what they wanted to know; He gave them what they needed to know. What do we need to know about His coming as we live with expectancy?

• Who Knows When Jesus Will Return?

• The Danger of Setting a Date

• Attitudes the Lord Warned Against

“Troubling Headlines”

Selected Scriptures

As we look at the headlines. We could easily throw up our hands and say, “We’re headed toward destruction.”  We are facing increasing trouble in our world and things in our own country seem to be in disarray.  But, in the midst of all that is happening, God’s Word provides us with perspective and how we should respond.

• A Prophecy

• A Parable

• A Picture

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• A Prescription

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“Let No One Deceive You”

Selected Scriptures

We are living in days of deception within the church and in the world.  Jesus tells us to “take heed that no one deceives you…” (Matthew 24:4). We must be on guard against deception. We must be aware where it comes from. We must recognize it and know how to overcome it.

• Who is Behind Deception?

• Principles of the Deception

• Power Over Deception

• Common Deceptions

“The Love of God”

Romans 5: 6-8

How would you describe the love of God? We define love in different ways and with different things.  The Apostle Paul, in Romans 5, provides us with a powerful understanding of depth and measure of God’s love for you and me.  It is the love like none other.

• The Action of God’s Love

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• The Nature of God’s Love

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• My Response to God’s Love

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“Overcoming Temptation”

Matthew 4: 1-11

Temptation is a part of life, especially if we are living for the Lord.  Our enemy will try to attack and discourage us from glorifying God.  This should come as no surprise as Jesus was also tempted by the devil.  Thankfully, Christ shows us how we can overcome temptations and pass the test.

         The Test Begins (4: 1-2)

       Temptation #1- Independence (4: 3-4)

       Temptation #2- Manipulation (4: 5-7)

           Temptation #3- Idolatry (4: 8-10)

           The Test Ends- (4:11)

“Mary’s Act of Love”

John 12: 1-8, Mark 14: 1-9

How do we express love to God?  Our Scripture text reveals what Mary did to express her love to Jesus and the outcomes from that act of love. She provides a good model for us for loving Jesus.

• The Fragrance Filled the House

• Loving Jesus Brings Criticism

• Jesus Defends and Commends

• Leave a Memory of Loving Jesus

“Our Objectives in Ministry”

Acts 2: 41-47

It’s been said, “Ministry is like mercury…it’s hard to get a grip on it, and if you grasp it too tightly, it can slip away.”  Hopefully, today’s message will increase our awareness of how God has planned His body to function and to stay on course. Four major objectives…

• Worship

• Instruction

• Fellowship

• Witness

“Anticipating the Birth of Christ”

Luke 2: 36-38

The woman called Anna provides us with the testimony of spiritual commitment and passionate witness. Her life was difficult and filled with sorrow and loss, but the priority of her life was to be pleasing to her God.

• The Woman of Witness

• The Message of Her Witness

                                                                                      "A Living Nativity"

                                                  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEp0IkbM7W4

Click on the link above, or copy and paste it into your browser,  to view  the filming of the "Living Nativity" that Grace Community Church presented on December 11 and 12, 2021.  Please note that the video is dark to begin with, but as the story unfolds, you will be able to see the set. Thank you for watching our presentation of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

“Why Grow in Christ?”

Selected Scriptures

https://www.facebook.com/GraceDodgeCity

Being a child of God is the greatest privilege in life and becoming more like Jesus is the greatest challenge for any believer.  The new birth in Christ is not the end of the Christian experience; it’s the beginning.  It’s God’s invitation to grow. Why grow?

• Growth is the normal expression life

• To bring joy to our Father

• We can fulfill the purposes of God in our lives

• We don’t want to waste the grace of God

• We desire to be obedient to the commands of God

We apologize for the quality of this programming. We have been having technical difficulties with the FaceBook Livestreaming. Please be patient as we try to work through these difficulties.

“Darkness and Light”

Selected Scriptures

We are living in a world that pushes and pulls us between light and darkness; between goodness and evil; between love and hate, and between creation and destruction.  Our problem isn’t just that we live in a sinful world, but that we live in a world of sinful people.  Our sin affects everything.  But Light, in the person of Jesus Christ, has come to overtake the darkness.

• Darkness

• Light

• What are we to do?

“The Coming One-World Government”