Draw Near to God

In Matthew 18, Jesus tells of a servant forgiven a massive debt who refuses to forgive a small one. It’s a reminder that unforgiveness traps us in bitterness, while grace frees us. We forgive not because others deserve it, but because we have been forgiven far more by Christ. Forgiven people forgive people — releasing the offense, healing the heart, and reflecting the One who canceled every debt at the cross.

In this message from Genesis 27:30–41 and Hebrews 12:14–17, we unpack the story of Esau and Jacob to show how the root of bitterness can spring up in our life and keep us from experiencing God's grace. Bitterness turns mirrors into windows and keeps us distracted by outward "robbers" rather than inwardly dealing with the poison that is spreading in our lives. We must remember God’s grace, and refuse to let bitterness rob us of the joy and freedom found in Christ.

In a world that celebrates busyness, Jesus calls us to something better. From Luke 10:38–42, this message explores the story of Mary and Martha to show how busyness can distract us from what matters most—being with Jesus. Learn how to slow down, embrace Sabbath rest, and serve from intimacy rather than exhaustion. Discover the freedom and peace that come from resting in Christ’s finished work.

In 1 Peter 3:15, Peter calls believers to set apart Christ as Lord, always ready to give a defense for the hope within us. Sharing our faith begins with worship, flows from preparation, and is carried out with gentleness. Evangelism isn’t about winning arguments but pointing people to Jesus through words and transformed lives. We proclaim His death until He comes.

In Mark 10:42–45, Jesus redefines greatness—not as power over others but as service to others. While the world defines greatness by authority and status, Christ calls His followers to humility, sacrifice, and service. He points to Himself as the ultimate example, the Son of Man who came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom. True biblical greatness is found in serving like Jesus.

In a world that is unraveling at the seams, the church should be the one place where Jesus is weaving people back together. In this message on the need for the community, we see the command for community, the requirements of community, and the results of community on the world and on us.

In the midst of tragedy, one of the great gifts of God is the gift of prayer. What a blessing to know that we can go to our knees and talk with our sovereign God who is completely in control. 

One of the greatest disciplines we should have as a follower of Jesus is to grow in God's Word. Psalm 1:1-3 tells us that we should delight in God's Word daily, meditate on God's Word deeply, and trust that God will develop fruit in our lives that will glorify Him.

In Philippians 3:4-10, Paul reminds us that all of our achievements and religious credentials are worthless compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ. True righteousness comes not from works, but through faith in Jesus. Knowing Him means dying to self, sharing His sufferings, and experiencing His resurrection power.

The book of Acts ends at chapter 28, but God’s story through His church continues. As Acts 29 believers, we are living testimonies of the gospel’s power today. If your life were a chapter in the continuing story of Acts, what would your chapter say about faith, obedience, and boldness in following Christ? The world is watching. Let your life write a chapter worth sharing.