https://stonebrook.org The latest sermons from Stonebrook Community Church 2026-04-03T18:04:09.901Z Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:12:00 GMT https://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification en Merechurch Node.js https://cdn.sanity.io/images/hi7ql6k0/production/04eca6f84274c56c300090897ddb65d8aac85e2b-3000x3000.png https://stonebrook.org false Stonebrook Community Church Episodic office@stonebrook.org Stonebrook Community Church © 2026 Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/palm-sunday-seeing-jesus John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/palm-sunday-seeing-jesus Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:12:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-7-1-9-marriage-and-singleness Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-7-1-9-marriage-and-singleness Sun, 22 Mar 2026 15:17:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-6-12-20-not-yours-to-give Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-6-12-20-not-yours-to-give Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:58:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-6-1-11-the-trivial-and-the-eternal Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-6-1-11-the-trivial-and-the-eternal Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:19:42 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-5-1-13-clean-out-the-old-leaven Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-5-1-13-clean-out-the-old-leaven Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:13:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-3-18-4-21-the-verdict-that-matters Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-3-18-4-21-the-verdict-that-matters Sat, 21 Feb 2026 07:10:26 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-3-1-17-building-the-temple Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-3-1-17-building-the-temple Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:42:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-2-the-work-of-the-spirit Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-2-the-work-of-the-spirit Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:49:02 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-wisdom-of-god Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-wisdom-of-god Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:19:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-1-10-18-unity-through-christ Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-1-10-18-unity-through-christ Sun, 25 Jan 2026 07:49:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-1-1-9-saints Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-corinthians-1-1-9-saints Sun, 18 Jan 2026 16:32:48 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/godliness-and-generosity Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/godliness-and-generosity Sun, 11 Jan 2026 16:34:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/isaiah-53-hope-for-the-world Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/isaiah-53-hope-for-the-world Sun, 04 Jan 2026 07:28:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/light-of-the-world Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/light-of-the-world Sun, 28 Dec 2025 15:56:42 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/psalm-98-joy-to-the-world Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/psalm-98-joy-to-the-world Sun, 21 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-12-9-14-the-conclusion-of-the-matter Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-12-9-14-the-conclusion-of-the-matter Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-12-1-8-remember-your-creator Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-12-1-8-remember-your-creator Sun, 07 Dec 2025 16:43:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-11-1-10-i-dare-you-to-move Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-11-1-10-i-dare-you-to-move Sun, 30 Nov 2025 07:13:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-9-13-10-20-wisdom-is-quiet-folly-is-loud Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-9-13-10-20-wisdom-is-quiet-folly-is-loud Sun, 23 Nov 2025 06:39:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/live-while-you-re-alive Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/live-while-you-re-alive Sun, 16 Nov 2025 16:36:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-8-1-17-wisdom-good-yet-limited Seek after wisdom, for it is good and good for us; yet recognize the limits of our wisdom. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-8-1-17-wisdom-good-yet-limited Sun, 09 Nov 2025 15:20:00 GMT Sermons Seek after wisdom, for it is good and good for us; yet recognize the limits of our wisdom. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-7-15-29-no-one-righteous No pursuit of righteousness, wisdom, wickedness, or folly will lead to ultimate success in life apart from the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-7-15-29-no-one-righteous Sun, 02 Nov 2025 14:29:00 GMT Sermons No pursuit of righteousness, wisdom, wickedness, or folly will lead to ultimate success in life apart from the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-a-funeral Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-a-funeral Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:20:10 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/loving-god-or-wealth Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/loving-god-or-wealth Sun, 19 Oct 2025 15:26:27 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-5-1-7-talk-is-cheap Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-5-1-7-talk-is-cheap Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:47:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-4-4-4-16-don-t-go-alone Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-4-4-4-16-don-t-go-alone Sun, 05 Oct 2025 13:32:35 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-3-16-4-3-better-off-dead Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-3-16-4-3-better-off-dead Sun, 28 Sep 2025 15:35:34 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-3-1-15-god-sets-the-times Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-3-1-15-god-sets-the-times Sun, 21 Sep 2025 15:39:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-1-12-2-26-where-do-i-look Toby Doffing https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-1-12-2-26-where-do-i-look Sun, 14 Sep 2025 15:47:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-1-3-18-what-do-i-gain Be warned: life apart from God is absolutely futile, for we will profit nothing from all our toil. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-1-3-18-what-do-i-gain Sun, 07 Sep 2025 15:31:17 GMT Sermons Be warned: life apart from God is absolutely futile, for we will profit nothing from all our toil. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-intro-the-search-for-meaning In this sermon, Matt Heerema introduces our sermon series through Ecclesiastes by examining the word "heve" - vanity, futility - and how God provides the solution to the futility of life through Christ Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ecclesiastes-intro-the-search-for-meaning Sun, 31 Aug 2025 06:00:00 GMT Sermons In this sermon, Matt Heerema introduces our sermon series through Ecclesiastes by examining the word "heve" - vanity, futility - and how God provides the solution to the futility of life through Christ https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/welcoming-the-stranger Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/welcoming-the-stranger Sun, 24 Aug 2025 15:52:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/grace-driven-service Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/grace-driven-service Sun, 17 Aug 2025 15:45:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/biblical-community- Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/biblical-community- Sun, 10 Aug 2025 15:37:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-3-13-4-4-word-shaped-worship Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-3-13-4-4-word-shaped-worship Sun, 03 Aug 2025 11:30:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-19-21-wickedness-in-the-heart-of-israel Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-19-21-wickedness-in-the-heart-of-israel Sun, 27 Jul 2025 13:06:50 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-17-18-false-gods-false-blessings Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-17-18-false-gods-false-blessings Sun, 20 Jul 2025 15:48:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-16-samsons-victory-in-death John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-16-samsons-victory-in-death Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:51:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-14-15 Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-14-15 Sun, 06 Jul 2025 16:10:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-13-1-13 John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-13-1-13 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 22:35:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-10-12 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-10-12 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 19:07:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-9-1-10-6 Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-9-1-10-6 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 22:31:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-7-24-8-35-god-s-law-gideon-s-ephod Jerry Gong https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-7-24-8-35-god-s-law-gideon-s-ephod Sun, 08 Jun 2025 16:02:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judge-7-1-23-boast-in-the-lord Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judge-7-1-23-boast-in-the-lord Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:40:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-6-1-40-god-s-grace-shines-in-our-weakness Toby Doffing https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-6-1-40-god-s-grace-shines-in-our-weakness Sun, 25 May 2025 15:40:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-4-5-blessed-be-the-lord Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-4-5-blessed-be-the-lord Mon, 19 May 2025 23:12:48 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-3-7-31-variations-on-a-theme Eric Schumacher https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-3-7-31-variations-on-a-theme Mon, 12 May 2025 14:14:54 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-2-6-3-6-remember-the-gospel- Eric Schumacher https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-2-6-3-6-remember-the-gospel- Sun, 04 May 2025 20:21:51 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-1-kingless-israel Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/judges-1-kingless-israel Sun, 27 Apr 2025 16:32:06 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-16-1-8-risen-from-the-dead Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-16-1-8-risen-from-the-dead Mon, 21 Apr 2025 14:26:13 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-15-1-20-pilate-s-dilemma Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-15-1-20-pilate-s-dilemma Sun, 13 Apr 2025 18:14:22 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-43-72-three-trials Today’s passage shows us two of the most infamous betrayals in Scripture: Judas’s and Peter’s. And surrounding those betrayals are three very important trials. One is obvious. One is subtle. And the third we’ll have to zoom out a bit. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-43-72-three-trials Sun, 06 Apr 2025 05:36:00 GMT Sermons Today’s passage shows us two of the most infamous betrayals in Scripture: Judas’s and Peter’s. And surrounding those betrayals are three very important trials. One is obvious. One is subtle. And the third we’ll have to zoom out a bit. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-32-42-agony-in-the-garden Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-32-42-agony-in-the-garden Sun, 30 Mar 2025 18:18:03 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-12-31-the-passover-and-the-kingdom In today's passage, Jesus shows his absolute knowledge and control over the circumstances of his denial and betrayal at the hands of his closest followers, in spite of their protestations. In the midst of it all, He declares the gospel hope that though he will be be betrayed and killed, he will rise again and usher in a new covenant, and one day, fully usher in the new kingdom. From this we can find confidence and hope because Jesus, knowing our betrayals, embraced the cross anyway, and secured our forgiveness, forever. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-12-31-the-passover-and-the-kingdom Sun, 23 Mar 2025 05:47:00 GMT Sermons In today's passage, Jesus shows his absolute knowledge and control over the circumstances of his denial and betrayal at the hands of his closest followers, in spite of their protestations. In the midst of it all, He declares the gospel hope that though he will be be betrayed and killed, he will rise again and usher in a new covenant, and one day, fully usher in the new kingdom. From this we can find confidence and hope because Jesus, knowing our betrayals, embraced the cross anyway, and secured our forgiveness, forever. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-1-11-worship-and-betrayal Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-14-1-11-worship-and-betrayal Mon, 17 Mar 2025 17:37:59 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-13-the-end-is-near Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-13-the-end-is-near Sun, 09 Mar 2025 15:34:41 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-35-13-2-old-made-new Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-35-13-2-old-made-new Mon, 03 Mar 2025 02:35:47 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-18-34-scoffers-and-seekers Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-18-34-scoffers-and-seekers Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:09:05 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-1-17-give-to-god-what-is-god-s Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-12-1-17-give-to-god-what-is-god-s Sun, 16 Feb 2025 06:35:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-11-jesus-comes-in-the-name-of-the-lord Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-11-jesus-comes-in-the-name-of-the-lord Sun, 09 Feb 2025 06:09:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-10-46-52-the-mercy-of-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-10-46-52-the-mercy-of-jesus Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:36:41 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-10-32-45-not-so-among-you Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-10-32-45-not-so-among-you Sun, 26 Jan 2025 06:11:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/entering-the-kingdom-of-god Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/entering-the-kingdom-of-god Sun, 19 Jan 2025 19:19:14 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-tithe Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-tithe Sat, 11 Jan 2025 06:10:45 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gravity-of-sin Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gravity-of-sin Sun, 05 Jan 2025 21:36:29 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/greatness-in-god-s-eyes Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/greatness-in-god-s-eyes Sun, 29 Dec 2024 06:04:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/by-nothing-but-prayer After coming down the mountain of transfiguration where Jesus revealed his divinity to his inner circle, they are immediately plunged into the clamoring crowd, full of accusing scribes and tormenting demons. His disciples had failed and are confused. Mark recounts this story to the first century church under persecution from a seemingly unstoppable opponent in the Roman empire, is there any hope? Has Jesus failed? Mark reminds them, and us, that we must rely on prayer, not our own strength and wisdom, to overcome the trials we face as we follow Jesus. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/by-nothing-but-prayer Sun, 22 Dec 2024 06:04:00 GMT Sermons After coming down the mountain of transfiguration where Jesus revealed his divinity to his inner circle, they are immediately plunged into the clamoring crowd, full of accusing scribes and tormenting demons. His disciples had failed and are confused. Mark recounts this story to the first century church under persecution from a seemingly unstoppable opponent in the Roman empire, is there any hope? Has Jesus failed? Mark reminds them, and us, that we must rely on prayer, not our own strength and wisdom, to overcome the trials we face as we follow Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/listen-to-jesus Here at the pinnacle of Mark’s gospel, we are taken up to a mountain top where we get a “behind the curtain” look at King Jesus, the Messiah, in his heavenly Glory. God himself speaks and tells us what we should do in light of the revelation that Jesus is the divine Messiah, Son of God, and Son of Man: “Listen to Him.” We will explore four obstacles to listening to Jesus that Mark has presented to us so far, as well as God’s merciful provision to help us overcome those obstacles. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/listen-to-jesus Sun, 15 Dec 2024 06:04:00 GMT Sermons Here at the pinnacle of Mark’s gospel, we are taken up to a mountain top where we get a “behind the curtain” look at King Jesus, the Messiah, in his heavenly Glory. God himself speaks and tells us what we should do in light of the revelation that Jesus is the divine Messiah, Son of God, and Son of Man: “Listen to Him.” We will explore four obstacles to listening to Jesus that Mark has presented to us so far, as well as God’s merciful provision to help us overcome those obstacles. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/follow-jesus-the-messiah Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/follow-jesus-the-messiah Sun, 08 Dec 2024 19:45:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/cheerful-givers Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/cheerful-givers Sun, 01 Dec 2024 04:18:50 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/miracles-and-unbelief Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/miracles-and-unbelief Sun, 24 Nov 2024 20:59:11 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-makes-us-clean Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-makes-us-clean Sun, 17 Nov 2024 04:50:53 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-compassion-and-power-of-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-compassion-and-power-of-jesus Sun, 10 Nov 2024 20:10:33 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/suffering-for-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/suffering-for-jesus Sun, 03 Nov 2024 20:07:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-power-and-authority-of-jesus Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-power-and-authority-of-jesus Sun, 27 Oct 2024 02:46:03 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-brings-peace-or-fear Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-brings-peace-or-fear Sun, 20 Oct 2024 05:02:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-kingdom-of-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-kingdom-of-jesus Sun, 13 Oct 2024 05:16:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-mercy-of-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-mercy-of-jesus Sun, 29 Sep 2024 13:35:21 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-s-plan-to-spread-the-news Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-s-plan-to-spread-the-news Sun, 22 Sep 2024 19:39:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-is-our-sabbath-rest Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-is-our-sabbath-rest Sun, 15 Sep 2024 05:01:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-friend-of-sinners Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-friend-of-sinners Sun, 08 Sep 2024 05:01:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-heals-our-deepest-need Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-heals-our-deepest-need Sun, 01 Sep 2024 13:45:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-came-to-preach-mark-1_29-45 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-came-to-preach-mark-1_29-45 Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-authority-of-jesus Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-authority-of-jesus Sun, 18 Aug 2024 20:16:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-1-14-20-the-good-news-from-god Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-1-14-20-the-good-news-from-god Sun, 11 Aug 2024 20:06:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-11-13-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-of-jesus-christ Imagine that it’s 65 A.D.  You are a Christ follower.  You believe in Jesus, that he is the only path to righteousness with God and eternal life.  You follow him.  You love him.  And so do the other Christians around you in the church.  But you live in the City of Rome.  It’s a rough time…very rough time to be a Christian.  The Roman Emperor Nero is as evil as they come. One year earlier in 64 A.D., 70% of […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mark-11-13-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-of-jesus-christ Sat, 03 Aug 2024 23:56:35 GMT Sermons Imagine that it’s 65 A.D.  You are a Christ follower.  You believe in Jesus, that he is the only path to righteousness with God and eternal life.  You follow him.  You love him.  And so do the other Christians around you in the church.  But you live in the City of Rome.  It’s a rough time…very rough time to be a Christian.  The Roman Emperor Nero is as evil as they come. One year earlier in 64 A.D., 70% of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/personal-investment-in-the-mission Please turn with me to Acts, chapter 2. Last week and today, we are hitting on two points of what we could consider to be some of the core DNA of our church. Namely personal ownership of your faith.  What we mean by that is that as a church, we want to be more than just “Sunday Christians.” The Bible describes a way of life that lasts Sunday through Saturday. It influences every decision we make, every relationship we have, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/personal-investment-in-the-mission Sun, 28 Jul 2024 15:46:40 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Acts, chapter 2. Last week and today, we are hitting on two points of what we could consider to be some of the core DNA of our church. Namely personal ownership of your faith.  What we mean by that is that as a church, we want to be more than just “Sunday Christians.” The Bible describes a way of life that lasts Sunday through Saturday. It influences every decision we make, every relationship we have, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesuss-instruction-on-prayer Please open your bibles to Matthew chapter 6. If you’re new with us in the past couple months, my name is Matt Heerema, and I am one of the pastors here. I’ve been out of the pulpit since the beginning of May so that we could allow some other voices to preach, and so that I could focus on a few other areas in ministry. I’m grateful for that time off, but I’m even more grateful to be back, and […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesuss-instruction-on-prayer Sun, 07 Jul 2024 01:41:31 GMT Sermons Please open your bibles to Matthew chapter 6. If you’re new with us in the past couple months, my name is Matt Heerema, and I am one of the pastors here. I’ve been out of the pulpit since the beginning of May so that we could allow some other voices to preach, and so that I could focus on a few other areas in ministry. I’m grateful for that time off, but I’m even more grateful to be back, and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-of-justice-and-imprecation-psalm-58 Not long ago I heard a report about my extended family. One family member had deeply hurt another family member years ago. An abuse situation. When I heard about this recently, I had three responses: When you see or experience extreme injustice, do you know HOW and WHAT to pray?Here’s a prayer from the Bible, King David, where he is essentially cursing some people.Psalm 58:3–8 CSBThe wicked go astray from the womb; liars wander about from birth. They have venom […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-of-justice-and-imprecation-psalm-58 Sun, 30 Jun 2024 02:10:59 GMT Sermons Not long ago I heard a report about my extended family. One family member had deeply hurt another family member years ago. An abuse situation. When I heard about this recently, I had three responses: When you see or experience extreme injustice, do you know HOW and WHAT to pray?Here’s a prayer from the Bible, King David, where he is essentially cursing some people.Psalm 58:3–8 CSBThe wicked go astray from the womb; liars wander about from birth. They have venom […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-praise-and-thanksgiving-psalm-100 Guest speaker Dave Lennander shares from his experience of God’s faithfulness. Dave Lennander https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-praise-and-thanksgiving-psalm-100 Sun, 23 Jun 2024 23:13:40 GMT Sermons Guest speaker Dave Lennander shares from his experience of God’s faithfulness. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-of-lament A year and a half ago my wife and I were struggling with health trials.  So I wrote out my thoughts like a prayer to God. I’m going to read you a portion of my raw and unfiltered prayer from 20 months ago. “Lord, you know my heart and my weaknesses.  I am sick and tired of this trial.  I am losing heart.  I want relief and rest and comfort.  But where is it?  Where is my rest?  You’re not […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-psalms-of-lament Fri, 14 Jun 2024 20:49:25 GMT Sermons A year and a half ago my wife and I were struggling with health trials.  So I wrote out my thoughts like a prayer to God. I’m going to read you a portion of my raw and unfiltered prayer from 20 months ago. “Lord, you know my heart and my weaknesses.  I am sick and tired of this trial.  I am losing heart.  I want relief and rest and comfort.  But where is it?  Where is my rest?  You’re not […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-psalms-of-deliverance This summer we are going through a series of teachings about praying the scripture. And today we are going to talk about praying for God’s deliverance using psalms, specifically using psalm 34 as an example. Talking about God’s deliverance, we often think of praying for God to end our trials or protect us from life dangers, which is good and necessary in our prayers. The question is, is there anything more than ending our trials when we pray. If there […] Jerry Gong https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-psalms-of-deliverance Thu, 06 Jun 2024 19:03:24 GMT Sermons This summer we are going through a series of teachings about praying the scripture. And today we are going to talk about praying for God’s deliverance using psalms, specifically using psalm 34 as an example. Talking about God’s deliverance, we often think of praying for God to end our trials or protect us from life dangers, which is good and necessary in our prayers. The question is, is there anything more than ending our trials when we pray. If there […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-pauls-prayers-3-colossians-13-14 What has been your experience with prayer? Has prayer for you been positive, negative, or just neutral? How might you like to change your attitude and relationship with prayer?  My name is Dave Bovenmyer and I’m a pastor here at Stonebrook, currently coaching several community groups and doing pastoral counseling.  Having served as a pastor for almost 50 years, I’ve learned a few things about prayer.  My early experience with prayer was that it was largely mindless. “Come Lord Jesus, […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-pauls-prayers-3-colossians-13-14 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:19:30 GMT Sermons What has been your experience with prayer? Has prayer for you been positive, negative, or just neutral? How might you like to change your attitude and relationship with prayer?  My name is Dave Bovenmyer and I’m a pastor here at Stonebrook, currently coaching several community groups and doing pastoral counseling.  Having served as a pastor for almost 50 years, I’ve learned a few things about prayer.  My early experience with prayer was that it was largely mindless. “Come Lord Jesus, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-bible-philippians-11-11 Philippians 1:1-11 Welcome & Prayer Text Background As we prepare to dive in, let me give you a little historical context. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi from prison in Rome (AD 60). This was the first church that he planted in Europe, and was composed primarily of Gentiles. He planted this church 10 years earlier (AD 51) on his second missionary journey. This church was full of generosity and loyalty to Paul (v7), and this church […] John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-bible-philippians-11-11 Sun, 26 May 2024 13:02:49 GMT Sermons Philippians 1:1-11 Welcome & Prayer Text Background As we prepare to dive in, let me give you a little historical context. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi from prison in Rome (AD 60). This was the first church that he planted in Europe, and was composed primarily of Gentiles. He planted this church 10 years earlier (AD 51) on his second missionary journey. This church was full of generosity and loyalty to Paul (v7), and this church […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-pauls-prayers-in-ephesians If you and I were to sit down one-on-one, I would like to ask you this:  “If you could ask God in prayer for only five things, what are those five?” Please know God is not limiting us in any way in our prayers.  Nothing is too big or too small for him to help and to care.  My question about asking for five things is to find out what is most important to you. This morning, I propose one […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-pauls-prayers-in-ephesians Sat, 18 May 2024 14:28:20 GMT Sermons If you and I were to sit down one-on-one, I would like to ask you this:  “If you could ask God in prayer for only five things, what are those five?” Please know God is not limiting us in any way in our prayers.  Nothing is too big or too small for him to help and to care.  My question about asking for five things is to find out what is most important to you. This morning, I propose one […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-bible-introduction As a teenager, though I had very little spiritual interest, I remember a few times praying to God. But the only times I prayed was when I was in trouble, and I distinctly remember feeling guilty about that. It seemed wrong to pray only when I needed something.But beyond that, I didn’t know much about prayer or how and what to pray. In my pre-teen years as a young boy, my Mom was a God-fearing woman who believed God heard […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/praying-the-bible-introduction Sat, 11 May 2024 20:53:39 GMT Sermons As a teenager, though I had very little spiritual interest, I remember a few times praying to God. But the only times I prayed was when I was in trouble, and I distinctly remember feeling guilty about that. It seemed wrong to pray only when I needed something.But beyond that, I didn’t know much about prayer or how and what to pray. In my pre-teen years as a young boy, my Mom was a God-fearing woman who believed God heard […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-13-closing-exhortations Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-13-closing-exhortations Sun, 05 May 2024 20:21:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-12-12-29-run-with-endurance Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-12-12-29-run-with-endurance Sun, 28 Apr 2024 20:20:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-121-17-strengthened-in-jesus Two weeks ago, my wife and I were traveling, and we listened to a biography of a man who is an adventure racer. Adventure racing consists of teams of four people competing in very long, almost non-stop race that can last for 6-7 days, covering 400 miles, biking on trails, climbing steep cliffs, kayaking on rivers, hiking through muddy jungles.   The most they sleep over these six days is two hours per day. None of the racers are the fastest […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-121-17-strengthened-in-jesus Sat, 20 Apr 2024 21:15:40 GMT Sermons Two weeks ago, my wife and I were traveling, and we listened to a biography of a man who is an adventure racer. Adventure racing consists of teams of four people competing in very long, almost non-stop race that can last for 6-7 days, covering 400 miles, biking on trails, climbing steep cliffs, kayaking on rivers, hiking through muddy jungles.   The most they sleep over these six days is two hours per day. None of the racers are the fastest […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-11-trusting-in-the-son We are nearing the end of a 16-week series on a book in the Bible called Hebrews.   As much as any NT book, Hebrews is one long theme from beginning to end.  One challenge, then, in teaching through this each week is that we want to ensure we understand the text that has come before. Same is true for our text today, which is chapter 11.  This chapter 11 is all about the theme of faith.  Particularly, the author recounts […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-11-trusting-in-the-son Sat, 13 Apr 2024 19:30:48 GMT Sermons We are nearing the end of a 16-week series on a book in the Bible called Hebrews.   As much as any NT book, Hebrews is one long theme from beginning to end.  One challenge, then, in teaching through this each week is that we want to ensure we understand the text that has come before. Same is true for our text today, which is chapter 11.  This chapter 11 is all about the theme of faith.  Particularly, the author recounts […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-1019-39-encouragement-warning Please turn with me to Hebrews, chapter 10. We are now in the home stretch of our series through Hebrews. Four more sermons left after today covering three more chapters. What we’re seeing in the book of Hebrews is a rather long sermon. (I wonder how you’d react if I stood up and gave a thirteen chapter long sermon some day?) And today, in the second half chapter 10 we are finally coming to the conclusion of the sermon…the application, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-1019-39-encouragement-warning Sun, 07 Apr 2024 03:50:46 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Hebrews, chapter 10. We are now in the home stretch of our series through Hebrews. Four more sermons left after today covering three more chapters. What we’re seeing in the book of Hebrews is a rather long sermon. (I wonder how you’d react if I stood up and gave a thirteen chapter long sermon some day?) And today, in the second half chapter 10 we are finally coming to the conclusion of the sermon…the application, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-101-25-the-perfect-sacrifice Please open your Bibles to Hebrews, Chapter 10.  I’d like to offer a special welcome to those of you joining us this morning for the first time. Easter is a very significant day for Christians, and I’m glad you were able to be here this morning. We are studying through the book of Hebrews together this spring. It’s providential that we are arriving at chapter 10 just in time for Easter, as today’s passage is the climax of the author’s […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-101-25-the-perfect-sacrifice Sun, 31 Mar 2024 03:42:27 GMT Sermons Please open your Bibles to Hebrews, Chapter 10.  I’d like to offer a special welcome to those of you joining us this morning for the first time. Easter is a very significant day for Christians, and I’m glad you were able to be here this morning. We are studying through the book of Hebrews together this spring. It’s providential that we are arriving at chapter 10 just in time for Easter, as today’s passage is the climax of the author’s […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-9-the-blood-of-jesus Today is Palm Sunday, a celebration of an important day in biblical history.  This day marks the story in the Gospels when Jesus was entering into Jerusalem on Sunday, five days before his crucifixion. About 1/3 of the Gospels are devoted to this last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry.  Surely this is the most important week in human history, for if Christ is who he says he is—and the Book of Hebrews completely concurs with that—Jesus is the only and […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-9-the-blood-of-jesus Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:49:55 GMT Sermons Today is Palm Sunday, a celebration of an important day in biblical history.  This day marks the story in the Gospels when Jesus was entering into Jerusalem on Sunday, five days before his crucifixion. About 1/3 of the Gospels are devoted to this last week of Jesus’ earthly ministry.  Surely this is the most important week in human history, for if Christ is who he says he is—and the Book of Hebrews completely concurs with that—Jesus is the only and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-8-a-better-covenant-with-better-promises Please find a Bible and turn with me to Hebrews chapter 8.  When we are trying to understand what the Bible says to us, our primary task is to try to figure out what the original author was trying to communicate to the original audience. What point was he trying to get across to them? Once we know that, our next task is to try to figure out what relevance that message has for us today.  Sometimes it is a […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-8-a-better-covenant-with-better-promises Sun, 17 Mar 2024 12:37:00 GMT Sermons Please find a Bible and turn with me to Hebrews chapter 8.  When we are trying to understand what the Bible says to us, our primary task is to try to figure out what the original author was trying to communicate to the original audience. What point was he trying to get across to them? Once we know that, our next task is to try to figure out what relevance that message has for us today.  Sometimes it is a […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-7-the-priesthood-of-jesus Welcome & Prayer A. The Important Characters We’re going to look at Hebrews 7 today, but before we dive in, I want to let you know that this is not the easiest passage to immediately understand for two reasons. First, it is written to a 1st-century audience that the author expects will have a significant understanding of the history and spiritual culture and customs found in the Old Testament. And second, it’s a continuation right in the middle of a […] John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-7-the-priesthood-of-jesus Sun, 10 Mar 2024 13:10:40 GMT Sermons Welcome & Prayer A. The Important Characters We’re going to look at Hebrews 7 today, but before we dive in, I want to let you know that this is not the easiest passage to immediately understand for two reasons. First, it is written to a 1st-century audience that the author expects will have a significant understanding of the history and spiritual culture and customs found in the Old Testament. And second, it’s a continuation right in the middle of a […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-511-620-the-surety-of-the-son From our passage today, three themes will come out: Hebrews 5:11-6:12 Let’s read the first portion of our passage for today.  The first two themes will come out:  Warning and Assurance. Hebrews 5:11–6:12 (CSB) 5:11 We have a great deal to say about this, and it is difficult to explain, since you have become too lazy to understand. 12 Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the basic principles of God’s revelation […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-511-620-the-surety-of-the-son Sat, 02 Mar 2024 22:44:13 GMT Sermons From our passage today, three themes will come out: Hebrews 5:11-6:12 Let’s read the first portion of our passage for today.  The first two themes will come out:  Warning and Assurance. Hebrews 5:11–6:12 (CSB) 5:11 We have a great deal to say about this, and it is difficult to explain, since you have become too lazy to understand. 12 Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the basic principles of God’s revelation […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-414-510-he-gets-us Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 4.  Two weeks ago during the Superbowl, a Christian organization aired two commercials with the tagline “He Gets Us”—attempting to convey a message that Jesus understands everyone, and has a message for everyone. This is the second year in a row this organization aired commercials during the Superbowl, and they have racked up close to a million views on YouTube in the past two weeks.  The commercials have generated no end of controversy—liberals […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-414-510-he-gets-us Sun, 25 Feb 2024 13:13:00 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 4.  Two weeks ago during the Superbowl, a Christian organization aired two commercials with the tagline “He Gets Us”—attempting to convey a message that Jesus understands everyone, and has a message for everyone. This is the second year in a row this organization aired commercials during the Superbowl, and they have racked up close to a million views on YouTube in the past two weeks.  The commercials have generated no end of controversy—liberals […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-41-13-the-rest-found-in-jesus Last Wednesday there was a senseless, evil shooting in Kansas City.  Last month there was murder at a high school in Perry, Iowa, just 45 miles from here.  There is war in the Middle East and Ukraine.  In all these things, we wonder, Where is peace?  Where is the rest?  Why is everyone so angry? But even closer to home, we find ourselves longing for rest in our own little world.   Family disputes. Marriage collapses. Tension in the workplace.  And […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-41-13-the-rest-found-in-jesus Sat, 17 Feb 2024 20:28:51 GMT Sermons Last Wednesday there was a senseless, evil shooting in Kansas City.  Last month there was murder at a high school in Perry, Iowa, just 45 miles from here.  There is war in the Middle East and Ukraine.  In all these things, we wonder, Where is peace?  Where is the rest?  Why is everyone so angry? But even closer to home, we find ourselves longing for rest in our own little world.   Family disputes. Marriage collapses. Tension in the workplace.  And […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-31-41-fix-your-mind-on-jesus Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 3.  In today’s passage, we come across the first of several warning passages in the book of Hebrews. The passage warns us to “watch out, in case any of us has an evil and unbelieving heart”, and to not “harden our hearts” when God commands us. It seems to warn us that if we don’t hang on to the end we will not be considered part of God’s house, and that there may […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-31-41-fix-your-mind-on-jesus Sun, 11 Feb 2024 04:42:47 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 3.  In today’s passage, we come across the first of several warning passages in the book of Hebrews. The passage warns us to “watch out, in case any of us has an evil and unbelieving heart”, and to not “harden our hearts” when God commands us. It seems to warn us that if we don’t hang on to the end we will not be considered part of God’s house, and that there may […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-25-18-the-humanity-of-jesus Today is National Big Word Sermon Day.  We’re going to talk about some big words, so you may need access to Dictionary.com. We are going through a sermon series on a book in the NT called “Hebrews.”   The name “Hebrews” likely comes from the recipients of the book, who were probably Christians from Jewish ancestry.  So they were “Hebrew” Christians. And we typically call Hebrews a “letter” or “epistle,” but it actually reads more like a sermon.  A sermon of […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-25-18-the-humanity-of-jesus Sun, 04 Feb 2024 04:13:52 GMT Sermons Today is National Big Word Sermon Day.  We’re going to talk about some big words, so you may need access to Dictionary.com. We are going through a sermon series on a book in the NT called “Hebrews.”   The name “Hebrews” likely comes from the recipients of the book, who were probably Christians from Jewish ancestry.  So they were “Hebrew” Christians. And we typically call Hebrews a “letter” or “epistle,” but it actually reads more like a sermon.  A sermon of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-14-25-better-than-the-angels Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 1. We get very curious about angels, don’t we? They make their appearances throughout the Bible at very important times, bringing messages (in fact “angel” just means “messenger”), we see them interacting with humans, sometimes fighting battles, which means they are capable of interacting with the physical world, including fighting (and protecting!).  There are even hints in the prophets Ezekiel and Isaiah that some of the angels followed satan in a rebellion against […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-14-25-better-than-the-angels Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:58:30 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Hebrews chapter 1. We get very curious about angels, don’t we? They make their appearances throughout the Bible at very important times, bringing messages (in fact “angel” just means “messenger”), we see them interacting with humans, sometimes fighting battles, which means they are capable of interacting with the physical world, including fighting (and protecting!).  There are even hints in the prophets Ezekiel and Isaiah that some of the angels followed satan in a rebellion against […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-11-4-the-glory-of-the-son We are beginning a new sermon series, so if you are new to Stonebrook, you have come at a great time.  For the next 16 weeks, we are journeying through one of my two favorite books of the Bible:  Hebrews.  (Ephesians is my other favorite.) Last Fall we went through the OT book Exodus.  Exodus lays out the Covenant, or “The Testament,” God made with Israel through the prophet Moses.  We now called it the “Old Covenant” or the Old […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hebrews-11-4-the-glory-of-the-son Sat, 20 Jan 2024 16:35:26 GMT Sermons We are beginning a new sermon series, so if you are new to Stonebrook, you have come at a great time.  For the next 16 weeks, we are journeying through one of my two favorite books of the Bible:  Hebrews.  (Ephesians is my other favorite.) Last Fall we went through the OT book Exodus.  Exodus lays out the Covenant, or “The Testament,” God made with Israel through the prophet Moses.  We now called it the “Old Covenant” or the Old […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/commands-of-jesus-do-this-in-remembrance Please turn with me in your Bible to 1 Corinthians 11. These past few weeks we have been looking at a few of the most foundational commands of Christ. We looked at his call to follow him, we looked at his command to be baptized, and today we are going to take a look at his command to remember him, specifically with a ritual meal he gave his followers to observe, which goes by a few names, typically communion, or […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/commands-of-jesus-do-this-in-remembrance Sun, 14 Jan 2024 14:11:40 GMT Sermons Please turn with me in your Bible to 1 Corinthians 11. These past few weeks we have been looking at a few of the most foundational commands of Christ. We looked at his call to follow him, we looked at his command to be baptized, and today we are going to take a look at his command to remember him, specifically with a ritual meal he gave his followers to observe, which goes by a few names, typically communion, or […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/commands-of-jesus-baptize-them Please open your Bibles to Matthew, chapter 28.  Baptism is one of the most important events and concepts in the Christian faith. Christians have understood baptism in several different ways throughout the centuries. At Stonebrook, we practice “believer’s baptism” as an expression and testimony of our salvation through faith in Christ.   We would say that baptism is a command from Jesus, to be done by all who believe, as soon as possible after they believe. One key scripture on […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/commands-of-jesus-baptize-them Sun, 07 Jan 2024 13:00:00 GMT Sermons Please open your Bibles to Matthew, chapter 28.  Baptism is one of the most important events and concepts in the Christian faith. Christians have understood baptism in several different ways throughout the centuries. At Stonebrook, we practice “believer’s baptism” as an expression and testimony of our salvation through faith in Christ.   We would say that baptism is a command from Jesus, to be done by all who believe, as soon as possible after they believe. One key scripture on […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/follow-me-the-names-of-jesus I grew up going to church.  If you had asked me what is a Christian and if I am a Christian, I would have had a puzzled look. I might have said, “What kind of question is that?  Isn’t it obvious?  Of course I’m a Christian.  I go to church.  A Christian church.  And I’m not a Buddhist or Muslim or something else.  So what else would I be besides a Christian?”  But I couldn’t give you any specifics on that.  […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/follow-me-the-names-of-jesus Fri, 29 Dec 2023 19:36:48 GMT Sermons I grew up going to church.  If you had asked me what is a Christian and if I am a Christian, I would have had a puzzled look. I might have said, “What kind of question is that?  Isn’t it obvious?  Of course I’m a Christian.  I go to church.  A Christian church.  And I’m not a Buddhist or Muslim or something else.  So what else would I be besides a Christian?”  But I couldn’t give you any specifics on that.  […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-immanuel-god-with-us Please find a Bible and open with me to Matthew chapter 1. Today is the last day of Advent, and the hinge point between Advent and Christmas. So I thought we’d base this morning’s sermon on the first Christmas passage. Let’s read the great story. 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-immanuel-god-with-us Sun, 24 Dec 2023 03:45:31 GMT Sermons Please find a Bible and open with me to Matthew chapter 1. Today is the last day of Advent, and the hinge point between Advent and Christmas. So I thought we’d base this morning’s sermon on the first Christmas passage. Let’s read the great story. 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-40-god-dwells-with-his-people Please turn with me in your Bibles to Exodus chapter 40. This morning we finally come to the end of our 20 week walk through of the book of Exodus. The theme couldn’t be more fitting for this time of year, the season of advent. Advent is from a latin word that means “arrival” – and as we said at the beginning of the service, it is a time where we remember and reflect on what it must have been […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-40-god-dwells-with-his-people Sun, 17 Dec 2023 04:42:25 GMT Sermons Please turn with me in your Bibles to Exodus chapter 40. This morning we finally come to the end of our 20 week walk through of the book of Exodus. The theme couldn’t be more fitting for this time of year, the season of advent. Advent is from a latin word that means “arrival” – and as we said at the beginning of the service, it is a time where we remember and reflect on what it must have been […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-32-the-golden-calf Before we read Exodus 32, it’s important that I lay out the setting of this story. Within the previous few months, Israel had seen some of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring events in human history.• Ten plagues of judgment on their cruel oppressor, Pharaoh of Egypt. Unparalleled judgment, yet Israel was completely spared. Miracle after miracle.• Then the greatest one: their backs were against the Red Sea and the mighty Egyptian army was bearing down on them. God then parted the […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-32-the-golden-calf Fri, 01 Dec 2023 21:17:33 GMT Sermons Before we read Exodus 32, it’s important that I lay out the setting of this story. Within the previous few months, Israel had seen some of the most spectacular, awe-inspiring events in human history.• Ten plagues of judgment on their cruel oppressor, Pharaoh of Egypt. Unparalleled judgment, yet Israel was completely spared. Miracle after miracle.• Then the greatest one: their backs were against the Red Sea and the mighty Egyptian army was bearing down on them. God then parted the […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-31-the-sabbath Please turn in your Bibles to Exodus chapter 31. As a pastor one of the more frequent questions I am asked, especially by young believers trying to figure out how to live out their faith in Jesus in obedience to His scriptures, and maybe especially by busy college students trying to figure out how to best manage their time (and by the way the Venn diagram of those two groups overlaps quite a bit) – is something like “Pastor Matt, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-31-the-sabbath Sun, 26 Nov 2023 04:53:57 GMT Sermons Please turn in your Bibles to Exodus chapter 31. As a pastor one of the more frequent questions I am asked, especially by young believers trying to figure out how to live out their faith in Jesus in obedience to His scriptures, and maybe especially by busy college students trying to figure out how to best manage their time (and by the way the Venn diagram of those two groups overlaps quite a bit) – is something like “Pastor Matt, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-29-consecration-of-the-priest Two weeks ago, Matt read several chapters outlining the design details of what was the centerpiece of faith in the living God in ancient Israel.  It’s called the Tabernacle.  It was a tent-like structure, with an ark, an altar, tables, lampstands, curtains, and more. This portable tabernacle was the focal point of worship and forgiveness for Israel for the next 400-500 years, until King Solomon built the permanent structure, the temple. Though this tabernacle was portable, it was a beautiful, […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-29-consecration-of-the-priest Sun, 19 Nov 2023 04:15:20 GMT Sermons Two weeks ago, Matt read several chapters outlining the design details of what was the centerpiece of faith in the living God in ancient Israel.  It’s called the Tabernacle.  It was a tent-like structure, with an ark, an altar, tables, lampstands, curtains, and more. This portable tabernacle was the focal point of worship and forgiveness for Israel for the next 400-500 years, until King Solomon built the permanent structure, the temple. Though this tabernacle was portable, it was a beautiful, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-25-28-35-39-pt-2-offerings-for-worship Please open your Bibles to Exodus chapter 35. This morning we are on part 15 of 20 of our walk through of the book of Exodus. If you’ve been following along in the series so far, it is important to note that this morning we’re doing sort of a time-shift in the narrative. We’re skipping ahead a little bit from last week’s passage. Last week God gave Moses the plans for the tabernacle and the tools Israel would need for […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-25-28-35-39-pt-2-offerings-for-worship Sun, 12 Nov 2023 12:23:00 GMT Sermons Please open your Bibles to Exodus chapter 35. This morning we are on part 15 of 20 of our walk through of the book of Exodus. If you’ve been following along in the series so far, it is important to note that this morning we’re doing sort of a time-shift in the narrative. We’re skipping ahead a little bit from last week’s passage. Last week God gave Moses the plans for the tabernacle and the tools Israel would need for […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-the-plan-for-the-objects-of-worship Please turn with me to Exodus chapter 25.  Have you ever heard the phrase “the devil is in the details?” It means something like things are always more complicated than they seem, and those complications are going to cause you problems if you find out about them too late.  I learned this week that that phrase is a spin on an earlier more popular phrase: God is in the details. And that is what our passage teaches us this week. […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-the-plan-for-the-objects-of-worship Sun, 05 Nov 2023 13:22:00 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Exodus chapter 25.  Have you ever heard the phrase “the devil is in the details?” It means something like things are always more complicated than they seem, and those complications are going to cause you problems if you find out about them too late.  I learned this week that that phrase is a spin on an earlier more popular phrase: God is in the details. And that is what our passage teaches us this week. […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-21-24-more-laws Exodus is a fascinating book filled with some remarkable stories: a baby boy saved from death; a burning bush that God spoke out of; terrible plagues of judgment; a miraculous escape through the Red Sea.Today we are entering into a much different look at Exodus. Not some exciting, miraculous story. Rather, 3 chapters of detailed laws that Israel was to obey. When we read these laws, we might find ourselves bored with some of it. And puzzled with other parts, […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-21-24-more-laws Sat, 28 Oct 2023 21:53:24 GMT Sermons Exodus is a fascinating book filled with some remarkable stories: a baby boy saved from death; a burning bush that God spoke out of; terrible plagues of judgment; a miraculous escape through the Red Sea.Today we are entering into a much different look at Exodus. Not some exciting, miraculous story. Rather, 3 chapters of detailed laws that Israel was to obey. When we read these laws, we might find ourselves bored with some of it. And puzzled with other parts, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-ten-words Please open your Bible to Exodus chapter 19. As we pick up our series today we find Israel now three months into their journey out of Egypt, through the wilderness of the Sinai penninsula, headed toward their new home in the promised land. In our passage today we find them having arrived at Mount Sinai for their most crucial encounter with the Living God yet: the receiving of The Law. Today we are going to study, The Ten Commandments. The […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-ten-words Sun, 22 Oct 2023 04:31:25 GMT Sermons Please open your Bible to Exodus chapter 19. As we pick up our series today we find Israel now three months into their journey out of Egypt, through the wilderness of the Sinai penninsula, headed toward their new home in the promised land. In our passage today we find them having arrived at Mount Sinai for their most crucial encounter with the Living God yet: the receiving of The Law. Today we are going to study, The Ten Commandments. The […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-17-testing-and-quarreling In our series through the Book of Exodus, we are in Chapter 17.  Exodus 17:1–7 (CSB) 1 The entire Israelite community left the Wilderness of Sin, moving from one place to the next according to the Lord’s command. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. 2 So the people complained to Moses, “Give us water to drink.” “Why are you complaining to me?” Moses replied to them. “Why are you testing the Lord?” […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-17-testing-and-quarreling Sun, 08 Oct 2023 12:01:22 GMT Sermons In our series through the Book of Exodus, we are in Chapter 17.  Exodus 17:1–7 (CSB) 1 The entire Israelite community left the Wilderness of Sin, moving from one place to the next according to the Lord’s command. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. 2 So the people complained to Moses, “Give us water to drink.” “Why are you complaining to me?” Moses replied to them. “Why are you testing the Lord?” […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-15-16-proving-testing-resting Please open your Bibles to Exodus 15. The last few weeks we have been studying God’s powerful deliverance of his people from slavery in Egypt. Last week we looked at how God miraculously defeated the Egyptian army, and led them to safety through the parted waters of the Red Sea, and they celebrated their rescue mightly and created a magnifient song that they sang! When we left off, these were the words ringing in the air. Miriam sang to them: […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-15-16-proving-testing-resting Sun, 01 Oct 2023 13:26:00 GMT Sermons Please open your Bibles to Exodus 15. The last few weeks we have been studying God’s powerful deliverance of his people from slavery in Egypt. Last week we looked at how God miraculously defeated the Egyptian army, and led them to safety through the parted waters of the Red Sea, and they celebrated their rescue mightly and created a magnifient song that they sang! When we left off, these were the words ringing in the air. Miriam sang to them: […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-14-15-gods-guidance Please open you Bibles or turn into your scripture journal to Exodus chapter 14. We are on week 8 of 20 our walk through of the book of Exodus, and today we’re finally getting out of Egypt! This “scene” in the story is extremely dramatic, it almost feels like a Lord of the Rings sci-fi fantasy story. It’s more accurate to say that The Lord of the Rings feels a lot like the book of Exodus. You know what they […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-14-15-gods-guidance Sun, 24 Sep 2023 13:07:00 GMT Sermons Please open you Bibles or turn into your scripture journal to Exodus chapter 14. We are on week 8 of 20 our walk through of the book of Exodus, and today we’re finally getting out of Egypt! This “scene” in the story is extremely dramatic, it almost feels like a Lord of the Rings sci-fi fantasy story. It’s more accurate to say that The Lord of the Rings feels a lot like the book of Exodus. You know what they […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-12-13-the-passover This morning we are in week 7 of our walk through of Exodus. Last week we looked at one of the most well known and powerful stories in Exodus: God’s judgment on Egypt through the ten plagues. In these plagues God judged Egypt’s idolatry, worship of false gods, proving them to be powerless.  Perhaps there were real spiritual forces at work, but they were no match for The Most High God. Also through these plagues, God revealed to Pharaoh and […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-12-13-the-passover Sun, 17 Sep 2023 13:16:18 GMT Sermons This morning we are in week 7 of our walk through of Exodus. Last week we looked at one of the most well known and powerful stories in Exodus: God’s judgment on Egypt through the ten plagues. In these plagues God judged Egypt’s idolatry, worship of false gods, proving them to be powerless.  Perhaps there were real spiritual forces at work, but they were no match for The Most High God. Also through these plagues, God revealed to Pharaoh and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-7-11-the-plagues Today’s passage is a story of war, a war between God and the nation of Egypt.  And it is a war between God and Egypt’s gods (or their so-called gods).  The Egyptians worshiped dozens, even hundreds of false gods.  And through the Story of the Ten Plagues, the Lord easily defeats all of them.  God is the initiator of this war because his chosen people, the descendants of Abraham are enslaved, being violently oppressed by the king of Egypt.  And […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-7-11-the-plagues Sat, 09 Sep 2023 23:37:08 GMT Sermons Today’s passage is a story of war, a war between God and the nation of Egypt.  And it is a war between God and Egypt’s gods (or their so-called gods).  The Egyptians worshiped dozens, even hundreds of false gods.  And through the Story of the Ten Plagues, the Lord easily defeats all of them.  God is the initiator of this war because his chosen people, the descendants of Abraham are enslaved, being violently oppressed by the king of Egypt.  And […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-5-6-gods-faithfulness-in-our-faithlessness Today’s passage sits at a transition between two famous “scenes” in the Exodus narrative: The Burning Bush, and the Plagues. It sets the stage for one of the most important and encouraging messages God sends his people by his actions in delivering them from their bondage. Paul puts it this way to his young protege Timothy: 13 if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (CSB) Let’s back up into our passage from […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-5-6-gods-faithfulness-in-our-faithlessness Sun, 03 Sep 2023 13:30:00 GMT Sermons Today’s passage sits at a transition between two famous “scenes” in the Exodus narrative: The Burning Bush, and the Plagues. It sets the stage for one of the most important and encouraging messages God sends his people by his actions in delivering them from their bondage. Paul puts it this way to his young protege Timothy: 13 if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 (CSB) Let’s back up into our passage from […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-3-4-the-burning-bush Let’s read Exodus 3:1-10. Exodus 3 (CSB) 1 Meanwhile, Moses was shepherding the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 Then the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire within a bush. As Moses looked, he saw that the bush was on fire but was not consumed. 3 So Moses thought, “I must […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-3-4-the-burning-bush Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:07:54 GMT Sermons Let’s read Exodus 3:1-10. Exodus 3 (CSB) 1 Meanwhile, Moses was shepherding the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 Then the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire within a bush. As Moses looked, he saw that the bush was on fire but was not consumed. 3 So Moses thought, “I must […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/learning-to-see-the-invisible In today’s passage, we see a story of trying to carry out God’s work in our own timing and in our own strength and with our own wisdom, and how this always brings about disaster. Last week, we studied the narrative of Moses’s birth and God’s amazing protection and providence in his being saved from genocide, and being adopted by a princess of Egypt. In today’s passage, the narrative fast forwards through all of Moses’s upbringing and early adult life, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/learning-to-see-the-invisible Sun, 20 Aug 2023 11:51:00 GMT Sermons In today’s passage, we see a story of trying to carry out God’s work in our own timing and in our own strength and with our own wisdom, and how this always brings about disaster. Last week, we studied the narrative of Moses’s birth and God’s amazing protection and providence in his being saved from genocide, and being adopted by a princess of Egypt. In today’s passage, the narrative fast forwards through all of Moses’s upbringing and early adult life, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-21-10-moses-birth-and-adoption In this passage, God is at work in his providence through simple human deeds, all of it working towards sending a deliverer to redeem Israel from centuries of cruel bondage. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-21-10-moses-birth-and-adoption Sat, 12 Aug 2023 21:35:13 GMT Sermons In this passage, God is at work in his providence through simple human deeds, all of it working towards sending a deliverer to redeem Israel from centuries of cruel bondage. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-1-israels-oppression We are beginning a sermon series for the Fall on the Book of Exodus. Exodus is filled with many well-known stories: These are all remarkable, inspiring stories that tell us who God is, and we see examples of both faith and unbelief.  Examples of great deeds of faith, and extraordinary acts of evil.  Almost 2/3 of the book is stories. Yet Exodus has even more to offer us than those stories.  For there is something grand going on at the […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/exodus-1-israels-oppression Fri, 04 Aug 2023 18:33:10 GMT Sermons We are beginning a sermon series for the Fall on the Book of Exodus. Exodus is filled with many well-known stories: These are all remarkable, inspiring stories that tell us who God is, and we see examples of both faith and unbelief.  Examples of great deeds of faith, and extraordinary acts of evil.  Almost 2/3 of the book is stories. Yet Exodus has even more to offer us than those stories.  For there is something grand going on at the […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/every-member-a-minister Last week we took a look at one of the points of our ministry emphasis at Stonebrook: “every member a minister.” We have four points to this emphasis that is directing our ministry programs this year.  They are:  Last week we looked at the second point: “every believer a member”, how the scriptures call each believers to commit themselves to a local fellowship, a local congregation, and how we work that out here at Stonebrook through a membership process.  This […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/every-member-a-minister Sun, 30 Jul 2023 13:31:00 GMT Sermons Last week we took a look at one of the points of our ministry emphasis at Stonebrook: “every member a minister.” We have four points to this emphasis that is directing our ministry programs this year.  They are:  Last week we looked at the second point: “every believer a member”, how the scriptures call each believers to commit themselves to a local fellowship, a local congregation, and how we work that out here at Stonebrook through a membership process.  This […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-4-2 If you were to know the end of your life on earth was very close….say, you have a terminal disease…what would you want to say about your life?  Specifically, what would you want to say about your life following Christ? We would not want to hang our heads in shame, thinking of a lifetime of regrets.  Of the many choices we made that were not in line with the will of God. Instead, we would want to worship God for […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-4-2 Sun, 16 Jul 2023 23:20:47 GMT Sermons If you were to know the end of your life on earth was very close….say, you have a terminal disease…what would you want to say about your life?  Specifically, what would you want to say about your life following Christ? We would not want to hang our heads in shame, thinking of a lifetime of regrets.  Of the many choices we made that were not in line with the will of God. Instead, we would want to worship God for […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-3-2 Before the Apostle Paul was the “Apostle”, he was a religious leader who hated Jesus Christ and any of his followers.  In his obsession against Christ, he persecuted many men and women, unjustly dragging them off to prison, and even having some of them put to death. A few years later, Paul had an encounter with Jesus, and he repented of his rebellion against God, he believed in Christ, and then he became the most well-known follower of Christ in […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-3-2 Sun, 09 Jul 2023 21:42:34 GMT Sermons Before the Apostle Paul was the “Apostle”, he was a religious leader who hated Jesus Christ and any of his followers.  In his obsession against Christ, he persecuted many men and women, unjustly dragging them off to prison, and even having some of them put to death. A few years later, Paul had an encounter with Jesus, and he repented of his rebellion against God, he believed in Christ, and then he became the most well-known follower of Christ in […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-2 Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-2 Sun, 02 Jul 2023 22:56:20 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-1 Dave Lennander https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-timothy-1 Sun, 25 Jun 2023 19:31:28 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-6 Cliff Plymesser https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-6 Mon, 19 Jun 2023 12:30:08 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-5 Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-5 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 17:36:16 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-4 Dan Rude https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-4 Sun, 04 Jun 2023 19:53:35 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-3 When Jesus was on the earth the first time, the religious leaders knew many of the right answers.  They had studied the Scriptures.  Memorized them.  Taught them to the people. But there was a huge problem. Jesus said, Matthew 23:2–4 CSB  The scribes and the Pharisees are seated in the chair of Moses.  Therefore do whatever they tell you, and observe it. But don’t do what they do, because they don’t practice what they teach.  They tie up heavy loads […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-3 Sun, 28 May 2023 19:28:58 GMT Sermons When Jesus was on the earth the first time, the religious leaders knew many of the right answers.  They had studied the Scriptures.  Memorized them.  Taught them to the people. But there was a huge problem. Jesus said, Matthew 23:2–4 CSB  The scribes and the Pharisees are seated in the chair of Moses.  Therefore do whatever they tell you, and observe it. But don’t do what they do, because they don’t practice what they teach.  They tie up heavy loads […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-1-the-king-eternal Sunday, May 14, 2023 1 Timothy 1:  The King Eternal Letter writing in our electronic age is quite uncommon, isn’t it?  I was never a great letter writer before texting and emailing, but it’s been years, it seems, since I’ve written a letter, and especially a letter with pen and paper. In the Bible, we have in our hands two letters written by a man named Paul to his protégé.  His disciple in the faith, named Timothy. Timothy was like […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-timothy-1-the-king-eternal Sun, 14 May 2023 12:57:14 GMT Sermons Sunday, May 14, 2023 1 Timothy 1:  The King Eternal Letter writing in our electronic age is quite uncommon, isn’t it?  I was never a great letter writer before texting and emailing, but it’s been years, it seems, since I’ve written a letter, and especially a letter with pen and paper. In the Bible, we have in our hands two letters written by a man named Paul to his protégé.  His disciple in the faith, named Timothy. Timothy was like […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-does-jesus-say-about-human-sexuality Please turn in your Bibles to Matthew chapter 19. When I talk with my non-Christian friends about my job as a Bible teacher, I often describe my task as something like that of a historian. My job is to understand and to teach what the church has taught about this book since the beginning of the church and for the last 2000 years. My job is not to find some exciting new understanding that has been hidden throughout the ages, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-does-jesus-say-about-human-sexuality Sun, 07 May 2023 12:00:00 GMT Sermons Please turn in your Bibles to Matthew chapter 19. When I talk with my non-Christian friends about my job as a Bible teacher, I often describe my task as something like that of a historian. My job is to understand and to teach what the church has taught about this book since the beginning of the church and for the last 2000 years. My job is not to find some exciting new understanding that has been hidden throughout the ages, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-22-the-time-is-near Please open your Bible with me to Revelation chapter 22. Today our Revelation series comes to a close. What a great Spring it has been walking through this book with you all. I’ve appreciated the feedback, the questions, the conversations, the encouragement, the little bit of debate, and you know, even the tiny bit of criticism here and there. I trust that as we’ve walked through and made this book more clear over the past 16 weeks that its been […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-22-the-time-is-near Sun, 30 Apr 2023 13:23:38 GMT Sermons Please open your Bible with me to Revelation chapter 22. Today our Revelation series comes to a close. What a great Spring it has been walking through this book with you all. I’ve appreciated the feedback, the questions, the conversations, the encouragement, the little bit of debate, and you know, even the tiny bit of criticism here and there. I trust that as we’ve walked through and made this book more clear over the past 16 weeks that its been […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-20-the-final-judgment Revelation 19:17–21 (CSB) 17 Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and he called out in a loud voice, saying to all the birds flying high overhead, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God, 18 so that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of military commanders, the flesh of the mighty, the flesh of horses and of their riders, and the flesh of everyone, both free and slave, small and great.”  19 Then […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-20-the-final-judgment Sun, 16 Apr 2023 20:15:35 GMT Sermons Revelation 19:17–21 (CSB) 17 Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and he called out in a loud voice, saying to all the birds flying high overhead, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God, 18 so that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of military commanders, the flesh of the mighty, the flesh of horses and of their riders, and the flesh of everyone, both free and slave, small and great.”  19 Then […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-19-the-victory-of-the-lamb-over-the-beasts Please turn with me to Revelation chapter 19. Today is Easter Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, and it might seem a little strange that our text for the morning is Revelation 19. But we made the decision not to take time out of this important series for this week, but rather, we worked to schedule the series so that chapter 19 fell on this morning, because in our chapter today, we get to see a powerful image of the risen Jesus, and […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-19-the-victory-of-the-lamb-over-the-beasts Sun, 09 Apr 2023 03:01:36 GMT Sermons Please turn with me to Revelation chapter 19. Today is Easter Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, and it might seem a little strange that our text for the morning is Revelation 19. But we made the decision not to take time out of this important series for this week, but rather, we worked to schedule the series so that chapter 19 fell on this morning, because in our chapter today, we get to see a powerful image of the risen Jesus, and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-17-18-fallen-fallen-is-babylon-the-great Please open your Bibles to Revelation chapter 17.  We are now down the home stretch of this great book. We’re on week 12 of 16 of this series. And it has been a wild ride! Last week we Brad taught through chapters 15 and 16—the seven bowls of judgement, which depict the final pouring out of God’s wrath on an unbelieving world on judgement day. Where John goes next in this book is sort of a zoom-out, with a series […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-17-18-fallen-fallen-is-babylon-the-great Sun, 02 Apr 2023 04:10:00 GMT Sermons Please open your Bibles to Revelation chapter 17.  We are now down the home stretch of this great book. We’re on week 12 of 16 of this series. And it has been a wild ride! Last week we Brad taught through chapters 15 and 16—the seven bowls of judgement, which depict the final pouring out of God’s wrath on an unbelieving world on judgement day. Where John goes next in this book is sort of a zoom-out, with a series […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-15-16-seven-bowls-of-wrath In Revelation 15 and 16, we are drawing near to the end of this world as we know it. Our holy, just God has been patient with this darkened, sinful world for centuries, even sending his own Son to redeem those under wrath. But a day is coming when his patience ends and his wrath is poured out. This serves as a warning to all those who have rejected him, but it strengthens his followers, for his pure and perfect justice will be revealed. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-15-16-seven-bowls-of-wrath Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:50:54 GMT Sermons In Revelation 15 and 16, we are drawing near to the end of this world as we know it. Our holy, just God has been patient with this darkened, sinful world for centuries, even sending his own Son to redeem those under wrath. But a day is coming when his patience ends and his wrath is poured out. This serves as a warning to all those who have rejected him, but it strengthens his followers, for his pure and perfect justice will be revealed. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-14-the-lambs-book-of-life-and-the-144000 Last week we read a startling passage about two beasts who make war on God’s people. We learned that “the whole world” worship the beast, that is, all those “whose name was not written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb…” This week we will study Revelation Chapter 14 where we get to learn who these people are, and be encouraged that as we maintain our faith in Christ, that we will find the courage and endurance to follow him, wherever He goes, even in the face of beastly opposition. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-14-the-lambs-book-of-life-and-the-144000 Sun, 19 Mar 2023 03:34:12 GMT Sermons Last week we read a startling passage about two beasts who make war on God’s people. We learned that “the whole world” worship the beast, that is, all those “whose name was not written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb…” This week we will study Revelation Chapter 14 where we get to learn who these people are, and be encouraged that as we maintain our faith in Christ, that we will find the courage and endurance to follow him, wherever He goes, even in the face of beastly opposition. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-13-the-false-trinity-part-2-the-beasts Last week, we studied Revelation 12 where John introduces the enemy of God’s people: The Dragon, Satan. This week we will study Revelation 13 where we are introduced to the other two members of “The False Trinity”: The Sea Beast and the Land Beast, traditionally considered The Antichrist and The False Prophet. In chapter 12, the dragon is described as “making war on the offspring of the woman” — in Chapter 13, we see how he does that: through the beasts. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-13-the-false-trinity-part-2-the-beasts Sun, 12 Mar 2023 02:04:17 GMT Sermons Last week, we studied Revelation 12 where John introduces the enemy of God’s people: The Dragon, Satan. This week we will study Revelation 13 where we are introduced to the other two members of “The False Trinity”: The Sea Beast and the Land Beast, traditionally considered The Antichrist and The False Prophet. In chapter 12, the dragon is described as “making war on the offspring of the woman” — in Chapter 13, we see how he does that: through the beasts. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-12-the-false-trinity-part-1-the-dragon This week, John introduces us to the true enemy of the church: The Devil. Characterized as a Red Red Dragon who makes war on the offspring (The church) of the woman (Israel). Next week, we will finish this section by being introduced to the other two members of the false trinity, two beasts empowered by satan to spread a false message and to enforce adherence to the false message. Through it we will see God’s promise that though we are under attack, we will be ultimately protected, and the dragon and his beasts are doomed, and have no real lasting power. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-12-the-false-trinity-part-1-the-dragon Sun, 05 Mar 2023 05:16:58 GMT Sermons This week, John introduces us to the true enemy of the church: The Devil. Characterized as a Red Red Dragon who makes war on the offspring (The church) of the woman (Israel). Next week, we will finish this section by being introduced to the other two members of the false trinity, two beasts empowered by satan to spread a false message and to enforce adherence to the false message. Through it we will see God’s promise that though we are under attack, we will be ultimately protected, and the dragon and his beasts are doomed, and have no real lasting power. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/recap-revelation-6-11 Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/recap-revelation-6-11 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:27:46 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-10-11-no-more-delay This week we reach the center point of the book of Revelation, an interlude between the 6th and seventh trumpets. John sees a vision of a huge, mighty angel who commissions him to prophesy against many peoples, nations, languages, and kings, and then he hears a strange combination of things about temples, altars, and martyrs, and finally the seventh trumpet sounds, announcing Christ’s final triumph. Join us as we discuss the meaning of these strange details, and find great encouragement in their relevance for our daily life! Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-10-11-no-more-delay Sun, 19 Feb 2023 23:39:48 GMT Sermons This week we reach the center point of the book of Revelation, an interlude between the 6th and seventh trumpets. John sees a vision of a huge, mighty angel who commissions him to prophesy against many peoples, nations, languages, and kings, and then he hears a strange combination of things about temples, altars, and martyrs, and finally the seventh trumpet sounds, announcing Christ’s final triumph. Join us as we discuss the meaning of these strange details, and find great encouragement in their relevance for our daily life! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-8-9-the-trumpets-of-judgment In Week 5 of our series on the mysteriously remarkable book of Revelation, we read in chapters 8 & 9 of the seven trumpets of judgment. We will notice two crucial aspects of God’s nature that impact all of us. First, the Lord notices injustices on the earth and he will someday soon act with perfect and final justice. Second, even in his wrath we see hints of his offer of mercy, though people still refuse to repent and receive that mercy. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-8-9-the-trumpets-of-judgment Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:26:29 GMT Sermons In Week 5 of our series on the mysteriously remarkable book of Revelation, we read in chapters 8 & 9 of the seven trumpets of judgment. We will notice two crucial aspects of God’s nature that impact all of us. First, the Lord notices injustices on the earth and he will someday soon act with perfect and final justice. Second, even in his wrath we see hints of his offer of mercy, though people still refuse to repent and receive that mercy. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-6-7-the-seven-seals Pastor Dave explores the Seven Seals from Revelation 6 and 7. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-6-7-the-seven-seals Mon, 06 Feb 2023 18:00:26 GMT Sermons Pastor Dave explores the Seven Seals from Revelation 6 and 7. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-4-5-jesus-is-worthy This week we get to follow John up into the Throne Room of Heaven and see a vivid depiction of our glorious, triune God. We will join in a heavenly worship service as we see that Jesus, the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, the slaughtered lamb who is alive and reigns over heaven and earth, is the only one in all creation worthy to unseal God’s book and oversee the course of history. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-4-5-jesus-is-worthy Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:05:26 GMT Sermons This week we get to follow John up into the Throne Room of Heaven and see a vivid depiction of our glorious, triune God. We will join in a heavenly worship service as we see that Jesus, the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, the slaughtered lamb who is alive and reigns over heaven and earth, is the only one in all creation worthy to unseal God’s book and oversee the course of history. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-2-3 In Week 2 of our series through the mysteriously remarkable book of Revelation, we discover Jesus, the glorious head of all the churches as he directly speaks to his people who are engaged in holy war. He calls them to pay attention, walk with him, and place their hope in the glories of eternal life. In letters he wrote to seven Asian churches, we will find some words to challenge and strengthen us as individuals and as a church. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/revelation-2-3 Mon, 23 Jan 2023 14:15:46 GMT Sermons In Week 2 of our series through the mysteriously remarkable book of Revelation, we discover Jesus, the glorious head of all the churches as he directly speaks to his people who are engaged in holy war. He calls them to pay attention, walk with him, and place their hope in the glories of eternal life. In letters he wrote to seven Asian churches, we will find some words to challenge and strengthen us as individuals and as a church. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesuss-revelation This week we kick off our 16 week walkthrough of one of the most enigmatic and evocative books in the whole Bible. Revelation. Join us as we begin to explore a book that was written to bless, strengthen, and encourage the first century church, as well as every church and every believer through ages, including us today, and every church to come (possibly for ages more!), until Christ finally returns just as He promises. Our hope is that you’ll be able to approach this book with fresh eyes to see what is clearly in it. This is “The Revelation of Jesus”, encouraging weary saints by showing us our Victorious Savior! Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesuss-revelation Mon, 16 Jan 2023 02:45:35 GMT Sermons This week we kick off our 16 week walkthrough of one of the most enigmatic and evocative books in the whole Bible. Revelation. Join us as we begin to explore a book that was written to bless, strengthen, and encourage the first century church, as well as every church and every believer through ages, including us today, and every church to come (possibly for ages more!), until Christ finally returns just as He promises. Our hope is that you’ll be able to approach this book with fresh eyes to see what is clearly in it. This is “The Revelation of Jesus”, encouraging weary saints by showing us our Victorious Savior! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-prince-of-peace The wonderful prophecy about Jesus in Isaiah 9 declares that He is our “wonderful counselor” and our “prince of peace.” This week, we will discuss how Christ promises to bring us peace through prayer. This promise can feel hard to believe sometimes, but as we look at Christ’s example, we can find the encouragement and grace we need as we strive for peace in our souls. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-prince-of-peace Sun, 08 Jan 2023 22:11:06 GMT Sermons The wonderful prophecy about Jesus in Isaiah 9 declares that He is our “wonderful counselor” and our “prince of peace.” This week, we will discuss how Christ promises to bring us peace through prayer. This promise can feel hard to believe sometimes, but as we look at Christ’s example, we can find the encouragement and grace we need as we strive for peace in our souls. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-loneliness The story of Christ coming to earth and taking on human nature—the Incarnation—impacts us more than we may realize. That momentous event shouts to us of the nearness of God by the prophetic name given to Christ—Immanuel, meaning God with us. God is with us. Heaven has come to earth. God is now very near. We are never alone. On those days we sense loneliness even in a crowd of people, we can be assured of the tender presence of our God to be to us all we need and long for. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-loneliness Sun, 01 Jan 2023 23:10:40 GMT Sermons The story of Christ coming to earth and taking on human nature—the Incarnation—impacts us more than we may realize. That momentous event shouts to us of the nearness of God by the prophetic name given to Christ—Immanuel, meaning God with us. God is with us. Heaven has come to earth. God is now very near. We are never alone. On those days we sense loneliness even in a crowd of people, we can be assured of the tender presence of our God to be to us all we need and long for. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christmas Join us on Christmas morning as we reflect on the greatest and most needed gift we’ve been given: Jesus. Come witness a Christmas miracle as Matt shares a brief sermon!! (In a hoodie and jeans and sneakers no less…) 🙂 He will share with us one of the amazing things that can happen as we pray to our Wonderful Counselor. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christmas Sun, 25 Dec 2022 20:11:07 GMT Sermons Join us on Christmas morning as we reflect on the greatest and most needed gift we’ve been given: Jesus. Come witness a Christmas miracle as Matt shares a brief sermon!! (In a hoodie and jeans and sneakers no less…) 🙂 He will share with us one of the amazing things that can happen as we pray to our Wonderful Counselor. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-despair-advent-week-4 In the midst of our struggles, we need not despair. We can have hope because Jesus came and is coming again. Because He came, we know that our Maker cares so deeply that He, Himself, entered into our world to bring restoration and redemption, and we can have hope that God is with us in our trials, bringing us comfort even in pain. We can have hope because when He comes again, we will find that all our trials have produced for us incomparable honor and joy. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-despair-advent-week-4 Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:45:04 GMT Sermons In the midst of our struggles, we need not despair. We can have hope because Jesus came and is coming again. Because He came, we know that our Maker cares so deeply that He, Himself, entered into our world to bring restoration and redemption, and we can have hope that God is with us in our trials, bringing us comfort even in pain. We can have hope because when He comes again, we will find that all our trials have produced for us incomparable honor and joy. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-worry-advent-week-3 In this season, we may find that the worries of life distract us from eternal things and steal our peace. But the Advent of Christ tells us that God’s grace is enough, and we can discover a peace that surpasses our understanding. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-worry-advent-week-3 Sun, 11 Dec 2022 22:48:32 GMT Sermons In this season, we may find that the worries of life distract us from eternal things and steal our peace. But the Advent of Christ tells us that God’s grace is enough, and we can discover a peace that surpasses our understanding. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-hurry-advent-week-2 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-resistance-against-hurry-advent-week-2 Sun, 04 Dec 2022 21:42:21 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-11-kingdom-consummation This week we will wrap up the Story of God and Man series, and at the same time kick off the Advent season by reflecting on the glorious promise that Jesus is coming back! Join us as we remind each other of the good news that He is coming back soon to judge, to heal, and to rule forever. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-11-kingdom-consummation Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:05:52 GMT Sermons This week we will wrap up the Story of God and Man series, and at the same time kick off the Advent season by reflecting on the glorious promise that Jesus is coming back! Join us as we remind each other of the good news that He is coming back soon to judge, to heal, and to rule forever. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-10-the-bible SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 20, 2022  Brad Barrett The Story of God and Man:  The Bible— Week 11 I enjoy reading.  Every night before bed I’m reading a chapter or two from a book.  Usually it non-fiction.  A biography.  Some historical event.  Something from World War II.  But there is one Book I read every day that is completely different than any other book.  It’s the Bible. This book is not peripheral or an add-on.  Rather, it has been the […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-10-the-bible Sun, 20 Nov 2022 20:41:24 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 20, 2022  Brad Barrett The Story of God and Man:  The Bible— Week 11 I enjoy reading.  Every night before bed I’m reading a chapter or two from a book.  Usually it non-fiction.  A biography.  Some historical event.  Something from World War II.  But there is one Book I read every day that is completely different than any other book.  It’s the Bible. This book is not peripheral or an add-on.  Rather, it has been the […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-9-the-church SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 13, 2022  Brad Barrett The Story of God and Man:  The Church— Week 10 Why are we here?  Why are we gathered? Habit?  We like people?  It seems like a good thing to do? Someone invited me so I thought, “Why not?” Or perhaps we’re simply unsure.  We are nearing the end of a sermon series going through what could be described as an overview of the Bible.  It’s Stonebrook’s Statement of Faith where we examine […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-9-the-church Sun, 13 Nov 2022 21:53:19 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 13, 2022  Brad Barrett The Story of God and Man:  The Church— Week 10 Why are we here?  Why are we gathered? Habit?  We like people?  It seems like a good thing to do? Someone invited me so I thought, “Why not?” Or perhaps we’re simply unsure.  We are nearing the end of a sermon series going through what could be described as an overview of the Bible.  It’s Stonebrook’s Statement of Faith where we examine […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-8-the-holy-spirit Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-8-the-holy-spirit Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:29:02 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-7-resurrection-commission-ascension Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-7-resurrection-commission-ascension Mon, 31 Oct 2022 02:17:28 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-5-blessings-and-curses In God’s glorious, unfolding plan to bring salvation to the earth, he patiently worked for centuries while dealing with his chosen but very stubborn people, Israel. They were God’s treasured possession, and he longed to pour out his heavenly blessings on them, but they repeatedly spurned him and so received judgment. This eventually revealed the need for something greater—actually, Someone greater—leading us to the New Covenant of Jesus Christ. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-5-blessings-and-curses Sun, 16 Oct 2022 23:54:14 GMT Sermons In God’s glorious, unfolding plan to bring salvation to the earth, he patiently worked for centuries while dealing with his chosen but very stubborn people, Israel. They were God’s treasured possession, and he longed to pour out his heavenly blessings on them, but they repeatedly spurned him and so received judgment. This eventually revealed the need for something greater—actually, Someone greater—leading us to the New Covenant of Jesus Christ. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-4-promise-and-covenant In the biblical recounting creation, man’s rebellion, and the judgement of God through the flood, mankind’s core problem is starting to come into focus: “the inclination of the human heart is evil from youth onward” (Genesis 8:21 CSB). This week we focus on God’s initiation of a rescue plan to deliver humanity from their slavery to sin: by making a covenant with Abraham that will bless the whole world. In this, we will see God’s covenant-making with mankind is the framework of the entire Bible, helping us make sense of even the confusing stories and prophecies of the Old Testament: God offers a covenant relationship to humanity. How will we respond? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-part-4-promise-and-covenant Sun, 09 Oct 2022 22:12:40 GMT Sermons In the biblical recounting creation, man’s rebellion, and the judgement of God through the flood, mankind’s core problem is starting to come into focus: “the inclination of the human heart is evil from youth onward” (Genesis 8:21 CSB). This week we focus on God’s initiation of a rescue plan to deliver humanity from their slavery to sin: by making a covenant with Abraham that will bless the whole world. In this, we will see God’s covenant-making with mankind is the framework of the entire Bible, helping us make sense of even the confusing stories and prophecies of the Old Testament: God offers a covenant relationship to humanity. How will we respond? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-the-flood-of-noah This Sunday we will read one of the more remarkable stories in biblical history—the Flood of God’s judgment on the entire world, saving only one man and his family. This event, while it may provoke skepticism due to its extraordinary and severe nature, is declared not only in Genesis but by the Lord Jesus as a true, historical event of judgment and mercy. It serves as a warning to a future day of judgment when Christ returns to earth and as a reminder of God’s great mercy to us when we believe in his great deliverance through his Son. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-the-flood-of-noah Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:34:49 GMT Sermons This Sunday we will read one of the more remarkable stories in biblical history—the Flood of God’s judgment on the entire world, saving only one man and his family. This event, while it may provoke skepticism due to its extraordinary and severe nature, is declared not only in Genesis but by the Lord Jesus as a true, historical event of judgment and mercy. It serves as a warning to a future day of judgment when Christ returns to earth and as a reminder of God’s great mercy to us when we believe in his great deliverance through his Son. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-the-fall Have you ever wondered why so many things in this life are relentlessly so difficult, so painful, and so frustrating? Why are so many things so far from what they should be? The Bible provides an answer for all of us that can bring perspective, endurance, and hope in God’s beautiful solution to the world’s greatest problem. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-the-fall Sun, 25 Sep 2022 23:07:02 GMT Sermons Have you ever wondered why so many things in this life are relentlessly so difficult, so painful, and so frustrating? Why are so many things so far from what they should be? The Bible provides an answer for all of us that can bring perspective, endurance, and hope in God’s beautiful solution to the world’s greatest problem. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-creation For our culture today, the most controversial thing Christians believe is that each of us was created by Almighty God, who designs and reveals our identity and purpose, and to whom we owe love, worship, and obedience. We are not our own. We belong to God. Join us this week as we marvel at the glorious truth of our wonderful, sovereign, loving creator, and the impact of that reality on our daily life. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-creation Mon, 19 Sep 2022 14:24:34 GMT Sermons For our culture today, the most controversial thing Christians believe is that each of us was created by Almighty God, who designs and reveals our identity and purpose, and to whom we owe love, worship, and obedience. We are not our own. We belong to God. Join us this week as we marvel at the glorious truth of our wonderful, sovereign, loving creator, and the impact of that reality on our daily life. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-intro Brad introduces our series on the Story of God and Man. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-story-of-god-and-man-intro Sun, 11 Sep 2022 21:54:57 GMT Sermons Brad introduces our series on the Story of God and Man. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-24-acts-12-brothers-what-shall-we-do A Look Back at Luke 1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-24-acts-12-brothers-what-shall-we-do Tue, 06 Sep 2022 21:52:04 GMT Sermons A Look Back at Luke 1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-24-the-resurrection-from-suffering-to-glory Though Jesus’ own disciples were highly skeptical that he actually rose from the dead, they were persuaded when they saw him and when he proved from the Scriptures what they should have already seen and believed. This Sunday we will read about what is arguably the most important event in history: the resurrection. We’ll discover some powerful implications for us in our daily lives, such as addressing our doubts and our source for truth. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-24-the-resurrection-from-suffering-to-glory Mon, 29 Aug 2022 15:33:06 GMT Sermons Though Jesus’ own disciples were highly skeptical that he actually rose from the dead, they were persuaded when they saw him and when he proved from the Scriptures what they should have already seen and believed. This Sunday we will read about what is arguably the most important event in history: the resurrection. We’ll discover some powerful implications for us in our daily lives, such as addressing our doubts and our source for truth. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-love-of-god-on-display-luke-2326-56 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-love-of-god-on-display-luke-2326-56 Sun, 21 Aug 2022 21:43:15 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2266-2325-the-trials-of-jesus-and-the-wisdom-of-the-crowds This week we come to one of the most confounding scenes in the gospel narrative, Jesus’s trial before the Jewish Council, Pilate, Herod, and the Crowds. We see Jesus rightly identified as The Son of God, the Messiah, the King of the universe. We see him falsely accused of crimes he did not commit. We see him acquitted by both Jewish and Roman political authorities. But we see him taken away by the crowd to be murdered. In all this we get a glimpse into our own sinful hearts, and marvel at Jesus’s mission to save the world. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2266-2325-the-trials-of-jesus-and-the-wisdom-of-the-crowds Sun, 14 Aug 2022 21:22:31 GMT Sermons This week we come to one of the most confounding scenes in the gospel narrative, Jesus’s trial before the Jewish Council, Pilate, Herod, and the Crowds. We see Jesus rightly identified as The Son of God, the Messiah, the King of the universe. We see him falsely accused of crimes he did not commit. We see him acquitted by both Jewish and Roman political authorities. But we see him taken away by the crowd to be murdered. In all this we get a glimpse into our own sinful hearts, and marvel at Jesus’s mission to save the world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2239-65-triumphing-over-temptation Today’s passage contains the story of how three individuals responded to temptation. One response was catastrophic (Judas), one grievously disloyal (Peter), and one heroic (Jesus). We’ll look at Jesus’ heroic triumph over temptation and seek to learn how we can prepare ourselves to endure temptation. For there will likely be times when Satan will demand to sift us like wheat. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2239-65-triumphing-over-temptation Mon, 08 Aug 2022 12:25:55 GMT Sermons Today’s passage contains the story of how three individuals responded to temptation. One response was catastrophic (Judas), one grievously disloyal (Peter), and one heroic (Jesus). We’ll look at Jesus’ heroic triumph over temptation and seek to learn how we can prepare ourselves to endure temptation. For there will likely be times when Satan will demand to sift us like wheat. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-221-38 SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, July 31, 2022  Brad Barrett Luke 22:1-38 The Betrayal of the Son The setting from the text of Scriptures this morning is just hours before Jesus is crucified.  Brutally murdered.  A more unjust treatment the world has never seen. But it’s no surprise, for Jesus had previously told the disciples that this day was coming. Luke 9:22 ESV “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-221-38 Sun, 31 Jul 2022 20:21:27 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, July 31, 2022  Brad Barrett Luke 22:1-38 The Betrayal of the Son The setting from the text of Scriptures this morning is just hours before Jesus is crucified.  Brutally murdered.  A more unjust treatment the world has never seen. But it’s no surprise, for Jesus had previously told the disciples that this day was coming. Luke 9:22 ESV “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-21-the-coming-destruction In his account of Jesus’s entry to Jerusalem to finish his earthly mission, Luke focuses his narrative on Jesus’s repudiation of the injustice, corruption, and error in the temple service and the elite religious leaders. Finishing his teachings to his disciples, Jesus overhears a comment about the magnificence of the temple, which he responds to by prophesying the destruction of the temple. This prompts a question from his disciples: “When will this happen? What signs should we look for to prepare?” Jesus gives four non-signs, things that are going to happen but do not signal the destruction he’s referring to, and instead warns them: “You’ll know it when you see it. Be ready at all times.” This call to readiness is as relevant for us today as it was for them then, and for all believers throughout history. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-21-the-coming-destruction Sun, 24 Jul 2022 23:28:24 GMT Sermons In his account of Jesus’s entry to Jerusalem to finish his earthly mission, Luke focuses his narrative on Jesus’s repudiation of the injustice, corruption, and error in the temple service and the elite religious leaders. Finishing his teachings to his disciples, Jesus overhears a comment about the magnificence of the temple, which he responds to by prophesying the destruction of the temple. This prompts a question from his disciples: “When will this happen? What signs should we look for to prepare?” Jesus gives four non-signs, things that are going to happen but do not signal the destruction he’s referring to, and instead warns them: “You’ll know it when you see it. Be ready at all times.” This call to readiness is as relevant for us today as it was for them then, and for all believers throughout history. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-20-jesus-confounds-his-opponents With brilliance and tact, Jesus confounded His opponents as they did their best to find a way to entrap Him. For the sake of His followers and potential followers, Jesus outmaneuvered them, turning the tables to expose their opposition to God and His ways. Following Jesus’ example, it’s important that we, the church, hone our responses to today’s critics and opponents so that followers and potential followers of Jesus are drawn to Jesus and strengthened in faith. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-20-jesus-confounds-his-opponents Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:14:44 GMT Sermons With brilliance and tact, Jesus confounded His opponents as they did their best to find a way to entrap Him. For the sake of His followers and potential followers, Jesus outmaneuvered them, turning the tables to expose their opposition to God and His ways. Following Jesus’ example, it’s important that we, the church, hone our responses to today’s critics and opponents so that followers and potential followers of Jesus are drawn to Jesus and strengthened in faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1911-48-do-his-business-until-he-comes Have you ever wondered, “What is God’s will for me?” Just one week before he is crucified and resurrected, Jesus tells his followers in a parable what his will for them is after he ascends into heaven. He says, “Engage in my business until I come back,” and he promises great reward to all who do. This Sunday’s passage will look at this parable plus some other words from Jesus that may surprise us, pleasantly so. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1911-48-do-his-business-until-he-comes Sun, 10 Jul 2022 19:21:00 GMT Sermons Have you ever wondered, “What is God’s will for me?” Just one week before he is crucified and resurrected, Jesus tells his followers in a parable what his will for them is after he ascends into heaven. He says, “Engage in my business until I come back,” and he promises great reward to all who do. This Sunday’s passage will look at this parable plus some other words from Jesus that may surprise us, pleasantly so. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-remaining-in-the-father Cliff Plymesser https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-remaining-in-the-father Mon, 04 Jul 2022 17:23:09 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-college-panel Recommended Resources The Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life – Don Whitney Habits of Grace – David Mathis A good reading Bible(s) New Morning Mercies – Paul Tripp (devotional) The Valley of Vision – Banner of Truth (prayer book) The New City Catechism and Paired Devotional – Crossway (app also available for free in the app store ) Every Moment Holy – Douglas McKelvey / Rabbit Room (prayers, liturgies, etc. for the daily life) Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-college-panel Mon, 27 Jun 2022 15:08:10 GMT Sermons Recommended Resources The Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life – Don Whitney Habits of Grace – David Mathis A good reading Bible(s) New Morning Mercies – Paul Tripp (devotional) The Valley of Vision – Banner of Truth (prayer book) The New City Catechism and Paired Devotional – Crossway (app also available for free in the app store ) Every Moment Holy – Douglas McKelvey / Rabbit Room (prayers, liturgies, etc. for the daily life) https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-panel-discussion Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-devotional-life-panel-discussion Sun, 19 Jun 2022 20:50:28 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1835-1910-salvation-for-the-outcast Though few of us like to admit that we are weak and even lost, such an admission is a beautiful place to find intimacy, strength, and help from the God of all power and mercy. This Sunday we will look at two stories that will powerfully inspire us to humbly seek after our merciful Savior. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1835-1910-salvation-for-the-outcast Mon, 30 May 2022 23:13:16 GMT Sermons Though few of us like to admit that we are weak and even lost, such an admission is a beautiful place to find intimacy, strength, and help from the God of all power and mercy. This Sunday we will look at two stories that will powerfully inspire us to humbly seek after our merciful Savior. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1720-188-like-the-days-of-noah-and-lot The Pharisees ask Jesus about the timing of the arrival of God’s Kingdom on earth that He has been talking about. Jesus response to this question in the gospels is always the same: No one can know the timing, but it will happen suddenly, without warning, that is, without further warning than the one he continually gives: be ready today. In our eating, drinking, getting married, buying, selling, planting, building, sleeping, and milling, are we also praying: “Lord let your kingdom come!” Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1720-188-like-the-days-of-noah-and-lot Sun, 15 May 2022 23:20:59 GMT Sermons The Pharisees ask Jesus about the timing of the arrival of God’s Kingdom on earth that He has been talking about. Jesus response to this question in the gospels is always the same: No one can know the timing, but it will happen suddenly, without warning, that is, without further warning than the one he continually gives: be ready today. In our eating, drinking, getting married, buying, selling, planting, building, sleeping, and milling, are we also praying: “Lord let your kingdom come!” https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1618-1719-rich-man-and-lazarus-servants-and-lepers Rich Man and Lazarus, Servants and Lepers Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1618-1719-rich-man-and-lazarus-servants-and-lepers Sun, 08 May 2022 23:23:49 GMT Sermons Rich Man and Lazarus, Servants and Lepers https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-161-17-gods-economics This week, we’ll look at a perplexing parable about a master, a manager, and money. The details are confusing to our modern understanding of business, but Jesus’s message is clear nonetheless. The problem that Jesus was pointing out was that we, like the disciples and the Pharisees, don’t know what money is really for, and we forget who it really belongs to. When we see how Jesus uses this parable to instruct the disciples and rebuke the Pharisees, we’ll gain great insight into God’s economics. How does he want us to use “our” money? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-161-17-gods-economics Sun, 01 May 2022 22:21:27 GMT Sermons This week, we’ll look at a perplexing parable about a master, a manager, and money. The details are confusing to our modern understanding of business, but Jesus’s message is clear nonetheless. The problem that Jesus was pointing out was that we, like the disciples and the Pharisees, don’t know what money is really for, and we forget who it really belongs to. When we see how Jesus uses this parable to instruct the disciples and rebuke the Pharisees, we’ll gain great insight into God’s economics. How does he want us to use “our” money? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2413-27-how-jesus-reveals-himself After Jesus’s crucifixion and burial, even the apostles were devastated and confused, going only by what they could see. Their entire world was crashing around them, or so they thought. When Jesus finally does show up on that first Easter morning, the surprising ways he reveals himself to his despairing flock can teach us much about what we need from him today. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-2413-27-how-jesus-reveals-himself Sun, 17 Apr 2022 20:20:33 GMT Sermons After Jesus’s crucifixion and burial, even the apostles were devastated and confused, going only by what they could see. Their entire world was crashing around them, or so they thought. When Jesus finally does show up on that first Easter morning, the surprising ways he reveals himself to his despairing flock can teach us much about what we need from him today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-15-lost-but-now-found Jesus was frequently accused of being friends with the worst sinners in society. The outcasts. The untouchables. And the accusations were true. So he opens wide the heart of God in an astonishing trio of parables, including his best known one, the Prodigal Son. This Sunday from Luke 15 we will seek to have hearts full of gratitude, for God has diligently and actively sought us out in the gospel story. And we will seek to have great joy, for God joyfully loves and welcomes us. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-15-lost-but-now-found Sun, 10 Apr 2022 21:36:06 GMT Sermons Jesus was frequently accused of being friends with the worst sinners in society. The outcasts. The untouchables. And the accusations were true. So he opens wide the heart of God in an astonishing trio of parables, including his best known one, the Prodigal Son. This Sunday from Luke 15 we will seek to have hearts full of gratitude, for God has diligently and actively sought us out in the gospel story. And we will seek to have great joy, for God joyfully loves and welcomes us. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-147-35-the-way-of-a-disciple The way of a disciple of Jesus—the life and heart of a disciple—is not intuitive due to our sinful tendencies and the world’s influences, but it is beautiful and glorious. This Sunday in our sermon we will examine Jesus’ surprising words as he calls us to be true disciples. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-147-35-the-way-of-a-disciple Sun, 03 Apr 2022 21:15:45 GMT Sermons The way of a disciple of Jesus—the life and heart of a disciple—is not intuitive due to our sinful tendencies and the world’s influences, but it is beautiful and glorious. This Sunday in our sermon we will examine Jesus’ surprising words as he calls us to be true disciples. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1310-146-the-heart-of-christ-for-sabbath-healing-and-gods-kingdom What is the purpose of the Sabbath? In Luke 13-14, Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ answer to this question and will similarly challenge our preconceived notions about how God goes about his work and what his kingdom work looks like in this world. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1310-146-the-heart-of-christ-for-sabbath-healing-and-gods-kingdom Mon, 28 Mar 2022 01:34:11 GMT Sermons What is the purpose of the Sabbath? In Luke 13-14, Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ answer to this question and will similarly challenge our preconceived notions about how God goes about his work and what his kingdom work looks like in this world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1235-139-be-ready-for-the-masters-return In our passage this week, Jesus tells us to think forward to judgement day, The Day of The Lord, The Return of Christ, and teaches us something remarkable: Christians never need to fear death, because they never die. He confronts us with a question: Are you ready for that judgement day? Or are you living like it’s not coming? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1235-139-be-ready-for-the-masters-return Sun, 20 Mar 2022 22:21:47 GMT Sermons In our passage this week, Jesus tells us to think forward to judgement day, The Day of The Lord, The Return of Christ, and teaches us something remarkable: Christians never need to fear death, because they never die. He confronts us with a question: Are you ready for that judgement day? Or are you living like it’s not coming? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1213-34-be-heavenly-minded The natural way to look at life is from a short-term, temporary view, and when this is connected to the topic of money, two outcomes result: greed and worry. In this passage from Luke 12, Jesus calls us to an eternal and heavenly-minded view that leads to something glorious: a contented and peace-filled life that centers its trust in our great God and Father. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1213-34-be-heavenly-minded Mon, 14 Mar 2022 17:23:33 GMT Sermons The natural way to look at life is from a short-term, temporary view, and when this is connected to the topic of money, two outcomes result: greed and worry. In this passage from Luke 12, Jesus calls us to an eternal and heavenly-minded view that leads to something glorious: a contented and peace-filled life that centers its trust in our great God and Father. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-121-12-fear-and-fear-not Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-121-12-fear-and-fear-not Mon, 07 Mar 2022 00:38:44 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1137-54-woe-to-the-pharisees-and-lawyers In this week’s sermon, we look at a scene in which a question about washing up before a meal provokes a seemingly very harsh response from Jesus. But you stack up everything Luke has recorded the Pharisees and Lawyers saying so far in the gospel account, the response makes much more sense. Why does Jesus respond this way to the Pharisees? Because of the way they have been responding to the Messiah, and treating God’s children. We’ll look at ways we can be just like the Pharisees and Lawyers, and more importantly, we’ll look at our great savior who offers mercy, healing, forgiveness, and love. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1137-54-woe-to-the-pharisees-and-lawyers Mon, 28 Feb 2022 03:22:16 GMT Sermons In this week’s sermon, we look at a scene in which a question about washing up before a meal provokes a seemingly very harsh response from Jesus. But you stack up everything Luke has recorded the Pharisees and Lawyers saying so far in the gospel account, the response makes much more sense. Why does Jesus respond this way to the Pharisees? Because of the way they have been responding to the Messiah, and treating God’s children. We’ll look at ways we can be just like the Pharisees and Lawyers, and more importantly, we’ll look at our great savior who offers mercy, healing, forgiveness, and love. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1114-36-blessed-are-those-who-hear-and-obey From our passage, we will learn of the simplicity and beauty of following Jesus: whoever hears and obeys him will have God’s rich blessings upon us. And there is no middle ground, for we are either for him or against him. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1114-36-blessed-are-those-who-hear-and-obey Sun, 20 Feb 2022 21:11:01 GMT Sermons From our passage, we will learn of the simplicity and beauty of following Jesus: whoever hears and obeys him will have God’s rich blessings upon us. And there is no middle ground, for we are either for him or against him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1038-1113-mary-martha-and-prayer Following Jesus often involves boldness. Mary makes the bold choice to sit at Jesus’ feet and pursue Him rather than bend to cultural and family pressures. And Jesus teaches us to be bold and persistent in prayer. Followers of Jesus should sometimes keep pressing in prayer, even when the initial answer seems to be “no.” Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1038-1113-mary-martha-and-prayer Sun, 13 Feb 2022 21:49:20 GMT Sermons Following Jesus often involves boldness. Mary makes the bold choice to sit at Jesus’ feet and pursue Him rather than bend to cultural and family pressures. And Jesus teaches us to be bold and persistent in prayer. Followers of Jesus should sometimes keep pressing in prayer, even when the initial answer seems to be “no.” https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1025-37-the-good-samaritan In our sermon text this Sunday we will read the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the purpose and meaning behind the story may surprise us. However, an application from the story may not surprise us: that God would empower us through the gospel to show Good Samaritan type of compassion, even to someone who may not like us. How can we prepare ourselves in the Spirit for opportunities—expected or unexpected—to show life-giving compassion? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-1025-37-the-good-samaritan Sun, 06 Feb 2022 19:21:32 GMT Sermons In our sermon text this Sunday we will read the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the purpose and meaning behind the story may surprise us. However, an application from the story may not surprise us: that God would empower us through the gospel to show Good Samaritan type of compassion, even to someone who may not like us. How can we prepare ourselves in the Spirit for opportunities—expected or unexpected—to show life-giving compassion? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-951-1016-what-its-like-to-follow-jesus A life of following Jesus is a life on an exciting but difficult mission. This week we will see Jesus setting the example for us in proclaiming the good news about the kingdom. He sets the expectation for us that we will not only get to see God working powerfully, miraculous providence, and lives healed and changed, but we will also suffer rejection, loneliness, separation from the rest of the world, hardship, and danger. Following Jesus is a serious and weighty task. But when he calls us, and we follow, we will get to see the kingdom of God come near, and what could be better than that? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-951-1016-what-its-like-to-follow-jesus Sun, 23 Jan 2022 22:07:31 GMT Sermons A life of following Jesus is a life on an exciting but difficult mission. This week we will see Jesus setting the example for us in proclaiming the good news about the kingdom. He sets the expectation for us that we will not only get to see God working powerfully, miraculous providence, and lives healed and changed, but we will also suffer rejection, loneliness, separation from the rest of the world, hardship, and danger. Following Jesus is a serious and weighty task. But when he calls us, and we follow, we will get to see the kingdom of God come near, and what could be better than that? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-937-50-afraid-to-ask Having our ideas challenged is hard. Studies show that when an idea is presented to us that goes against our current understanding, our brains treat the situation same way we treat a physical or emotional threat. We feel like we’re in danger! This week, we’ll read about three times the disciples had their understanding corrected by Jesus, but they are unable to “get it.” Their unwillingness to change, and their fear to ask, will show us things about ourselves, and what it takes to learn and grow in our walk with Jesus. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-937-50-afraid-to-ask Sun, 16 Jan 2022 20:00:11 GMT Sermons Having our ideas challenged is hard. Studies show that when an idea is presented to us that goes against our current understanding, our brains treat the situation same way we treat a physical or emotional threat. We feel like we’re in danger! This week, we’ll read about three times the disciples had their understanding corrected by Jesus, but they are unable to “get it.” Their unwillingness to change, and their fear to ask, will show us things about ourselves, and what it takes to learn and grow in our walk with Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-928-36-the-transfiguration-the-coming-glory What awaits us after we die? Is there life beyond the grave? In one of the more unusual events in Scripture, Jesus’ earthly body is glorified in blazing light—he is transfigured—and then Moses and Elijah appear with him. This unique experience points us today to the glory of Christ in heaven, strengthens our faith in all that Christ did and will do, and increases our hope in God’s promised resurrection life for us after death. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-928-36-the-transfiguration-the-coming-glory Sun, 09 Jan 2022 19:38:24 GMT Sermons What awaits us after we die? Is there life beyond the grave? In one of the more unusual events in Scripture, Jesus’ earthly body is glorified in blazing light—he is transfigured—and then Moses and Elijah appear with him. This unique experience points us today to the glory of Christ in heaven, strengthens our faith in all that Christ did and will do, and increases our hope in God’s promised resurrection life for us after death. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-239-52-jesus-grows-up This week we will examine the one glimpse the Bible gives us of Jesus’s childhood. That he sought to learn in the temple. That he “grew” in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man, has spoiled many formulas of theologians throughout the ages. God, incarnate, had to learn and grow! As we explore this mystery, we learn some encouraging things about our faith. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-239-52-jesus-grows-up Sun, 02 Jan 2022 20:23:44 GMT Sermons This week we will examine the one glimpse the Bible gives us of Jesus’s childhood. That he sought to learn in the temple. That he “grew” in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man, has spoiled many formulas of theologians throughout the ages. God, incarnate, had to learn and grow! As we explore this mystery, we learn some encouraging things about our faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-221-38-waiting-patiently In this week’s passage, we are introduced to two faithful Israelites: Simeon and Anna, both of whom had spent their life waiting for the promised redeemer, God’s Messiah. Unlike the Pharisees who were trying to bring about the Messiah’s arrival through their good works, the Sanhedrin who had capitulated to Roman politics, the zealots who were trying to liberate Israel by force, or the Essenes who withdrew from engaging the world at all, these two faithful believers trusted God’s promises in his timing, and so found themselves in a position to meet and receive the Messiah at his arrival. The parallels for us today are obvious. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-221-38-waiting-patiently Sun, 26 Dec 2021 20:34:49 GMT Sermons In this week’s passage, we are introduced to two faithful Israelites: Simeon and Anna, both of whom had spent their life waiting for the promised redeemer, God’s Messiah. Unlike the Pharisees who were trying to bring about the Messiah’s arrival through their good works, the Sanhedrin who had capitulated to Roman politics, the zealots who were trying to liberate Israel by force, or the Essenes who withdrew from engaging the world at all, these two faithful believers trusted God’s promises in his timing, and so found themselves in a position to meet and receive the Messiah at his arrival. The parallels for us today are obvious. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-157-80-christ-our-sunrise The time of John the Baptist’s birth were days of wonder and praise, for after 400 year of silence from heaven God powerfully visited his people. Like a psalmist, Zechariah sang praises to God, declaring the mighty attributes of God and his Son and prophesying about events that would soon shake the world. This Sunday we will read of these extraordinary days and the fullness of God through his Son, learning that through this we can love him and trust him more. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-157-80-christ-our-sunrise Sun, 19 Dec 2021 22:45:44 GMT Sermons The time of John the Baptist’s birth were days of wonder and praise, for after 400 year of silence from heaven God powerfully visited his people. Like a psalmist, Zechariah sang praises to God, declaring the mighty attributes of God and his Son and prophesying about events that would soon shake the world. This Sunday we will read of these extraordinary days and the fullness of God through his Son, learning that through this we can love him and trust him more. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-promise-keeper-luke-126-56 This Sunday we will be looking at Mary’s response to God’s promise and we will ask the question “How do we respond to God’s Promises? Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-promise-keeper-luke-126-56 Mon, 13 Dec 2021 03:00:06 GMT Sermons This Sunday we will be looking at Mary’s response to God’s promise and we will ask the question “How do we respond to God’s Promises? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/deferred-hopes-fulfilled-an-advent-reflection-on-luke-15-25 The wise King Solomon, having understood and experienced many things, and blessed by God with great wisdom, makes a simple observation that we can all resonate with: “A deferred hope makes the heart sick.” – In our passage this week, we will watch a faithful Israelite couple have two of their deepest, deferred hopes suddenly fulfilled. Their reaction can give us great insight about ourselves, and point us to an unshakeable hope that will never fail us. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/deferred-hopes-fulfilled-an-advent-reflection-on-luke-15-25 Sun, 05 Dec 2021 20:15:49 GMT Sermons The wise King Solomon, having understood and experienced many things, and blessed by God with great wisdom, makes a simple observation that we can all resonate with: “A deferred hope makes the heart sick.” – In our passage this week, we will watch a faithful Israelite couple have two of their deepest, deferred hopes suddenly fulfilled. Their reaction can give us great insight about ourselves, and point us to an unshakeable hope that will never fail us. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/advent-the-long-awaited-messiah For us today, we say, “Jesus the Messiah has already come.” But for centuries prior to that history-making day, the people were in high anticipation. This Sunday three of our pastors will have a panel discussion examining many of the remarkable Old Testament prophecies of the advent– the coming– of Jesus. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/advent-the-long-awaited-messiah Sun, 28 Nov 2021 20:07:22 GMT Sermons For us today, we say, “Jesus the Messiah has already come.” But for centuries prior to that history-making day, the people were in high anticipation. This Sunday three of our pastors will have a panel discussion examining many of the remarkable Old Testament prophecies of the advent– the coming– of Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-918-27-come-to-jesus Religion in general is often viewed as a system or a set of rules or teachings. But Christianity is unique because Jesus Christ is unique, and he calls us to a person, that is, himself. He calls us to “come after” him. The implications are life altering. We’ll examine what Jesus means by that and its impact on us. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-918-27-come-to-jesus Sun, 21 Nov 2021 20:41:44 GMT Sermons Religion in general is often viewed as a system or a set of rules or teachings. But Christianity is unique because Jesus Christ is unique, and he calls us to a person, that is, himself. He calls us to “come after” him. The implications are life altering. We’ll examine what Jesus means by that and its impact on us. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-91-17-jesus-sends-the-twelve-and-feeds-the-five-thousand In this week’s passage we see Jesus continuing to reveal his power over his spiritual enemies and bringing restoration to a world that is broken and bruised by sin and death — and he does so in dramatic fashion, feeding thousands of people with a mere five loaves and two fish. If we look closely, we will see a calling to Christ’s disciples that echoes forward to us today. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-91-17-jesus-sends-the-twelve-and-feeds-the-five-thousand Sun, 14 Nov 2021 22:08:23 GMT Sermons In this week’s passage we see Jesus continuing to reveal his power over his spiritual enemies and bringing restoration to a world that is broken and bruised by sin and death — and he does so in dramatic fashion, feeding thousands of people with a mere five loaves and two fish. If we look closely, we will see a calling to Christ’s disciples that echoes forward to us today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-840-56-do-not-fear-only-believe Though overwhelming sin and circumstances can lead to an understandable fear and despair, Jesus Christ proves that trusting in him is far more reasonable. He gently and firmly calls us to such a faith. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-840-56-do-not-fear-only-believe Sun, 07 Nov 2021 21:40:55 GMT Sermons Though overwhelming sin and circumstances can lead to an understandable fear and despair, Jesus Christ proves that trusting in him is far more reasonable. He gently and firmly calls us to such a faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/soul-storms-luke-822-39 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/soul-storms-luke-822-39 Sun, 31 Oct 2021 19:51:20 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-81-18-the-parable-of-the-soils Facing increasing rejection and opposition from the religious leaders of the day, Jesus begins “hiding” his teachings in parables, so that only those who really desire to follow and learn from Jesus are able to know his meaning. This week we will focus on the parable of the sower – or, better, the parable of the soils. The parable asks us to examine our attitude toward Jesus – are we believing? connected? rejecting worldly pleasure? holding fast to his word? This parable warns us, corrects us, and shows us the way to a fruitful life of faith. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-81-18-the-parable-of-the-soils Sun, 24 Oct 2021 19:36:05 GMT Sermons Facing increasing rejection and opposition from the religious leaders of the day, Jesus begins “hiding” his teachings in parables, so that only those who really desire to follow and learn from Jesus are able to know his meaning. This week we will focus on the parable of the sower – or, better, the parable of the soils. The parable asks us to examine our attitude toward Jesus – are we believing? connected? rejecting worldly pleasure? holding fast to his word? This parable warns us, corrects us, and shows us the way to a fruitful life of faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-736-83-extraordinary-forgiveness-and-love In a remarkable story in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus powerfully contrasts a self-righteous Pharisee with a sinful woman. The man looks with disdain on her, while she reveals a deep love for Jesus that springs out of the forgiveness he has granted. What can we learn from her? She models to us humility and faith that discovers the riches of God’s grace and results in a deeper love for Jesus. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-736-83-extraordinary-forgiveness-and-love Sun, 17 Oct 2021 20:17:28 GMT Sermons In a remarkable story in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus powerfully contrasts a self-righteous Pharisee with a sinful woman. The man looks with disdain on her, while she reveals a deep love for Jesus that springs out of the forgiveness he has granted. What can we learn from her? She models to us humility and faith that discovers the riches of God’s grace and results in a deeper love for Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-718-35-the-one-who-is-and-is-to-come While in prison, John the Baptist hears reports of Jesus’s ministry. Many things line up with his expectation of the Messiah, but many things do not. He sends his followers to ask Jesus directly “are you indeed the Messiah, or are we waiting for someone else?” Jesus’s unusual response inspires trust in God for those who believe and repent, but for those who are righteous in their own mind, no response he could give would be sufficient. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-718-35-the-one-who-is-and-is-to-come Sun, 10 Oct 2021 21:29:33 GMT Sermons While in prison, John the Baptist hears reports of Jesus’s ministry. Many things line up with his expectation of the Messiah, but many things do not. He sends his followers to ask Jesus directly “are you indeed the Messiah, or are we waiting for someone else?” Jesus’s unusual response inspires trust in God for those who believe and repent, but for those who are righteous in their own mind, no response he could give would be sufficient. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-71-17-the-authority-and-compassion-of-christ In our passage this week, we will see Jesus in action once again, this time in two remarkable stories, one of healing a dying man, and the other raising a dead man to life. We must ask, who is this Jesus? Who else speaks and acts with such authority that is combined with tender compassion? The answer: there is no one like him, no one else who is worthy of our trust and admiration. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-71-17-the-authority-and-compassion-of-christ Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:20:51 GMT Sermons In our passage this week, we will see Jesus in action once again, this time in two remarkable stories, one of healing a dying man, and the other raising a dead man to life. We must ask, who is this Jesus? Who else speaks and acts with such authority that is combined with tender compassion? The answer: there is no one like him, no one else who is worthy of our trust and admiration. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-sermon-on-the-plain-luke-612-49 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-sermon-on-the-plain-luke-612-49 Sun, 26 Sep 2021 21:59:46 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/fasting-sabbaths-533-611 SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, September 19, 2021  Brad Barrett Luke 5:27-6:11  The Physician of our Souls Series: Luke Sermon:  The Physician of our Souls  Luke 5:27-6:11 Verse:  Luke 5:32 ESV  I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” Description:  If someone is familiar with the Bible and you want to stab them in their heart, there is one word that will do it:  Call them a Pharisee. The Pharisees were a Jewish religious order in the first century, and […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/fasting-sabbaths-533-611 Sun, 19 Sep 2021 21:16:45 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, September 19, 2021  Brad Barrett Luke 5:27-6:11  The Physician of our Souls Series: Luke Sermon:  The Physician of our Souls  Luke 5:27-6:11 Verse:  Luke 5:32 ESV  I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” Description:  If someone is familiar with the Bible and you want to stab them in their heart, there is one word that will do it:  Call them a Pharisee. The Pharisees were a Jewish religious order in the first century, and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/we-have-seen-extraordinary-things-today In this week’s passage, we are introduced to four sets of people: the first disciples, a leper, a paralytic and his friends, and the pharisees. Through his interactions with these four very diverse people, Jesus shows us that he has the power, willingness, and authority to heal and forgive sin for anyone who comes to him in faith. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/we-have-seen-extraordinary-things-today Sun, 12 Sep 2021 22:02:30 GMT Sermons In this week’s passage, we are introduced to four sets of people: the first disciples, a leper, a paralytic and his friends, and the pharisees. Through his interactions with these four very diverse people, Jesus shows us that he has the power, willingness, and authority to heal and forgive sin for anyone who comes to him in faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-431-44-the-good-news-of-the-kingdom-of-god We all long for a world where chaos, brokenness, and death are no more. 2000 years ago someone came to earth declaring such a world, actually a new kingdom. Jesus of Nazareth came revealing an other-worldly power and authority—the kingdom of God—to restore all that is broken in us and in our world. This Sunday we will see Jesus and worship him as the King who has come and is coming again soon to reign over his glorious kingdom and make all things new and right. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-431-44-the-good-news-of-the-kingdom-of-god Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:08:48 GMT Sermons We all long for a world where chaos, brokenness, and death are no more. 2000 years ago someone came to earth declaring such a world, actually a new kingdom. Jesus of Nazareth came revealing an other-worldly power and authority—the kingdom of God—to restore all that is broken in us and in our world. This Sunday we will see Jesus and worship him as the King who has come and is coming again soon to reign over his glorious kingdom and make all things new and right. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/bring-your-nothing In this week’s passage, Jesus proclaims that the long awaited “year of the Lord’s favor”, is here! In his very brief sermon he tells his hometown, the people he grew up with, that he is, in fact, the Messiah. In two strange analogies to Old Testament stories, he tells them the surprising nature of his ministry: God’s grace is free, is open to the gentiles, and we should receive it as humbly as a widow and a leper. This shocking claim enrages the town. And we should ask ourselves, how do we respond? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/bring-your-nothing Sun, 29 Aug 2021 19:30:50 GMT Sermons In this week’s passage, Jesus proclaims that the long awaited “year of the Lord’s favor”, is here! In his very brief sermon he tells his hometown, the people he grew up with, that he is, in fact, the Messiah. In two strange analogies to Old Testament stories, he tells them the surprising nature of his ministry: God’s grace is free, is open to the gentiles, and we should receive it as humbly as a widow and a leper. This shocking claim enrages the town. And we should ask ourselves, how do we respond? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-last-adam-luke-323-415 In this week’s passage, we will Jesus, the descendant of King David, and of all our “father” Adam, and also, most importantly, the Son of God, face temptation from our adversary, the devil himself. We will be encouraged as Jesus faces temptation, just as Adam did, and just as we do: as a human. Using the same resources we have available to us, the leading and empowering of the Holy Spirit, and reliance on God’s promises and commands in his word. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-last-adam-luke-323-415 Sun, 22 Aug 2021 22:31:47 GMT Sermons In this week’s passage, we will Jesus, the descendant of King David, and of all our “father” Adam, and also, most importantly, the Son of God, face temptation from our adversary, the devil himself. We will be encouraged as Jesus faces temptation, just as Adam did, and just as we do: as a human. Using the same resources we have available to us, the leading and empowering of the Holy Spirit, and reliance on God’s promises and commands in his word. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-31-22 After more than 400 years of silence from God and enduring much political and moral upheaval, Israel was presented with an extraordinary moment. God sent a prophet named John (a.k.a., the Baptist) whose message was one of repentance, baptism, and forgiveness to turn hearts toward God in preparation for a coming Savior who would change the world. This Sunday we will look at God’s remarkable faithfulness and mercy and also see how John’s message is just as relevant for us today as it was centuries ago. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/luke-31-22 Sun, 15 Aug 2021 21:49:51 GMT Sermons After more than 400 years of silence from God and enduring much political and moral upheaval, Israel was presented with an extraordinary moment. God sent a prophet named John (a.k.a., the Baptist) whose message was one of repentance, baptism, and forgiveness to turn hearts toward God in preparation for a coming Savior who would change the world. This Sunday we will look at God’s remarkable faithfulness and mercy and also see how John’s message is just as relevant for us today as it was centuries ago. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/that-we-may-know-him This Sunday we begin a new sermon series diving into the great story of the Savior of the world, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, written by a man named Luke. The author’s purpose for writing is clear: he wants the reader to have greater certainty of what he has heard about Jesus. Whether you are a member of Stonebrook or simply seeking to understand who Jesus really is, we will read Luke’s Gospel to know Jesus better and to trust him more, for we will discover there is no one like him. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/that-we-may-know-him Sun, 08 Aug 2021 21:04:58 GMT Sermons This Sunday we begin a new sermon series diving into the great story of the Savior of the world, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, written by a man named Luke. The author’s purpose for writing is clear: he wants the reader to have greater certainty of what he has heard about Jesus. Whether you are a member of Stonebrook or simply seeking to understand who Jesus really is, we will read Luke’s Gospel to know Jesus better and to trust him more, for we will discover there is no one like him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-effect-of-the-gospel-on-the-gathered-church First I’ll set the stage, the context of the letter. The Apostle Paul had an interesting problem on his hands.  He had spent three years with the church he started in Ephesus, living with them and instructing them night and day, imparting to them the whole counsel of God.   After this he wrote them a definitive letter reminding them of The Gospel and instructing them in how they were to conduct themselves.   Now, just a few short years […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-effect-of-the-gospel-on-the-gathered-church Sun, 01 Aug 2021 18:03:38 GMT Sermons First I’ll set the stage, the context of the letter. The Apostle Paul had an interesting problem on his hands.  He had spent three years with the church he started in Ephesus, living with them and instructing them night and day, imparting to them the whole counsel of God.   After this he wrote them a definitive letter reminding them of The Gospel and instructing them in how they were to conduct themselves.   Now, just a few short years […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/sexual-wisdom Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/sexual-wisdom Sun, 25 Jul 2021 20:18:03 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/words-of-life-or-death Who among us has never uttered words that we deeply regret, some unhelpful, some destructive? This Sunday we will look at the wisdom of God regarding our words, what we say and what we type. By the grace of God through his Son we can learn to “tame our tongue” to bring good, not harm, to build up, not tear down. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/words-of-life-or-death Mon, 19 Jul 2021 20:24:12 GMT Sermons Who among us has never uttered words that we deeply regret, some unhelpful, some destructive? This Sunday we will look at the wisdom of God regarding our words, what we say and what we type. By the grace of God through his Son we can learn to “tame our tongue” to bring good, not harm, to build up, not tear down. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/getting-counsel Cliff Plymesser https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/getting-counsel Sun, 11 Jul 2021 22:35:12 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/good-government God-Honoring Authority Article (1) If you’re like me, you’re amazed by the polarization in society. (2) The social media mobbing. The cancel culture. The wild conspiracy theories that many people are actually believing. And this polarization is nowhere more intense than in politics. (3)It seems like the rhetoric on both sides is so extreme, whether it’s over systemic racism, critical race theory, defunding the police, supporting the police, immigration reform, election reform, abortion rights, rights of the unborn, discrimination because […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/good-government Sun, 04 Jul 2021 20:31:55 GMT Sermons God-Honoring Authority Article (1) If you’re like me, you’re amazed by the polarization in society. (2) The social media mobbing. The cancel culture. The wild conspiracy theories that many people are actually believing. And this polarization is nowhere more intense than in politics. (3)It seems like the rhetoric on both sides is so extreme, whether it’s over systemic racism, critical race theory, defunding the police, supporting the police, immigration reform, election reform, abortion rights, rights of the unborn, discrimination because […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/in-training Mike Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/in-training Sun, 27 Jun 2021 22:23:28 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/guard-your-heart Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/guard-your-heart Sun, 20 Jun 2021 23:49:52 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-fear-of-the-lord Guang Song https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-fear-of-the-lord Sun, 13 Jun 2021 21:35:48 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/introduction-to-proverbs Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/introduction-to-proverbs Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:12:50 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/malachi-where-is-my-honor Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/malachi-where-is-my-honor Sun, 30 May 2021 20:06:03 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/zechariah-3-the-high-priests-dirty-robes We are continuing our series through the minor prophets this morning in Zechariah. Please turn there with me. Zechariah is the longest of the minor prophets. Same chapter count as Hosea, but more words. It has been called “little Isaiah” – because it picks up on many of the same themes and uses similar imagery.  The book is very complex and as far as an efficient summary and outline of the book as a whole, I don’t think I can […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/zechariah-3-the-high-priests-dirty-robes Sun, 23 May 2021 20:52:25 GMT Sermons We are continuing our series through the minor prophets this morning in Zechariah. Please turn there with me. Zechariah is the longest of the minor prophets. Same chapter count as Hosea, but more words. It has been called “little Isaiah” – because it picks up on many of the same themes and uses similar imagery.  The book is very complex and as far as an efficient summary and outline of the book as a whole, I don’t think I can […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/haggai-be-strong-for-he-is-with-us This Sunday we will look at the brief yet powerful prophetic book, Haggai. Through this man Haggai, God called his people to awaken from their slumber and do the work of rebuilding the Lord’s house, the temple. In spite of Israel’s dark history, the people responded quickly and obeyed the Lord by beginning the reconstruction. Yet just a month later, they began losing heart until the Lord spoke to them again, this time to be strong and do the work, for he is with them. Not only do we marvel at God’s call to his people Israel, we will discover similar calls he gives to us today. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/haggai-be-strong-for-he-is-with-us Sun, 16 May 2021 19:45:42 GMT Sermons This Sunday we will look at the brief yet powerful prophetic book, Haggai. Through this man Haggai, God called his people to awaken from their slumber and do the work of rebuilding the Lord’s house, the temple. In spite of Israel’s dark history, the people responded quickly and obeyed the Lord by beginning the reconstruction. Yet just a month later, they began losing heart until the Lord spoke to them again, this time to be strong and do the work, for he is with them. Not only do we marvel at God’s call to his people Israel, we will discover similar calls he gives to us today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/zephaniah-the-day-of-the-lord 1 The word of the Lord that came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah. Zephaniah 1:1 (ESV) We know a lot about Zephaniah from this one verse! Zephaniah has the most complete genealogical listing of any of the prophets, and it’s here for a reason. He was the great, great, grandson of one of the few faithful kings of […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/zephaniah-the-day-of-the-lord Mon, 10 May 2021 00:14:59 GMT Sermons 1 The word of the Lord that came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah. Zephaniah 1:1 (ESV) We know a lot about Zephaniah from this one verse! Zephaniah has the most complete genealogical listing of any of the prophets, and it’s here for a reason. He was the great, great, grandson of one of the few faithful kings of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/habakkuks-lament-and-joy SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, May 2, 2021  Brad Barrett Minor Prophets  Habakkuk’s Lament and Joy Slide (title) Two weeks ago my wife and I were at a retreat for pastors and their wives down in Des Moines at Living History Farms. During the worship time, one of the women in the music team shared a brief but intense story. Years ago during their church service, police came in and arrested her husband in front of the whole church for some illicit […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/habakkuks-lament-and-joy Mon, 03 May 2021 13:28:09 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, May 2, 2021  Brad Barrett Minor Prophets  Habakkuk’s Lament and Joy Slide (title) Two weeks ago my wife and I were at a retreat for pastors and their wives down in Des Moines at Living History Farms. During the worship time, one of the women in the music team shared a brief but intense story. Years ago during their church service, police came in and arrested her husband in front of the whole church for some illicit […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/nahum-the-vengeance-of-the-lord Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/nahum-the-vengeance-of-the-lord Mon, 26 Apr 2021 00:22:57 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/micah-who-is-like-the-lord In our series on the Minor Prophets, we will look at Micah’s words where he offers warnings of impending judgment for sin. But we will also find that he shouts words of hope of a coming glorious day of a Shepherd and Ruler from Bethlehem who is from ancient days. Who is like the Lord? For this Ruler, Jesus Christ, will bring security and peace to the earth at last in an eternal paradise, finally restoring what was lost millennia ago in Genesis 3 in the Garden. And he has come to bring us peace personally, as well. As we study Micah, we will discover that Jesus can become our greatest satisfaction and hope in life. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/micah-who-is-like-the-lord Mon, 19 Apr 2021 00:37:45 GMT Sermons In our series on the Minor Prophets, we will look at Micah’s words where he offers warnings of impending judgment for sin. But we will also find that he shouts words of hope of a coming glorious day of a Shepherd and Ruler from Bethlehem who is from ancient days. Who is like the Lord? For this Ruler, Jesus Christ, will bring security and peace to the earth at last in an eternal paradise, finally restoring what was lost millennia ago in Genesis 3 in the Garden. And he has come to bring us peace personally, as well. As we study Micah, we will discover that Jesus can become our greatest satisfaction and hope in life. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jonah-true-confessions-of-a-prophet Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jonah-true-confessions-of-a-prophet Mon, 12 Apr 2021 21:57:42 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/easter-the-day-of-the-lord-in-the-death-and-resurrection-of-jesus Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/easter-the-day-of-the-lord-in-the-death-and-resurrection-of-jesus Sun, 04 Apr 2021 23:21:28 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/obadiah-comfort-and-hope Sunday, March 28, 2021 Brad Barrett Minor Prophets—Turn and Live! Obadiah—Comfort and Hope David, king of Israel, in 1000 B.C. said this, Psalm 13:1–2 ESV How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?…How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? What is David after? He is after justice. His enemies were triumphing over him, and he thirsted for justice. He wanted God to do something about it. Such cries for justice and deliverance have been uttered in every generation since the Creation. Today we cry for “social” justice. Justice and equity and fairness in our society in a variety of ways. We also cry out for criminal justice. Someone assaults us or hurts us, and rightfully we want the perpetrator to be held accountable. Even young children know something about justice, as one child cries out to Mom and Dad about his sibling, “That’s not fair.” It is right for us to cry out like David, for God at his very core loves justice. Psalm 99:4 ESV The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. Our text today is from an OT prophet named Obadiah. It’s a very short book. In fact, it’s the shortest book in the OT. Only 21 verses. The theme of Obadiah’s book is largely about justice. It is addressed to a foreign nation called Edom. An enemy of Israel. Edom had mistreated Israel, kicking them while they were down. This short book reveals the determination of God to bring about justice over all the earth. And at the same time, we get a glimpse of hope for the future of Israel and us. Obadiah Obadiah (ESV) Vs. 1-4 1 The vision of Obadiah. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” First, who is Obadiah? The OT lists about 12 different men by the name of Obadiah. So what do we know about this prophet? Well, the first four words in vs. 1— “The vision of Obadiah”—is his biography. That is our exhaustive look at the man. So if you take an exam on OT history, and you’re asked, “Who is Obadiah the prophet?”, all you need to say is, “I don’t know.” We don’t even know when he wrote this. Some scholars think in the 800’s B.C. Others think in the 500’s B.C. So I that narrows it down doesn’t it? Just a tiny 300-year window. So we know nothing about the man. And we don’t know when it was written. So far, our learning this morning is stunningly deep, don’t you think?  So would you like to learn what we actually DO know? Verse 1 tells us we know the nation Obadiah wrote about: EDOM. Edom was on the southern border of Israel. Today Edom would consist of a portion of modern-day Israel and Jordan. The main storyline in Obadiah is that Edom had severely mistreated Israel, so the Lord is uttering a judgment against them. And giving hope to Israel. There is a long history between Edom and Israel. Edom is another name for Esau. Esau was a man who lived more than 1000 years before Obadiah. He had a twin brother named Jacob. Jacob was later given the name ISRAEL by God. These twins were sons of Isaac, and grandsons of Abraham. So the nation Edom is related to Israel The OT reveals a long and troubled history between Jacob and Esau themselves…and their descendants. We know that any brothers can have a contentious relationship, and these two brothers show us how bad it can get. We can read about it in Genesis. It began in their mother’s womb where we are told they struggled against each other. Problems continued when Mom favored Jacob, and Dad favored Esau. Favoritism never helps a family. Then Jacob deceived his brother and stole his birthright, the rights of the firstborn. Then Esau, being the forgiving brother he was, decided he wanted to kill his twin because of the stolen birthright. Jacob had to flee for his life, and lived away from the rest of the family for 20 years. Then as the centuries went on, this adversarial relationship continued…. And it’s described multiple times in the OT. Now some discussion on vs. 1-4: We come to Obadiah’s day. Vs. 1 1 …. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” God will bring other nations to battle against Edom as God’s judgment. Vs. 2: 2 Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. The Lord calls for their attention: “Behold!” Look. Listen. Edom thought they were great and mighty, but the Lord will bring them down, making them small, even utterly despised by other nations. They must pay attention lest they perish. Vs. 3-4: 3 The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, “Who will bring me down to the ground?” 4 Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. Edom’s pride makes them boast, “Who can defeat us?” They are self-deceived due to this pride. But God is going to humble them. All over the Scriptures we are told of the dangers of pride and the glories of humility. Slide One example, Proverbs 16:18 ESV Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Even if Edom was a powerful nation, which they were not, the Lord could and would humble them. We won’t talk much more about pride and humility today, but let me say this: There is hardly a more destructive quality in our lives than pride. When we are proud and focused on ourselves, we will find ourselves in a tug-of-war with God, and we will not win. James 4:6 says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” It will go better for us if we humble ourselves before the Lord does it for us. Edom is an example of God’s opposition to pride and arrogance. Hebrew Poetry Before going on, let me talk for a few minutes about Hebrew poetry. • Much of the OT is written in Hebrew as poetry. Job, the Psalms, and most of the Prophets. You know it’s poetry by the formatting shown in every English Bible I’ve ever seen. It’s formatted line by line and in stanzas. Not in paragraphs. This line by line is very important. We must learn to read it differently than prose, which I’m far more used to. Prose in the Bible would be narratives like Genesis or Matthew or Acts. We read in terms of paragraphs, not line by line and stanzas. • As poetry, these books were much easier for Israel to memorize or sing than prose. • Like poetry in many languages, Hebrew poetry compactly communicates God’s truth, and at the same time evokes emotion through rich imagery. For example, look again at verse 4: Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. This is an image rich and emotional way to say what Jesus said centuries later: Matthew 23:12 “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled…” Both express God’s eternal truth, but they are said in very different ways. If you put poetry like Obadiah to music, how memorable and instructive that would be on the dangers of pride. And if you add a parable to Jesus’ words in Matthew, how memorable and instructive THAT would be. Same truths expressed in different ways. Now back to describing Hebrew poetry: • Hebrew poetry is different than typical Western poetry. Western poetry commonly focuses on rhyme and meter. Hebrew poetry focuses on balanced, parallel lines. On this thought of parallelism, this is quite important. This will help us when we read the Prophets or Psalms. Let’s look at two examples: Verse 2: Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. The second line essentially repeats the thought of the first line. Saying something twice but with different imagery is powerful. That’s one style of parallelism. Verse 4 (again): Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. Line 2 echoes line 1. But then line 3 describes what the Lord will do in response. The fourth line is a separate thought, but emphasizing the Lord will make all this happen. I’ve known of this parallelism for years, but I’ve never really looked at it earnestly until the past two weeks. I’ve found it to be eye-opening the past two weeks as I read the prophets and psalms. The text simply makes more sense when I read it more line by line with parallelism in mind. To know just a little more about types of parallelism, go to Stonebrook’s website, www.stonebrook.org, Then go to SEARCH. Type in “OVERVIEW” for a document giving an overview of the Minor Prophets. The last page on the handout has a list of the types of parallelism in Hebrew poetry. Vs. 5-7 In vs. 1-4, Obadiah speaks in future tense. Judgment is coming. Notice as we get to verse 6, he switches to past tense. Though judgment is still coming, apparently God had already begun his judgment on Edom. 5 If thieves came to you, if plunderers came by night— how you have been destroyed!— would they not steal only enough for themselves? If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave gleanings? 6 How Esau has been pillaged, his treasures sought out! 7 All your allies have driven you to your border; those at peace with you have deceived you; they have prevailed against you; those who eat your bread have set a trap beneath you— you have no understanding. God has brought judgment on Edom from the hands of others, and it is complete and devastating. Obadiah describes it with rich imagery: Edom will be plundered, destroyed, stolen from. They will be left with no gleanings. Their treasures will be taken. They will be driven to the border. They will be deceived by former allies, and caught in a trap. Edom will be completely humbled and crushed. Vs. 8-9 8 Will I not on that day, declares the Lord, destroy the wise men out of Edom, and understanding out of Mount Esau? 9 And your mighty men shall be dismayed, O Teman, so that every man from Mount Esau will be cut off by slaughter. The Lord asks a rhetorical question: “Can anyone thwart Me from accomplishing My will?” He promised he would humble them in their pride (vs. 2-4)…by sending nations to pillage them completely (vs. 5-7). Now (vs. 8-9) he commits to bring their wise men and warriors low and put them all to death. Vs. 10-14 In addition to their pride and arrogance listed in vs. 2-4, the Lord lists more specific sins Edom committed against Israel. 10 Because of the violence done to your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you, and you shall be cut off forever. 11 On the day that you stood aloof, on the day that strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. Then in vs. 12 Obadiah changes from the past tense to the present, warning Edom: 12 But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress. 13 Do not enter the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; do not gloat over his disaster in the day of his calamity; do not loot his wealth in the day of his calamity. 14 Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off his fugitives; do not hand over his survivors in the day of distress. Though it is not mentioned explicitly, Israel was being punished for their rebellion against the Lord. We know this because part of the Covenant to Israel through Moses was that if Israel walked by faith with the Lord, they would never be defeated by enemies. Never. But if Israel rejected the Lord, he would bring enemies upon them as judgment. So here since Israel has been crushed by enemies, we can safely assume that God himself has brought judgment upon Israel, using the nations and Edom as his tool. However, Edom was violently wicked in their treatment of their “brothers”, descendants of Abraham and Isaac. So the Lord is holding Edom accountable. And actually even in our day, any nation who treats another nation like Edom did will be worthy of judgment. Someday all sin will be dealt with in perfect justice. Vs. 15-18 Verse 15 sums it all up well: 15 For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head. To the level of Edom’s evil and even ALL the nations, that is how they will be judged. 16 For as you have drunk on my holy mountain, so all the nations shall drink continually; they shall drink and swallow, and shall be as though they had never been. The “drinking” refers to drinking the cup of God’s wrath, a metaphor found multiple times in the Scriptures. Verse 17 gives a glimmer of hope for Israel: 17 But in Mount Zion there shall be those who escape, and it shall be holy, and the house of Jacob shall possess their own possessions. A remnant will escape. Some will return to the Promised land and own land again. There is hope for Israel when they repent. And look at the graphic imagery in vs. 18: 18 The house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, and the house of Esau stubble; they shall burn them and consume them, and there shall be no survivor for the house of Esau, for the Lord has spoken. God is going to use Israel to be like a fire set to stubble. Edom will burn up quickly. Such a graphic description. In our backyard, we have a garden area with some tall grasses planted. A few weeks ago, I burned off all the dead grass. It burned easily and quickly like a torch. So it will be with Edom. And the very last line in vs. 18: “The Lord has spoken” (vs. 18b), leaves no question about God’s determination to make this all happen. Vs. 19-21 Now in this last section, Obadiah brings more hope to Israel. We look back and remember that Israel has been punished by the Lord when these other nations destroyed them. And Edom has been and will be punished. But there is still hope for God’s people. Someday… some future day…Israel is going to be raised back up. 19 Those of the Negeb shall possess Mount Esau, and those of the Shephelah shall possess the land of the Philistines; they shall possess the land of Ephraim and the land of Samaria, and Benjamin shall possess Gilead. 20 The exiles of this host of the people of Israel shall possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath, and the exiles of Jerusalem who are in Sepharad shall possess the cities of the Negeb. 21 Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s. Though the Lord had often spoken hard words of warning to Israel throughout their history, here Obadiah speaks of a future glory for Israel. On some future day, they will possess the land of all their enemies, and all of it will belong to the Lord as part of his kingdom. This apparently speaks of the inauguration of Christ’s kingdom. Vs. 21 seems to allude to events that are still future even to us. Who these “saviors” are is not clear. The word means “deliverers.” “Rescuers.” Perhaps they are some of God’s people who will serve the Lord in eternity, guiding the people. All of this seems to speak of the future kingdom of Jesus Christ. All over the Scriptures we are pointed to a day when Jesus Christ will come back to earth literally and bodily, and he will set up his eternal kingdom on earth. And he will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. He will bring condemnation on all who have rejected him. He will bring reward and honor to all who have believed him The “kingdom” shall be the Lord’s. This last line makes me think of Revelation 22: Revelation 22:3–5 ESV No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Application I want to make some application from Obadiah to our lives today. Be WARNED. God is just and will deal with all sin. The unchanging truth of God is that he will judge ALL sin. Nothing will escape his eye. Hebrews 4:13 NIV Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. No sin ever committed escapes the eye of him to whom we must give account. Author A.W. Pink said this, “Though he be invisible to us, we are not so to Him. Neither the darkness of night… nor the deepest dungeon can hide any sinner from the eyes of Omniscience.” This truth of God’s perfect justice is TERRIFYING. And we are WARNED. The warning comes to every one of us: God is perfectly just and righteous, and no sin will go unpunished. Romans 6:23 “The wages of sin is death…” Everyone should take heed and be warned. Someday everyone will stand alone before this holy Creator God. But mercifully, there is an escape. And only one way of escape: That is through faith in Jesus Christ, who died to be our substitute in judgment. To finish up Romans 6:23, “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This perfectly just God mercifully offers deliverance is through Jesus, the Son of God. This is the very reason God sent his Son to earth 2000 years ago. And God has provided no other way. That is the WARNING. What should you do? 1. Humble yourself. Don’t be like Edom. If you don’t humble yourself before the Lord, he will do it to you. 2. Believe in Jesus Christ. He has suffered the wrath of God for you. You can go free. A greater gift you will never find. 3. Talk to a friend. Don’t go it alone. So the JUSTICE of God WARNS us. But the JUSTICE of God also COMFORTS us. It comforts us in two ways. First, it COMFORTS all of us who have believed in Jesus Christ. For us, Jesus took the condemnation we deserved. And so now, we have been set free. Romans 5:1 says that we now have peace with God. Romans 8:1 says that we will never be condemned. Romans 8:16 says that we have been adopted as children of Almighty God. Romans 8:38 says that nothing can separate us from the love of God. What comfort and joy and hope we have in words like that. Forever and ever and ever glory in the presence of the Lord is ours. What should we do? 1. Every day, every morning give thanks to God. Rejoice. 2. Every day, read passages like 1 Peter 1. 1 Peter 1:3–4 ESV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you… We so quickly forget the truths of the gospel. 3. In addition to giving thanks and reading daily, stay intimately engaged with God’s people, the church. We are not meant to do this alone. I am quite independent by nature. But that independence does me no favors. I must be and you must be linked together like a Body. We must be together like a Family. As we do these things, God will bring us great COMFORT and HOPE. A SECOND WAY we can find COMFORT in God’s justice is to know that all evil in our world will be dealt with in perfect justice someday. The injustices we experience personally….and the injustices we see out in the world….these can drive us crazy with anger and anguish and hopelessness. But we can be comforted because it won’t be much longer. For anyone who is on the side of an injustice done to them—like the harsh treatment the nations exacted on Israel—God will avenge. Perpetrators will be judged. Police departments today may have an “Unsolved Crime Unit,” but God needs no such thing. He sees all and knows all and will deal with all. We can find great comfort that the Lord will make all things right in the end. So what can we do to experience more COMFORT and HOPE in the justice of God in the face of great EVIL and INJUSTICES? 1. First, learn to regularly cry out like David in Psalm 13, “How long, O Lord? How long before justice is done?” The psalmist prayed in an honest faith like that. This is healthy—even necessary—for us to vent our hearts directly to the Lord. God can take our holy, faith-filled venting. 2. Second, cling to passages that promise us that nothing will escape God’s eye. Remember Hebrews 4:13, that nothing will escape the eye of God. Everyone will give an account. We are not guaranteed justice on the earth (though we should strive for that). But we are guaranteed justice before the Throne of God someday soon. We can take heart and not be distressed. 3. Third, remain humble and grateful. It is tempting to become angry and vengeful and forget that we too were once lost and worthy of wrath. Only “amazing grace” has saved wretches like us. So we must stay humble and grateful for what God has done for us. And our gratitude for God’s mercy to us can even drive us to pray for our enemies and love them as Jesus commanded us to do in Matthew 5, the Sermon on the Mount. Conclusion Let me finish with this. Whether God is dealing with a nation like Edom or with people like us, he is the God of all justice. The God of perfect, all-seeing justice. By this we are WARNED. By this we are COMFORTED. And as we see glimpses of in Obadiah, he is also the God of Mercy and Hope. What he promised through Obadiah has now come true. The long-awaited Hope of God, Jesus Christ, has come. And he is coming again soon. We finish with these words from Jesus himself, almost the last words in the Bible. Revelation 22:12 NIV “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/obadiah-comfort-and-hope Sun, 28 Mar 2021 21:39:48 GMT Sermons Sunday, March 28, 2021 Brad Barrett Minor Prophets—Turn and Live! Obadiah—Comfort and Hope David, king of Israel, in 1000 B.C. said this, Psalm 13:1–2 ESV How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?…How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? What is David after? He is after justice. His enemies were triumphing over him, and he thirsted for justice. He wanted God to do something about it. Such cries for justice and deliverance have been uttered in every generation since the Creation. Today we cry for “social” justice. Justice and equity and fairness in our society in a variety of ways. We also cry out for criminal justice. Someone assaults us or hurts us, and rightfully we want the perpetrator to be held accountable. Even young children know something about justice, as one child cries out to Mom and Dad about his sibling, “That’s not fair.” It is right for us to cry out like David, for God at his very core loves justice. Psalm 99:4 ESV The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. Our text today is from an OT prophet named Obadiah. It’s a very short book. In fact, it’s the shortest book in the OT. Only 21 verses. The theme of Obadiah’s book is largely about justice. It is addressed to a foreign nation called Edom. An enemy of Israel. Edom had mistreated Israel, kicking them while they were down. This short book reveals the determination of God to bring about justice over all the earth. And at the same time, we get a glimpse of hope for the future of Israel and us. Obadiah Obadiah (ESV) Vs. 1-4 1 The vision of Obadiah. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” First, who is Obadiah? The OT lists about 12 different men by the name of Obadiah. So what do we know about this prophet? Well, the first four words in vs. 1— “The vision of Obadiah”—is his biography. That is our exhaustive look at the man. So if you take an exam on OT history, and you’re asked, “Who is Obadiah the prophet?”, all you need to say is, “I don’t know.” We don’t even know when he wrote this. Some scholars think in the 800’s B.C. Others think in the 500’s B.C. So I that narrows it down doesn’t it? Just a tiny 300-year window. So we know nothing about the man. And we don’t know when it was written. So far, our learning this morning is stunningly deep, don’t you think?  So would you like to learn what we actually DO know? Verse 1 tells us we know the nation Obadiah wrote about: EDOM. Edom was on the southern border of Israel. Today Edom would consist of a portion of modern-day Israel and Jordan. The main storyline in Obadiah is that Edom had severely mistreated Israel, so the Lord is uttering a judgment against them. And giving hope to Israel. There is a long history between Edom and Israel. Edom is another name for Esau. Esau was a man who lived more than 1000 years before Obadiah. He had a twin brother named Jacob. Jacob was later given the name ISRAEL by God. These twins were sons of Isaac, and grandsons of Abraham. So the nation Edom is related to Israel The OT reveals a long and troubled history between Jacob and Esau themselves…and their descendants. We know that any brothers can have a contentious relationship, and these two brothers show us how bad it can get. We can read about it in Genesis. It began in their mother’s womb where we are told they struggled against each other. Problems continued when Mom favored Jacob, and Dad favored Esau. Favoritism never helps a family. Then Jacob deceived his brother and stole his birthright, the rights of the firstborn. Then Esau, being the forgiving brother he was, decided he wanted to kill his twin because of the stolen birthright. Jacob had to flee for his life, and lived away from the rest of the family for 20 years. Then as the centuries went on, this adversarial relationship continued…. And it’s described multiple times in the OT. Now some discussion on vs. 1-4: We come to Obadiah’s day. Vs. 1 1 …. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” God will bring other nations to battle against Edom as God’s judgment. Vs. 2: 2 Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. The Lord calls for their attention: “Behold!” Look. Listen. Edom thought they were great and mighty, but the Lord will bring them down, making them small, even utterly despised by other nations. They must pay attention lest they perish. Vs. 3-4: 3 The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, “Who will bring me down to the ground?” 4 Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. Edom’s pride makes them boast, “Who can defeat us?” They are self-deceived due to this pride. But God is going to humble them. All over the Scriptures we are told of the dangers of pride and the glories of humility. Slide One example, Proverbs 16:18 ESV Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Even if Edom was a powerful nation, which they were not, the Lord could and would humble them. We won’t talk much more about pride and humility today, but let me say this: There is hardly a more destructive quality in our lives than pride. When we are proud and focused on ourselves, we will find ourselves in a tug-of-war with God, and we will not win. James 4:6 says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” It will go better for us if we humble ourselves before the Lord does it for us. Edom is an example of God’s opposition to pride and arrogance. Hebrew Poetry Before going on, let me talk for a few minutes about Hebrew poetry. • Much of the OT is written in Hebrew as poetry. Job, the Psalms, and most of the Prophets. You know it’s poetry by the formatting shown in every English Bible I’ve ever seen. It’s formatted line by line and in stanzas. Not in paragraphs. This line by line is very important. We must learn to read it differently than prose, which I’m far more used to. Prose in the Bible would be narratives like Genesis or Matthew or Acts. We read in terms of paragraphs, not line by line and stanzas. • As poetry, these books were much easier for Israel to memorize or sing than prose. • Like poetry in many languages, Hebrew poetry compactly communicates God’s truth, and at the same time evokes emotion through rich imagery. For example, look again at verse 4: Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. This is an image rich and emotional way to say what Jesus said centuries later: Matthew 23:12 “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled…” Both express God’s eternal truth, but they are said in very different ways. If you put poetry like Obadiah to music, how memorable and instructive that would be on the dangers of pride. And if you add a parable to Jesus’ words in Matthew, how memorable and instructive THAT would be. Same truths expressed in different ways. Now back to describing Hebrew poetry: • Hebrew poetry is different than typical Western poetry. Western poetry commonly focuses on rhyme and meter. Hebrew poetry focuses on balanced, parallel lines. On this thought of parallelism, this is quite important. This will help us when we read the Prophets or Psalms. Let’s look at two examples: Verse 2: Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. The second line essentially repeats the thought of the first line. Saying something twice but with different imagery is powerful. That’s one style of parallelism. Verse 4 (again): Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord. Line 2 echoes line 1. But then line 3 describes what the Lord will do in response. The fourth line is a separate thought, but emphasizing the Lord will make all this happen. I’ve known of this parallelism for years, but I’ve never really looked at it earnestly until the past two weeks. I’ve found it to be eye-opening the past two weeks as I read the prophets and psalms. The text simply makes more sense when I read it more line by line with parallelism in mind. To know just a little more about types of parallelism, go to Stonebrook’s website, www.stonebrook.org, Then go to SEARCH. Type in “OVERVIEW” for a document giving an overview of the Minor Prophets. The last page on the handout has a list of the types of parallelism in Hebrew poetry. Vs. 5-7 In vs. 1-4, Obadiah speaks in future tense. Judgment is coming. Notice as we get to verse 6, he switches to past tense. Though judgment is still coming, apparently God had already begun his judgment on Edom. 5 If thieves came to you, if plunderers came by night— how you have been destroyed!— would they not steal only enough for themselves? If grape gatherers came to you, would they not leave gleanings? 6 How Esau has been pillaged, his treasures sought out! 7 All your allies have driven you to your border; those at peace with you have deceived you; they have prevailed against you; those who eat your bread have set a trap beneath you— you have no understanding. God has brought judgment on Edom from the hands of others, and it is complete and devastating. Obadiah describes it with rich imagery: Edom will be plundered, destroyed, stolen from. They will be left with no gleanings. Their treasures will be taken. They will be driven to the border. They will be deceived by former allies, and caught in a trap. Edom will be completely humbled and crushed. Vs. 8-9 8 Will I not on that day, declares the Lord, destroy the wise men out of Edom, and understanding out of Mount Esau? 9 And your mighty men shall be dismayed, O Teman, so that every man from Mount Esau will be cut off by slaughter. The Lord asks a rhetorical question: “Can anyone thwart Me from accomplishing My will?” He promised he would humble them in their pride (vs. 2-4)…by sending nations to pillage them completely (vs. 5-7). Now (vs. 8-9) he commits to bring their wise men and warriors low and put them all to death. Vs. 10-14 In addition to their pride and arrogance listed in vs. 2-4, the Lord lists more specific sins Edom committed against Israel. 10 Because of the violence done to your brother Jacob, shame shall cover you, and you shall be cut off forever. 11 On the day that you stood aloof, on the day that strangers carried off his wealth and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you were like one of them. Then in vs. 12 Obadiah changes from the past tense to the present, warning Edom: 12 But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress. 13 Do not enter the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; do not gloat over his disaster in the day of his calamity; do not loot his wealth in the day of his calamity. 14 Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off his fugitives; do not hand over his survivors in the day of distress. Though it is not mentioned explicitly, Israel was being punished for their rebellion against the Lord. We know this because part of the Covenant to Israel through Moses was that if Israel walked by faith with the Lord, they would never be defeated by enemies. Never. But if Israel rejected the Lord, he would bring enemies upon them as judgment. So here since Israel has been crushed by enemies, we can safely assume that God himself has brought judgment upon Israel, using the nations and Edom as his tool. However, Edom was violently wicked in their treatment of their “brothers”, descendants of Abraham and Isaac. So the Lord is holding Edom accountable. And actually even in our day, any nation who treats another nation like Edom did will be worthy of judgment. Someday all sin will be dealt with in perfect justice. Vs. 15-18 Verse 15 sums it all up well: 15 For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head. To the level of Edom’s evil and even ALL the nations, that is how they will be judged. 16 For as you have drunk on my holy mountain, so all the nations shall drink continually; they shall drink and swallow, and shall be as though they had never been. The “drinking” refers to drinking the cup of God’s wrath, a metaphor found multiple times in the Scriptures. Verse 17 gives a glimmer of hope for Israel: 17 But in Mount Zion there shall be those who escape, and it shall be holy, and the house of Jacob shall possess their own possessions. A remnant will escape. Some will return to the Promised land and own land again. There is hope for Israel when they repent. And look at the graphic imagery in vs. 18: 18 The house of Jacob shall be a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, and the house of Esau stubble; they shall burn them and consume them, and there shall be no survivor for the house of Esau, for the Lord has spoken. God is going to use Israel to be like a fire set to stubble. Edom will burn up quickly. Such a graphic description. In our backyard, we have a garden area with some tall grasses planted. A few weeks ago, I burned off all the dead grass. It burned easily and quickly like a torch. So it will be with Edom. And the very last line in vs. 18: “The Lord has spoken” (vs. 18b), leaves no question about God’s determination to make this all happen. Vs. 19-21 Now in this last section, Obadiah brings more hope to Israel. We look back and remember that Israel has been punished by the Lord when these other nations destroyed them. And Edom has been and will be punished. But there is still hope for God’s people. Someday… some future day…Israel is going to be raised back up. 19 Those of the Negeb shall possess Mount Esau, and those of the Shephelah shall possess the land of the Philistines; they shall possess the land of Ephraim and the land of Samaria, and Benjamin shall possess Gilead. 20 The exiles of this host of the people of Israel shall possess the land of the Canaanites as far as Zarephath, and the exiles of Jerusalem who are in Sepharad shall possess the cities of the Negeb. 21 Saviors shall go up to Mount Zion to rule Mount Esau, and the kingdom shall be the Lord’s. Though the Lord had often spoken hard words of warning to Israel throughout their history, here Obadiah speaks of a future glory for Israel. On some future day, they will possess the land of all their enemies, and all of it will belong to the Lord as part of his kingdom. This apparently speaks of the inauguration of Christ’s kingdom. Vs. 21 seems to allude to events that are still future even to us. Who these “saviors” are is not clear. The word means “deliverers.” “Rescuers.” Perhaps they are some of God’s people who will serve the Lord in eternity, guiding the people. All of this seems to speak of the future kingdom of Jesus Christ. All over the Scriptures we are pointed to a day when Jesus Christ will come back to earth literally and bodily, and he will set up his eternal kingdom on earth. And he will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. He will bring condemnation on all who have rejected him. He will bring reward and honor to all who have believed him The “kingdom” shall be the Lord’s. This last line makes me think of Revelation 22: Revelation 22:3–5 ESV No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Application I want to make some application from Obadiah to our lives today. Be WARNED. God is just and will deal with all sin. The unchanging truth of God is that he will judge ALL sin. Nothing will escape his eye. Hebrews 4:13 NIV Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. No sin ever committed escapes the eye of him to whom we must give account. Author A.W. Pink said this, “Though he be invisible to us, we are not so to Him. Neither the darkness of night… nor the deepest dungeon can hide any sinner from the eyes of Omniscience.” This truth of God’s perfect justice is TERRIFYING. And we are WARNED. The warning comes to every one of us: God is perfectly just and righteous, and no sin will go unpunished. Romans 6:23 “The wages of sin is death…” Everyone should take heed and be warned. Someday everyone will stand alone before this holy Creator God. But mercifully, there is an escape. And only one way of escape: That is through faith in Jesus Christ, who died to be our substitute in judgment. To finish up Romans 6:23, “The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This perfectly just God mercifully offers deliverance is through Jesus, the Son of God. This is the very reason God sent his Son to earth 2000 years ago. And God has provided no other way. That is the WARNING. What should you do? 1. Humble yourself. Don’t be like Edom. If you don’t humble yourself before the Lord, he will do it to you. 2. Believe in Jesus Christ. He has suffered the wrath of God for you. You can go free. A greater gift you will never find. 3. Talk to a friend. Don’t go it alone. So the JUSTICE of God WARNS us. But the JUSTICE of God also COMFORTS us. It comforts us in two ways. First, it COMFORTS all of us who have believed in Jesus Christ. For us, Jesus took the condemnation we deserved. And so now, we have been set free. Romans 5:1 says that we now have peace with God. Romans 8:1 says that we will never be condemned. Romans 8:16 says that we have been adopted as children of Almighty God. Romans 8:38 says that nothing can separate us from the love of God. What comfort and joy and hope we have in words like that. Forever and ever and ever glory in the presence of the Lord is ours. What should we do? 1. Every day, every morning give thanks to God. Rejoice. 2. Every day, read passages like 1 Peter 1. 1 Peter 1:3–4 ESV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you… We so quickly forget the truths of the gospel. 3. In addition to giving thanks and reading daily, stay intimately engaged with God’s people, the church. We are not meant to do this alone. I am quite independent by nature. But that independence does me no favors. I must be and you must be linked together like a Body. We must be together like a Family. As we do these things, God will bring us great COMFORT and HOPE. A SECOND WAY we can find COMFORT in God’s justice is to know that all evil in our world will be dealt with in perfect justice someday. The injustices we experience personally….and the injustices we see out in the world….these can drive us crazy with anger and anguish and hopelessness. But we can be comforted because it won’t be much longer. For anyone who is on the side of an injustice done to them—like the harsh treatment the nations exacted on Israel—God will avenge. Perpetrators will be judged. Police departments today may have an “Unsolved Crime Unit,” but God needs no such thing. He sees all and knows all and will deal with all. We can find great comfort that the Lord will make all things right in the end. So what can we do to experience more COMFORT and HOPE in the justice of God in the face of great EVIL and INJUSTICES? 1. First, learn to regularly cry out like David in Psalm 13, “How long, O Lord? How long before justice is done?” The psalmist prayed in an honest faith like that. This is healthy—even necessary—for us to vent our hearts directly to the Lord. God can take our holy, faith-filled venting. 2. Second, cling to passages that promise us that nothing will escape God’s eye. Remember Hebrews 4:13, that nothing will escape the eye of God. Everyone will give an account. We are not guaranteed justice on the earth (though we should strive for that). But we are guaranteed justice before the Throne of God someday soon. We can take heart and not be distressed. 3. Third, remain humble and grateful. It is tempting to become angry and vengeful and forget that we too were once lost and worthy of wrath. Only “amazing grace” has saved wretches like us. So we must stay humble and grateful for what God has done for us. And our gratitude for God’s mercy to us can even drive us to pray for our enemies and love them as Jesus commanded us to do in Matthew 5, the Sermon on the Mount. Conclusion Let me finish with this. Whether God is dealing with a nation like Edom or with people like us, he is the God of all justice. The God of perfect, all-seeing justice. By this we are WARNED. By this we are COMFORTED. And as we see glimpses of in Obadiah, he is also the God of Mercy and Hope. What he promised through Obadiah has now come true. The long-awaited Hope of God, Jesus Christ, has come. And he is coming again soon. We finish with these words from Jesus himself, almost the last words in the Bible. Revelation 22:12 NIV “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/let-justice-roll-amos This week we will look at the book of Amos, the first prophet to the Northern Kingdom. The nation of Israel hid immorality, greed, oppression of the poor and weak, and many other sins behind a veneer if religious performance. The prophet calls them (and so, us) back to worship of the true God from the heart, evidenced by love for their neighbor and a passion for justice and righteousness. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/let-justice-roll-amos Sun, 21 Mar 2021 14:37:41 GMT Sermons This week we will look at the book of Amos, the first prophet to the Northern Kingdom. The nation of Israel hid immorality, greed, oppression of the poor and weak, and many other sins behind a veneer if religious performance. The prophet calls them (and so, us) back to worship of the true God from the heart, evidenced by love for their neighbor and a passion for justice and righteousness. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/call-on-the-lord When we think of judgment, we may think of criminals receiving judgement for crimes or we may think of others unfairly judging us for our choices, but what if we were to be immediately and fairly judged for our actions toward God and others? What sort of judgement would we receive? The prophet Joel warns of a Day of the Lord, a day of judgement coming for all, and Joel helps us understand how we should ready ourselves and others for this coming day. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/call-on-the-lord Sun, 14 Mar 2021 21:24:35 GMT Sermons When we think of judgment, we may think of criminals receiving judgement for crimes or we may think of others unfairly judging us for our choices, but what if we were to be immediately and fairly judged for our actions toward God and others? What sort of judgement would we receive? The prophet Joel warns of a Day of the Lord, a day of judgement coming for all, and Joel helps us understand how we should ready ourselves and others for this coming day. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hosea-and-the-mercy-of-god In a stunning word picture, Hosea under command of God marries a woman of ill repute in order to give a picture to the people of Israel of their waywardness towards the Lord. Adulterous Israel deserves justice. Yet we find in this remarkable book God appeals to his lost people to return to him and so live. We see the mercy of God triumphing over justice. From this story, we then make the connection to the gospel message and realize that in Christ we too can find mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hosea-and-the-mercy-of-god Sun, 07 Mar 2021 22:39:49 GMT Sermons In a stunning word picture, Hosea under command of God marries a woman of ill repute in order to give a picture to the people of Israel of their waywardness towards the Lord. Adulterous Israel deserves justice. Yet we find in this remarkable book God appeals to his lost people to return to him and so live. We see the mercy of God triumphing over justice. From this story, we then make the connection to the gospel message and realize that in Christ we too can find mercy and grace to help us in our time of need. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/unity-in-disagreement-for-mission The mission of Jesus’s church is to bring glory to God by making disciples. Jesus taught us that unity is a cornerstone of this mission. Three enemies of unity are inaction, improper handling of disagreement, and false doctrine. This week we will examine the scriptures to find out how we can navigate disagreement well in the pursuit of unity and sound doctrine. And in so doing we will learn how to advance the mission: bringing God glory and helping people come to know him. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/unity-in-disagreement-for-mission Sun, 28 Feb 2021 15:39:04 GMT Sermons The mission of Jesus’s church is to bring glory to God by making disciples. Jesus taught us that unity is a cornerstone of this mission. Three enemies of unity are inaction, improper handling of disagreement, and false doctrine. This week we will examine the scriptures to find out how we can navigate disagreement well in the pursuit of unity and sound doctrine. And in so doing we will learn how to advance the mission: bringing God glory and helping people come to know him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jude Sunday, February 21, 2021 Jude—Loved and Kept by God I remember once listening to some talk show, and the conversation was a discussion on what was better:  To love or to be loved.  I don’t recall their conclusion, but my Bible would say the place to start is to be loved.  Specifically, to be loved by God.  From his love for us flows our capacity to love him and to love others. 1 John 4 says, “We love because he […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jude Sat, 27 Feb 2021 00:24:45 GMT Sermons Sunday, February 21, 2021 Jude—Loved and Kept by God I remember once listening to some talk show, and the conversation was a discussion on what was better:  To love or to be loved.  I don’t recall their conclusion, but my Bible would say the place to start is to be loved.  Specifically, to be loved by God.  From his love for us flows our capacity to love him and to love others. 1 John 4 says, “We love because he […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/philemon-keys-to-reconciliation Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/philemon-keys-to-reconciliation Sun, 14 Feb 2021 15:13:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-3-judgement-day Do you ever think about why Jesus is taking so long to return?  Has that question ever caused you to doubt the truth and reality of the Christian faith?  Has that doubt ever led you to excuse your sin, because “maybe this all isn’t real anyway?” Have you ever had a hard time knowing how to answer a friend or acquaintance who brought up these questions?  In the final chapter of his second letter, Peter tackles this question as the […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-3-judgement-day Sun, 07 Feb 2021 16:26:00 GMT Sermons Do you ever think about why Jesus is taking so long to return?  Has that question ever caused you to doubt the truth and reality of the Christian faith?  Has that doubt ever led you to excuse your sin, because “maybe this all isn’t real anyway?” Have you ever had a hard time knowing how to answer a friend or acquaintance who brought up these questions?  In the final chapter of his second letter, Peter tackles this question as the […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-destructive-lies 2 Peter 2:  Destructive Lies In the past few years, our society has had a barrage of claims about truth and lies.   #fakenews.  Claims about election fraud.  Websites are devoted to verifying politicians’ statements. We are left to wonder, Who is telling the truth?  Or more cynically, Is anyone telling the truth? Truth and lies are hard to sort out. Parents know this.  A fight erupts from two children.  Mom and Dad put on their “Judge robe,” and sit at […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-destructive-lies Sun, 31 Jan 2021 16:02:00 GMT Sermons 2 Peter 2:  Destructive Lies In the past few years, our society has had a barrage of claims about truth and lies.   #fakenews.  Claims about election fraud.  Websites are devoted to verifying politicians’ statements. We are left to wonder, Who is telling the truth?  Or more cynically, Is anyone telling the truth? Truth and lies are hard to sort out. Parents know this.  A fight erupts from two children.  Mom and Dad put on their “Judge robe,” and sit at […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-part-1-a-fruitful-and-effective-life For the next several weeks, rather than a long walk through a single book of the Bible, or a thematic series, we’re going to take time to preach through some of the shorter books of the new testament. Two years ago we hit some of the shortest letters, 1, 2, 3 John – for the next five weeks we are going to cover 2 Peter, Jude, and Philemon. We’re starting with 2 Peter this AM and doing about a chapter […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/2-peter-part-1-a-fruitful-and-effective-life Sun, 24 Jan 2021 15:12:00 GMT Sermons For the next several weeks, rather than a long walk through a single book of the Bible, or a thematic series, we’re going to take time to preach through some of the shorter books of the new testament. Two years ago we hit some of the shortest letters, 1, 2, 3 John – for the next five weeks we are going to cover 2 Peter, Jude, and Philemon. We’re starting with 2 Peter this AM and doing about a chapter […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-work I. Introduction Today we are going to continue our mini-series on stewardship. We’re going to explore something that everyone in this room participates in, and will participate in — something that is so foundational to our existence that you literally can’t get out of bed without it. You can’t consume food or take a breath without it. It’s something that can be incredibly fun at times and incredibly frustrating at other times. It can result in far-away adventures filled with […] John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-work Sun, 17 Jan 2021 15:05:00 GMT Sermons I. Introduction Today we are going to continue our mini-series on stewardship. We’re going to explore something that everyone in this room participates in, and will participate in — something that is so foundational to our existence that you literally can’t get out of bed without it. You can’t consume food or take a breath without it. It’s something that can be incredibly fun at times and incredibly frustrating at other times. It can result in far-away adventures filled with […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-money SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, January 10, 2021  Brad Barrett Stewardship—Money Slavery.  What an evil sounding word.  We think of slavery in the United States in the 1800’s and before.  Oppressive.  Brutal.  Inhumane.  We might also think of human trafficking today.  People held against their will for unspeakable evil.  People owning people.  A verse I shared in my sermon 2 weeks ago has been ringing in my ears every day.  Titus 2:14 ESV  Jesus Christ…gave himself for us to redeem us from […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-money Sun, 10 Jan 2021 21:26:00 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, January 10, 2021  Brad Barrett Stewardship—Money Slavery.  What an evil sounding word.  We think of slavery in the United States in the 1800’s and before.  Oppressive.  Brutal.  Inhumane.  We might also think of human trafficking today.  People held against their will for unspeakable evil.  People owning people.  A verse I shared in my sermon 2 weeks ago has been ringing in my ears every day.  Titus 2:14 ESV  Jesus Christ…gave himself for us to redeem us from […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-final-rescue This Sunday is the second Christmas Sunday! We have four days left! Hooray! 🙂 Christmas is the time of year when we, in a special way, remember and celebrate the birth of Christ, and the beginning of his rescue mission to find and save God’s lost sheep.  We carried our Advent series topic, Rescues, on into Christmas as well, because what bigger Rescue is there than Christ’s rescue of us?  Last week we talked about Christ’s rescue mission in offering […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-final-rescue Sun, 03 Jan 2021 20:49:51 GMT Sermons This Sunday is the second Christmas Sunday! We have four days left! Hooray! 🙂 Christmas is the time of year when we, in a special way, remember and celebrate the birth of Christ, and the beginning of his rescue mission to find and save God’s lost sheep.  We carried our Advent series topic, Rescues, on into Christmas as well, because what bigger Rescue is there than Christ’s rescue of us?  Last week we talked about Christ’s rescue mission in offering […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/new-beginnings We all experience moments in our lives where we need a fresh start. A new beginning. The gospel, the story of Jesus Christ, offers a new beginning unlike anything else, a fresh start on life where God forgives sinners and makes them brand new. New creations. How can we experientially walk in this new life? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/new-beginnings Tue, 29 Dec 2020 00:18:29 GMT Sermons We all experience moments in our lives where we need a fresh start. A new beginning. The gospel, the story of Jesus Christ, offers a new beginning unlike anything else, a fresh start on life where God forgives sinners and makes them brand new. New creations. How can we experientially walk in this new life? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/a-light-has-dawned Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/a-light-has-dawned Sat, 26 Dec 2020 20:37:54 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-purposes-in-the-exile God was powerfully at work even during the darkest, bleakest period of Israel’s history. The book of Daniel records some of the amazing things God did while Israel was captive in a foreign nation. Some of his purposes in the Exile were to reprove sin, refine faith, rescue from danger, reach the world, and reveal the future. There is a real sense that all of us, like Daniel, are in captivity, exiled from Eden, strangers in a foreign land and far from our true home. Yet God is at work in our lives with the same objectives as we see in the book of Daniel. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-purposes-in-the-exile Mon, 21 Dec 2020 03:05:11 GMT Sermons God was powerfully at work even during the darkest, bleakest period of Israel’s history. The book of Daniel records some of the amazing things God did while Israel was captive in a foreign nation. Some of his purposes in the Exile were to reprove sin, refine faith, rescue from danger, reach the world, and reveal the future. There is a real sense that all of us, like Daniel, are in captivity, exiled from Eden, strangers in a foreign land and far from our true home. Yet God is at work in our lives with the same objectives as we see in the book of Daniel. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/esther-and-the-invisible-god Though God may often seem absent to us, he is conspicuously present in our lives to help us. He is our ever-present help in trouble. We will journey through the Book of Esther, and though God is never mentioned directly, his fingerprints are all over this remarkable story of rescue. From this story and especially from the ultimate rescue of Christ the Savior, our faith will be strengthened and our worship increased. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/esther-and-the-invisible-god Mon, 14 Dec 2020 02:51:20 GMT Sermons Though God may often seem absent to us, he is conspicuously present in our lives to help us. He is our ever-present help in trouble. We will journey through the Book of Esther, and though God is never mentioned directly, his fingerprints are all over this remarkable story of rescue. From this story and especially from the ultimate rescue of Christ the Savior, our faith will be strengthened and our worship increased. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rescue-famine This advent season, we are looking at  stories of God’s amazing rescues of his people through history. This week we are going to examine the life of Joseph as recounted in Genesis. We will see God’s amazing rescue of Joseph, and then using him to rescue the fledgling nation of Israel, and the whole world from a global famine. In this story we will learn that we can find hope and safety in God’s promises, no matter our circumstances on […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rescue-famine Sun, 06 Dec 2020 20:29:14 GMT Sermons This advent season, we are looking at  stories of God’s amazing rescues of his people through history. This week we are going to examine the life of Joseph as recounted in Genesis. We will see God’s amazing rescue of Joseph, and then using him to rescue the fledgling nation of Israel, and the whole world from a global famine. In this story we will learn that we can find hope and safety in God’s promises, no matter our circumstances on […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rescue-of-noah-in-the-flood Ever feel like you need to be rescued from guilt, shame, or other problems? From where do we look for answers? God is both a righteous judge and a merciful rescuer, and we know this well through the coming of his Son, Jesus our Savior. In addition, throughout history God has repeatedly shown himself to deliver his people from judgment and death. This Sunday we’ll look at the shocking judgment of the Flood and the merciful rescue of one man and his family, an important picture of the Advent of Jesus Christ. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rescue-of-noah-in-the-flood Mon, 30 Nov 2020 04:46:44 GMT Sermons Ever feel like you need to be rescued from guilt, shame, or other problems? From where do we look for answers? God is both a righteous judge and a merciful rescuer, and we know this well through the coming of his Son, Jesus our Savior. In addition, throughout history God has repeatedly shown himself to deliver his people from judgment and death. This Sunday we’ll look at the shocking judgment of the Flood and the merciful rescue of one man and his family, an important picture of the Advent of Jesus Christ. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-twenty-ninth-chapter As we look back on the 28 chapters of Luke’s account of the early church, we find Jesus making and keeping a promises to his followers: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth…”  (Acts 1:8)  Notice the form of this verse. It’s not a mission statement. It’s not a command. It’s a promise: “You will be my […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-twenty-ninth-chapter Mon, 23 Nov 2020 03:25:57 GMT Sermons As we look back on the 28 chapters of Luke’s account of the early church, we find Jesus making and keeping a promises to his followers: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth…”  (Acts 1:8)  Notice the form of this verse. It’s not a mission statement. It’s not a command. It’s a promise: “You will be my […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-20-28-accomplishing-the-mission-finishing-the-course As the world gets darker, staying true to Christ becomes increasingly difficult. How do we stay strong in an ever-more-hostile world? Today we look at Acts 20-28 and see the fuel behind Paul’s love for the world, dedication to mission, and sacrificial selflessness. Despite hardship, imprisonment, scoffers, and shipwreck, he stays true to his mission and faithful to the Lord Jesus. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-20-28-accomplishing-the-mission-finishing-the-course Mon, 16 Nov 2020 22:27:39 GMT Sermons As the world gets darker, staying true to Christ becomes increasingly difficult. How do we stay strong in an ever-more-hostile world? Today we look at Acts 20-28 and see the fuel behind Paul’s love for the world, dedication to mission, and sacrificial selflessness. Despite hardship, imprisonment, scoffers, and shipwreck, he stays true to his mission and faithful to the Lord Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gospel-for-all-people Christianity is often accused of being a narrow minded religion, too limiting in its principles, too narrow in whom it reaches. In our sermon this week, we will see the breadth of gospel impact on social classes. And in simple yet profound terms, we will hear who God really is and what the way of salvation is. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gospel-for-all-people Mon, 09 Nov 2020 03:13:26 GMT Sermons Christianity is often accused of being a narrow minded religion, too limiting in its principles, too narrow in whom it reaches. In our sermon this week, we will see the breadth of gospel impact on social classes. And in simple yet profound terms, we will hear who God really is and what the way of salvation is. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-15-disagreements-debates-decisions In this week’s section, we examine several conflicts that arose in the church as they spread “to the remotest parts of the earth”. With gentiles now becoming a large part of the community of faith, the chosen people of God, how ought they operate? New situations and clashing cultural habits lead to some difficult conversations and decisions.  As we look at how the church handled these situations, we gain insight into how to handle disagreements and decisions in our churches today. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-15-disagreements-debates-decisions Sun, 01 Nov 2020 20:15:53 GMT Sermons In this week’s section, we examine several conflicts that arose in the church as they spread “to the remotest parts of the earth”. With gentiles now becoming a large part of the community of faith, the chosen people of God, how ought they operate? New situations and clashing cultural habits lead to some difficult conversations and decisions.  As we look at how the church handled these situations, we gain insight into how to handle disagreements and decisions in our churches today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-12-the-unstoppable-church-part-2 Listen to Brad preach on the Holy Spirit and His Unstoppable Church, continuing this journey in Acts 12. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-12-the-unstoppable-church-part-2 Mon, 19 Oct 2020 23:59:07 GMT Sermons Listen to Brad preach on the Holy Spirit and His Unstoppable Church, continuing this journey in Acts 12. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-10-for-the-nation To enter the kingdom of God, language, ethnicity, nationality, and even how bad of a sinner we are do not matter. Only one thing is necessary. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-10-for-the-nation Mon, 12 Oct 2020 07:29:12 GMT Sermons To enter the kingdom of God, language, ethnicity, nationality, and even how bad of a sinner we are do not matter. Only one thing is necessary. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-conversion-of-a-christian-killer This week, as we continue our Acts series, we see how the Holy Spirit worked to further his mission of expanding the church through one of the most dramatic and important conversion stories we see in the Bible: Saul of Tarsus. The “Hebrew of Hebrews”, was so zealous for God that he would not tolerate this new sect of Messianic heretics, followers of “The Way”.  They claimed that Jesus, the one who suffered the horrific shame of crucifixion, proving that […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-conversion-of-a-christian-killer Sun, 04 Oct 2020 19:38:29 GMT Sermons This week, as we continue our Acts series, we see how the Holy Spirit worked to further his mission of expanding the church through one of the most dramatic and important conversion stories we see in the Bible: Saul of Tarsus. The “Hebrew of Hebrews”, was so zealous for God that he would not tolerate this new sect of Messianic heretics, followers of “The Way”.  They claimed that Jesus, the one who suffered the horrific shame of crucifixion, proving that […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/expansion-to-samaria Perhaps you’ve heard the story of the man who died and went to heaven, and as he approached the pearly gates he came to Peter.  Peter asked him, “What have you done to be worthy of entering heaven? And don’t tell me about helping a little old lady cross the street.  People think  any little good deed will get them to heaven. Tell me something that’s significant. The man thought for a moment and said, “Well, there was the time […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/expansion-to-samaria Mon, 28 Sep 2020 01:57:18 GMT Sermons Perhaps you’ve heard the story of the man who died and went to heaven, and as he approached the pearly gates he came to Peter.  Peter asked him, “What have you done to be worthy of entering heaven? And don’t tell me about helping a little old lady cross the street.  People think  any little good deed will get them to heaven. Tell me something that’s significant. The man thought for a moment and said, “Well, there was the time […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stephen-full-of-the-spirit Christ calls his followers to a way of living that cannot be conducted by mere human power but must be inspired and strengthened by God himself in a curious but crucial way: to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stephen-full-of-the-spirit Mon, 21 Sep 2020 06:25:47 GMT Sermons Christ calls his followers to a way of living that cannot be conducted by mere human power but must be inspired and strengthened by God himself in a curious but crucial way: to be filled with the Holy Spirit. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-5-the-unstoppable-church Through both mundane and extreme challenges (think persecution, COVID, etc.), the church of God can and must continue its mission of making disciples by the power of the Holy Spirit. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-5-the-unstoppable-church Mon, 14 Sep 2020 03:13:09 GMT Sermons Through both mundane and extreme challenges (think persecution, COVID, etc.), the church of God can and must continue its mission of making disciples by the power of the Holy Spirit. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stonebrook-101-we-are-ambassadors Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stonebrook-101-we-are-ambassadors Mon, 07 Sep 2020 21:25:29 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/responding-to-persecution This week we will continue being instructed by Acts as we see the response of the early church to persecution in Acts 4. Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/responding-to-persecution Mon, 31 Aug 2020 01:45:57 GMT Sermons This week we will continue being instructed by Acts as we see the response of the early church to persecution in Acts 4. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/signs-and-wonders This morning we are in our fifth week of our walkthrough of the book of Acts. Please open your bibles with me to Acts chapter 3. We’ll be covering a fairly large part of scripture today. Chapter 3, about a third of chapter 4, and a bit from chapter 5. There’s  a lot going on in this section, and we’ll be making two passes through here at least to cover some important themes. This morning, I want to talk about […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/signs-and-wonders Sun, 23 Aug 2020 19:40:48 GMT Sermons This morning we are in our fifth week of our walkthrough of the book of Acts. Please open your bibles with me to Acts chapter 3. We’ll be covering a fairly large part of scripture today. Chapter 3, about a third of chapter 4, and a bit from chapter 5. There’s  a lot going on in this section, and we’ll be making two passes through here at least to cover some important themes. This morning, I want to talk about […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-shaped-community We might think of “church” as a building or a meeting on Sunday morning that we “have to” go to. But the first church was a gathering of passionate disciples of Jesus who lived with great joy, awe, and oneness, all inspired by their faith in the risen Savior, the long-awaited Messiah. This church’s example will inspire us to seek and find what they had. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-shaped-community Mon, 17 Aug 2020 00:47:48 GMT Sermons We might think of “church” as a building or a meeting on Sunday morning that we “have to” go to. But the first church was a gathering of passionate disciples of Jesus who lived with great joy, awe, and oneness, all inspired by their faith in the risen Savior, the long-awaited Messiah. This church’s example will inspire us to seek and find what they had. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-message-of-the-ambassador As ambassadors for Christ, we have an assignment: to announce Jesus to the world. What specifically do we announce? As we read Acts, we will learn from the simple yet rich words of Peter and other apostles and so find wisdom to announce life and hope to our world. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-message-of-the-ambassador Mon, 10 Aug 2020 04:49:08 GMT Sermons As ambassadors for Christ, we have an assignment: to announce Jesus to the world. What specifically do we announce? As we read Acts, we will learn from the simple yet rich words of Peter and other apostles and so find wisdom to announce life and hope to our world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-beginning-of-the-end We continue our walk through of Acts this week by looking at the very beginning of “The Last Days” – a period of time foretold by Old Testament Prophets – the age where God’s Holy Spirit is no longer limited to a single location in a single nation, but is now poured out on all who believe in Jesus, God’s Messiah. Luke chronicles the events of the beginning of “The Last Days” – Some amazing things happen! We will discuss how these events relate to us today as a church, and how we too should proclaim the mighty works of God to all nations. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-beginning-of-the-end Sun, 02 Aug 2020 18:38:52 GMT Sermons We continue our walk through of Acts this week by looking at the very beginning of “The Last Days” – a period of time foretold by Old Testament Prophets – the age where God’s Holy Spirit is no longer limited to a single location in a single nation, but is now poured out on all who believe in Jesus, God’s Messiah. Luke chronicles the events of the beginning of “The Last Days” – Some amazing things happen! We will discuss how these events relate to us today as a church, and how we too should proclaim the mighty works of God to all nations. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-the-holy-spirit-and-his-unstoppable-church-part-1 This week we’re beginning a 17-week walkthrough of the book of Acts. In Acts we find Luke the Physician writing down a careful history of the progress of the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. In Acts, we can find courage in the certainty of Jesus’s triumph over sin and death, and in the fact that no power of hell or scheme of man can stop God’s plan to spread the good news of His son Jesus […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/acts-the-holy-spirit-and-his-unstoppable-church-part-1 Sun, 26 Jul 2020 04:13:14 GMT Sermons This week we’re beginning a 17-week walkthrough of the book of Acts. In Acts we find Luke the Physician writing down a careful history of the progress of the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. In Acts, we can find courage in the certainty of Jesus’s triumph over sin and death, and in the fact that no power of hell or scheme of man can stop God’s plan to spread the good news of His son Jesus […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-glory-of-work God is a worker, and he has called us— made in his image—to work. This makes our work, though tarnished by sin, holy and glorious as we do it for him and by him. And God calls us to work to provide for ourselves and bring good to our world. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-glory-of-work Mon, 20 Jul 2020 21:34:25 GMT Sermons God is a worker, and he has called us— made in his image—to work. This makes our work, though tarnished by sin, holy and glorious as we do it for him and by him. And God calls us to work to provide for ourselves and bring good to our world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stand-firm-in-the-love-of-god When life doesn’t go the way we expect, we are often filled with doubt, discouragement, and distraction, and we can feel stuck. What is the antidote? How do we stand firm in what we know to be true? Paul addresses this question in his letter to the Thessalonians, and we’ll explore his answer together. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stand-firm-in-the-love-of-god Mon, 13 Jul 2020 01:43:49 GMT Sermons When life doesn’t go the way we expect, we are often filled with doubt, discouragement, and distraction, and we can feel stuck. What is the antidote? How do we stand firm in what we know to be true? Paul addresses this question in his letter to the Thessalonians, and we’ll explore his answer together. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-victorious-lord Believers in Christ may experience suffering for their faith in him. And when this happens, they may be tempted to quit because of the seeming injustice of it all. In our passage today, Paul speaks of God’s justice toward the Christian and the persecutor. Though none of us at Stonebrook may be suffering for Jesus’ sake to the extent of this Thessalonian church, we too can be strengthened in faith and deeds as we remember the pure and complete justice of God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-victorious-lord Tue, 07 Jul 2020 01:18:41 GMT Sermons Believers in Christ may experience suffering for their faith in him. And when this happens, they may be tempted to quit because of the seeming injustice of it all. In our passage today, Paul speaks of God’s justice toward the Christian and the persecutor. Though none of us at Stonebrook may be suffering for Jesus’ sake to the extent of this Thessalonian church, we too can be strengthened in faith and deeds as we remember the pure and complete justice of God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-justice-of-the-lord Believers in Christ may experience suffering for their faith in him. And when this happens, they may be tempted to quit because of the seeming injustice of it all. In our passage today, Paul speaks of God’s justice toward the Christian and the persecutor. Though none of us at Stonebrook may be suffering for Jesus’ sake to the extent of this Thessalonian church, we too can be strengthened in faith and deeds as we remember the pure and complete justice of God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-justice-of-the-lord Mon, 29 Jun 2020 01:04:00 GMT Sermons Believers in Christ may experience suffering for their faith in him. And when this happens, they may be tempted to quit because of the seeming injustice of it all. In our passage today, Paul speaks of God’s justice toward the Christian and the persecutor. Though none of us at Stonebrook may be suffering for Jesus’ sake to the extent of this Thessalonian church, we too can be strengthened in faith and deeds as we remember the pure and complete justice of God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/colorblind-our-struggle-to-see-the-multicolor-image-of-god This past Tuesday morning, after I had spent several days preparing to handle  the tricky subjects of the fire, eternal damnation, and tribulation described in 2 Thessalonians 1, the elders decided we needed tackle something actually controversial today: Racial harmony and social justice.  In case you’ve been hiding in a cave somewhere for the past few months, recently George Floyd’s murder at the hands of a police officer in Minnesota were captured in a gruesome 9 minute video, sparking protesting […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/colorblind-our-struggle-to-see-the-multicolor-image-of-god Sun, 21 Jun 2020 19:51:52 GMT Sermons This past Tuesday morning, after I had spent several days preparing to handle  the tricky subjects of the fire, eternal damnation, and tribulation described in 2 Thessalonians 1, the elders decided we needed tackle something actually controversial today: Racial harmony and social justice.  In case you’ve been hiding in a cave somewhere for the past few months, recently George Floyd’s murder at the hands of a police officer in Minnesota were captured in a gruesome 9 minute video, sparking protesting […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-thessalonians-5 Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-thessalonians-5 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 07:56:01 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/living-for-the-day-of-the-lord The Christian life is described as a race. And as anyone who has seen God’s call for how we ought to run it we know that it can seem long and hard. The apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 that we cannot run well or finish strong if we lose sight of the finish line and the prize. Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/living-for-the-day-of-the-lord Mon, 08 Jun 2020 21:30:45 GMT Sermons The Christian life is described as a race. And as anyone who has seen God’s call for how we ought to run it we know that it can seem long and hard. The apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 that we cannot run well or finish strong if we lose sight of the finish line and the prize. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hope-in-the-resurrection When Jesus returns, the dead will rise and believers left alive will be changed. Because we know this, we should not grieve when fellow-believers die, for that glorious day awaits us all. We should be encouraged by these truths.  Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hope-in-the-resurrection Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:52:39 GMT Sermons When Jesus returns, the dead will rise and believers left alive will be changed. Because we know this, we should not grieve when fellow-believers die, for that glorious day awaits us all. We should be encouraged by these truths.  https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/a-life-pleasing-to-god What is God’s will for my life? This question is frequently asked by Christ’s followers. In our passage today, Paul addresses this question broadly with some specific answers that center on a life that pleases God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/a-life-pleasing-to-god Mon, 25 May 2020 00:40:45 GMT Sermons What is God’s will for my life? This question is frequently asked by Christ’s followers. In our passage today, Paul addresses this question broadly with some specific answers that center on a life that pleases God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stand-fast-in-affliction-2 Our passage for today was written at a time when the apostle Paul, the spiritual father of the church, was kept from seeing the people in the church, kept from meeting with them and knowing how they were. And it opens with these words, which seem particularly apt for this day. Week 10 of being unable to meet together as a large group and our passage begins with: “…when we could bear it no longer…”  1 Thessalonians 3:1–13 (ESV) 1 […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stand-fast-in-affliction-2 Sun, 17 May 2020 20:51:52 GMT Sermons Our passage for today was written at a time when the apostle Paul, the spiritual father of the church, was kept from seeing the people in the church, kept from meeting with them and knowing how they were. And it opens with these words, which seem particularly apt for this day. Week 10 of being unable to meet together as a large group and our passage begins with: “…when we could bear it no longer…”  1 Thessalonians 3:1–13 (ESV) 1 […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/you-our-glory-and-joy In one of the most uplifting letters in the New Testament, Paul is overjoyed at the faith of this young church in the midst of suffering. We who follow Christ can share in a similar joy as we walk by faith and help others do the same. When Christ comes again, those whom we have helped will be our glory and our joy! Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/you-our-glory-and-joy Mon, 11 May 2020 00:50:04 GMT Sermons In one of the most uplifting letters in the New Testament, Paul is overjoyed at the faith of this young church in the midst of suffering. We who follow Christ can share in a similar joy as we walk by faith and help others do the same. When Christ comes again, those whom we have helped will be our glory and our joy! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-thessalonians Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/1-thessalonians Mon, 04 May 2020 03:20:02 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-story-in-christ We all know the importance of being an example, not a hypocrite, to others—someone whose words and actions generally line up. And this becomes a noticeable and powerful influence to everyone who sees. The New Testament letter, First Thessalonians, tells us the story of Christians who believed the gospel, lived it in powerful ways, then spoke of it. What is our story? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-story-in-christ Mon, 27 Apr 2020 18:43:48 GMT Sermons We all know the importance of being an example, not a hypocrite, to others—someone whose words and actions generally line up. And this becomes a noticeable and powerful influence to everyone who sees. The New Testament letter, First Thessalonians, tells us the story of Christians who believed the gospel, lived it in powerful ways, then spoke of it. What is our story? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/faith-hope-and-love Core virtues of the Christian life are the well-loved triad of faith, love, and hope. The Apostle Paul was concerned for the health of the very young Thessalonian church in the face of persecution. But he discovered they remained on a solid foundation with a genuine faith that led to action, an exemplary love that prompted service, and a sure hope that resulted in endurance. In our daily trials, including these strange and stressful days of COVID-19, we can be inspired by the exemplary lives of these Christians from ancient times. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/faith-hope-and-love Tue, 21 Apr 2020 05:32:48 GMT Sermons Core virtues of the Christian life are the well-loved triad of faith, love, and hope. The Apostle Paul was concerned for the health of the very young Thessalonian church in the face of persecution. But he discovered they remained on a solid foundation with a genuine faith that led to action, an exemplary love that prompted service, and a sure hope that resulted in endurance. In our daily trials, including these strange and stressful days of COVID-19, we can be inspired by the exemplary lives of these Christians from ancient times. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/an-easter-afternoon-encounter-at-emmaus This Easter Sunday we will take a look at Luke 24 and see how the resurrection of Jesus can give us hope, courage, and strengthened faith even as we are couped up at home in a time where we may be asking ‘Where is God in all this? Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/an-easter-afternoon-encounter-at-emmaus Sun, 12 Apr 2020 16:50:00 GMT Sermons This Easter Sunday we will take a look at Luke 24 and see how the resurrection of Jesus can give us hope, courage, and strengthened faith even as we are couped up at home in a time where we may be asking ‘Where is God in all this? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/restoring-relationship Over many years, the apostle Paul and the Corinthians had experienced a rocky relationship. In today’s passage we see some of the elements of how that relationship was restored, primarily through loving reproof and wholehearted repentance. We will look at what genuine repentance looks like and how it has power to resolve relational conflict. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/restoring-relationship Mon, 06 Apr 2020 05:34:47 GMT Sermons Over many years, the apostle Paul and the Corinthians had experienced a rocky relationship. In today’s passage we see some of the elements of how that relationship was restored, primarily through loving reproof and wholehearted repentance. We will look at what genuine repentance looks like and how it has power to resolve relational conflict. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ministry-partnership Christ followers are called to walk in pure devotion to the Lord in our faith and actions. God’s appeal to us for this way of living, as shown in the Apostle Paul’s heart, is through his loving, fatherly relationship with us, his children in Christ. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ministry-partnership Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:47:09 GMT Sermons Christ followers are called to walk in pure devotion to the Lord in our faith and actions. God’s appeal to us for this way of living, as shown in the Apostle Paul’s heart, is through his loving, fatherly relationship with us, his children in Christ. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-marks-of-a-minister-2 As a minister of the New Covenant, Paul gave his heart and life to the proclamation of the good news about Jesus. He demonstrated his authenticity by his perseverance through great affliction and through his sacrificial, loving, and Spirit-filled actions. As we look at Paul’s life we can have confidence that Jesus really did appear to him, radically transforming his life. And, along with Paul, we should wholeheartedly believe in what God has one in Jesus Christ and give of […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-marks-of-a-minister-2 Mon, 23 Mar 2020 04:05:03 GMT Sermons As a minister of the New Covenant, Paul gave his heart and life to the proclamation of the good news about Jesus. He demonstrated his authenticity by his perseverance through great affliction and through his sacrificial, loving, and Spirit-filled actions. As we look at Paul’s life we can have confidence that Jesus really did appear to him, radically transforming his life. And, along with Paul, we should wholeheartedly believe in what God has one in Jesus Christ and give of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-marks-of-a-minister As a minister of the New Covenant, Paul gave his heart and life to the proclamation of the good news about Jesus. He demonstrated his authenticity by his perseverance through great affliction and through his sacrificial, loving, and Spirit-filled actions. As we look at Paul’s life we can have confidence that Jesus really did appear to him, radically transforming his life. And, along with Paul, we should wholeheartedly believe in what God has one in Jesus Christ and give of […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-marks-of-a-minister Sun, 22 Mar 2020 23:05:03 GMT Sermons As a minister of the New Covenant, Paul gave his heart and life to the proclamation of the good news about Jesus. He demonstrated his authenticity by his perseverance through great affliction and through his sacrificial, loving, and Spirit-filled actions. As we look at Paul’s life we can have confidence that Jesus really did appear to him, radically transforming his life. And, along with Paul, we should wholeheartedly believe in what God has one in Jesus Christ and give of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ministers-of-reconciliation When we become a Christian, God gives us a task: “the ministry of reconciliation.” Not only does he reconcile us to himself, but he makes us into coworkers with him in his plan to reconcile his people to himself from all over the world. This week we will discuss a core component of our new relationship with God through Christ: becoming ambassadors for the most high God to a lost world. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/ministers-of-reconciliation Sun, 15 Mar 2020 20:18:31 GMT Sermons When we become a Christian, God gives us a task: “the ministry of reconciliation.” Not only does he reconcile us to himself, but he makes us into coworkers with him in his plan to reconcile his people to himself from all over the world. This week we will discuss a core component of our new relationship with God through Christ: becoming ambassadors for the most high God to a lost world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-great-exchange We will be spending the next two weeks (Lord willing) on the last part of chapter 5. In it we find a glorious two-part truth: God has reconciled us to himself, and we have been given a ministry of reconciliation. This first week we will be focusing on what God did, how he did it, and why he did it. Come be encouraged in the glorious truth of the core Gospel message! Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-great-exchange Mon, 09 Mar 2020 03:10:56 GMT Sermons We will be spending the next two weeks (Lord willing) on the last part of chapter 5. In it we find a glorious two-part truth: God has reconciled us to himself, and we have been given a ministry of reconciliation. This first week we will be focusing on what God did, how he did it, and why he did it. Come be encouraged in the glorious truth of the core Gospel message! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/motivation-for-ministry Eternity. As Christians we believe in “forever,” not just as cute words in a love song, but as our future reality in the kingdom of God. The challenge we face is, do we live every day like “forever” is true? Is it on our minds? Do we see people in light of eternity? The Apostle Paul had deep, deep convictions about such things, and these convictions motivated him in his ministry for Jesus Christ. He walked by faith, not by sight. Future judgment, the fear of the Lord, and the love of Christ—all such things compelled him to speak of Christ to the church and the world, and to persevere in this life of faith. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/motivation-for-ministry Mon, 02 Mar 2020 06:26:27 GMT Sermons Eternity. As Christians we believe in “forever,” not just as cute words in a love song, but as our future reality in the kingdom of God. The challenge we face is, do we live every day like “forever” is true? Is it on our minds? Do we see people in light of eternity? The Apostle Paul had deep, deep convictions about such things, and these convictions motivated him in his ministry for Jesus Christ. He walked by faith, not by sight. Future judgment, the fear of the Lord, and the love of Christ—all such things compelled him to speak of Christ to the church and the world, and to persevere in this life of faith. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/treasure-in-jars-of-clay A walk of faith is a life that is truly convinced of certain things about God and eternity. Such a confidence transforms us, strengthening us from the inside out and changing our perspectives on life here on earth and beyond. While Paul’s role as an apostle has some differences from our roles in the church, the principles remain unchanged. Paul fully intends that what he believes with all his heart will be passed on to us, and that we, too, will live our lives fully devoted to Jesus for the sake of his people, all to the glory of God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/treasure-in-jars-of-clay Mon, 24 Feb 2020 02:30:34 GMT Sermons A walk of faith is a life that is truly convinced of certain things about God and eternity. Such a confidence transforms us, strengthening us from the inside out and changing our perspectives on life here on earth and beyond. While Paul’s role as an apostle has some differences from our roles in the church, the principles remain unchanged. Paul fully intends that what he believes with all his heart will be passed on to us, and that we, too, will live our lives fully devoted to Jesus for the sake of his people, all to the glory of God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflecting-his-glory When God made a covenant with Israel, He revealed Himself so clearly and gloriously to Moses that the skin on his face shone. The Israelites were afraid, so Moses covered his face with a veil. Fifteen hundred years later, Jesus inaugurated a new covenant with even more glory. As we fix our gaze on Jesus, we will be transformed into the image of God, boldly living and speaking and reflecting His glory to the world around us, bringing healing and hope to all who respond Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflecting-his-glory Mon, 17 Feb 2020 04:07:53 GMT Sermons When God made a covenant with Israel, He revealed Himself so clearly and gloriously to Moses that the skin on his face shone. The Israelites were afraid, so Moses covered his face with a veil. Fifteen hundred years later, Jesus inaugurated a new covenant with even more glory. As we fix our gaze on Jesus, we will be transformed into the image of God, boldly living and speaking and reflecting His glory to the world around us, bringing healing and hope to all who respond https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-sufficiency-for-the-task Christians can have confidence for this ministry when they realize that God’s Word is sufficient for accomplishing the task, and so speak it with sincerity and boldness. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-sufficiency-for-the-task Sun, 09 Feb 2020 20:48:19 GMT Sermons Christians can have confidence for this ministry when they realize that God’s Word is sufficient for accomplishing the task, and so speak it with sincerity and boldness. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/saints-on-parade The message of the gospel of Christ is perplexing: God offers life forever and ever through his Son, yet mankind reacts against it so commonly and strongly. How could this be? Our Lord Jesus, the Apostle Paul, and millions of Christians since then have contended with this gospel, a message that smells good to some but stinks to others. Similarly, this is our assignment from God, to spread this fragrance everywhere with God as he parades the glorious message of life, and he calls us to join him. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/saints-on-parade Mon, 03 Feb 2020 04:10:40 GMT Sermons The message of the gospel of Christ is perplexing: God offers life forever and ever through his Son, yet mankind reacts against it so commonly and strongly. How could this be? Our Lord Jesus, the Apostle Paul, and millions of Christians since then have contended with this gospel, a message that smells good to some but stinks to others. Similarly, this is our assignment from God, to spread this fragrance everywhere with God as he parades the glorious message of life, and he calls us to join him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/comfort-and-affliction Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/comfort-and-affliction Sun, 26 Jan 2020 21:56:45 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewarding-our-health God gives each of us life and health. Although sickness and death are inevitable for all people, including Christians, we should do what we can to stay healthy and productive for His purposes. Yet there are so many different and often contradictory perspectives on diet, exercise, sleep, and whether traditional or alternative medicine is best. What does the Bible say about health? How much should we concern ourselves with health and what should that look like? We and everything we have belong to God. As wise managers, we should care for all that He’s entrusted to us, including our bodies. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewarding-our-health Mon, 20 Jan 2020 02:40:43 GMT Sermons God gives each of us life and health. Although sickness and death are inevitable for all people, including Christians, we should do what we can to stay healthy and productive for His purposes. Yet there are so many different and often contradictory perspectives on diet, exercise, sleep, and whether traditional or alternative medicine is best. What does the Bible say about health? How much should we concern ourselves with health and what should that look like? We and everything we have belong to God. As wise managers, we should care for all that He’s entrusted to us, including our bodies. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewarding-our-money Money can seem like a necessary evil at times: we need and want more of it; we stress over it; we argue about it. Yet we also see good from money: providing for needs; giving it away to good causes. What is the Lord’s view on money? He is our Creator and heavenly Father, so what does he tell us? What heavenly perspectives and solutions does he have? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewarding-our-money Mon, 13 Jan 2020 04:45:10 GMT Sermons Money can seem like a necessary evil at times: we need and want more of it; we stress over it; we argue about it. Yet we also see good from money: providing for needs; giving it away to good causes. What is the Lord’s view on money? He is our Creator and heavenly Father, so what does he tell us? What heavenly perspectives and solutions does he have? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-our-time Time is short and the days are evil. How will we live? How will we spend our time? In light of the glorious calling from God into his eternal kingdom, we are to carefully examine our lives and to spend them in wisdom. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-of-our-time Mon, 06 Jan 2020 02:46:10 GMT Sermons Time is short and the days are evil. How will we live? How will we spend our time? In light of the glorious calling from God into his eternal kingdom, we are to carefully examine our lives and to spend them in wisdom. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stump-the-pastors-qa-time Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stump-the-pastors-qa-time Mon, 30 Dec 2019 07:46:12 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stump-the-pastors-qa-time-2 Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stump-the-pastors-qa-time-2 Mon, 30 Dec 2019 01:46:12 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hark-the-herald-angels-sing Two thousand years ago, God sent His son into the world. It was God’s plan that He be born into obscurity, to a poor family, without privilege or power or fame. Yet it seems that God couldn’t resist celebrating His coming and sent angels to announce His birth to lowly shepherds. Centuries later, Charles Wesley wrote a hymn celebrating His birth—Hark the Herald Angels Sing. Steeped in rich theology, Wesley’s hymn aptly celebrates the most surprising event in the history of the world—when the Creator entered into His creation and became a man. Don’t let familiarity dim the wonder of this amazing event. Christ, the One by highest heaven adored, laid His glory by to bring healing and life to the sons of earth. Glory to the newborn King! Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hark-the-herald-angels-sing Mon, 23 Dec 2019 02:58:50 GMT Sermons Two thousand years ago, God sent His son into the world. It was God’s plan that He be born into obscurity, to a poor family, without privilege or power or fame. Yet it seems that God couldn’t resist celebrating His coming and sent angels to announce His birth to lowly shepherds. Centuries later, Charles Wesley wrote a hymn celebrating His birth—Hark the Herald Angels Sing. Steeped in rich theology, Wesley’s hymn aptly celebrates the most surprising event in the history of the world—when the Creator entered into His creation and became a man. Don’t let familiarity dim the wonder of this amazing event. Christ, the One by highest heaven adored, laid His glory by to bring healing and life to the sons of earth. Glory to the newborn King! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/joy-to-the-world In this season we celebrate the Advent, i.e., the Coming, of Jesus Christ to earth. While we may think primarily of his First Coming to earth, we also ought to consider his Second Coming. A favorite song, Joy to the World, has relevance in the days leading up to celebrating the birth of Christ, but its author, Isaac Watts, wrote it 300 years ago with the Second Coming in mind. “Joy to the world, the Lord has come!” will be the shout of every Jesus follower on that glorious day when he returns to earth. He comes to judge and reign as King and Lord, and all things will be made right on that day. Joy to the world! Amen. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/joy-to-the-world Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:02:57 GMT Sermons In this season we celebrate the Advent, i.e., the Coming, of Jesus Christ to earth. While we may think primarily of his First Coming to earth, we also ought to consider his Second Coming. A favorite song, Joy to the World, has relevance in the days leading up to celebrating the birth of Christ, but its author, Isaac Watts, wrote it 300 years ago with the Second Coming in mind. “Joy to the world, the Lord has come!” will be the shout of every Jesus follower on that glorious day when he returns to earth. He comes to judge and reign as King and Lord, and all things will be made right on that day. Joy to the world! Amen. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/come-thou-long-expected-jesus-the-expectation-for-our-savior Our expectations shape our experiences, steer our emotions, and mold our hopes and dreams. But how can we keep our expectations rooted in what is real? This week, we’ll look at a true, hope-filled expectation that we can cling to on our darkest day, as we sing through a beautiful Advent hymn: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus. John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/come-thou-long-expected-jesus-the-expectation-for-our-savior Mon, 09 Dec 2019 03:27:17 GMT Sermons Our expectations shape our experiences, steer our emotions, and mold our hopes and dreams. But how can we keep our expectations rooted in what is real? This week, we’ll look at a true, hope-filled expectation that we can cling to on our darkest day, as we sing through a beautiful Advent hymn: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/o-come-o-come-emmanuel Jesus Christ has come. And he is coming again. Advent means “coming,” so the Advent season looks both backward and forward to the eternal work of God through his Son. Emmanuel has come. We gratefully remember the past. We patiently wait in the present. We longingly hope for the future. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/o-come-o-come-emmanuel Mon, 02 Dec 2019 05:10:18 GMT Sermons Jesus Christ has come. And he is coming again. Advent means “coming,” so the Advent season looks both backward and forward to the eternal work of God through his Son. Emmanuel has come. We gratefully remember the past. We patiently wait in the present. We longingly hope for the future. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-great-messianic-hope It’s hard to live without hope. Many of the Psalms narrate the psalmists’ renewal of hope in the midst of tragedy and trial. But several of the psalms also point to a broader, more universal hope—the Messianic Hope. God has a solution for all the wickedness, corruption and evil so prevalent throughout the world and its institutions. He will install His King on Zion, His holy hill. We must live in light of His coming, living not for this age and its rulers, but for Him and His coming kingdom. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-great-messianic-hope Mon, 25 Nov 2019 01:19:54 GMT Sermons It’s hard to live without hope. Many of the Psalms narrate the psalmists’ renewal of hope in the midst of tragedy and trial. But several of the psalms also point to a broader, more universal hope—the Messianic Hope. God has a solution for all the wickedness, corruption and evil so prevalent throughout the world and its institutions. He will install His King on Zion, His holy hill. We must live in light of His coming, living not for this age and its rulers, but for Him and His coming kingdom. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-you-o-lord-i-lift-up-my-soul SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 17, 2019  Brad Barrett David’s Psalms:  Mirror of the Soul–Week 5  To You, O Lord, I Lift Up My Soul 150 years ago, a classic hymn was penned.  What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Ev’rything to God in prayer! Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry        Ev’rything to God in prayer! Author […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-you-o-lord-i-lift-up-my-soul Mon, 18 Nov 2019 07:12:18 GMT Sermons SERMON POWERPOINT Sunday, November 17, 2019  Brad Barrett David’s Psalms:  Mirror of the Soul–Week 5  To You, O Lord, I Lift Up My Soul 150 years ago, a classic hymn was penned.  What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Ev’rything to God in prayer! Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry        Ev’rything to God in prayer! Author […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/when-god-seems-absent Where do we go with our faith when God seems absent? How do we maintain faith when prayers seem unanswered, our circumstances all seem to be stacked against us, and we are filled with grief and sorrow and darkness in our hearts? Are we trapped, or is there a way out? We’ll explore what David did during these times and how we can rightly follow his example. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/when-god-seems-absent Mon, 11 Nov 2019 03:32:21 GMT Sermons Where do we go with our faith when God seems absent? How do we maintain faith when prayers seem unanswered, our circumstances all seem to be stacked against us, and we are filled with grief and sorrow and darkness in our hearts? Are we trapped, or is there a way out? We’ll explore what David did during these times and how we can rightly follow his example. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/cast-your-burden Life occasionally, or even often, brings us “hits,” that is, intense trials of all sorts. Some of these we bring on ourselves through foolishness or sin. Some of these are brought upon us by others, whether unintentionally or maliciously. And there are some trials that just seem to happen for no apparent reason or cause. David of Israel took many hits in life, and his legacy to us is, in part, the psalms he wrote expressing his anguish, complaints, and a thirst for justice—and he did this by faith as he prayed to the Lord. What can we learn from David’s prayers when life bring us some hits? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/cast-your-burden Mon, 04 Nov 2019 02:43:32 GMT Sermons Life occasionally, or even often, brings us “hits,” that is, intense trials of all sorts. Some of these we bring on ourselves through foolishness or sin. Some of these are brought upon us by others, whether unintentionally or maliciously. And there are some trials that just seem to happen for no apparent reason or cause. David of Israel took many hits in life, and his legacy to us is, in part, the psalms he wrote expressing his anguish, complaints, and a thirst for justice—and he did this by faith as he prayed to the Lord. What can we learn from David’s prayers when life bring us some hits? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/seek-his-face In the Psalms we see the heart of a man of God. King David was a man of passion, yet humble and faith-filled. His passion drew Him to seek God’s person and His will. He desperately wanted more than just to know about God, He wanted to experience God through the ups and downs in life. Each of us is designed for spiritual experience, whether we know it or not. Those who have been united with Christ ought to experience Him. No one will be satisfied with a dead creed. In this message we will look at King David’s passion for God and Pastor Dave will share aspects of His journey to experience God in our modern world. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/seek-his-face Mon, 28 Oct 2019 00:06:29 GMT Sermons In the Psalms we see the heart of a man of God. King David was a man of passion, yet humble and faith-filled. His passion drew Him to seek God’s person and His will. He desperately wanted more than just to know about God, He wanted to experience God through the ups and downs in life. Each of us is designed for spiritual experience, whether we know it or not. Those who have been united with Christ ought to experience Him. No one will be satisfied with a dead creed. In this message we will look at King David’s passion for God and Pastor Dave will share aspects of His journey to experience God in our modern world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mirror-of-the-soul-praise-him Having completed 1-2 Samuel which largely looks at David’s life, we are beginning a series on the Psalms that David wrote. Psalms is a unique book in the Scriptures, teaching us to pray, becoming like a mirror that reflects back to our souls. We learn from David (and other psalmists) how to be honest with God in prayer with all our praise, joy, sorrow, grief, anger, needs, and confusion. Today our focus is learning to praise God for who he is and what he has done. And the more we know the Lord, the more our hearts will find praise to be fitting and satisfying. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mirror-of-the-soul-praise-him Mon, 21 Oct 2019 00:06:25 GMT Sermons Having completed 1-2 Samuel which largely looks at David’s life, we are beginning a series on the Psalms that David wrote. Psalms is a unique book in the Scriptures, teaching us to pray, becoming like a mirror that reflects back to our souls. We learn from David (and other psalmists) how to be honest with God in prayer with all our praise, joy, sorrow, grief, anger, needs, and confusion. Today our focus is learning to praise God for who he is and what he has done. And the more we know the Lord, the more our hearts will find praise to be fitting and satisfying. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-epilogue This week we conclude our series with 2 Samuel 21-24, a carefully constructed epilogue to “The book of Samuel” which compiles scenes from the life of Samuel, Saul, and David. In it we find connections with the introduction to the book, Hannah’s poem/prayer, that help us see the main thrust of the prophet’s message: God is faithful to his promise in spite of man’s failures, God opposes the proud and exalts the humble, and that a promised king is coming which will bring blessing to all the nations. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-epilogue Sun, 13 Oct 2019 19:34:43 GMT Sermons This week we conclude our series with 2 Samuel 21-24, a carefully constructed epilogue to “The book of Samuel” which compiles scenes from the life of Samuel, Saul, and David. In it we find connections with the introduction to the book, Hannah’s poem/prayer, that help us see the main thrust of the prophet’s message: God is faithful to his promise in spite of man’s failures, God opposes the proud and exalts the humble, and that a promised king is coming which will bring blessing to all the nations. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-aftermath-from-davids-sin David, a great man of faith, fell from the glorious heights of intimacy with God to the lowest point of rebellion, even despising God and his word. Yet he repented and rejoiced in his forgiveness, and even though some devastating consequences from his sin followed him to the end of his life, he continued walking with the Lord. How did he endure in the midst of those consequences? For us today, David’s life and the gospel inspire us to walk with the Lord, even in the “aftermath” of sin. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-aftermath-from-davids-sin Mon, 07 Oct 2019 20:01:48 GMT Sermons David, a great man of faith, fell from the glorious heights of intimacy with God to the lowest point of rebellion, even despising God and his word. Yet he repented and rejoiced in his forgiveness, and even though some devastating consequences from his sin followed him to the end of his life, he continued walking with the Lord. How did he endure in the midst of those consequences? For us today, David’s life and the gospel inspire us to walk with the Lord, even in the “aftermath” of sin. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-fall-of-david David was a “man after God’s own heart,” and we can be inspired by his faith and many good qualities. Yet David was also a mere mortal like us and capable of sin, and in fact he sinned greatly against the Lord. But he later repented and found great joy in God’s mercy and forgiveness. So we are both warned by David’s sin and inspired by his response to it. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-fall-of-david Mon, 30 Sep 2019 22:52:32 GMT Sermons David was a “man after God’s own heart,” and we can be inspired by his faith and many good qualities. Yet David was also a mere mortal like us and capable of sin, and in fact he sinned greatly against the Lord. But he later repented and found great joy in God’s mercy and forgiveness. So we are both warned by David’s sin and inspired by his response to it. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-promise-and-plan-of-god David desired to build a house, a temple for God. But God said, “No, I’m going to build a house for you,” and promised David that his lineage and dynasty would last forever. Yet, no descendant of David has reigned over Israel for over 2,500 years. The prophets who spoke after David foretold the coming of a greater, eternal king who would fulfill all of God’s promises to Israel and to David. Yet, today, we await the return of this greater “Anointed One,” King Jesus, who waits in heaven until it is time for Him to restore all things and bring everlasting peace to the world. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-the-promise-and-plan-of-god Mon, 23 Sep 2019 00:24:21 GMT Sermons David desired to build a house, a temple for God. But God said, “No, I’m going to build a house for you,” and promised David that his lineage and dynasty would last forever. Yet, no descendant of David has reigned over Israel for over 2,500 years. The prophets who spoke after David foretold the coming of a greater, eternal king who would fulfill all of God’s promises to Israel and to David. Yet, today, we await the return of this greater “Anointed One,” King Jesus, who waits in heaven until it is time for Him to restore all things and bring everlasting peace to the world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rise-of-david-the-flawed-messiah David is the undisputed hero of the Old Testament, and perhaps, second only to Jesus in the entire Bible. Certainly he is a model of faith, courage, and godliness… except when he’s not. How are we supposed to relate to David’s example? That’s what I want to talk about today: how we are to relate to David’s example. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rise-of-david-the-flawed-messiah Mon, 16 Sep 2019 05:19:17 GMT Sermons David is the undisputed hero of the Old Testament, and perhaps, second only to Jesus in the entire Bible. Certainly he is a model of faith, courage, and godliness… except when he’s not. How are we supposed to relate to David’s example? That’s what I want to talk about today: how we are to relate to David’s example. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-david-the-refugee Only in his 20’s, David was a great warrior and a man after God’s own heart. And because the Lord was with David, King Saul was afraid and jealous of him, which quickly turned into a demonic pursuit to kill him, his own son-in-law. But even through years of running for his life, David remarkably doesn’t grow bitter or vengeful. Instead he keeps his heart fixed on the Lord. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-david-the-refugee Mon, 09 Sep 2019 01:34:31 GMT Sermons Only in his 20’s, David was a great warrior and a man after God’s own heart. And because the Lord was with David, King Saul was afraid and jealous of him, which quickly turned into a demonic pursuit to kill him, his own son-in-law. But even through years of running for his life, David remarkably doesn’t grow bitter or vengeful. Instead he keeps his heart fixed on the Lord. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/consider-the-great-things-david-a-man-after-gods-own-heart God chose David to succeed Saul as king, not because of his physical strength or his wisdom or his position in Israel, but because of His faith-filled, God-honoring heart. In an act of amazing faith, David faces Goliath, risking his life to defend His people and to honor and glorify God. We also can put our trust in the Living God and bring Him glory. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/consider-the-great-things-david-a-man-after-gods-own-heart Mon, 02 Sep 2019 04:07:06 GMT Sermons God chose David to succeed Saul as king, not because of his physical strength or his wisdom or his position in Israel, but because of His faith-filled, God-honoring heart. In an act of amazing faith, David faces Goliath, risking his life to defend His people and to honor and glorify God. We also can put our trust in the Living God and bring Him glory. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/consider-the-great-things When we lack strength for the Christian life, 1 Samuel 12 points us to the answer. In his final days, Israel’s leader Samuel called the people to follow the Lord with all their hearts. His appeal was to look to the Lord and consider all the great things he had done for them, not only then but over the centuries. Similarly, we Christians are called to consider what great things the Lord has done for us—the greatest of these is the death and resurrection of the Son of God—and so find motivation and strength to love the Lord with all our hearts. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/consider-the-great-things Sun, 25 Aug 2019 23:23:04 GMT Sermons When we lack strength for the Christian life, 1 Samuel 12 points us to the answer. In his final days, Israel’s leader Samuel called the people to follow the Lord with all their hearts. His appeal was to look to the Lord and consider all the great things he had done for them, not only then but over the centuries. Similarly, we Christians are called to consider what great things the Lord has done for us—the greatest of these is the death and resurrection of the Son of God—and so find motivation and strength to love the Lord with all our hearts. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rise-and-fall-of-king-saul This week we will be looking at the rise and fall of King Saul, the King the Israelites demanded from God, but not the one they needed. Faith vs. Self-reliance, and what it means that “God regretted making Saul king…” Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rise-and-fall-of-king-saul Sun, 18 Aug 2019 19:05:22 GMT Sermons This week we will be looking at the rise and fall of King Saul, the King the Israelites demanded from God, but not the one they needed. Faith vs. Self-reliance, and what it means that “God regretted making Saul king…” https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-man-of-faith From childhood to the end of his life, Samuel walked by faith in the Lord. His consistent life is a stark contrast to the people of Israel who, though they had brief periods of faith, generally rejected the Lord as their king. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-man-of-faith Mon, 12 Aug 2019 05:35:04 GMT Sermons From childhood to the end of his life, Samuel walked by faith in the Lord. His consistent life is a stark contrast to the people of Israel who, though they had brief periods of faith, generally rejected the Lord as their king. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-desperate-in-faith In our new sermon series through the books of Samuel, we will be challenged by the rise and fall of “heroes” and “villains”. The first story we read is that of a grieving woman named Hannah who, in the midst of severe trial was also humble and faith-filled. And God used her to raise up a godly servant of the Lord, Samuel, who influenced an entire nation. Hannah can inspire us to know and trust the Lord. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/rise-and-fall-desperate-in-faith Mon, 05 Aug 2019 01:25:29 GMT Sermons In our new sermon series through the books of Samuel, we will be challenged by the rise and fall of “heroes” and “villains”. The first story we read is that of a grieving woman named Hannah who, in the midst of severe trial was also humble and faith-filled. And God used her to raise up a godly servant of the Lord, Samuel, who influenced an entire nation. Hannah can inspire us to know and trust the Lord. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christians-mission-path-on-faith Our church’s vision is “to see many hundreds become fully devoted followers of Christ, and many thousands hear the gospel message.” This week we are going to be discussing our mission as a church: The Great Commission: every individual in the church doing their part in passing the faith on to others (proclaiming the gospel to non-believers, and entrusting the gospel to one another and especially the upcoming generation.) Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christians-mission-path-on-faith Mon, 29 Jul 2019 20:19:49 GMT Sermons Our church’s vision is “to see many hundreds become fully devoted followers of Christ, and many thousands hear the gospel message.” This week we are going to be discussing our mission as a church: The Great Commission: every individual in the church doing their part in passing the faith on to others (proclaiming the gospel to non-believers, and entrusting the gospel to one another and especially the upcoming generation.) https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christians-mission-path-on-faith-2 Our church’s vision is “to see many hundreds become fully devoted followers of Christ, and many thousands hear the gospel message.” This week we are going to be discussing our mission as a church: The Great Commission: every individual in the church doing their part in passing the faith on to others (proclaiming the gospel to non-believers, and entrusting the gospel to one another and especially the upcoming generation.) Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/christians-mission-path-on-faith-2 Mon, 29 Jul 2019 15:19:49 GMT Sermons Our church’s vision is “to see many hundreds become fully devoted followers of Christ, and many thousands hear the gospel message.” This week we are going to be discussing our mission as a church: The Great Commission: every individual in the church doing their part in passing the faith on to others (proclaiming the gospel to non-believers, and entrusting the gospel to one another and especially the upcoming generation.) https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/proclaim-christ-part-1 For those who know Christ, we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, for a purpose – to proclaim the excellencies of God. As we consider the unending excellencies of Christ each day, let’s consider how we take next steps in the amazing purpose we have. What joy to be about the business of what we were specially made for. Mike Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/proclaim-christ-part-1 Mon, 15 Jul 2019 23:42:17 GMT Sermons For those who know Christ, we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, for a purpose – to proclaim the excellencies of God. As we consider the unending excellencies of Christ each day, let’s consider how we take next steps in the amazing purpose we have. What joy to be about the business of what we were specially made for. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/serving-the-city When we hear about the idea if “good works” while reading the Bible or listening to a sermon, we usually think of “spiritual” work, praying, missionary work, evangelism, charity, etc. But Paul is talking about much more than that: “Good works” include every type of task, including your 9-5 job, your housework, your homework… everything. God cares about every single task you undertake, and every single task you undertake is an opportunity to bring him glory and serve him. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/serving-the-city Mon, 01 Jul 2019 16:51:52 GMT Sermons When we hear about the idea if “good works” while reading the Bible or listening to a sermon, we usually think of “spiritual” work, praying, missionary work, evangelism, charity, etc. But Paul is talking about much more than that: “Good works” include every type of task, including your 9-5 job, your housework, your homework… everything. God cares about every single task you undertake, and every single task you undertake is an opportunity to bring him glory and serve him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walking-godliness-part-2-transformation-from-the-inside-out When we believe in Jesus we become part of God’s family and part of His new creation, the new humanity. We are to live in a manner worthy of the high calling we have received—to put off the old ways of living and put on the new. But how, practically, do we do this? The key is mind renewal—a renovation of the heart that results in transformation from the inside out. Outward conformity to the ways of God is way too small a goal. Our destiny is much fuller, richer, and more exciting. We are to become like Christ to the very depths of our souls. This involves a turning from the old and embracing the new at a far deeper level than we might at first think. It involves bringing the transforming power of the good news deeper into every nook and cranny of our hearts. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walking-godliness-part-2-transformation-from-the-inside-out Mon, 27 May 2019 21:12:54 GMT Sermons When we believe in Jesus we become part of God’s family and part of His new creation, the new humanity. We are to live in a manner worthy of the high calling we have received—to put off the old ways of living and put on the new. But how, practically, do we do this? The key is mind renewal—a renovation of the heart that results in transformation from the inside out. Outward conformity to the ways of God is way too small a goal. Our destiny is much fuller, richer, and more exciting. We are to become like Christ to the very depths of our souls. This involves a turning from the old and embracing the new at a far deeper level than we might at first think. It involves bringing the transforming power of the good news deeper into every nook and cranny of our hearts. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-a-mother-needs A mother’s work is glorious, yet daunting. Who is equal to such a task? God and His grace is. He is enough. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-a-mother-needs Mon, 13 May 2019 18:33:13 GMT Sermons A mother’s work is glorious, yet daunting. Who is equal to such a task? God and His grace is. He is enough. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/worship-scattered-the-christian-life-monday-through-saturday Summary: We gather together on Sunday AM, from all walks of life, all backgrounds, all situations, to join our streams of worship as one in order to encourage and instruct one another. To remind each other of the Gospel, and to send each other out on Gospel mission. What are we sending ourselves out to do?  The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) – Make disciples from all the nations. Baptizing them in the name of the father, son, and holy spirit, […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/worship-scattered-the-christian-life-monday-through-saturday Mon, 06 May 2019 01:47:29 GMT Sermons Summary: We gather together on Sunday AM, from all walks of life, all backgrounds, all situations, to join our streams of worship as one in order to encourage and instruct one another. To remind each other of the Gospel, and to send each other out on Gospel mission. What are we sending ourselves out to do?  The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) – Make disciples from all the nations. Baptizing them in the name of the father, son, and holy spirit, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/worship-gathered-why-do-we-do-what-we-do-on-sunday-am The Myths: Myth 1: The Bible doesn’t say much about what we are supposed to do on Sunday AM. We can pretty much just make stuff up. Truth: The bible gives us much clear instruction on our gatherings Myth 2: Sunday AM is a good, but optional part of the Christian life. Truth: Sunday AM is a vital, commanded part of the Christian life Acts 2:42-46 – Devotion to “the fellowship”, all things in common Hebrews 10:24 – “Don’t neglect […] John Shields https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/worship-gathered-why-do-we-do-what-we-do-on-sunday-am Mon, 29 Apr 2019 02:40:43 GMT Sermons The Myths: Myth 1: The Bible doesn’t say much about what we are supposed to do on Sunday AM. We can pretty much just make stuff up. Truth: The bible gives us much clear instruction on our gatherings Myth 2: Sunday AM is a good, but optional part of the Christian life. Truth: Sunday AM is a vital, commanded part of the Christian life Acts 2:42-46 – Devotion to “the fellowship”, all things in common Hebrews 10:24 – “Don’t neglect […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-is-alive Fulfilling a plan conceived before the world began, God raised Jesus from the dead. This astounding event accomplished many things. It 1) proved that He is the Messiah, the Son of God, 2) showed that His suffering for our sin was sufficient to gain our forgiveness, 3) prepared Him for the day when he will reign as king in the kingdom of God, 4) foreshadowed the coming day when all who believe in Him will also rise from the dead, and 5) anticipated the time when everything in creation will be made new. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-is-alive Mon, 22 Apr 2019 21:31:28 GMT Sermons Fulfilling a plan conceived before the world began, God raised Jesus from the dead. This astounding event accomplished many things. It 1) proved that He is the Messiah, the Son of God, 2) showed that His suffering for our sin was sufficient to gain our forgiveness, 3) prepared Him for the day when he will reign as king in the kingdom of God, 4) foreshadowed the coming day when all who believe in Him will also rise from the dead, and 5) anticipated the time when everything in creation will be made new. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/letters-from-the-elder-2-3-john Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/letters-from-the-elder-2-3-john Sun, 17 Mar 2019 19:27:34 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/letters-from-the-elder-2-3-john-2 Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/letters-from-the-elder-2-3-john-2 Sun, 17 Mar 2019 14:27:34 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-gods-testimony-live-forever Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-gods-testimony-live-forever Mon, 11 Mar 2019 00:45:54 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-gods-testimony-live-forever-2 Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-gods-testimony-live-forever-2 Sun, 10 Mar 2019 19:45:54 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-one-another That You May Know—The Epistles of John 1 John 4:7-21 –  Love One Another  I’ve been to many weddings over the years, and one of the more common Scriptures read is 1 Corinthians 13.  It’s about love.  The pre-eminence of love.  And a description of love.  A beautiful chapter, really.   “If I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-one-another Mon, 04 Mar 2019 21:42:44 GMT Sermons That You May Know—The Epistles of John 1 John 4:7-21 –  Love One Another  I’ve been to many weddings over the years, and one of the more common Scriptures read is 1 Corinthians 13.  It’s about love.  The pre-eminence of love.  And a description of love.  A beautiful chapter, really.   “If I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-faith-and-assurance Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-faith-and-assurance Mon, 18 Feb 2019 23:14:09 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-children-of-god John’s first epistle is written to a church under attack from false teaching of those he calls “anti-Christs” – who deny that the gospel is sufficient for salvation, that you must have special spiritual knowledge, and that you don’t need to be concerned about your behavior. John focuses this part of his first letter on reinforcing the teaching (the gospel) he delivered to them at the very beginning, encouraging them to remain in it and not to follow these false teachers.  Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-children-of-god Sun, 10 Feb 2019 21:30:49 GMT Sermons John’s first epistle is written to a church under attack from false teaching of those he calls “anti-Christs” – who deny that the gospel is sufficient for salvation, that you must have special spiritual knowledge, and that you don’t need to be concerned about your behavior. John focuses this part of his first letter on reinforcing the teaching (the gospel) he delivered to them at the very beginning, encouraging them to remain in it and not to follow these false teachers.  https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walk-as-jesus-walked That You May Know—The Epistles of John 1 John 2:3-17 Walk as Jesus Walked I just finished reading a fascinating biography of a former U.S. President. The focus of the book is the President’s faith. What his spiritual and religious background is. What he says he believes. I’m reading this wondering, “Is this President a true believer in Jesus Christ?” Some of his statements say an emphatic “Yes.” Some of his statements say, “Hmm, not so sure.” Still others say, […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walk-as-jesus-walked Mon, 04 Feb 2019 04:29:58 GMT Sermons That You May Know—The Epistles of John 1 John 2:3-17 Walk as Jesus Walked I just finished reading a fascinating biography of a former U.S. President. The focus of the book is the President’s faith. What his spiritual and religious background is. What he says he believes. I’m reading this wondering, “Is this President a true believer in Jesus Christ?” Some of his statements say an emphatic “Yes.” Some of his statements say, “Hmm, not so sure.” Still others say, […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-is-light John, Jesus’ closest disciple, testifies that he has seen, heard, and touched the Word of Life, Jesus the Son of God. He writes to his circle of churches, reassuring them that the word they have heard is true and warning them not to turn away from it as numerous people were doing. The essence of the message is that God is light, without any darkness at all and that He has sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Those who know God will walk in the light and trust in Jesus’ death to take away the guilt of their sin. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-is-light Mon, 28 Jan 2019 03:24:40 GMT Sermons John, Jesus’ closest disciple, testifies that he has seen, heard, and touched the Word of Life, Jesus the Son of God. He writes to his circle of churches, reassuring them that the word they have heard is true and warning them not to turn away from it as numerous people were doing. The essence of the message is that God is light, without any darkness at all and that He has sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Those who know God will walk in the light and trust in Jesus’ death to take away the guilt of their sin. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-q-a-with-pastors-brad-dave-and-matt Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-q-a-with-pastors-brad-dave-and-matt Mon, 21 Jan 2019 07:02:29 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-q-a-with-pastors-brad-dave-and-matt-2 Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-q-a-with-pastors-brad-dave-and-matt-2 Mon, 21 Jan 2019 01:02:29 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-one-for-every-ten-the-tithe Most of us who have been around the church for any length of time are aware of the idea of “tithes and offerings”. We might even be aware that “the bible teaches we should give 10% of our income to the local church” – but does it really? What is the tithe? Should Christians tithe? Are you tithing? Does it matter? How much should you be giving? To who? How often? This sermon continues our series on giving by examining […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-one-for-every-ten-the-tithe Sun, 13 Jan 2019 22:00:19 GMT Sermons Most of us who have been around the church for any length of time are aware of the idea of “tithes and offerings”. We might even be aware that “the bible teaches we should give 10% of our income to the local church” – but does it really? What is the tithe? Should Christians tithe? Are you tithing? Does it matter? How much should you be giving? To who? How often? This sermon continues our series on giving by examining […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-money-and-our-purpose Who are you? And why are you on earth? Questions like these are deep, and we often—consciously or not—find ourselves searching for the answers. We need to look no further than the Scriptures, for the One who creates and saves us has the answer and is the answer. And that answer will shape the course of our lives in all areas. This theme of purpose kicks off our 3-week series on money, which is a core area of life under God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/stewardship-money-and-our-purpose Mon, 07 Jan 2019 22:13:21 GMT Sermons Who are you? And why are you on earth? Questions like these are deep, and we often—consciously or not—find ourselves searching for the answers. We need to look no further than the Scriptures, for the One who creates and saves us has the answer and is the answer. And that answer will shape the course of our lives in all areas. This theme of purpose kicks off our 3-week series on money, which is a core area of life under God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-4-come-long-expected-jesus In a world filled with poverty, injustice, oppression, hatred, and strife, God sent good news of a coming Savior who would set the world right and bring peace on Earth, good will to men. Fulfilling the promise given in the last book of the Hebrew scripture, and breaking a 400 year drought in the prophetic ministry, God announced the birth of a great prophet to prepare the way for the coming Savior. Yet today, two thousand years after these events, the world is still filled with poverty, injustice, oppression, hated, and strife. We, too, await the final fulfillment of God’s promises to set the world right through Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior of the World. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-4-come-long-expected-jesus Wed, 26 Dec 2018 03:06:22 GMT Sermons In a world filled with poverty, injustice, oppression, hatred, and strife, God sent good news of a coming Savior who would set the world right and bring peace on Earth, good will to men. Fulfilling the promise given in the last book of the Hebrew scripture, and breaking a 400 year drought in the prophetic ministry, God announced the birth of a great prophet to prepare the way for the coming Savior. Yet today, two thousand years after these events, the world is still filled with poverty, injustice, oppression, hated, and strife. We, too, await the final fulfillment of God’s promises to set the world right through Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior of the World. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-2-marys-response As we continue the story of Jesus’s first coming, we find Gabriel now appearing to Mary. Luke’s account of Gabriel’s conversation with Mary tells us much about who this child will be: the fulfillment of prophecy, and a very unique individual at that. We learn important truths about Jesus’s nature, and we see a right response to God’s revelation: faith even through amazed wonder at seemingly impossible promises. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-2-marys-response Mon, 10 Dec 2018 01:41:30 GMT Sermons As we continue the story of Jesus’s first coming, we find Gabriel now appearing to Mary. Luke’s account of Gabriel’s conversation with Mary tells us much about who this child will be: the fulfillment of prophecy, and a very unique individual at that. We learn important truths about Jesus’s nature, and we see a right response to God’s revelation: faith even through amazed wonder at seemingly impossible promises. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-2-marys-response-2 As we continue the story of Jesus’s first coming, we find Gabriel now appearing to Mary. Luke’s account of Gabriel’s conversation with Mary tells us much about who this child will be: the fulfillment of prophecy, and a very unique individual at that. We learn important truths about Jesus’s nature, and we see a right response to God’s revelation: faith even through amazed wonder at seemingly impossible promises. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ-part-2-marys-response-2 Sun, 09 Dec 2018 19:41:30 GMT Sermons As we continue the story of Jesus’s first coming, we find Gabriel now appearing to Mary. Luke’s account of Gabriel’s conversation with Mary tells us much about who this child will be: the fulfillment of prophecy, and a very unique individual at that. We learn important truths about Jesus’s nature, and we see a right response to God’s revelation: faith even through amazed wonder at seemingly impossible promises. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ We are entering into a season of remembrance of the greatest period of time and the most influential events in human history. This period centers on the person of Jesus Christ and his entrance into our world, when the divine took on humanity. This is his First Coming, or the First Advent. All of history and the foundation of our lives is built upon this Person and these events. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-first-coming-of-christ Mon, 03 Dec 2018 08:56:43 GMT Sermons We are entering into a season of remembrance of the greatest period of time and the most influential events in human history. This period centers on the person of Jesus Christ and his entrance into our world, when the divine took on humanity. This is his First Coming, or the First Advent. All of history and the foundation of our lives is built upon this Person and these events. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/life-in-jesus-name Just prior to Jesus’ death, crucifixion, and resurrection, Jesus had given His disciples marching orders regarding what they should do after he left. In John 21, He reveals Himself one more time to His disciples to strengthen their faith in His resurrection and restore His relationship with them, particularly with Peter, who had denied him. From this chapter we learn how we, too, can be restored after failure and learn that Jesus has a specific plan for each of His disciples. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/life-in-jesus-name Thu, 29 Nov 2018 02:40:04 GMT Sermons Just prior to Jesus’ death, crucifixion, and resurrection, Jesus had given His disciples marching orders regarding what they should do after he left. In John 21, He reveals Himself one more time to His disciples to strengthen their faith in His resurrection and restore His relationship with them, particularly with Peter, who had denied him. From this chapter we learn how we, too, can be restored after failure and learn that Jesus has a specific plan for each of His disciples. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/death-is-defeated Every person ever born has a relentless and ferocious enemy whose name is death. Ever since Genesis 3, mankind and our world have been under an oppressive curse, the curse of death, which is the judgment from God for our rebellion against him, our Maker. But God in his great mercy and rich love sent his own Son from heaven to take on humanity in order to live the perfect life, offer up himself as a sacrificial exchange, and then rise from the dead to give us life in glory forever and ever. Christ is risen! Behold all things will be made new! Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/death-is-defeated Mon, 19 Nov 2018 02:05:50 GMT Sermons Every person ever born has a relentless and ferocious enemy whose name is death. Ever since Genesis 3, mankind and our world have been under an oppressive curse, the curse of death, which is the judgment from God for our rebellion against him, our Maker. But God in his great mercy and rich love sent his own Son from heaven to take on humanity in order to live the perfect life, offer up himself as a sacrificial exchange, and then rise from the dead to give us life in glory forever and ever. Christ is risen! Behold all things will be made new! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-crucifixion-to-fulfill-the-scriptures Each of the 4 Gospels contains a detailed account of the Gospel. John’s Gospel contains three events that are uniquely declared to have happened “in order to fulfill the scriptures.” We will discuss the reasons John specifically declares this and its significance for our lives today: that we may believe, and have life. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-crucifixion-to-fulfill-the-scriptures Mon, 12 Nov 2018 01:50:57 GMT Sermons Each of the 4 Gospels contains a detailed account of the Gospel. John’s Gospel contains three events that are uniquely declared to have happened “in order to fulfill the scriptures.” We will discuss the reasons John specifically declares this and its significance for our lives today: that we may believe, and have life. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-king-of-kings No greater contrast could be found than in the story of Jesus’ death. He was treated like a horrific criminal, kept in custody instead of a terrorist, and declared to be worthy of death, yet he stood before his own people and the Roman government declaring himself to be a king from another world. Just who is Jesus? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-king-of-kings Tue, 06 Nov 2018 02:24:30 GMT Sermons No greater contrast could be found than in the story of Jesus’ death. He was treated like a horrific criminal, kept in custody instead of a terrorist, and declared to be worthy of death, yet he stood before his own people and the Roman government declaring himself to be a king from another world. Just who is Jesus? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-arrest-and-trial-john-181-27 Jesus remains faithful to His Father and courageously steps forward to face His enemies. He is betrayed by one of his closest companions, is repudiated by His lead disciple, and suffers alone. His courage, sacrifice, and faith reassures us of His love and power and inspires us to imitate Him. His suffering encourages us as we realize that our Savior can identify with our sufferings. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-arrest-and-trial-john-181-27 Sun, 28 Oct 2018 23:56:18 GMT Sermons Jesus remains faithful to His Father and courageously steps forward to face His enemies. He is betrayed by one of his closest companions, is repudiated by His lead disciple, and suffers alone. His courage, sacrifice, and faith reassures us of His love and power and inspires us to imitate Him. His suffering encourages us as we realize that our Savior can identify with our sufferings. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/you-will-have-trouble-but-take-heart As we live life following Jesus, we are going to face trouble, persecution, and perhaps even the threat of death for our faith. But we will have everything we need: God knows and is in control, he provides everything we need for the mission through The Holy Spirit and through answered prayer, take heart: we will be with Jesus again soon. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/you-will-have-trouble-but-take-heart Mon, 15 Oct 2018 04:05:48 GMT Sermons As we live life following Jesus, we are going to face trouble, persecution, and perhaps even the threat of death for our faith. But we will have everything we need: God knows and is in control, he provides everything we need for the mission through The Holy Spirit and through answered prayer, take heart: we will be with Jesus again soon. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/abide-in-the-vine After the resurrection, Jesus left the earth and promised to come back later. But until then, we are not alone, for he has given us the Holy Spirit as our helper. And he has also given us instructions and called us to bear fruit. Like a grapevine overflowing with luscious grapes, we are to bear the fruit of God. And we do this according to a rather odd expression: we are to abide in the Vine. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/abide-in-the-vine Mon, 08 Oct 2018 21:05:08 GMT Sermons After the resurrection, Jesus left the earth and promised to come back later. But until then, we are not alone, for he has given us the Holy Spirit as our helper. And he has also given us instructions and called us to bear fruit. Like a grapevine overflowing with luscious grapes, we are to bear the fruit of God. And we do this according to a rather odd expression: we are to abide in the Vine. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/only-one-way We like options in our lives, lots of options. Classes to take, cars to buy, cell phone plans to sign up for. And what about religion? Can we have many options to choose from there, too? Spoiler alert: Jesus says no. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/only-one-way Mon, 01 Oct 2018 20:14:50 GMT Sermons We like options in our lives, lots of options. Classes to take, cars to buy, cell phone plans to sign up for. And what about religion? Can we have many options to choose from there, too? Spoiler alert: Jesus says no. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-as-i-have-loved-you In the final hours before His death, Jesus gives His disciples final marching orders, preparing them for a future without His physical presence. He begins with an act of humble, selfless, sacrificial, gracious love. As always, Jesus sets the example, inspiring us in how we ought to live and serve and love. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/love-as-i-have-loved-you Mon, 24 Sep 2018 22:06:12 GMT Sermons In the final hours before His death, Jesus gives His disciples final marching orders, preparing them for a future without His physical presence. He begins with an act of humble, selfless, sacrificial, gracious love. As always, Jesus sets the example, inspiring us in how we ought to live and serve and love. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walk-in-the-light-while-you-have-it We are now a little over half-way through John’s gospel, and we are coming to an end of John’s record of his public ministry. Jesus realizes that “the hour has come”, and he gives a final exhortation to all who will hear him: “Walk in the light, lest the darkness overtake you.” A final exhortation to believe that he is God’s Messiah. John records this exhortation for us: respond to Jesus while we still have the opportunity. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/walk-in-the-light-while-you-have-it Mon, 17 Sep 2018 03:27:35 GMT Sermons We are now a little over half-way through John’s gospel, and we are coming to an end of John’s record of his public ministry. Jesus realizes that “the hour has come”, and he gives a final exhortation to all who will hear him: “Walk in the light, lest the darkness overtake you.” A final exhortation to believe that he is God’s Messiah. John records this exhortation for us: respond to Jesus while we still have the opportunity. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/responding-to-jesus Jesus was a polarizing figure. In some, He inspired passionate, extravagant love; in others intense and even violent hatred. Because of the hatred, there was a cost to following Jesus. The multitudes, once wildly excited, turned and abandoned Him when the going got rough. But one disciple gave her best and blessed Jesus, perhaps more than we ever imagined. How will you respond to Jesus? Will you see Him as a threat to be pushed away and rejected? Will you […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/responding-to-jesus Mon, 10 Sep 2018 00:28:27 GMT Sermons Jesus was a polarizing figure. In some, He inspired passionate, extravagant love; in others intense and even violent hatred. Because of the hatred, there was a cost to following Jesus. The multitudes, once wildly excited, turned and abandoned Him when the going got rough. But one disciple gave her best and blessed Jesus, perhaps more than we ever imagined. How will you respond to Jesus? Will you see Him as a threat to be pushed away and rejected? Will you […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/john-11-rising-from-the-dead Death is our greatest enemy. And we spend countless dollars, energy, and even worry to hold it off as long as we can. But God not only has the answer, he is the answer. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/john-11-rising-from-the-dead Mon, 03 Sep 2018 03:31:47 GMT Sermons Death is our greatest enemy. And we spend countless dollars, energy, and even worry to hold it off as long as we can. But God not only has the answer, he is the answer. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/john-10-the-good-shepherd Download sermon notes and discussion questions: (PDF, DOC) Today we continue our study of John in chapter 10. Jesus gives some of the most reassuring words in all the gospels. Jesus is the good shepherd. He calls to his people, his sheep, who know his voice, will follow him, and will never be cast out. If we are his sheep, if we believe he is the messiah, we can be sure he will never cast us away, even when the world […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/john-10-the-good-shepherd Sun, 26 Aug 2018 22:50:17 GMT Sermons Download sermon notes and discussion questions: (PDF, DOC) Today we continue our study of John in chapter 10. Jesus gives some of the most reassuring words in all the gospels. Jesus is the good shepherd. He calls to his people, his sheep, who know his voice, will follow him, and will never be cast out. If we are his sheep, if we believe he is the messiah, we can be sure he will never cast us away, even when the world […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/i-was-blind-but-now-i-see The word “enlightenment” has been popular since the 18th century in Europe, but mankind has always been hungry for enlightenment. To be in light and not in darkness. To know and follow truth, not lies. But how do we know what is light and true? Jesus, claiming to be the light of the world, encountered a man blind from birth and miraculously gave him sight. But even more than physical sight, this man found spiritual sight. In contrast, the religious community was confronted with their own spiritual blindness. In calling us to true light, Jesus calls us to himself. How will we respond? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/i-was-blind-but-now-i-see Mon, 20 Aug 2018 19:53:25 GMT Sermons The word “enlightenment” has been popular since the 18th century in Europe, but mankind has always been hungry for enlightenment. To be in light and not in darkness. To know and follow truth, not lies. But how do we know what is light and true? Jesus, claiming to be the light of the world, encountered a man blind from birth and miraculously gave him sight. But even more than physical sight, this man found spiritual sight. In contrast, the religious community was confronted with their own spiritual blindness. In calling us to true light, Jesus calls us to himself. How will we respond? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-truth-will-set-you-free Freedom. Such a beautiful word. The pursuit of freedom might be one of our life goals, or it might feel hopelessly out of reach. But first we must ask, from what do we want to be free? For the word freedom implies there is some type of imprisonment, enslavement, or severe restriction. In the Gospel of John, Jesus points us to freedom, but we will find two surprises: what we are enslaved to, and what—actually who—is our only source of freedom. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-truth-will-set-you-free Mon, 13 Aug 2018 07:42:50 GMT Sermons Freedom. Such a beautiful word. The pursuit of freedom might be one of our life goals, or it might feel hopelessly out of reach. But first we must ask, from what do we want to be free? For the word freedom implies there is some type of imprisonment, enslavement, or severe restriction. In the Gospel of John, Jesus points us to freedom, but we will find two surprises: what we are enslaved to, and what—actually who—is our only source of freedom. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-story-my-little-story How could a totally just, but loving Father have anything to do with me? Is a life-bringing relationship with Jesus, in whom all things were created through, possible? What may it look like to walk with the Helper? How could a totally just, but loving Father have anything to do with me? Today, Mike will share some of his life stories from his 44+ years of life with God. Mike Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-story-my-little-story Mon, 23 Jul 2018 01:54:48 GMT Sermons How could a totally just, but loving Father have anything to do with me? Is a life-bringing relationship with Jesus, in whom all things were created through, possible? What may it look like to walk with the Helper? How could a totally just, but loving Father have anything to do with me? Today, Mike will share some of his life stories from his 44+ years of life with God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-the-matchless-one While Jesus walked the earth, controversy surrounded him. A few loved him, but most were either confused about or hateful toward him. Even today Jesus Christ is controversial across the world, and in some countries his followers are being persecuted unto death. What is it about Jesus—his words and actions—that makes him such a polarizing yet remarkable person? He is matchless. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-the-matchless-one Mon, 16 Jul 2018 03:48:10 GMT Sermons While Jesus walked the earth, controversy surrounded him. A few loved him, but most were either confused about or hateful toward him. Even today Jesus Christ is controversial across the world, and in some countries his followers are being persecuted unto death. What is it about Jesus—his words and actions—that makes him such a polarizing yet remarkable person? He is matchless. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/i-am-the-bread-of-life Many in the crowds that followed Jesus were more excited about the free food He provided than His claims to be the Son of God. Just like the crowds who followed Jesus, our hearts and minds gravitate toward our concerns in this world. Will we have enough to live on? Will the economy tank? Will people accept me? Jesus tells us where true sustenance and satisfaction can be found. He says, “I am the bread of life.” We must come to Jesus, as only He can satisfy our deepest longing and needs. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/i-am-the-bread-of-life Mon, 09 Jul 2018 21:50:34 GMT Sermons Many in the crowds that followed Jesus were more excited about the free food He provided than His claims to be the Son of God. Just like the crowds who followed Jesus, our hearts and minds gravitate toward our concerns in this world. Will we have enough to live on? Will the economy tank? Will people accept me? Jesus tells us where true sustenance and satisfaction can be found. He says, “I am the bread of life.” We must come to Jesus, as only He can satisfy our deepest longing and needs. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-father-and-the-son Who really is Jesus? Just another religious figure, prophet, good teacher, or excellent moral example? Or was he actually sent from heaven by God the Father to point us toward heaven and to bring eternal salvation? If we humbly and sincerely read of Jesus’ miracles and his statements about himself, we are compelled to conclude that heaven truly has descended upon the earth. And we would do well to pay attention to Jesus, for our eternal future is at stake. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-father-and-the-son Mon, 02 Jul 2018 07:07:44 GMT Sermons Who really is Jesus? Just another religious figure, prophet, good teacher, or excellent moral example? Or was he actually sent from heaven by God the Father to point us toward heaven and to bring eternal salvation? If we humbly and sincerely read of Jesus’ miracles and his statements about himself, we are compelled to conclude that heaven truly has descended upon the earth. And we would do well to pay attention to Jesus, for our eternal future is at stake. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-savior-of-the-whole-world In the 3rd and 4th chapter’s of his gospel, John highlights Jesus’s interaction with three very different individuals: a Sadducee, a Samaritan adulteress, and a royal official. Jesus reveals himself to all of them as the Son of God, the promised Messiah, and the savior of the whole world. He shows no partiality due to their religious or political affiliations, their social status, nor their ethnicity. All are invited to believe in him. We are meant to learn from his example and do likewise: love, serve, and invite everyone to faith in Jesus. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-savior-of-the-whole-world Mon, 25 Jun 2018 19:40:55 GMT Sermons In the 3rd and 4th chapter’s of his gospel, John highlights Jesus’s interaction with three very different individuals: a Sadducee, a Samaritan adulteress, and a royal official. Jesus reveals himself to all of them as the Son of God, the promised Messiah, and the savior of the whole world. He shows no partiality due to their religious or political affiliations, their social status, nor their ethnicity. All are invited to believe in him. We are meant to learn from his example and do likewise: love, serve, and invite everyone to faith in Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-born-again Ever watched a football game on TV and seen a guy in the end zone holding a sign up of John 3:16? Football. Basketball. Baseball. And even golf!! Why would someone hold up this sign? What does it say? John 3:16 ESV “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This has to be the most well-known verse in the Bible. When I was […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-born-again Mon, 18 Jun 2018 18:01:01 GMT Sermons Ever watched a football game on TV and seen a guy in the end zone holding a sign up of John 3:16? Football. Basketball. Baseball. And even golf!! Why would someone hold up this sign? What does it say? John 3:16 ESV “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This has to be the most well-known verse in the Bible. When I was […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-born-again-2 Ever watched a football game on TV and seen a guy in the end zone holding a sign up of John 3:16? Football. Basketball. Baseball. And even golf!! Why would someone hold up this sign? What does it say? John 3:16 ESV “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This has to be the most well-known verse in the Bible. When I was […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-born-again-2 Mon, 18 Jun 2018 13:01:01 GMT Sermons Ever watched a football game on TV and seen a guy in the end zone holding a sign up of John 3:16? Football. Basketball. Baseball. And even golf!! Why would someone hold up this sign? What does it say? John 3:16 ESV “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This has to be the most well-known verse in the Bible. When I was […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/johns-testimony In John 1:19-2:12, John the apostle gives an eye-witness account of the early days of Jesus’ ministry: The baptism of John, the calling of the first disciples, and the miracle at Cana. Because of John’s testimony, we can be confident that Jesus was the Son of God and that we can find life in His name. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/johns-testimony Mon, 11 Jun 2018 02:44:10 GMT Sermons In John 1:19-2:12, John the apostle gives an eye-witness account of the early days of Jesus’ ministry: The baptism of John, the calling of the first disciples, and the miracle at Cana. Because of John’s testimony, we can be confident that Jesus was the Son of God and that we can find life in His name. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/johns-testimony-2 In John 1:19-2:12, John the apostle gives an eye-witness account of the early days of Jesus’ ministry: The baptism of John, the calling of the first disciples, and the miracle at Cana. Because of John’s testimony, we can be confident that Jesus was the Son of God and that we can find life in His name. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/johns-testimony-2 Sun, 10 Jun 2018 21:44:10 GMT Sermons In John 1:19-2:12, John the apostle gives an eye-witness account of the early days of Jesus’ ministry: The baptism of John, the calling of the first disciples, and the miracle at Cana. Because of John’s testimony, we can be confident that Jesus was the Son of God and that we can find life in His name. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-the-word Whether we are seekers or even skeptics, or we have been believers in Jesus Christ for many years, this Gospel can impact us. Throughout this book, we are confronted with the reality and uniqueness of Jesus, and we are called on to look to him for the answers to life. For Christianity is far more than another religion with good rules for living. Fundamentally, it is about a person, and his name is Jesus. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-the-word Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:03:09 GMT Sermons Whether we are seekers or even skeptics, or we have been believers in Jesus Christ for many years, this Gospel can impact us. Throughout this book, we are confronted with the reality and uniqueness of Jesus, and we are called on to look to him for the answers to life. For Christianity is far more than another religion with good rules for living. Fundamentally, it is about a person, and his name is Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-the-word-2 Whether we are seekers or even skeptics, or we have been believers in Jesus Christ for many years, this Gospel can impact us. Throughout this book, we are confronted with the reality and uniqueness of Jesus, and we are called on to look to him for the answers to life. For Christianity is far more than another religion with good rules for living. Fundamentally, it is about a person, and his name is Jesus. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gospel-of-john-life-in-jesus-name-the-word-2 Tue, 05 Jun 2018 19:03:09 GMT Sermons Whether we are seekers or even skeptics, or we have been believers in Jesus Christ for many years, this Gospel can impact us. Throughout this book, we are confronted with the reality and uniqueness of Jesus, and we are called on to look to him for the answers to life. For Christianity is far more than another religion with good rules for living. Fundamentally, it is about a person, and his name is Jesus. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/counterfeit-truth Since the very beginning of creation, mankind has been under the attack of lies about God, and false teaching about the truth. Far from improving over time, false teaching accumulates over the years, and our culture is soaked in it. Many popular books, radio programs, songs, TV shows, and even movies that claim to be “Christian” contain old lies that the church has labeled as “heresy” for hundreds of years. How can we be on guard against these lies ourselves, and how can we help defend one another in the church from being led astray? Join us this Sunday to find out. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/counterfeit-truth Mon, 28 May 2018 01:26:52 GMT Sermons Since the very beginning of creation, mankind has been under the attack of lies about God, and false teaching about the truth. Far from improving over time, false teaching accumulates over the years, and our culture is soaked in it. Many popular books, radio programs, songs, TV shows, and even movies that claim to be “Christian” contain old lies that the church has labeled as “heresy” for hundreds of years. How can we be on guard against these lies ourselves, and how can we help defend one another in the church from being led astray? Join us this Sunday to find out. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/relationships-the-transition The Scripture defines only a handful of male-female relationships. Parent-Child, Siblings, and spouses. We in the church are told to treat each other as family, along these lines. What does the transition from sibling to spouse look like? The world sends us many messages regarding dating, marriage, and sexuality, are any of them useful to us? What does dating look like for christians? Join us as we seek to discern cultural expectations (both worldly and our in-house evangelical culture) from biblical principle, and see how God might lead us here. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/relationships-the-transition Mon, 21 May 2018 00:03:34 GMT Sermons The Scripture defines only a handful of male-female relationships. Parent-Child, Siblings, and spouses. We in the church are told to treat each other as family, along these lines. What does the transition from sibling to spouse look like? The world sends us many messages regarding dating, marriage, and sexuality, are any of them useful to us? What does dating look like for christians? Join us as we seek to discern cultural expectations (both worldly and our in-house evangelical culture) from biblical principle, and see how God might lead us here. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mothers-to-the-next-generation God wants children for his kingdom– people who are saved by him, born again, and adopted into his eternal family. And every woman–married or not, young or old– can be God’s agent to influence the next generation. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mothers-to-the-next-generation Mon, 14 May 2018 19:28:16 GMT Sermons God wants children for his kingdom– people who are saved by him, born again, and adopted into his eternal family. And every woman–married or not, young or old– can be God’s agent to influence the next generation. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflections-on-marriage-one-couples-journey In our day, fewer people are getting married and those who do still have close to a 50% divorce rate. Is it possible for a marriage to not just survive but actually thrive? What are the principles and practices that make for a healthy, growing, and fulfilling marriage? Today, Dave Bovenmyer will give three practices, gained from He and Dawn’s experience in 43 years of marriage, that can help any marriage relationship grow and overflow with passion and joy: 1) Make God the center, 2) Work at marriage, and 3) Work on yourself. Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflections-on-marriage-one-couples-journey Mon, 07 May 2018 05:01:38 GMT Sermons In our day, fewer people are getting married and those who do still have close to a 50% divorce rate. Is it possible for a marriage to not just survive but actually thrive? What are the principles and practices that make for a healthy, growing, and fulfilling marriage? Today, Dave Bovenmyer will give three practices, gained from He and Dawn’s experience in 43 years of marriage, that can help any marriage relationship grow and overflow with passion and joy: 1) Make God the center, 2) Work at marriage, and 3) Work on yourself. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflections-on-marriage-one-couples-journey-2 In our day, fewer people are getting married and those who do still have close to a 50% divorce rate. Is it possible for a marriage to not just survive but actually thrive? What are the principles and practices that make for a healthy, growing, and fulfilling marriage? Today, Dave Bovenmyer will give three practices, gained from He and Dawn’s experience in 43 years of marriage, that can help any marriage relationship grow and overflow with passion and joy: 1) Make God the center, 2) Work at marriage, and 3) Work on yourself. Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reflections-on-marriage-one-couples-journey-2 Mon, 07 May 2018 00:01:38 GMT Sermons In our day, fewer people are getting married and those who do still have close to a 50% divorce rate. Is it possible for a marriage to not just survive but actually thrive? What are the principles and practices that make for a healthy, growing, and fulfilling marriage? Today, Dave Bovenmyer will give three practices, gained from He and Dawn’s experience in 43 years of marriage, that can help any marriage relationship grow and overflow with passion and joy: 1) Make God the center, 2) Work at marriage, and 3) Work on yourself. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/go-and-be-reconciled (Download this manuscript and discussion questions (PDF format, Word format) Today we are going to talk about forgiveness. Probably one of the most central concepts to the entire Christian faith. The very core of the message of Christianity is a restored relationship between the creator God and the capstone of his creation: mankind. The key to that restored relationship, restored fellowship, is the act of divine forgiveness of our sin and rebellion. That forgiveness was costly. God, the Father, gave […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/go-and-be-reconciled Mon, 30 Apr 2018 00:34:29 GMT Sermons (Download this manuscript and discussion questions (PDF format, Word format) Today we are going to talk about forgiveness. Probably one of the most central concepts to the entire Christian faith. The very core of the message of Christianity is a restored relationship between the creator God and the capstone of his creation: mankind. The key to that restored relationship, restored fellowship, is the act of divine forgiveness of our sin and rebellion. That forgiveness was costly. God, the Father, gave […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gently-restore Conflict in relationships seems unavoidable, but we don’t have to stay there. God offers wisdom and power to be peacemakers, which can include lovingly and gently confronting others for their sin, with the goal of restoring the relationship. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gently-restore Mon, 23 Apr 2018 03:26:42 GMT Sermons Conflict in relationships seems unavoidable, but we don’t have to stay there. God offers wisdom and power to be peacemakers, which can include lovingly and gently confronting others for their sin, with the goal of restoring the relationship. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/get-the-log-out Conflict in relationships seems to come easy, but peace takes more effort through the power of God. Peace begins by humbly looking within our own hearts for our contribution to the conflict. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/get-the-log-out Mon, 16 Apr 2018 19:22:51 GMT Sermons Conflict in relationships seems to come easy, but peace takes more effort through the power of God. Peace begins by humbly looking within our own hearts for our contribution to the conflict. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/resolving-conflict-glorifying-god Finding conflict comes easy and is rooted in selfish desires. Making peace takes the grace of God and is rooted in a desire to glorify God and bring good to others. Blessing comes to those who strive for peace, for Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/resolving-conflict-glorifying-god Mon, 09 Apr 2018 07:42:02 GMT Sermons Finding conflict comes easy and is rooted in selfish desires. Making peace takes the grace of God and is rooted in a desire to glorify God and bring good to others. Blessing comes to those who strive for peace, for Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-the-suffering-king Who was Jesus? News magazines and TV documentaries regularly publish trendy theories of who Jesus really was. Invariably, the theories reflect their authors’ own modern philosophies rather than a realistic portrayal of Jesus as He was known in His own first-century, very-Jewish world. Today we will look at Jesus from a unique perspective, that of the Hebrew prophets who wrote about Him 700 to 1,000 years prior to His birth. The crystal clear message of these prophets verifies who Jesus was—both the Anointed King of the Jews and the Suffering Servant of Jehovah, who died for our sins, rose from the dead, and awaits the proper moment to return and rule as King the world. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-the-suffering-king Sun, 01 Apr 2018 20:39:44 GMT Sermons Who was Jesus? News magazines and TV documentaries regularly publish trendy theories of who Jesus really was. Invariably, the theories reflect their authors’ own modern philosophies rather than a realistic portrayal of Jesus as He was known in His own first-century, very-Jewish world. Today we will look at Jesus from a unique perspective, that of the Hebrew prophets who wrote about Him 700 to 1,000 years prior to His birth. The crystal clear message of these prophets verifies who Jesus was—both the Anointed King of the Jews and the Suffering Servant of Jehovah, who died for our sins, rose from the dead, and awaits the proper moment to return and rule as King the world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-and-be-baptized Baptism is one of the most important events and concepts in the Christian faith. Christians have understood baptism in several different ways throughout the centuries. At Stonebrook, we practice “believer’s baptism” as an expression and testimony of our new birth through faith in Christ. It is a command from Jesus, to be done by all who believe, as soon as possible after they believe. We will discuss the different understandings of baptism, what we believe and why, and who should be baptized and when! Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/believe-and-be-baptized Mon, 26 Mar 2018 19:51:43 GMT Sermons Baptism is one of the most important events and concepts in the Christian faith. Christians have understood baptism in several different ways throughout the centuries. At Stonebrook, we practice “believer’s baptism” as an expression and testimony of our new birth through faith in Christ. It is a command from Jesus, to be done by all who believe, as soon as possible after they believe. We will discuss the different understandings of baptism, what we believe and why, and who should be baptized and when! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/well-supplied-by-god Paul’s great passion was to live as a citizen of heaven in a manner that was worthy of the gospel, and he sought to live that way in every part of his life. His heart of contentment, joy, and unselfishness even in times of great need show us the heart of Christ. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/well-supplied-by-god Mon, 19 Mar 2018 01:10:33 GMT Sermons Paul’s great passion was to live as a citizen of heaven in a manner that was worthy of the gospel, and he sought to live that way in every part of his life. His heart of contentment, joy, and unselfishness even in times of great need show us the heart of Christ. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/finding-joy-and-peace-in-the-lord No matter how difficult life becomes, those of us who believe in Jesus can find exultant joy and unfathomable peace as we bring our fears, desires and passions to the Lord in prayer and as we remember who Jesus is and what He has done, is doing, will do. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/finding-joy-and-peace-in-the-lord Mon, 12 Mar 2018 05:38:22 GMT Sermons No matter how difficult life becomes, those of us who believe in Jesus can find exultant joy and unfathomable peace as we bring our fears, desires and passions to the Lord in prayer and as we remember who Jesus is and what He has done, is doing, will do. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/kingdom-work-toward-only-one-goal What is your idea of “The Good Life”?  What way of life, or standard of living are you working toward? What end result are you running after? What is your goal? Another way of asking it: what would be the most disappointing thing that you could face? What thing are you trying to gain, or hold on to right now, that if you missed it, or it was taken away from you, would ruin your life. Would crush your hopes […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/kingdom-work-toward-only-one-goal Sun, 04 Mar 2018 22:21:52 GMT Sermons What is your idea of “The Good Life”?  What way of life, or standard of living are you working toward? What end result are you running after? What is your goal? Another way of asking it: what would be the most disappointing thing that you could face? What thing are you trying to gain, or hold on to right now, that if you missed it, or it was taken away from you, would ruin your life. Would crush your hopes […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/suffer-loss-to-gain-christ We humans love to make classes of people: economic, ethnic, intellectual, and social classes. Such classes attempt to make us better or worse than others, depending where we land. The Apostle Paul makes it clear that the way to God is not by any such heritage, accomplishment, or classification, but only by Christ. The pursuit of knowing Christ and living for him was Paul’s great passion. Rather than glorying in his own merit, Paul gloried in Christ. As we stand firm in such a message, our lives will be changed and God’s name will be held high. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/suffer-loss-to-gain-christ Sun, 25 Feb 2018 22:20:01 GMT Sermons We humans love to make classes of people: economic, ethnic, intellectual, and social classes. Such classes attempt to make us better or worse than others, depending where we land. The Apostle Paul makes it clear that the way to God is not by any such heritage, accomplishment, or classification, but only by Christ. The pursuit of knowing Christ and living for him was Paul’s great passion. Rather than glorying in his own merit, Paul gloried in Christ. As we stand firm in such a message, our lives will be changed and God’s name will be held high. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-out-your-own-salvation-going-down-in-order-to-go-up Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-out-your-own-salvation-going-down-in-order-to-go-up Wed, 21 Feb 2018 07:22:25 GMT Sermons Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/striving-side-by-side We often enjoy hearing the message, “You deserve this good thing.” Politicians and advertising specialists trumpet this message. However, God’s Scriptures and the gospel message take us in another direction. Through God’s mercy and grace to us in the gospel of Christ, the question we must answer is, “What does God deserve? What is he worthy of?” In our passage today, the Apostle Paul reveals the surprising but beautiful answer. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/striving-side-by-side Mon, 12 Feb 2018 07:05:59 GMT Sermons We often enjoy hearing the message, “You deserve this good thing.” Politicians and advertising specialists trumpet this message. However, God’s Scriptures and the gospel message take us in another direction. Through God’s mercy and grace to us in the gospel of Christ, the question we must answer is, “What does God deserve? What is he worthy of?” In our passage today, the Apostle Paul reveals the surprising but beautiful answer. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-die-is-gain Think of a time when you were filled with joy. Cheerful. Happy. Deep down inside. I’m guessing it was a very exciting occasion. The day the Lord saved you. Graduation. A new job. Wedding day. Baby born. Your sports team won a championship. Did any of you think of your joy during a time of suffering? If you read in Acts 16, you can read the very beginning of a new church in a Roman city called Philippi. The Apostle […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-die-is-gain Mon, 05 Feb 2018 23:05:13 GMT Sermons Think of a time when you were filled with joy. Cheerful. Happy. Deep down inside. I’m guessing it was a very exciting occasion. The day the Lord saved you. Graduation. A new job. Wedding day. Baby born. Your sports team won a championship. Did any of you think of your joy during a time of suffering? If you read in Acts 16, you can read the very beginning of a new church in a Roman city called Philippi. The Apostle […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/citizens-of-a-different-kingdom In his letter to the Christians in Philippi, Paul thanks them for their partnership with him in the work of preaching God’s word, and exhorts them to continue their faithful walk in following Christ, as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven, who live a remarkably different life from the rest of the world. In this first section, Paul greets and encourages the church and prays they would be full of love and unity that stems from a knowledge of the truth and discernment of error, so that God may be glorified and praised by the watching world. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/citizens-of-a-different-kingdom Mon, 29 Jan 2018 21:23:26 GMT Sermons In his letter to the Christians in Philippi, Paul thanks them for their partnership with him in the work of preaching God’s word, and exhorts them to continue their faithful walk in following Christ, as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven, who live a remarkably different life from the rest of the world. In this first section, Paul greets and encourages the church and prays they would be full of love and unity that stems from a knowledge of the truth and discernment of error, so that God may be glorified and praised by the watching world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/money-and-contentment We can have a love-hate relationship with money. Sometimes we love and long for more of it, but at other times we hate the stresses and worry that seems to accompany the subject. The Lord has direction for us with money so that it doesn’t steal our hearts from him and so that we can have lasting fruit in heaven because of our godly handling of it. Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/money-and-contentment Mon, 22 Jan 2018 07:30:00 GMT Sermons We can have a love-hate relationship with money. Sometimes we love and long for more of it, but at other times we hate the stresses and worry that seems to accompany the subject. The Lord has direction for us with money so that it doesn’t steal our hearts from him and so that we can have lasting fruit in heaven because of our godly handling of it. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-the-apostle-pauls-fund-raiser We know of one fundraiser in the New Testament; the apostle Paul took it upon himself to raise money for poor Christians in Jerusalem. He was led by the Lord to rally Christians and churches to give and was so successful that some gave generously out of extreme poverty.  We can learn a lot from Paul’s wise appeals that can help purify our motives and give us direction as we raise funds for Stonebrook’s Renew Campaign. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-the-apostle-pauls-fund-raiser Mon, 15 Jan 2018 22:34:05 GMT Sermons We know of one fundraiser in the New Testament; the apostle Paul took it upon himself to raise money for poor Christians in Jerusalem. He was led by the Lord to rally Christians and churches to give and was so successful that some gave generously out of extreme poverty.  We can learn a lot from Paul’s wise appeals that can help purify our motives and give us direction as we raise funds for Stonebrook’s Renew Campaign. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-the-apostle-pauls-fund-raiser-2 We know of one fundraiser in the New Testament; the apostle Paul took it upon himself to raise money for poor Christians in Jerusalem. He was led by the Lord to rally Christians and churches to give and was so successful that some gave generously out of extreme poverty.  We can learn a lot from Paul’s wise appeals that can help purify our motives and give us direction as we raise funds for Stonebrook’s Renew Campaign. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-the-apostle-pauls-fund-raiser-2 Mon, 15 Jan 2018 16:34:05 GMT Sermons We know of one fundraiser in the New Testament; the apostle Paul took it upon himself to raise money for poor Christians in Jerusalem. He was led by the Lord to rally Christians and churches to give and was so successful that some gave generously out of extreme poverty.  We can learn a lot from Paul’s wise appeals that can help purify our motives and give us direction as we raise funds for Stonebrook’s Renew Campaign. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/perspectives-on-money-and-heaven God is the Owner of all and the Provider for all, and he is the foundation for our true perspectives on money and possessions, i.e., Mammon. If we lose sight of this, not only will live in anxiety and error, we will miss out on real treasures—heavenly ones. Jesus is clear on what our heavenly orientation to God and Mammon is. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/perspectives-on-money-and-heaven Mon, 08 Jan 2018 23:22:07 GMT Sermons God is the Owner of all and the Provider for all, and he is the foundation for our true perspectives on money and possessions, i.e., Mammon. If we lose sight of this, not only will live in anxiety and error, we will miss out on real treasures—heavenly ones. Jesus is clear on what our heavenly orientation to God and Mammon is. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-prophet-priest-and-king-jesus-the-king God’s people in the old covenant were given prophets, priests, and kings to serve them before their God. But now all three roles are fulfilled in the person of Jesus the Messiah, our all-sufficient Savior. Jesus as the King of kings will return to earth soon to establish his kingdom, and he will rule with absolute authority, power, justice, and righteousness. And he is to feared, obeyed, and loved. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-prophet-priest-and-king-jesus-the-king Wed, 27 Dec 2017 09:45:47 GMT Sermons God’s people in the old covenant were given prophets, priests, and kings to serve them before their God. But now all three roles are fulfilled in the person of Jesus the Messiah, our all-sufficient Savior. Jesus as the King of kings will return to earth soon to establish his kingdom, and he will rule with absolute authority, power, justice, and righteousness. And he is to feared, obeyed, and loved. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-prophet-priest-and-king-jesus-the-priest Download sermon notes and discussion questions. Download sermon slide graphics. Intro: Advent It is the time of the year when we focus in on the arrival of Christ into the world; God’s greatest gift to mankind. We call this the “Advent Season,” the four weeks before Christmas time; a time to reflect on our condition before Christmas and what his arrival means for us. But what exactly was the intention, the purpose of God’s gift of Jesus to us? I […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-prophet-priest-and-king-jesus-the-priest Mon, 18 Dec 2017 06:10:31 GMT Sermons Download sermon notes and discussion questions. Download sermon slide graphics. Intro: Advent It is the time of the year when we focus in on the arrival of Christ into the world; God’s greatest gift to mankind. We call this the “Advent Season,” the four weeks before Christmas time; a time to reflect on our condition before Christmas and what his arrival means for us. But what exactly was the intention, the purpose of God’s gift of Jesus to us? I […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-christ-as-prophet God’s people in the old covenant were given prophets, priests, and kings to serve them before their God. But now all three roles are fulfilled in the person of Jesus the Messiah, our all-sufficient Savior. Jesus as the great Prophet not only speaks for God, he is the very Word of God on whom our lives depend, and he now calls on us to look to him and listen to him. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/jesus-christ-as-prophet Mon, 11 Dec 2017 20:06:08 GMT Sermons God’s people in the old covenant were given prophets, priests, and kings to serve them before their God. But now all three roles are fulfilled in the person of Jesus the Messiah, our all-sufficient Savior. Jesus as the great Prophet not only speaks for God, he is the very Word of God on whom our lives depend, and he now calls on us to look to him and listen to him. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/prayer-filled-renewal Where is Stonebrook headed? Our overarching theme for us this year is “Renewal.” We want to be renewed in our unity as God’s family, as well as walking in Christ with a renewed sense of faith and expectation in prayer that the Lord wants to work in and through us as a church family. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/prayer-filled-renewal Mon, 04 Dec 2017 07:35:03 GMT Sermons Where is Stonebrook headed? Our overarching theme for us this year is “Renewal.” We want to be renewed in our unity as God’s family, as well as walking in Christ with a renewed sense of faith and expectation in prayer that the Lord wants to work in and through us as a church family. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-deuteronomy-wrap-up-be-careful-and-watch-your-heart Although Christians do not participate in the covenant that God made with Israel, there is much we can learn from that covenant. God rescued Israel from cruel bondage in Egypt, cared for them in the wilderness, and gave them the ten commandments and many other personal and societal laws. His purpose was to develop and instill faith and obedience in their hearts. We also can turn our hearts toward God and His blessing by loving His Word, sticking with the Church, remembering His works, and cultivating an honest, open heart. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-deuteronomy-wrap-up-be-careful-and-watch-your-heart Mon, 27 Nov 2017 05:31:22 GMT Sermons Although Christians do not participate in the covenant that God made with Israel, there is much we can learn from that covenant. God rescued Israel from cruel bondage in Egypt, cared for them in the wilderness, and gave them the ten commandments and many other personal and societal laws. His purpose was to develop and instill faith and obedience in their hearts. We also can turn our hearts toward God and His blessing by loving His Word, sticking with the Church, remembering His works, and cultivating an honest, open heart. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-life-and-death In late September, we were in Raleigh, North Carolina, for my daughter’s wedding. The day before the wedding, my sister and brother-in-law were with us in the car, and we were leaving downtown Raleigh. They were in the back seat and volunteered to navigate us back to where we were staying. So they whip out their iPhones, and plug in our destination. Directions on iPhone said, “Go northeast,” but we knew we needed to go southwest. We knew southwest because […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-life-and-death Mon, 13 Nov 2017 07:21:33 GMT Sermons In late September, we were in Raleigh, North Carolina, for my daughter’s wedding. The day before the wedding, my sister and brother-in-law were with us in the car, and we were leaving downtown Raleigh. They were in the back seat and volunteered to navigate us back to where we were staying. So they whip out their iPhones, and plug in our destination. Directions on iPhone said, “Go northeast,” but we knew we needed to go southwest. We knew southwest because […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-blessed-or-cursed In His covenant with Israel, God promised amazing blessings to the nation if they remained loyal and obedient to Him and horrific curses if they forsook Him and turned to other gods. Christians are not under Israel’s covenant, but are under the New Covenant—which also contains promises and warnings, but with significant differences. Yet, Christians, too, must love and honor God in order to be blessed. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-blessed-or-cursed Mon, 06 Nov 2017 01:31:07 GMT Sermons In His covenant with Israel, God promised amazing blessings to the nation if they remained loyal and obedient to Him and horrific curses if they forsook Him and turned to other gods. Christians are not under Israel’s covenant, but are under the New Covenant—which also contains promises and warnings, but with significant differences. Yet, Christians, too, must love and honor God in order to be blessed. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reformation-sunday-semper-reformanda 500 years ago, the protestant reformation brought the light of the truth of scripture back to a church that had lost its way in the medieval period. The recaptured tenets of the reformation: Salvation by grace through faith alone, personal participation in worship, and scripture as the final authority for faith and practice, are still relevant and essential for us today. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reformation-sunday-semper-reformanda Mon, 30 Oct 2017 02:34:01 GMT Sermons 500 years ago, the protestant reformation brought the light of the truth of scripture back to a church that had lost its way in the medieval period. The recaptured tenets of the reformation: Salvation by grace through faith alone, personal participation in worship, and scripture as the final authority for faith and practice, are still relevant and essential for us today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-love-the-word-of-god Download Study Notes Deuteronomy 12-26  Week 10 Love the Word of God If you’ve ever read the OT, you’ve come across some commands that you simply don’t know what to do with. Deuteronomy 14:21 ESV “You shall not boil a young goat in its mother’s milk.” What?  Why?  Has anyone here ever disobeyed this command?  No one?  Surely someone has sinned.  🙂 Deuteronomy 15:7 ESV “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-love-the-word-of-god Mon, 23 Oct 2017 06:31:38 GMT Sermons Download Study Notes Deuteronomy 12-26  Week 10 Love the Word of God If you’ve ever read the OT, you’ve come across some commands that you simply don’t know what to do with. Deuteronomy 14:21 ESV “You shall not boil a young goat in its mother’s milk.” What?  Why?  Has anyone here ever disobeyed this command?  No one?  Surely someone has sinned.  🙂 Deuteronomy 15:7 ESV “If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-living-for-the-glorious Israel was confronted with the truth of God and about God: would they consider who he is? Then they were called to respond to God and his will for them: would they follow him? They were at a crossroads, choosing between the glorious and the inglorious, good and bad, blessings and curses. Like Israel was, so we today are confronted with the truth of God and the calling of his will. Which will we choose? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-living-for-the-glorious Mon, 16 Oct 2017 01:55:57 GMT Sermons Israel was confronted with the truth of God and about God: would they consider who he is? Then they were called to respond to God and his will for them: would they follow him? They were at a crossroads, choosing between the glorious and the inglorious, good and bad, blessings and curses. Like Israel was, so we today are confronted with the truth of God and the calling of his will. Which will we choose? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-remember-who-you-are Wrapping up the first section of his sermon to the new generation of Israelites, who are about to at last enter the promised land, Moses reminds the nation who they are: stubborn, rebellious, and undeserving, yet loved, chosen, and cherished nation. He exhorts them to never forget this fact, as they are about to enter the promised land. He reminds us today to keep in view who we are without him: stubborn and rebellious, yet loved and chosen. This reminder will keep our hearts in the right posture of humility, gratefulness, joy, and confidence in God’s love for us as His children. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-remember-who-you-are Sun, 08 Oct 2017 20:06:24 GMT Sermons Wrapping up the first section of his sermon to the new generation of Israelites, who are about to at last enter the promised land, Moses reminds the nation who they are: stubborn, rebellious, and undeserving, yet loved, chosen, and cherished nation. He exhorts them to never forget this fact, as they are about to enter the promised land. He reminds us today to keep in view who we are without him: stubborn and rebellious, yet loved and chosen. This reminder will keep our hearts in the right posture of humility, gratefulness, joy, and confidence in God’s love for us as His children. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-key-to-blessing As Israel is at the doorway of entering the promised land, God pauses to give them the key to enjoying those blessings.  He reveals that for the last 40 years he has been teaching them the all important lesson that life comes from listening to Him.  The material world alone cannot bring us life and if we begin to think that it does even the good things that God longs to gives us will become a curse. Charlie Meyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-key-to-blessing Mon, 02 Oct 2017 07:27:57 GMT Sermons As Israel is at the doorway of entering the promised land, God pauses to give them the key to enjoying those blessings.  He reveals that for the last 40 years he has been teaching them the all important lesson that life comes from listening to Him.  The material world alone cannot bring us life and if we begin to think that it does even the good things that God longs to gives us will become a curse. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-completely-destroy-the-canaanites Israel was commanded by God to drive the Canaanites out of the land and completely destroy those who remain. Although appalling to modern sensibilities, this command can be harmonized with the Bible’s portrayal of a God of perfect love and justice. God has a duty to judge the world and sometimes judges people and nations in the course of history, not always waiting until the final judgment day. We should respect and appreciate God’s judgments, flee from anything that defiles […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-completely-destroy-the-canaanites Mon, 25 Sep 2017 04:00:36 GMT Sermons Israel was commanded by God to drive the Canaanites out of the land and completely destroy those who remain. Although appalling to modern sensibilities, this command can be harmonized with the Bible’s portrayal of a God of perfect love and justice. God has a duty to judge the world and sometimes judges people and nations in the course of history, not always waiting until the final judgment day. We should respect and appreciate God’s judgments, flee from anything that defiles […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-lord-is-one The statement of Deuteronomy 6:4 is profoundly simply yet magnificently grand, laying out before the people of Israel the most foundational statement of faith. The people were to reject all the so-called gods of the nations and instead look to the one, true, incomparable, mighty God. From this center point of faith in him spring forth all commands and promises. If one verse can summarize the essence of faith in him, this is it. And so it is even for us, for Jesus tells us that this call to faith and the response of obedience to love the Lord wholeheartedly is our greatest calling today. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-lord-is-one Mon, 18 Sep 2017 04:21:24 GMT Sermons The statement of Deuteronomy 6:4 is profoundly simply yet magnificently grand, laying out before the people of Israel the most foundational statement of faith. The people were to reject all the so-called gods of the nations and instead look to the one, true, incomparable, mighty God. From this center point of faith in him spring forth all commands and promises. If one verse can summarize the essence of faith in him, this is it. And so it is even for us, for Jesus tells us that this call to faith and the response of obedience to love the Lord wholeheartedly is our greatest calling today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-ten-commandments Along with thunder, lighting, earthquake, fire and smoke, the voice of God boomed out the Ten Commandments from the mountain as over three million Israelites trembled in fear. These commandments are the center of God’s covenant with Israel and a clear call to love God and our neighbor. They show us practically what love looks like. Although we are under a different covenant, nine of the ten commandments are repeated in the new covenant and we can learn much about how to live and please God through them. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-the-ten-commandments Mon, 11 Sep 2017 20:43:10 GMT Sermons Along with thunder, lighting, earthquake, fire and smoke, the voice of God boomed out the Ten Commandments from the mountain as over three million Israelites trembled in fear. These commandments are the center of God’s covenant with Israel and a clear call to love God and our neighbor. They show us practically what love looks like. Although we are under a different covenant, nine of the ten commandments are repeated in the new covenant and we can learn much about how to live and please God through them. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-listen-and-live As God’s covenant people, Israel was called to “listen and live,” for the Lord wanted to bring them good, not evil. To walk in that goodness, Israel was charged to watch diligently over their souls, not forgetting the great deeds of the Lord, and to remain true to him. Over the next 1000 years of Old Testament history, Israel largely failed at this. While such stubbornness may surprise us, we will actually find many lessons for us today from their story. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-listen-and-live Mon, 04 Sep 2017 02:26:59 GMT Sermons As God’s covenant people, Israel was called to “listen and live,” for the Lord wanted to bring them good, not evil. To walk in that goodness, Israel was charged to watch diligently over their souls, not forgetting the great deeds of the Lord, and to remain true to him. Over the next 1000 years of Old Testament history, Israel largely failed at this. While such stubbornness may surprise us, we will actually find many lessons for us today from their story. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-fear-gods-faithfulness In the opening chapters of Deuteronomy, Moses begins his sermon to Israel by reminding them of where they came from. Highlighting a few episodes from the 40-year exodus journey, Moses points out how, in spite of Israel’s fear, stubbornness, and rebellion, God led them victoriously to the land He promised to give them, while simultaneously dealing with their disobedience. God’s faithfulness, justice, and mercy are beautifully highlighted in this brief summary to encourage, warn, and instruct us today. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-fear-gods-faithfulness Fri, 25 Aug 2017 20:24:34 GMT Sermons In the opening chapters of Deuteronomy, Moses begins his sermon to Israel by reminding them of where they came from. Highlighting a few episodes from the 40-year exodus journey, Moses points out how, in spite of Israel’s fear, stubbornness, and rebellion, God led them victoriously to the land He promised to give them, while simultaneously dealing with their disobedience. God’s faithfulness, justice, and mercy are beautifully highlighted in this brief summary to encourage, warn, and instruct us today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-fear-gods-faithfulness-2 In the opening chapters of Deuteronomy, Moses begins his sermon to Israel by reminding them of where they came from. Highlighting a few episodes from the 40-year exodus journey, Moses points out how, in spite of Israel’s fear, stubbornness, and rebellion, God led them victoriously to the land He promised to give them, while simultaneously dealing with their disobedience. God’s faithfulness, justice, and mercy are beautifully highlighted in this brief summary to encourage, warn, and instruct us today. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/our-fear-gods-faithfulness-2 Fri, 25 Aug 2017 15:24:34 GMT Sermons In the opening chapters of Deuteronomy, Moses begins his sermon to Israel by reminding them of where they came from. Highlighting a few episodes from the 40-year exodus journey, Moses points out how, in spite of Israel’s fear, stubbornness, and rebellion, God led them victoriously to the land He promised to give them, while simultaneously dealing with their disobedience. God’s faithfulness, justice, and mercy are beautifully highlighted in this brief summary to encourage, warn, and instruct us today. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-choose-life In Deuteronomy, Israel was a crossroads, being called by God to choose life over death and wholeheartedly keep the covenant of God. So Moses exhorts them throughout this book to choose life and reject their past rebellion. Now even today we will find ourselves at a crossroads, where God is calling us to choose life, the life found in Jesus, the Messiah of Israel and the world. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/at-a-crossroads-choose-life Mon, 21 Aug 2017 03:14:18 GMT Sermons In Deuteronomy, Israel was a crossroads, being called by God to choose life over death and wholeheartedly keep the covenant of God. So Moses exhorts them throughout this book to choose life and reject their past rebellion. Now even today we will find ourselves at a crossroads, where God is calling us to choose life, the life found in Jesus, the Messiah of Israel and the world. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/live-in-the-light-of-the-whole-gospel Even in his highly exhortative book, James appeals to the truths of the gospel of Christ. When we authentically engage with the whole gospel–what God has done, is doing, and will do in Christ–our lives will be transformed. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/live-in-the-light-of-the-whole-gospel Mon, 14 Aug 2017 19:01:09 GMT Sermons Even in his highly exhortative book, James appeals to the truths of the gospel of Christ. When we authentically engage with the whole gospel–what God has done, is doing, and will do in Christ–our lives will be transformed. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/persevering-in-suffering James points us to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as our source of hope in suffering. And he points us to prayer, that whether we are suffering, cheerful, or sick, our prayers have a powerful effect because God powerfully answers our prayers. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/persevering-in-suffering Mon, 07 Aug 2017 19:31:16 GMT Sermons James points us to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as our source of hope in suffering. And he points us to prayer, that whether we are suffering, cheerful, or sick, our prayers have a powerful effect because God powerfully answers our prayers. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/if-the-lord-wills-james-411-56 James exhorts us in three diverse topics. The first is to reject a judgmental, harsh spirit towards our fellow believers, for the Lord is the Judge of all. The second is that in all of our future plans and dreams, we must not be arrogant but realize how brief and frail our lives are, and instead say, “If the Lord wills, I will do this or that.” And third, we are warned by some strong words to wealthy landowners who are getting rich off mistreatment of their laborers. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/if-the-lord-wills-james-411-56 Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:32:09 GMT Sermons James exhorts us in three diverse topics. The first is to reject a judgmental, harsh spirit towards our fellow believers, for the Lord is the Judge of all. The second is that in all of our future plans and dreams, we must not be arrogant but realize how brief and frail our lives are, and instead say, “If the Lord wills, I will do this or that.” And third, we are warned by some strong words to wealthy landowners who are getting rich off mistreatment of their laborers. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/words-wisdom-desire-and-humility In James 3:1-4:10 – James convicts our hearts of three fundamental problems that exist in the human soul which require transformation to escape. He offers three wonderful gospel promises for those who are willing to admit their need. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/words-wisdom-desire-and-humility Mon, 24 Jul 2017 21:07:25 GMT Sermons In James 3:1-4:10 – James convicts our hearts of three fundamental problems that exist in the human soul which require transformation to escape. He offers three wonderful gospel promises for those who are willing to admit their need. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/faith-in-action In James chapter two, we find that we become right with God by faith, but only by a faith that results in action – in loving God and others. Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/faith-in-action Mon, 17 Jul 2017 06:39:19 GMT Sermons In James chapter two, we find that we become right with God by faith, but only by a faith that results in action – in loving God and others. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/testing-of-faith We’re embarking on a new sermon series diving into the book of James. Check out the introductory message delivered by Pastor Brad. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/testing-of-faith Mon, 10 Jul 2017 01:44:46 GMT Sermons We’re embarking on a new sermon series diving into the book of James. Check out the introductory message delivered by Pastor Brad. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/vainglory-part-2 Part 2 – Vainglory: the tendency we have to seek prominence, power, and influence through our accomplishments and efforts. Hear about Pastor Matt’s struggles to fend off pride through the power of the gospel. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/vainglory-part-2 Mon, 03 Jul 2017 01:35:53 GMT Sermons Part 2 – Vainglory: the tendency we have to seek prominence, power, and influence through our accomplishments and efforts. Hear about Pastor Matt’s struggles to fend off pride through the power of the gospel. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/vainglory Vainglory: the tendency we have to seek prominence, power, and influence through our accomplishments and efforts. Listen in about how to battle pride by walking in the gospel. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/vainglory Mon, 26 Jun 2017 01:02:22 GMT Sermons Vainglory: the tendency we have to seek prominence, power, and influence through our accomplishments and efforts. Listen in about how to battle pride by walking in the gospel. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mission-of-the-church What is the mission of the church, and how is Stonebrook working to carry out that mission? Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/mission-of-the-church Sun, 11 Jun 2017 21:42:11 GMT Sermons What is the mission of the church, and how is Stonebrook working to carry out that mission? https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-3-telling-the-good-news Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-3-telling-the-good-news Sun, 04 Jun 2017 21:40:36 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-2-taking-time-to-love Art of Neighboring—Week 2—Taking Time to Love If I were to talk to each of you one-on-one and ask you this simple question, “How has your week been?”, what would be the Number One response? I think it would be, “Oh, I’m so busy.” Busy-ness. In our American culture, Busy-ness is our badge of honor. We wear the badge proudly. We’re getting LOTS of things done. Or at least trying to. Yet, at the same time, we find ourselves hating […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-2-taking-time-to-love Sun, 28 May 2017 21:38:01 GMT Sermons Art of Neighboring—Week 2—Taking Time to Love If I were to talk to each of you one-on-one and ask you this simple question, “How has your week been?”, what would be the Number One response? I think it would be, “Oh, I’m so busy.” Busy-ness. In our American culture, Busy-ness is our badge of honor. We wear the badge proudly. We’re getting LOTS of things done. Or at least trying to. Yet, at the same time, we find ourselves hating […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-1-getting-over-yourself Jesus commanded us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Perhaps he meant our literal, physical neighbor? Let’s talk about getting past our greatest obstacle to being a good neighbor: ourselves. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-art-of-neighboring-part-1-getting-over-yourself Sun, 21 May 2017 21:23:29 GMT Sermons Jesus commanded us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Perhaps he meant our literal, physical neighbor? Let’s talk about getting past our greatest obstacle to being a good neighbor: ourselves. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/four-ways-to-honor-mom Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/four-ways-to-honor-mom Sun, 14 May 2017 21:22:17 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/proclaiming-our-reason-for-hope Luke Anderson https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/proclaiming-our-reason-for-hope Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:19:39 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-a-summary On the last week of a series about Romans, Pastor Brad summarizes the book. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-a-summary Sun, 09 Apr 2017 21:00:26 GMT Sermons On the last week of a series about Romans, Pastor Brad summarizes the book. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/paul-the-man-of-god What kind of a man is Paul? Romans 15 gives us much insight into this amazing man of God. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/paul-the-man-of-god Sun, 02 Apr 2017 20:56:35 GMT Sermons What kind of a man is Paul? Romans 15 gives us much insight into this amazing man of God. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-15-god-glorifying-harmony Introduction The Strong and the Weak In Romans 14, Paul introduces two groups of believers: the “strong” and the “weak”. Dave did an excellent job of discussing these two categories last week.  The weak were converts from Judaism who were still stuck in either the Jewish food & festival laws and customs, and/or converts from Paganism who were still stuck with superstitions of their various cults about foods and holy days.  The strong were converts from either camp who realized […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-15-god-glorifying-harmony Sun, 26 Mar 2017 19:00:00 GMT Sermons Introduction The Strong and the Weak In Romans 14, Paul introduces two groups of believers: the “strong” and the “weak”. Dave did an excellent job of discussing these two categories last week.  The weak were converts from Judaism who were still stuck in either the Jewish food & festival laws and customs, and/or converts from Paganism who were still stuck with superstitions of their various cults about foods and holy days.  The strong were converts from either camp who realized […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/build-up-dont-destroy Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/build-up-dont-destroy Sun, 19 Mar 2017 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-141-12-accept-one-another What is Paul saying in Romans 14 about accepting our fellow believers? What is he NOT saying? Let’s take a look at Romans 14 to find out. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-141-12-accept-one-another Sun, 12 Mar 2017 19:00:00 GMT Sermons What is Paul saying in Romans 14 about accepting our fellow believers? What is he NOT saying? Let’s take a look at Romans 14 to find out. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-138-14-the-continuous-debt Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-138-14-the-continuous-debt Sun, 05 Mar 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-and-government Based on the Book of Romans, what should a Christian’s response be to government? Why did God institute government Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-and-government Sun, 26 Feb 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Based on the Book of Romans, what should a Christian’s response be to government? Why did God institute government https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-12-part-3-genuine-love Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-12-part-3-genuine-love Sun, 19 Feb 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-12-part-2-godlike "Godlike." Romans 12:9-21 – Matt Heerema Romans 12:1 (ESV) I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. THE MERCIES OF GOD (ROMANS 1-11) The first eleven chapters of Romans points out the human condition. We were created by God to be His children, to bring Him Glory by being who He created us to be: worshipers, image bearers, messengers […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-12-part-2-godlike Sun, 12 Feb 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons "Godlike." Romans 12:9-21 – Matt Heerema Romans 12:1 (ESV) I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. THE MERCIES OF GOD (ROMANS 1-11) The first eleven chapters of Romans points out the human condition. We were created by God to be His children, to bring Him Glory by being who He created us to be: worshipers, image bearers, messengers […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-transformed-life-romans-12 Now that we have been saved by grace, how does God want us to live? Brad expounds on Romans 12a in this sermon. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-transformed-life-romans-12 Sun, 05 Feb 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Now that we have been saved by grace, how does God want us to live? Brad expounds on Romans 12a in this sermon. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-righteousness-revealed Join Pastor Brad as he summarizes the first 11 chapters of the book of Romans! Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-righteousness-revealed Sun, 29 Jan 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Join Pastor Brad as he summarizes the first 11 chapters of the book of Romans! https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/part-3-god-first How can we put God first with money? What does stewardship mean? Listen to Pastor Brad discuss this important topic. Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/part-3-god-first Sun, 22 Jan 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons How can we put God first with money? What does stewardship mean? Listen to Pastor Brad discuss this important topic. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-joy-of-generosity Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-joy-of-generosity Sun, 15 Jan 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/providence It is our habit, at the beginning of a new year, to begin with a short series of sermons on the topic of stewardship. The ideal of a new year, and an opportunity to re-set and make resolutions for the coming year. In some ways the changing of the year is a bit of an arbitrary point, but I think turning the calendar over does give us a handy way to package the past and claim the promise that God’s […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/providence Sun, 08 Jan 2017 21:00:00 GMT Sermons It is our habit, at the beginning of a new year, to begin with a short series of sermons on the topic of stewardship. The ideal of a new year, and an opportunity to re-set and make resolutions for the coming year. In some ways the changing of the year is a bit of an arbitrary point, but I think turning the calendar over does give us a handy way to package the past and claim the promise that God’s […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-nearness-of-god Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-nearness-of-god Sun, 25 Dec 2016 22:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/he-has-come-and-is-coming Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/he-has-come-and-is-coming Sun, 18 Dec 2016 22:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-long-expected-jesus   Advent – A Time of Tension Today is the third Sunday of the Advent season. I talked a little about what Advent is a few weeks back, and every year that I do, I get a little feedback that the distinction between Advent and Christmas is fairly unclear. In fact, I can remember, growing up in a mainline church as thinking of the terms as rather synonymous. And they certainly are related.  I wanted to speak a little more […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-long-expected-jesus Sun, 11 Dec 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons   Advent – A Time of Tension Today is the third Sunday of the Advent season. I talked a little about what Advent is a few weeks back, and every year that I do, I get a little feedback that the distinction between Advent and Christmas is fairly unclear. In fact, I can remember, growing up in a mainline church as thinking of the terms as rather synonymous. And they certainly are related.  I wanted to speak a little more […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-9-11-panel-discussion Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-9-11-panel-discussion Sun, 27 Nov 2016 23:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-mercy-on-all Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-mercy-on-all Sun, 20 Nov 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-grace-and-faithfulness Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-grace-and-faithfulness Sun, 13 Nov 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/israel-rejects-the-good-news Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/israel-rejects-the-good-news Sun, 06 Nov 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rock-of-offense Introduction Reformation Sunday [Sola Gratia, Sola Fide] Review Romans 9:19-23 Isaiah 29:13-16 And the Lord said:  “Because this people draw near with their mouth  and honor me with their lips,  while their hearts are far from me,  and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men,  therefore, behold, I will again  do wonderful things with this people,  with wonder upon wonder;  and the wisdom of their wise men shall perish,  and the discernment of their discerning men shall […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-rock-of-offense Sun, 30 Oct 2016 19:00:00 GMT Sermons Introduction Reformation Sunday [Sola Gratia, Sola Fide] Review Romans 9:19-23 Isaiah 29:13-16 And the Lord said:  “Because this people draw near with their mouth  and honor me with their lips,  while their hearts are far from me,  and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men,  therefore, behold, I will again  do wonderful things with this people,  with wonder upon wonder;  and the wisdom of their wise men shall perish,  and the discernment of their discerning men shall […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-justice-and-mercy-of-god I hope you were able to catch Dave’s sermon last week. If you missed it, I highly recommend that you give it a listen on our Web site. Dave laid out a very very helpful overview of what is going on with Romans 9. I am excited to continue that discussion today.  As Dave mentioned, Romans 9-11 are perhaps some of the most intimidating, and contested passages in the entire Bible. I thought it was amazing that in a 40 […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-justice-and-mercy-of-god Sun, 23 Oct 2016 19:00:00 GMT Sermons I hope you were able to catch Dave’s sermon last week. If you missed it, I highly recommend that you give it a listen on our Web site. Dave laid out a very very helpful overview of what is going on with Romans 9. I am excited to continue that discussion today.  As Dave mentioned, Romans 9-11 are perhaps some of the most intimidating, and contested passages in the entire Bible. I thought it was amazing that in a 40 […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-about-israel Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-about-israel Sun, 16 Oct 2016 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-made-righteous-in-christ Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-made-righteous-in-christ Sun, 09 Oct 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-is-the-gospel INTRO Pop quiz time! 🙂 Take a minute and write out a summary of the Gospel message. Don’t worry, there will be no grades. I’m not going to ask you to share with anyone. And just to defuse any of you who are more like me, I can imagine myself in your seat, with Brad or Paul asking us to do this, and being a little grumpy and eye-roll-ish about it. So lets just get that out of the way. […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-is-the-gospel Sun, 10 Apr 2016 19:00:00 GMT Sermons INTRO Pop quiz time! 🙂 Take a minute and write out a summary of the Gospel message. Don’t worry, there will be no grades. I’m not going to ask you to share with anyone. And just to defuse any of you who are more like me, I can imagine myself in your seat, with Brad or Paul asking us to do this, and being a little grumpy and eye-roll-ish about it. So lets just get that out of the way. […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-q-a Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-q-a Sun, 13 Mar 2016 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-shall-we-say-then Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-shall-we-say-then Sun, 06 Mar 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/finding-hope-in-a-broken-world Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/finding-hope-in-a-broken-world Sun, 28 Feb 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/no-condemnation Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/no-condemnation Sun, 21 Feb 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/this-body-of-death Dave did an excellent job of reviewing Romans 1 through 6, so I suggest that you go back and review his message on the Web site.  This week we will be back in chapter seven, so if you would open your Bibles with me and turn there, page _____________ in the house bibles if you don’t have one with you.  I also wanted to mention that in a few weeks here, we are planning on spending a Sunday morning with […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/this-body-of-death Sun, 14 Feb 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Dave did an excellent job of reviewing Romans 1 through 6, so I suggest that you go back and review his message on the Web site.  This week we will be back in chapter seven, so if you would open your Bibles with me and turn there, page _____________ in the house bibles if you don’t have one with you.  I also wanted to mention that in a few weeks here, we are planning on spending a Sunday morning with […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/free-from-the-law Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/free-from-the-law Sun, 07 Feb 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-1-6-review Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-1-6-review Sun, 31 Jan 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-riches-of-relationships Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-riches-of-relationships Sun, 24 Jan 2016 23:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-weight-of-worship What we are trying to do here We are starting off the semester with a few weeks on the topic of stewardship. Last week, Paul spoke about stewarding money (with a very nice title “The Worth of Wealth”.) This week I’d like to talk about stewarding our spiritual disciplines, with a focus on our various gatherings. I’d like to talk about “The Weight of Worship.” So Paul and I are looking at Brad for next week and wondering what his […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-weight-of-worship Sun, 17 Jan 2016 21:00:00 GMT Sermons What we are trying to do here We are starting off the semester with a few weeks on the topic of stewardship. Last week, Paul spoke about stewarding money (with a very nice title “The Worth of Wealth”.) This week I’d like to talk about stewarding our spiritual disciplines, with a focus on our various gatherings. I’d like to talk about “The Weight of Worship.” So Paul and I are looking at Brad for next week and wondering what his […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/defining-moments-my-work-matters Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/defining-moments-my-work-matters Sun, 03 Jan 2016 22:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-fruit-were-you-getting Romans so far. Romans 1-3:  God’s righteousness is revealed in The Gospel through his wrath at unrighteousnesses and ungodliness of every single individual of mankind.  And through His free gift of grace and mercy offered in Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice, which leads to eternal life. Romans 4: This promised eternal life comes only through faith in Jesus’s work for us, and not through any work of our own. Romans 5 All those with faith in Christ’s work are now at […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/what-fruit-were-you-getting Sun, 29 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Romans so far. Romans 1-3:  God’s righteousness is revealed in The Gospel through his wrath at unrighteousnesses and ungodliness of every single individual of mankind.  And through His free gift of grace and mercy offered in Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice, which leads to eternal life. Romans 4: This promised eternal life comes only through faith in Jesus’s work for us, and not through any work of our own. Romans 5 All those with faith in Christ’s work are now at […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/died-buried-and-resurrected-with-christ Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/died-buried-and-resurrected-with-christ Sun, 22 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/grace-abounds-much-more Romans 5:12-21—Week 10—Grace Abounds Much More   During my high school and early college years, I was a sinner.  I was enslaved to sin.  My excessive drinking was constant.  My cursing and offensive speech regularly hurt and annoyed people, and certainly offended God.  My anxiety over school and money was consuming, at times.   I was a slave to my sin.   And as I heard the gospel message as a 19-year old, I realized that I was a slave […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/grace-abounds-much-more Sun, 15 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Romans 5:12-21—Week 10—Grace Abounds Much More   During my high school and early college years, I was a sinner.  I was enslaved to sin.  My excessive drinking was constant.  My cursing and offensive speech regularly hurt and annoyed people, and certainly offended God.  My anxiety over school and money was consuming, at times.   I was a slave to my sin.   And as I heard the gospel message as a 19-year old, I realized that I was a slave […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/peace-with-god Romans 5:1-11—Week 9—Peace with God Memory verse:  Romans 5:1 ESV  “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”    I have had a horrible month.  I have been stressed out to the max.  Financial worries.  Family worries.  Been on the verge of rage every day.  And I can’t seem to shake it.  My wife and I have had 3 horrible fights.  Once I almost hit her.  I’ve spent many hours […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/peace-with-god Sun, 08 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Romans 5:1-11—Week 9—Peace with God Memory verse:  Romans 5:1 ESV  “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”    I have had a horrible month.  I have been stressed out to the max.  Financial worries.  Family worries.  Been on the verge of rage every day.  And I can’t seem to shake it.  My wife and I have had 3 horrible fights.  Once I almost hit her.  I’ve spent many hours […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/sons-of-abraham Review – Paul’s message so far The core message of Romans, and everything that we’ve been talking about so far is that God’s righteousness is revealed in The Gospel message. It is necessary, both because it is such a familiar term to those with a long-history as Christians, and such a foreign term to those who are new to the teachings of the Christian faith, to briefly define “God’s righteousness.”  Both its familiarity and its foreignness make it difficult to […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/sons-of-abraham Sun, 01 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Review – Paul’s message so far The core message of Romans, and everything that we’ve been talking about so far is that God’s righteousness is revealed in The Gospel message. It is necessary, both because it is such a familiar term to those with a long-history as Christians, and such a foreign term to those who are new to the teachings of the Christian faith, to briefly define “God’s righteousness.”  Both its familiarity and its foreignness make it difficult to […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-righteousness-revealed-in-jesus Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gods-righteousness-revealed-in-jesus Sun, 25 Oct 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-advantage-the-jew-has “THIS IS HARD TO UNDERSTAND” – COMPLEXITY IN THE BIBLE. A warning from the Apostle Peter: 2 Peter 3: 15-17  “And count the patience of the Lord as salvation, just as your beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-advantage-the-jew-has Sun, 18 Oct 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons “THIS IS HARD TO UNDERSTAND” – COMPLEXITY IN THE BIBLE. A warning from the Apostle Peter: 2 Peter 3: 15-17  “And count the patience of the Lord as salvation, just as your beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reliance-upon-god-or-the-law Does anyone enjoy bad news? Well, most of you must find some satisfaction in it, for we read it and listen to it every day. Shooting in Oregon. Monsoon rains in South Carolina. Political bickering. ISIS rampaging in the Middle East.   There is bad news every day.   The Bible has bad news. And we just read some of it in Romans 2.   But the bad news is what makes the good news good.     We are in […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/reliance-upon-god-or-the-law Sun, 11 Oct 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Does anyone enjoy bad news? Well, most of you must find some satisfaction in it, for we read it and listen to it every day. Shooting in Oregon. Monsoon rains in South Carolina. Political bickering. ISIS rampaging in the Middle East.   There is bad news every day.   The Bible has bad news. And we just read some of it in Romans 2.   But the bad news is what makes the good news good.     We are in […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-shows-no-partiality INTRO AND RECAP – picking up Paul’s argument Today we’re picking up our series from the book of Romans in chapter 2, so if you’d all turn there with me, we’ll be working our way through the whole chapter, but with special focus on verses 1 through 16.  As you are turning, I just wanted to comment on the difficulty of a series like this.  Romans is one of the longest letters in the New Testament, and it is a […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-shows-no-partiality Sun, 04 Oct 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons INTRO AND RECAP – picking up Paul’s argument Today we’re picking up our series from the book of Romans in chapter 2, so if you’d all turn there with me, we’ll be working our way through the whole chapter, but with special focus on verses 1 through 16.  As you are turning, I just wanted to comment on the difficulty of a series like this.  Romans is one of the longest letters in the New Testament, and it is a […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-wrath-of-god Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-wrath-of-god Sun, 27 Sep 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gospel-is-the-power-of-god-for-salvation We call this book the Bible.  Interestingly, the word “Bible” mean “book.” But this is not actually one book but 66 books or 66 writings written by 40 different authors over a 1,500 year time period.   We are beginning a study of one of those writings, the letter of the Apostle Paul to the Romans. But it might be even a bit misleading to call it a letter.  Because it is unlike a typical letter that you or I […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-gospel-is-the-power-of-god-for-salvation Sun, 20 Sep 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons We call this book the Bible.  Interestingly, the word “Bible” mean “book.” But this is not actually one book but 66 books or 66 writings written by 40 different authors over a 1,500 year time period.   We are beginning a study of one of those writings, the letter of the Apostle Paul to the Romans. But it might be even a bit misleading to call it a letter.  Because it is unlike a typical letter that you or I […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-intro-astonishing-salvation Romans:  Intro and 1:1-7  Astonishing Salvation   If you were the CEO of a large corporation, and you were choosing someone to be the FACE of your company, what kind of person would you want? Someone with a good reputation. Kind Honest. Full of integrity Believable.  Loved   Sometimes the corporations have to FIRE someone as their spokesman, for though they may have started out good, bad things happened. Like Lance Armstrong Like Tiger Woods. Like Jerod for Subway.   […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/romans-intro-astonishing-salvation Sun, 13 Sep 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons Romans:  Intro and 1:1-7  Astonishing Salvation   If you were the CEO of a large corporation, and you were choosing someone to be the FACE of your company, what kind of person would you want? Someone with a good reputation. Kind Honest. Full of integrity Believable.  Loved   Sometimes the corporations have to FIRE someone as their spokesman, for though they may have started out good, bad things happened. Like Lance Armstrong Like Tiger Woods. Like Jerod for Subway.   […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/malachi-the-unchanging-god Forgotten OT Books:  Malachi—The Unchanging God   Have you ever said—or do you know someone who has said—that the Bible is out of date?  Old-fashioned?   We can criticize it for being out of touch with our advanced, sophisticated culture.   Yet when I read the Bible, I find it is incredibly relevant and up-to-date. Why? Because human nature hasn’t changed. The externals have changed.  Technology, for example. But the condition of the human heart has not. We are still […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/malachi-the-unchanging-god Sun, 16 Aug 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons Forgotten OT Books:  Malachi—The Unchanging God   Have you ever said—or do you know someone who has said—that the Bible is out of date?  Old-fashioned?   We can criticize it for being out of touch with our advanced, sophisticated culture.   Yet when I read the Bible, I find it is incredibly relevant and up-to-date. Why? Because human nature hasn’t changed. The externals have changed.  Technology, for example. But the condition of the human heart has not. We are still […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hosea Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/hosea Sun, 09 Aug 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/esther-the-unseen-god Forgotten OT Books:  Esther—The Unseen God     Has anyone here actually ever seen God? Has anyone actually seen heaven, like the Apostle Paul may have in 2 Corinthians 11? Has anyone actually seen a miracle? Like someone rising from the dead? Like a man with a shriveled arm made whole?   We cannot see or touch God, yet we believe that he is there. This is what FAITH really is. Hebrews 11:1 ESV  “Now faith is the assurance of […] Stonebrook Community Church https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/esther-the-unseen-god Sun, 02 Aug 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons Forgotten OT Books:  Esther—The Unseen God     Has anyone here actually ever seen God? Has anyone actually seen heaven, like the Apostle Paul may have in 2 Corinthians 11? Has anyone actually seen a miracle? Like someone rising from the dead? Like a man with a shriveled arm made whole?   We cannot see or touch God, yet we believe that he is there. This is what FAITH really is. Hebrews 11:1 ESV  “Now faith is the assurance of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lamentations Today we’re continuing our series on “The Forgotten Books” with everyone’s favorite devotional read: Lamentations. I don’t know about you but I haven’t typically considered Lamentations a “go-to” book when I’m looking for some encouragement from the scriptures. In my bible reading plans, Lamentations is one of those that I tend to just kinda coast through without much engagement because frankly I have a hard time relating to its contents. Anyone else?   There are a few verses here and […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lamentations Sun, 26 Jul 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons Today we’re continuing our series on “The Forgotten Books” with everyone’s favorite devotional read: Lamentations. I don’t know about you but I haven’t typically considered Lamentations a “go-to” book when I’m looking for some encouragement from the scriptures. In my bible reading plans, Lamentations is one of those that I tend to just kinda coast through without much engagement because frankly I have a hard time relating to its contents. Anyone else?   There are a few verses here and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/song-of-songs   Forgotten OT Books:  Song of Songs   We’re going to start with a quiz to the married men, and those men who want to be married.   We are going to read three Bible verses. And in each case, you tell me if is a good thing to say to your wife.   Song of Solomon 1:9 ESV  “I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots.”  Husbands, is this a loving thing to say to your […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/song-of-songs Sun, 19 Jul 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons   Forgotten OT Books:  Song of Songs   We’re going to start with a quiz to the married men, and those men who want to be married.   We are going to read three Bible verses. And in each case, you tell me if is a good thing to say to your wife.   Song of Solomon 1:9 ESV  “I compare you, my love, to a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots.”  Husbands, is this a loving thing to say to your […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/leviticus-holy-god-holy-people   Forgotten OT Books:  Leviticus:  Holy God, Holy People   Introduction   I would wager the most JOKED-about-book of the Bible is Leviticus. I know I have.  I’ve joked how BORING and DRY it can seem.   Here’s a notice:  I have repented of my disrespect toward God’s word.   You should, too.   This morning, I am going to teach about Leviticus.   Admittedly, parts of it seem rather dry.  Unrelateable.  Strange.   I won’t exaggerate and tell you […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/leviticus-holy-god-holy-people Sun, 05 Jul 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons   Forgotten OT Books:  Leviticus:  Holy God, Holy People   Introduction   I would wager the most JOKED-about-book of the Bible is Leviticus. I know I have.  I’ve joked how BORING and DRY it can seem.   Here’s a notice:  I have repented of my disrespect toward God’s word.   You should, too.   This morning, I am going to teach about Leviticus.   Admittedly, parts of it seem rather dry.  Unrelateable.  Strange.   I won’t exaggerate and tell you […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/job Introductory thoughts. Today we are beginning an 8-week series overviewing often neglected books of the Bible, the ones we don’t typically get around to when we’re thinking through sermon series.  I get to kick us off with a single sermon on 42 chapters of the book of Job. A large task, and one that I’ve really enjoyed digging into in the last couple of months.  Of course 40 minutes on this book is going to be totally insufficient for an […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/job Sun, 28 Jun 2015 20:00:00 GMT Sermons Introductory thoughts. Today we are beginning an 8-week series overviewing often neglected books of the Bible, the ones we don’t typically get around to when we’re thinking through sermon series.  I get to kick us off with a single sermon on 42 chapters of the book of Job. A large task, and one that I’ve really enjoyed digging into in the last couple of months.  Of course 40 minutes on this book is going to be totally insufficient for an […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-reality-of-resurrecton Easter is that time in the Christian calendar when we set our sights on the very foundation, roots, essence, and core message of our faith: the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, the Messiah, from the dead. It is very easy, with all the cultural and religious trappings of the holiday, to turn Jesus and his resurrection from the dead into another mere myth. I want to say emphatically that the Gospel Message that Christians proclaim, is not good […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-reality-of-resurrecton Sun, 05 Apr 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons Easter is that time in the Christian calendar when we set our sights on the very foundation, roots, essence, and core message of our faith: the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, the Messiah, from the dead. It is very easy, with all the cultural and religious trappings of the holiday, to turn Jesus and his resurrection from the dead into another mere myth. I want to say emphatically that the Gospel Message that Christians proclaim, is not good […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-him-be-the-dominion-forever   Introduction Suffering. Who wants it? Who likes it? When faced with suffering, our normal human response is to escape it. Whatever it takes to get out of pain, we will do. That’s normal, and even an appropriate response, because pain is…well….pain. It hurts. We would advise ourselves and other sufferers to do whatever it takes to escape from the pain. Today we are finishing a series on a letter the Apostle Peter wrote to churches in Asia Minor, modern-day […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/to-him-be-the-dominion-forever Sun, 29 Mar 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction Suffering. Who wants it? Who likes it? When faced with suffering, our normal human response is to escape it. Whatever it takes to get out of pain, we will do. That’s normal, and even an appropriate response, because pain is…well….pain. It hurts. We would advise ourselves and other sufferers to do whatever it takes to escape from the pain. Today we are finishing a series on a letter the Apostle Peter wrote to churches in Asia Minor, modern-day […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/do-not-be-surprised-with-suffering Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/do-not-be-surprised-with-suffering Sun, 22 Mar 2015 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-end-is-near-therefore   Introduction There are many apocalyptic movies that have come out in the last few decades, and even in the last few years. Interstellar. The Maze Runner. Oblivion. Planet of the Apes. And lots of ZOMBIE movies With some variation, such movies point to the destruction of the world. The end of life as we know it. We are fascinated by the END of TIME. And I am fascinated by our fascination. Why are we so interested in the end […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-end-is-near-therefore Sun, 15 Mar 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction There are many apocalyptic movies that have come out in the last few decades, and even in the last few years. Interstellar. The Maze Runner. Oblivion. Planet of the Apes. And lots of ZOMBIE movies With some variation, such movies point to the destruction of the world. The end of life as we know it. We are fascinated by the END of TIME. And I am fascinated by our fascination. Why are we so interested in the end […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/wives-and-husbands   Introduction How is marriage doing today? In general, how do you think the institution of marriage is doing in our society today? I suspect the vast majority of you, even the most optimistic, would say that marriage in general and many or most marriages specifically are not doing well. I would say that it goes badly with marriage today. Why? Well, that is a long conversation. Multi-faceted. A significant reason for that is because we’ve lost sight of God. And we’ve neglected his […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/wives-and-husbands Sun, 01 Mar 2015 23:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction How is marriage doing today? In general, how do you think the institution of marriage is doing in our society today? I suspect the vast majority of you, even the most optimistic, would say that marriage in general and many or most marriages specifically are not doing well. I would say that it goes badly with marriage today. Why? Well, that is a long conversation. Multi-faceted. A significant reason for that is because we’ve lost sight of God. And we’ve neglected his […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-life-of-a-sojourner-and-an-exile Why Should We Obey God’s Commands? Have you ever wondered why we should obey God’s commands? “Well that’s a silly question, Matt! God is God, therefore we should obey Him!”  Yes, yes, of course. But really though, have you wondered why? Christians believe that we are not saved by what we do. Rather we are saved by faith in the free grace of God, through the work of His son Jesus, alone. We do not add to this by anything […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-life-of-a-sojourner-and-an-exile Sun, 22 Feb 2015 12:00:00 GMT Sermons Why Should We Obey God’s Commands? Have you ever wondered why we should obey God’s commands? “Well that’s a silly question, Matt! God is God, therefore we should obey Him!”  Yes, yes, of course. But really though, have you wondered why? Christians believe that we are not saved by what we do. Rather we are saved by faith in the free grace of God, through the work of His son Jesus, alone. We do not add to this by anything […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/think-deeply-and-act-strongly   Introduction   How many of you were annoying 5-year olds who constantly asked, “Why?” This teaching is for you. How many of you took a class in school— maybe Physics or Math—and you said, “I don’t really want to understand the theory and how it all works. I just want to figure out the answers on the test and move on.”  This teaching is also for you. Some of us approach the Scriptures with a thirst to know everything. […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/think-deeply-and-act-strongly Sun, 08 Feb 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction   How many of you were annoying 5-year olds who constantly asked, “Why?” This teaching is for you. How many of you took a class in school— maybe Physics or Math—and you said, “I don’t really want to understand the theory and how it all works. I just want to figure out the answers on the test and move on.”  This teaching is also for you. Some of us approach the Scriptures with a thirst to know everything. […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/born-again-to-a-living-hope   Introduction Today and over the next 8 weeks, we will be studying the book of 1 Peter. It’s a book that talks a lot about suffering. The word “suffer” is used 11 times. Today Christians who are suffering are in the news. This is the the 14th letter of the Arabic alphabet, a noon. It’s the equivalent to the Roman letter N. The ن stands for Nasara or Nazarenes, a pejorative Arabic word for Christians. As the Islamic State […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/born-again-to-a-living-hope Sun, 01 Feb 2015 23:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction Today and over the next 8 weeks, we will be studying the book of 1 Peter. It’s a book that talks a lot about suffering. The word “suffer” is used 11 times. Today Christians who are suffering are in the news. This is the the 14th letter of the Arabic alphabet, a noon. It’s the equivalent to the Roman letter N. The ن stands for Nasara or Nazarenes, a pejorative Arabic word for Christians. As the Islamic State […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-and-money   Introduction This man in the photo is Denethor from Lord of the Rings. What was his title? Steward of Gondor. Steward. What is a steward? He is a manager of someone’s property. In Denethor’s case, the King of Gondor was absent, so he was charged with leading the people of Gondor. As Steward, he was to lead, guide, and protect until when?? Until the King returned.  We are stewards like Denethor. We are stewards. Managers. Who is the OWNER? The King, the Lord God. Psalm […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/god-and-money Sun, 25 Jan 2015 21:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction This man in the photo is Denethor from Lord of the Rings. What was his title? Steward of Gondor. Steward. What is a steward? He is a manager of someone’s property. In Denethor’s case, the King of Gondor was absent, so he was charged with leading the people of Gondor. As Steward, he was to lead, guide, and protect until when?? Until the King returned.  We are stewards like Denethor. We are stewards. Managers. Who is the OWNER? The King, the Lord God. Psalm […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/spiritual-disciplines-for-the-new-year Don’t you love to watch people who are good at what they do? It doesn’t matter what it is, when you come across someone who is great at what they do, it is awe inspiring. It’s fun to watch. I’d like to show you a news clip that features my father-in-law. George used to tell the story of how he made a bet with someone. This fellow was skeptical that he could do what you just saw him do. George […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/spiritual-disciplines-for-the-new-year Sun, 04 Jan 2015 22:00:00 GMT Sermons Don’t you love to watch people who are good at what they do? It doesn’t matter what it is, when you come across someone who is great at what they do, it is awe inspiring. It’s fun to watch. I’d like to show you a news clip that features my father-in-law. George used to tell the story of how he made a bet with someone. This fellow was skeptical that he could do what you just saw him do. George […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/prayer-for-the-persecuted-church   Introduction The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the most beautiful, life-giving message in the world. Through the suffering and resurrection of Christ 2000 years ago, eternal life is now available to everyone who calls on his name. But in spite of this beauty and love and glory found in Christ, that same message provokes hatred and animosity. And since the Apostles, believers throughout history have been willing to proclaim Jesus and suffer for it. And they have suffered. Hebrews 13:3 ESV “Remember […] Guang Song https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/prayer-for-the-persecuted-church Sun, 02 Nov 2014 23:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the most beautiful, life-giving message in the world. Through the suffering and resurrection of Christ 2000 years ago, eternal life is now available to everyone who calls on his name. But in spite of this beauty and love and glory found in Christ, that same message provokes hatred and animosity. And since the Apostles, believers throughout history have been willing to proclaim Jesus and suffer for it. And they have suffered. Hebrews 13:3 ESV “Remember […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-our-guide   INTRODUCTION What is God like?  How involved is he in our lives and in this world? Does he have a “hands-off” attitude towards this world? “I made this world, but now you’re on your own unless things get really bad.” We could call this Deism. God might be interested in the happenings of this world, but he doesn’t really intervene. Deism is impossible to find in the Bible. In fact, the coming of God’s Son into the world crushes arguments of Deism. The […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-our-guide Sun, 19 Oct 2014 19:00:00 GMT Sermons   INTRODUCTION What is God like?  How involved is he in our lives and in this world? Does he have a “hands-off” attitude towards this world? “I made this world, but now you’re on your own unless things get really bad.” We could call this Deism. God might be interested in the happenings of this world, but he doesn’t really intervene. Deism is impossible to find in the Bible. In fact, the coming of God’s Son into the world crushes arguments of Deism. The […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gifts-of-the-spirit   Summary: God has given spiritual gifts to all believers empowering them to serve one another and build up the church. Just as the human body is made up of many different parts, yet is one body, so God has given a wide diversity of gifts, yet all united around Him to do His will. God gives gifts as He wills and Biblical history shows that the gifts of healing and miracles have not been present in the history of […] Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/gifts-of-the-spirit Sun, 12 Oct 2014 19:00:00 GMT Sermons   Summary: God has given spiritual gifts to all believers empowering them to serve one another and build up the church. Just as the human body is made up of many different parts, yet is one body, so God has given a wide diversity of gifts, yet all united around Him to do His will. God gives gifts as He wills and Biblical history shows that the gifts of healing and miracles have not been present in the history of […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-and-our-sanctification   Introduction We Christians like to us the word, “saved.” “I’m saved.” “I have salvation.” My story of salvation began on a warm, August evening when I was a 19-year old engineering student at ISU. Salvation means to be delivered. Rescued.  What happens at “salvation?” Last week Matt clearly talked about eternal life. Salvation. Finding forgiveness and a right standing with God through Jesus Christ. And only through Jesus Christ. It means gaining entrance into life with God forever. Being […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-and-our-sanctification Sun, 05 Oct 2014 21:00:00 GMT Sermons   Introduction We Christians like to us the word, “saved.” “I’m saved.” “I have salvation.” My story of salvation began on a warm, August evening when I was a 19-year old engineering student at ISU. Salvation means to be delivered. Rescued.  What happens at “salvation?” Last week Matt clearly talked about eternal life. Salvation. Finding forgiveness and a right standing with God through Jesus Christ. And only through Jesus Christ. It means gaining entrance into life with God forever. Being […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-and-the-new-birth Prologue We are in week three of a series on The Holy Spirit. In the first message, Pastor Paul gave an excellent overview of who The Holy Spirit it is, and what He does.  In the second, Pastor Dave gave a very good Biblical history of the promised Holy Spirit, and the arrival of the Spirit in the church at Pentecost.   Our series is arranged roughly in the order we experience His presence and work in the church and […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-holy-spirit-and-the-new-birth Sun, 28 Sep 2014 21:00:00 GMT Sermons Prologue We are in week three of a series on The Holy Spirit. In the first message, Pastor Paul gave an excellent overview of who The Holy Spirit it is, and what He does.  In the second, Pastor Dave gave a very good Biblical history of the promised Holy Spirit, and the arrival of the Spirit in the church at Pentecost.   Our series is arranged roughly in the order we experience His presence and work in the church and […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-helper-has-come Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-helper-has-come Sun, 21 Sep 2014 19:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/wise-guys-and-fools   INTRODUCTION About 12 years ago, my good friend and fellow pastor Pat Sokoll moved to Iowa City to start a new church. Pat is simply one of the wisest men I’ve ever known. He has so much insight into people and problems and the things of God, that, honestly, I found it almost annoying that he could be so RIGHT so many times. (I mean that in a very complimentary way.) When he moved, I realized that I and our church […] Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/wise-guys-and-fools Sun, 17 Aug 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons   INTRODUCTION About 12 years ago, my good friend and fellow pastor Pat Sokoll moved to Iowa City to start a new church. Pat is simply one of the wisest men I’ve ever known. He has so much insight into people and problems and the things of God, that, honestly, I found it almost annoying that he could be so RIGHT so many times. (I mean that in a very complimentary way.) When he moved, I realized that I and our church […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-40-years-of-ministry Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/lessons-from-40-years-of-ministry Sun, 10 Aug 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/empathy Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/empathy Sun, 04 May 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/musings-on-suffering Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/musings-on-suffering Sun, 27 Apr 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/life-on-the-battlefront Introduction This the second of a three week series on the Christian life and the reality of the spiritual war we are in that we are calling “Wartime Lifestyle”, a phrase coined (I think) by John Piper that has been very helpful to me as in making decisions about how to think about life and how to spend my time and money.  It is an intentionally jarring phrase.  If you resolve that you will live a “Wartime lifestyle” you are […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/life-on-the-battlefront Sun, 30 Mar 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons Introduction This the second of a three week series on the Christian life and the reality of the spiritual war we are in that we are calling “Wartime Lifestyle”, a phrase coined (I think) by John Piper that has been very helpful to me as in making decisions about how to think about life and how to spend my time and money.  It is an intentionally jarring phrase.  If you resolve that you will live a “Wartime lifestyle” you are […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/be-ready-for-war Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/be-ready-for-war Sun, 23 Mar 2014 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-surety-and-sufficiency-of-scripture The scriptures are a sure source, and they are a sufficient source, of God’s revelation to us. That is, we have everything we need in order to know God and His will for us in The Bible. Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-surety-and-sufficiency-of-scripture Sun, 23 Feb 2014 12:00:00 GMT Sermons The scriptures are a sure source, and they are a sufficient source, of God’s revelation to us. That is, we have everything we need in order to know God and His will for us in The Bible. https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-and-worship-wrap-up Dave Bovenmyer https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-and-worship-wrap-up Sun, 11 Aug 2013 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-is-worship Intro  When we kicked off this series, I said I hope we can learn that our daily “mundane” and “secular” tasks can glorify God and expand His kingdom in real and practical ways. And I’m hoping that as a result of this series, we’ll learn to be encouraged that our daily work matters to Him and will count for something eternal.  And most of all, because of that, we’ll become equipped to live every moment or our life with a […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/work-is-worship Sun, 04 Aug 2013 10:00:00 GMT Sermons Intro  When we kicked off this series, I said I hope we can learn that our daily “mundane” and “secular” tasks can glorify God and expand His kingdom in real and practical ways. And I’m hoping that as a result of this series, we’ll learn to be encouraged that our daily work matters to Him and will count for something eternal.  And most of all, because of that, we’ll become equipped to live every moment or our life with a […] https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-joy-and-pain-of-work Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/the-joy-and-pain-of-work Sun, 28 Jul 2013 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/why-we-work Brad Barrett https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/why-we-work Sun, 21 Jul 2013 10:00:00 GMT Sermons https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/how-the-gospel-affects-our-work Intro  Good morning!  I suppose most of you know me, but for those that don’t, my name is Matt Heerema and I usually serve as one of the music leaders here at Stonebrook.   I’m on staff here with the church help with that role as well as a few other things, and I also own a business here in Ames that provides graphic design and digital communications consulting. I have a couple employees there, and between these two roles […] Matt Heerema https://stonebrook.org/resources/sermons/how-the-gospel-affects-our-work Sun, 14 Jul 2013 10:00:00 GMT Sermons Intro  Good morning!  I suppose most of you know me, but for those that don’t, my name is Matt Heerema and I usually serve as one of the music leaders here at Stonebrook.   I’m on staff here with the church help with that role as well as a few other things, and I also own a business here in Ames that provides graphic design and digital communications consulting. I have a couple employees there, and between these two roles […]