Teaching Ministry

What to Do When God Doesn't Make Sense

Life often presents situations that challenge our understanding of God's character and promises. Through Abraham's test of sacrificing Isaac, we learn vital lessons about trusting God when circumstances seem contradictory. The key responses include trusting in God's power, demonstrated through past faithfulness; relying on His provision, as shown by the ram provided for sacrifice; and holding firm to His promises, which find ultimate fulfillment in Christ. These principles guide believers through seasons of confusion and uncertainty, teaching us to rest in God's faithfulness rather than our own understanding.

The Delight of Christ

Finding joy in seeking those who are spiritually lost - exploring Jesus's heart for reaching others through powerful parables in Luke 15. Discover the transformative patterns of loss, searching, and celebration that reveal God's deep love for every individual. Learn practical ways to build meaningful relationships with non-believers and share your faith effectively. In this sermon, Eric Jones II shares why every Christian should strive to share Jesus Christ with those who are lost.

What's in Your Wallet

Money management is vital to Christian discipleship, revealing our true values and priorities. Through the parable of the shrewd manager in Luke 16 , we learn five key principles for managing God's resources: being careful, clear-sighted, calculating, commended, and contrasting. Pastor Matt Shackelford shares how these principles emphasize that everything belongs to God and we are merely stewards of His resources. Good stewardship involves making strategic decisions, using temporary resources for eternal impact, and living differently than worldly financial patterns.

The Hope for Prodigals

The parable of the prodigal son illustrates two paths that lead away from God - rebellion and religious self-righteousness. In this sermon, Pastor Matt Shackelford reads from Luke 15:1-10. In this passage, the younger son represents open defiance through lovelessness, idolatry, and wasteful living, while the older brother exemplifies religious pride and works-based faith. God's response to those who return is marked by eager anticipation, deep compassion, and complete restoration. This powerful story demonstrates that whether lost through rebellion or religious pride, God's unconditional love and grace provide the only way home.

Dramatic Demands

Following Jesus demands more than casual commitment - it requires placing Him above all other relationships and priorities. True discipleship involves sacrificial love, careful consideration of the cost, and a willingness to endure hardship. Christians must function as salt and light in the world, having a distinctive presence that influences others toward Christ. This transformative journey isn't powered by willpower, but by understanding the ultimate value of following Jesus.

Dramatic Invitation

Jesus uses dinner parables to teach profound lessons about salvation, humility, and sharing God's invitation. He reveals himself as the perfect host who welcomes all through love and mercy, not religious rule-keeping. True participation in God's kingdom requires genuine humility and acknowledgment of our spiritual poverty. We are called to share this invitation aggressively but lovingly, especially with those who are hurting and broken. The message emphasizes the urgency of accepting and sharing God's invitation while warning against letting worldly concerns become excuses for non-participation.