Thursday, December 3, 2009
Christmas Cards and Cookies
I love getting Christmas cards- hint- hint. This Saturday after worship you have a chance to write out Christmas cards for another person. We will provide classy Christmas cards for you to share with a friend, along with a card stock invitation to one of our THREE Christmas Ever services. We hope you will make the most of this turn key opportunity to invite others to share in the joy of Christmas. Join us for cookies and cards after worship this Saturday at 5:35!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Another Reason I am not Amish
There is a lot of wisdom in the Farmer's almanac - and I don't mean the one they sell at Walmart. I am talking about Jesus! Jesus uses stories about farming throughout the Gospels to teach His followers how to live and how to understand the Kingdom of Heaven. I decided the perfect way to spend our few remaining weeks of the harvest season was to glean some of the rich wisdom Jesus shares through these farming parables. Here is the first, the parable of the Weeds and the Wheat:
24 Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. 26 When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.
27 "The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28 " 'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29 " 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' " Matthew 13
27 "The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'
28 " 'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'
29 " 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' " Matthew 13
I guess besides the obvious reasons I am not Amish (football, dislike of horses, total lack of handyman skills...did I mention football?,) there are some things the Amish have going for them that really appeal to me, like having a beard, fostering a simple lifestyle...and never having to worry about what to wear. However, this parable brings up an even more relevant reason to NOT be Amish. I believe Christ places his people in the world with those who don't yet believe.
We aren't supposed to hide, we are supposed to grow alongside those who do not yet believe. In truth, we are supposed to share the Good News with them, and many of them will believe because of it.
So let the wheats and the weeds grow together. Do not see your faith as an excuse to escape from the world and retreat from that which is different. Grow good wheat, right next to the weeds. God, who is our loving judge, will sort out the details in the end. Our job is to grow good wheat in the midst of the world. In the culture, transforming culture.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Alive, so's you can tell.
My dad had to make a hospital call once, and the lady next to the person he was visiting appeared from his point to be, well, dead. As he grew increasingly alarmed about this, his friend tried to reassure him, "she's not dead - she's just not alive so's you can tell."
So many times, sadly, this statement describes churches. Churches, and the Christians inside of them, are often just going through the motions, not alive in any way that is apparent. From outside the doors, nobody can tell what or if there is any impact on the world from that group of believers.
Christ made it very clear in Matthew what the impact is supposed to look like:
36 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37 Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Matthew 22
This 'greatest commandment' should make it really clear to us what our mission in life is. To love the Lord with all that we have and to love others. When we follow this simple plan, it will become obvious that we are on a mission from God! We will be spending our time, money, words, and efforts in a way that is different from non-believers and also different from how we used to before we came to trust the Lord. We will be reaching up, to worship the Lord. We will be reaching inward, to develop our discipleship with Jesus. And we will be reaching out, to share the Good News that we were once so desperate without, to others.
You see, churches, and people, do not pick a mission. God's mission chooses willing individuals and willing churches. As Christ described in Matthew 9:
35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."
We live in an area with 13,000 people within 15 minutes of our church with no church, no place to worship, no place to get to know other people who are believers. Some of those 13,000 are desperate, some are lost, and others are simply without the blessing of knowing the Lord personally. What a harvest field! Are we willing to step outside your comfort-zone and get onboard with God's mission, to share that goodness with them, to be the harvesters? Are we willing to be God's people and to help make this God's church? It is a choice that is ours, mine and yours. Are you willing?
So many times, sadly, this statement describes churches. Churches, and the Christians inside of them, are often just going through the motions, not alive in any way that is apparent. From outside the doors, nobody can tell what or if there is any impact on the world from that group of believers.
Christ made it very clear in Matthew what the impact is supposed to look like:
36 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37 Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' [a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Matthew 22
This 'greatest commandment' should make it really clear to us what our mission in life is. To love the Lord with all that we have and to love others. When we follow this simple plan, it will become obvious that we are on a mission from God! We will be spending our time, money, words, and efforts in a way that is different from non-believers and also different from how we used to before we came to trust the Lord. We will be reaching up, to worship the Lord. We will be reaching inward, to develop our discipleship with Jesus. And we will be reaching out, to share the Good News that we were once so desperate without, to others.
You see, churches, and people, do not pick a mission. God's mission chooses willing individuals and willing churches. As Christ described in Matthew 9:
35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."
We live in an area with 13,000 people within 15 minutes of our church with no church, no place to worship, no place to get to know other people who are believers. Some of those 13,000 are desperate, some are lost, and others are simply without the blessing of knowing the Lord personally. What a harvest field! Are we willing to step outside your comfort-zone and get onboard with God's mission, to share that goodness with them, to be the harvesters? Are we willing to be God's people and to help make this God's church? It is a choice that is ours, mine and yours. Are you willing?
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Celebration!
Greetings!
This week we celebrate the mission of our church. We are so fortunate to belong to a congregation that has a heart for God and hands for the needs of the world. Every time you worship, give, witness and serve you make that mission real for another person. We encourage you to return your estimate of giving cards for 2010 this week during worship. We also invite you to join us for a meal following our Saturday Night 5:35 PM service and our Sunday Morning 10:15 service.
The Bible is laced with stories of the Kingdom of God being a feast-- a celebration. Come eat a modern feast with us this week as we celebrate our financial commitments to God, share in a great meal, and grow together as the Body of Christ. Through God's grace, our best days as a church are yet to come. With your commitment to God you help secure that future of blessing.
See you this weekend for worship, celebrating and a feast!
This week we celebrate the mission of our church. We are so fortunate to belong to a congregation that has a heart for God and hands for the needs of the world. Every time you worship, give, witness and serve you make that mission real for another person. We encourage you to return your estimate of giving cards for 2010 this week during worship. We also invite you to join us for a meal following our Saturday Night 5:35 PM service and our Sunday Morning 10:15 service.
The Bible is laced with stories of the Kingdom of God being a feast-- a celebration. Come eat a modern feast with us this week as we celebrate our financial commitments to God, share in a great meal, and grow together as the Body of Christ. Through God's grace, our best days as a church are yet to come. With your commitment to God you help secure that future of blessing.
See you this weekend for worship, celebrating and a feast!
Monday, November 2, 2009
The Church is a reason to believe.
This week I got a very important email. The State Department of the United States had approved a big sum of money I had inherited from a major corporation. All I had to do was get in touch with a specific contact in Africa to verify some personal information. It even listed that Hillary Clinton had approved of the email.
It didn't take me long to identify that the email was not authentic, even deceitful, with malicious intent.
Sometimes that is exactly how the church is perceived. Now without doubt, the church has historically had big (and public) failures. We hear all the time about another dirty scandal involving churches and people associated with churches. In fact, we have all probably personally experienced sin from those who attend church through hurtful attitudes or comments, even deceit. People fail. And people, even those who are trying to follow God, miss the mark and sin.
However, nothing in this world has done the good, the mission, the caring, and the following of the Lord that the Church does on a daily basis. It is rarely celebrated, these day to day successes, these active, modern practices of the Church, but I see it. There is no where that is as committed to individual growth, person to person outreach, kind-hearted evangelism, and missionary spirit as Christ's Church. The Church is alive and at work, bringing real hope, truth and love to the world.
So how do we get past the bad impressions? As Peter prescribed:
1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
1 Peter 2(Today's New International Version)
Let's set a new standard of being the Church together. Pursue God in your day to day living. Be authentic with other people. Care.
This is yet another reason I find to believe in the Christ, the Church.
It didn't take me long to identify that the email was not authentic, even deceitful, with malicious intent.
Sometimes that is exactly how the church is perceived. Now without doubt, the church has historically had big (and public) failures. We hear all the time about another dirty scandal involving churches and people associated with churches. In fact, we have all probably personally experienced sin from those who attend church through hurtful attitudes or comments, even deceit. People fail. And people, even those who are trying to follow God, miss the mark and sin.
However, nothing in this world has done the good, the mission, the caring, and the following of the Lord that the Church does on a daily basis. It is rarely celebrated, these day to day successes, these active, modern practices of the Church, but I see it. There is no where that is as committed to individual growth, person to person outreach, kind-hearted evangelism, and missionary spirit as Christ's Church. The Church is alive and at work, bringing real hope, truth and love to the world.
So how do we get past the bad impressions? As Peter prescribed:
1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
1 Peter 2(Today's New International Version)
Let's set a new standard of being the Church together. Pursue God in your day to day living. Be authentic with other people. Care.
This is yet another reason I find to believe in the Christ, the Church.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Money, money, money
"All the church wants is my money."
"Money is all they ever talk about."
"Why can't we focus on spiritual things rather than money"
We have heard it. We have thought it. We have said it. We fear we might show up when we talk about it. Money.
Few things make us as uncomfortable as conversations about money. But, aside from the token text "the love of money is the root of all evil," what do we really know about what God teaches on this VERY important topic.
This Saturday we will talk about money- clearly, honestly and biblically. If you have been to our church you know "all we talk about" is not money. God does not want your money, but he does not want your money to get you.
We know what can happen to families because of debt, over spending and poor stewardship. The stress of money can stretch our families and ruin our life. So why not look at and learn from God an alternative path?! That is the path we will explore this week.
I know many people have felt the crunch in these tough economic times: Less hours, slashed benefits and insecurity of employment. I hope these tough times have taught us to depend on God more and money less. But as we (hopefully) are coming out on the other side of this crisis- will we return to how we were before? Or will we surrender our budgets to God and ask for his guidance? I look forward to answering these questions and many more this Saturday@5:35!
Geoffrey
"Money is all they ever talk about."
"Why can't we focus on spiritual things rather than money"
We have heard it. We have thought it. We have said it. We fear we might show up when we talk about it. Money.
Few things make us as uncomfortable as conversations about money. But, aside from the token text "the love of money is the root of all evil," what do we really know about what God teaches on this VERY important topic.
This Saturday we will talk about money- clearly, honestly and biblically. If you have been to our church you know "all we talk about" is not money. God does not want your money, but he does not want your money to get you.
We know what can happen to families because of debt, over spending and poor stewardship. The stress of money can stretch our families and ruin our life. So why not look at and learn from God an alternative path?! That is the path we will explore this week.
I know many people have felt the crunch in these tough economic times: Less hours, slashed benefits and insecurity of employment. I hope these tough times have taught us to depend on God more and money less. But as we (hopefully) are coming out on the other side of this crisis- will we return to how we were before? Or will we surrender our budgets to God and ask for his guidance? I look forward to answering these questions and many more this Saturday@5:35!
Geoffrey
Friday, September 25, 2009
Lord or Lackey? Fan or Fanatic?
This week we dig into our new sermon series: Fan or Fanatic? Last week we looked at the difference between being a passive fan of faith or being a fanatic about the faith. And fanatic is not "weird" it is just asking what the Lord wants us to do in every situation, rather than living life on our terms.
Tomorrow we look at Jesus, is he our Lord or our Lackey? If he is our lackey that means we reduce him to the menial tasks of our life, but is he is our Lord he has sway over every aspect of our life! There is a difference! Come this Saturday at 5:35 (with a friend) as we become fanatics for Jesus our Lord.
Geoff
Tomorrow we look at Jesus, is he our Lord or our Lackey? If he is our lackey that means we reduce him to the menial tasks of our life, but is he is our Lord he has sway over every aspect of our life! There is a difference! Come this Saturday at 5:35 (with a friend) as we become fanatics for Jesus our Lord.
Geoff
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
FAN or FANATIC
When it comes to God, are you a FAN or a FANATIC?
Starting September 19 at 5:35 we will look at the diffrence between a fan in the stands and a fanatic on the field!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
One Year!
Wow, it is incredible to consider that we are wrapping up our first year of Saturday Night Alive! It is impossible to imagine life without it! Thank you so much for visiting, worshipping, and calling it your home! We are so blessed by SNA worship and so thankful for the opportunity to learn & grow together with each and every one of you!
Please make sure to join us September 12 for a one year party anniversary following worship! Let's pack the place!
And spread the word to your friends and family, so they can also experience the blessing of Saturday Night Alive (and eat some delicious cookes with us too)!
Please make sure to join us September 12 for a one year party anniversary following worship! Let's pack the place!
And spread the word to your friends and family, so they can also experience the blessing of Saturday Night Alive (and eat some delicious cookes with us too)!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Ice Cream, Worship and Jaw Bones
Hello Friends!
This week at Saturday Night Alive we have three unique opportunities that I hope each of you will share in. I am emailing this on Monday as a way of giving all of us some lead time for preparation.
First, following worship this Saturday we are having Homemade Ice Cream and Maid Rites. I am never one to turn down good food and I know neither are many of you! I hope you will block out time in your calendar this week to be here for worship and a meal. You need to bring nothing but yourself for the meal and we will start right after worship.
Second, who might you invite this week? We provide events like this in hopes that you will invite someone. We never know who might respond positively to our invitation and we never know what a difference it will make in their lives. Think of a friend, a co-worker, a neighbor or a family member who just might be waiting for your invitation to worship this Saturday. I will never ask anyone to do anything I will not do myself and plan to follow through with an invitation as well. What if each one brought one? Follow through on an invitation this week with gentle persistence and God will do the rest.
Third, I am excited to preach this Saturday on Judges 15. This is a story of revenge, back stabbing escalation and forgiveness. It centers on Samson, his father-in-law and an odd object that becomes a weapon of death: the jawbone. I have crafted this message in hopes of many new people hearing these words of forgiveness and release from their past. Come to think of it, that is a message all of us need to hear.
See you this Saturday and know that God goes before you in your invitations preparing the way.
Geoff
This week at Saturday Night Alive we have three unique opportunities that I hope each of you will share in. I am emailing this on Monday as a way of giving all of us some lead time for preparation.
First, following worship this Saturday we are having Homemade Ice Cream and Maid Rites. I am never one to turn down good food and I know neither are many of you! I hope you will block out time in your calendar this week to be here for worship and a meal. You need to bring nothing but yourself for the meal and we will start right after worship.
Second, who might you invite this week? We provide events like this in hopes that you will invite someone. We never know who might respond positively to our invitation and we never know what a difference it will make in their lives. Think of a friend, a co-worker, a neighbor or a family member who just might be waiting for your invitation to worship this Saturday. I will never ask anyone to do anything I will not do myself and plan to follow through with an invitation as well. What if each one brought one? Follow through on an invitation this week with gentle persistence and God will do the rest.
Third, I am excited to preach this Saturday on Judges 15. This is a story of revenge, back stabbing escalation and forgiveness. It centers on Samson, his father-in-law and an odd object that becomes a weapon of death: the jawbone. I have crafted this message in hopes of many new people hearing these words of forgiveness and release from their past. Come to think of it, that is a message all of us need to hear.
See you this Saturday and know that God goes before you in your invitations preparing the way.
Geoff
Friday, July 10, 2009
Sprint Through the Bible- AND COOKIES!
This week we start the New Testament and the story of Christ. We have looked at the good creation gave us, the crisis we created with our sin, as well as the covenant God made with Abraham and Sarah. This week we will sprint through the life of Jesus.
We have another order of Bibles in, so if you do not have one please take one. Or if you have a friend who have been witnessing to who might like a Bible PLEASE take one to them.
Following worship this week we will have our Cookie Connection, with a chance to connect and eat ZERO Calorie cookies! (I ought not push my luck on miracles!) Hope to see you this Saturday and may God bless you the rest of this week.
We have another order of Bibles in, so if you do not have one please take one. Or if you have a friend who have been witnessing to who might like a Bible PLEASE take one to them.
Following worship this week we will have our Cookie Connection, with a chance to connect and eat ZERO Calorie cookies! (I ought not push my luck on miracles!) Hope to see you this Saturday and may God bless you the rest of this week.
Monday, May 4, 2009
I Really Needed To Hear That
I REALLY NEEDED TO HEAR THAT is a series of sermons crafted by the folks of our church. We hope to show the relevance of faith in what people deal with day in and day out. Join us at 5:35 PM this Saturday! First Christian Church-Keokuk, Iowa- 3476 Main Street.
Forgiving When They're Not Sorry May 9
How do we let go when someone else is still holding on? Can forgiveness be a one way street?
Kind Words For A Cruel World May 16
In a world of biting sarcasm and shouting heads, how do we speak words of kindness?
Failure Is Not An Option May 23
Many of us are crippled by the fear of failure. But what if failure is how God moves us from where we are to where He wants us to be?
Good People Don't Go To Heaven
(And This Is A Good Thing) May 30
Salvation is not a reward for those who live a good life. It is not a place we earn. It is a gift from God that we receive by faith.
Happily Ever After? YEAH RIGHT! June 6
The work of marriage is a daily task, work that never ends. How can we navigate a relationship recession in a world that views marriage as a matter of convenience?
Forgiving When They're Not Sorry May 9
How do we let go when someone else is still holding on? Can forgiveness be a one way street?
Kind Words For A Cruel World May 16
In a world of biting sarcasm and shouting heads, how do we speak words of kindness?
Failure Is Not An Option May 23
Many of us are crippled by the fear of failure. But what if failure is how God moves us from where we are to where He wants us to be?
Good People Don't Go To Heaven
(And This Is A Good Thing) May 30
Salvation is not a reward for those who live a good life. It is not a place we earn. It is a gift from God that we receive by faith.
Happily Ever After? YEAH RIGHT! June 6
The work of marriage is a daily task, work that never ends. How can we navigate a relationship recession in a world that views marriage as a matter of convenience?
Friday, April 24, 2009
Just the Right Question
Hello friends of First Christian Church!
Have you ever heard a message at church and said "I wish my friend could have heard that! It is just what they needed!" It may be your spouse, a co-worker, your wayward child or just someone who has been on your mind. All of us carry a sense of burden for others and pray that they would be in the right spot to hear God's Word for their situation.
After having more than a few people tell me they wished a friend could have heard a message I shared, I was led to an idea- and I need your help. If you could have me preach on one issue/topic/theme that your friends need to hear about, what would it be? If you were to invite a friend to church what would you hope they would hear? What do they need to hear? What ONE THING are they desperate for? This week I am inviting your feedback as I craft my next batch of sermons. If you will offer your insights and invite your friends, through prayer and planning, God's Word for their life will be shared.
During worship this Saturday night we will have an opportunity to write out our ideas, themes and questions that people struggle with and offer them to God as an offering. I will take a week to pray and craft the themes for a series of messages that will start May 9th. We will have fliers and invitations to hand out- to our friends who are on our mind.
We look forward to seeing you this Saturday night as we start to ask "Just the Right Question," and take the message of Christ to those we care for the most.
Have you ever heard a message at church and said "I wish my friend could have heard that! It is just what they needed!" It may be your spouse, a co-worker, your wayward child or just someone who has been on your mind. All of us carry a sense of burden for others and pray that they would be in the right spot to hear God's Word for their situation.
After having more than a few people tell me they wished a friend could have heard a message I shared, I was led to an idea- and I need your help. If you could have me preach on one issue/topic/theme that your friends need to hear about, what would it be? If you were to invite a friend to church what would you hope they would hear? What do they need to hear? What ONE THING are they desperate for? This week I am inviting your feedback as I craft my next batch of sermons. If you will offer your insights and invite your friends, through prayer and planning, God's Word for their life will be shared.
During worship this Saturday night we will have an opportunity to write out our ideas, themes and questions that people struggle with and offer them to God as an offering. I will take a week to pray and craft the themes for a series of messages that will start May 9th. We will have fliers and invitations to hand out- to our friends who are on our mind.
We look forward to seeing you this Saturday night as we start to ask "Just the Right Question," and take the message of Christ to those we care for the most.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Come Eat And Let Us Welcome You
EAT & GREET
Over 250 people have visited Saturday Night Alive for the first time since September when we started this new adventure. For many folks, this is their first time to worship in a long time. We trust that we have pointed people towards God's love for us in Jesus Christ.
We have attempted to be more about God and less about church for the sake of church. Yet, for many people, they are finding that our church is different. They are finding what they always wanted church to be. We praise God for that.
We are offering a people an opportunity on Saturday, April 4th, after worship at 6:30 to learn more about connecting to God through our congregation. Maybe you want to be baptized, or you are looking for next steps in growing your faith, or perhaps God is leaning on you to make this your church home. Come to learn more, connect with other people in the congregation and most importantly how to grow closer to God.
WHEN: Saturday April 4th after worship
WHERE: Fellowship Hall
WHAT: Free meal (delicious & family friendly),
WHO: Anyone wanting to know more about First Christian Church (especially those new to the church & new members).
Bring the kids!
Over 250 people have visited Saturday Night Alive for the first time since September when we started this new adventure. For many folks, this is their first time to worship in a long time. We trust that we have pointed people towards God's love for us in Jesus Christ.
We have attempted to be more about God and less about church for the sake of church. Yet, for many people, they are finding that our church is different. They are finding what they always wanted church to be. We praise God for that.
We are offering a people an opportunity on Saturday, April 4th, after worship at 6:30 to learn more about connecting to God through our congregation. Maybe you want to be baptized, or you are looking for next steps in growing your faith, or perhaps God is leaning on you to make this your church home. Come to learn more, connect with other people in the congregation and most importantly how to grow closer to God.
WHEN: Saturday April 4th after worship
WHERE: Fellowship Hall
WHAT: Free meal (delicious & family friendly),
WHO: Anyone wanting to know more about First Christian Church (especially those new to the church & new members).
Bring the kids!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Shadow Mission
We’re on a mission from God. Elwood Blues- The Blues Brothers
I remember that movie from my childhood and the infamous tagline- we’re on a mission from God. It is true: we were all created for a mission. We need not be missionaries to Africa in order to live out a mission from God. We only need to follow God and obey. But what happens when the mission of our life drifts?
When we are left to our own desires, we can slowly and even unintentionally abandon our mission and adopt something else. I like that call that our “shadow mission.” We creep out of the light of God’s path and into something much darker, less rewarding and unworthy. We tend to justify it, explain it away or pretend that our situation is different. But in the end, living out a shadow mission leaves us empty and drains our soul.
Are you on a mission from God? Or have you been slowly drifting to something you never dreamt your life would become? Maybe you flaunt it, or even worse you live in secret. But all of us know what it is to live unaligned with God’s mission for our life, to live in the shadows.
Starting this week at Saturday Night Alive we will be begin to explore ways God can help us overcome the Shadow Mission of life. We will look at the book of Esther (the only book to not mention God in the entire Bible) and discover how relevant this ancient book is for today in helping us overcome the shadow mission of life.
Are you ready to step out of the darkness of what your life feels like at times? Do you desire to live aligned with God’s mission for your life? Come this week and discover, with the help of Jesus Christ, how we can find the peace that comes from being on a mission from God.
I remember that movie from my childhood and the infamous tagline- we’re on a mission from God. It is true: we were all created for a mission. We need not be missionaries to Africa in order to live out a mission from God. We only need to follow God and obey. But what happens when the mission of our life drifts?
When we are left to our own desires, we can slowly and even unintentionally abandon our mission and adopt something else. I like that call that our “shadow mission.” We creep out of the light of God’s path and into something much darker, less rewarding and unworthy. We tend to justify it, explain it away or pretend that our situation is different. But in the end, living out a shadow mission leaves us empty and drains our soul.
Are you on a mission from God? Or have you been slowly drifting to something you never dreamt your life would become? Maybe you flaunt it, or even worse you live in secret. But all of us know what it is to live unaligned with God’s mission for our life, to live in the shadows.
Starting this week at Saturday Night Alive we will be begin to explore ways God can help us overcome the Shadow Mission of life. We will look at the book of Esther (the only book to not mention God in the entire Bible) and discover how relevant this ancient book is for today in helping us overcome the shadow mission of life.
Are you ready to step out of the darkness of what your life feels like at times? Do you desire to live aligned with God’s mission for your life? Come this week and discover, with the help of Jesus Christ, how we can find the peace that comes from being on a mission from God.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Chili supper this Saturday- February 7th
Greetings friends!
Join us this week for Saturday Night Alive at 5:35. Our band has fired up several new songs over the past few weeks and this week is no exception. We invite you to come out to worship, find instruction from God's Word and the support of God's people. Last week was the largest attendance we have had since the first month we started. New people are joining the church and coming to faith in Jesus Christ, as is witnessed to in our frequent baptisms. This week Cole Price will be baptized and we hope you can be there to support him.
Following worship this week join us for our Chili Supper. We will eat in the Fellowship Hall with more than enough for everyone! Take the chance to invite a friend with you this week to worship with you and eat with you. We can trust they will feel welcomed, have a good experience in worship and have a good meal!
I can't wait to see you all this week for worship and warm chili!
Join us this week for Saturday Night Alive at 5:35. Our band has fired up several new songs over the past few weeks and this week is no exception. We invite you to come out to worship, find instruction from God's Word and the support of God's people. Last week was the largest attendance we have had since the first month we started. New people are joining the church and coming to faith in Jesus Christ, as is witnessed to in our frequent baptisms. This week Cole Price will be baptized and we hope you can be there to support him.
Following worship this week join us for our Chili Supper. We will eat in the Fellowship Hall with more than enough for everyone! Take the chance to invite a friend with you this week to worship with you and eat with you. We can trust they will feel welcomed, have a good experience in worship and have a good meal!
I can't wait to see you all this week for worship and warm chili!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Dog Vomit
As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly. Proverbs 26:11
Of all the bible verses to preach, why this one? Well for one thing there will be some creative slides to visualize the text! But we can all relate to the point of this teaching. The cycles of our lives are often repeated, with the same results. We, like dogs, return to the undesirable- often unaware why. How do we break it? How do we put an end to the cycle disappointment and dysfunctional? We do it with the help of God and the direction of God's Word. Join us this Saturday as we learn how to break cycles, sometimes generations long, and be liberated into new life.
Of all the bible verses to preach, why this one? Well for one thing there will be some creative slides to visualize the text! But we can all relate to the point of this teaching. The cycles of our lives are often repeated, with the same results. We, like dogs, return to the undesirable- often unaware why. How do we break it? How do we put an end to the cycle disappointment and dysfunctional? We do it with the help of God and the direction of God's Word. Join us this Saturday as we learn how to break cycles, sometimes generations long, and be liberated into new life.
Monday, January 19, 2009
One Sentence...Or More
The last two weeks we have learned from the book of Proverbs. In a series of one setence pithy quotes, we are able to find moral and spiritual insight for our life. Check out the two two weeks and then come this week to hear it for yourself.
January 17
January 10
January 17
January 10
Thursday, January 8, 2009
One Sentence Sermons!
One Sentence Sermons!
Have you ever sat through a sermon and wondered "What is this about? What is the point?" Well, hopefully not lately! But a good sermon says it all in one sentence. In the Bible we find a book that is a collection of wise one sentence sermons. The book of Proverbs is a compilation of pithy quotes that could have easily been written this year. Their relevance and catchy phrasing makes is one of the most applicable books in the Bible.
In our sound bite culture, we process information in smaller pieces. We want it on a bumper sticker. We want to read it on the scroll across the bottom of the screen. Proverbs does that for us. Join us the next several Saturday nights at 5:35 as we hear "The One Sentence Sermon." I might preach for longer than one sentence, but the one sentence you will want to hear will be very clear!
We hope to see you this Saturday night for "The One Sentence Sermon." Bring a friend with you to hear a creative message, enjoy our band and worship God with joy. Something happens every weekend at First Christian Church. Come and see!
Have you ever sat through a sermon and wondered "What is this about? What is the point?" Well, hopefully not lately! But a good sermon says it all in one sentence. In the Bible we find a book that is a collection of wise one sentence sermons. The book of Proverbs is a compilation of pithy quotes that could have easily been written this year. Their relevance and catchy phrasing makes is one of the most applicable books in the Bible.
In our sound bite culture, we process information in smaller pieces. We want it on a bumper sticker. We want to read it on the scroll across the bottom of the screen. Proverbs does that for us. Join us the next several Saturday nights at 5:35 as we hear "The One Sentence Sermon." I might preach for longer than one sentence, but the one sentence you will want to hear will be very clear!
We hope to see you this Saturday night for "The One Sentence Sermon." Bring a friend with you to hear a creative message, enjoy our band and worship God with joy. Something happens every weekend at First Christian Church. Come and see!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
A Creative Christmas!
What does Chuck Norris teach us about Christmas? Sound a little weird, huh? Yes it does. But join us this Saturday night and you will see. During this Christmas season we are singing contemporary Christmas songs that you may have never heard before. Yet, these new songs tell the old story so well. Join us this Saturday to hear a creative and inspiring message, hear new music that will fresh your faith, as well as the opportunity to witness baptism of new believers!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
God Never Gives Up On You!
I have heard it before, heard it today, and will hear it again. "God can't use me, after all I have done." Some variation of that statement has been uttered by most if not all of us. We have sinned too much, done too much or done too little for God to ever use us or love us. But there is nothing we can do to be separated from God's love. Nothing.
Moses is a central character in the Old Testament. He brought the people through the Red Sea. God gave the 10 Commandments to the people through him. He saw God face to face. God used him in powerful ways. But before he was the lead role in God's plan of deliverance, Moses was a murderer. That's right, God picked out one who should have been serving a life sentence ( or the death penalty in Texas) to lead the Jewish people out of slavery and into the Promised Land. And if God can do that with Moses, God can do that with you.
There is nothing we can do to make God give up on us or to separate us from God's love.
Check out THIS message to shares in detail the God who does not give up on you and me.
Moses is a central character in the Old Testament. He brought the people through the Red Sea. God gave the 10 Commandments to the people through him. He saw God face to face. God used him in powerful ways. But before he was the lead role in God's plan of deliverance, Moses was a murderer. That's right, God picked out one who should have been serving a life sentence ( or the death penalty in Texas) to lead the Jewish people out of slavery and into the Promised Land. And if God can do that with Moses, God can do that with you.
There is nothing we can do to make God give up on us or to separate us from God's love.
Check out THIS message to shares in detail the God who does not give up on you and me.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
OLD SCHOOL
Confused with the Old Testament? Me too. Check out this message that talks about the Old Testament prophet Elijah. This week we will be talking about Moses, a leader with no voice who God raised up to deliver a nation.
HERE
HERE
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Going Old School
The Bible can be confusing. But the Old Testament can be REALLY confusing! When we think of the Old Testament our mind often races to images of fire and brimstone, old tales of mythology and arcane history. With long names that are hard to pronounce and wars that claim to be inspired by God, the Old Testament is difficult to embrace and easy to dismiss. Yet we are missing out on the mystery of God and many wonderful stories of great people if we skip the Old Testament.
Starting this Saturday we begin a four week sermon series about inspiring characters of the Old Testament. This will lead us through November and into Advent, where we celebrate the birth of Christ. Each of these four characters, Elijah, Moses, Ezekiel and David, are also celebrated in a new song that we will sing for the first time this Saturday, The Days of Elijah. This moving song will rally us in worship each week and set the tone for the message.
Saturday Night Alive has been up and running for two solid months now, and the response has been amazing. It is because of people like you that we can say this. People like you have come to worship, invited your friends, and have spread the good word about what God is doing. I hope to see you this Saturday, I hope you will invite a friend, and I know that you will be blessed by God in doing so. Are you ready to go "Old School?" Are you ready to learn inspiring stories of faith from the Old Testament and see that what God once did God still does? This Saturday we will experience that together.
Starting this Saturday we begin a four week sermon series about inspiring characters of the Old Testament. This will lead us through November and into Advent, where we celebrate the birth of Christ. Each of these four characters, Elijah, Moses, Ezekiel and David, are also celebrated in a new song that we will sing for the first time this Saturday, The Days of Elijah. This moving song will rally us in worship each week and set the tone for the message.
Saturday Night Alive has been up and running for two solid months now, and the response has been amazing. It is because of people like you that we can say this. People like you have come to worship, invited your friends, and have spread the good word about what God is doing. I hope to see you this Saturday, I hope you will invite a friend, and I know that you will be blessed by God in doing so. Are you ready to go "Old School?" Are you ready to learn inspiring stories of faith from the Old Testament and see that what God once did God still does? This Saturday we will experience that together.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
What's For Dinner?
Nothing is as mundane a question as "what's for dinner?" You might ask your spouse out of curiosity, hoping to get the grill out or trying to convince her that you might make your way to The Hawkeye! Little questions about our day, what we eat, who we spend time with, how we respond to a mini-crisis at work; these small moments add up to make what is our life. Are we trusting God and asking God for direction in the small stuff? Or are we just rushing to God to bail us out when the bottom falls out of life?
This week we will talk about seeking God in the little things. I have found that when we take care of the little things, the big things take care of themselves. Join us this week as we find ways for God to help us take care of the little things so that we can trust God to take care of the big things as well.
This week we will talk about seeking God in the little things. I have found that when we take care of the little things, the big things take care of themselves. Join us this week as we find ways for God to help us take care of the little things so that we can trust God to take care of the big things as well.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
STRESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! October 18th
Who among us does not deal with stress? Deadlines to meet. Bills to pay. People to please. Expectations to reach. Stress keeps us up late at night. It gets us up early in the morning. It derails our train of thought during the day. And at times, it can stagnate our lives and put our soul on a permanent pause.
What is it that stresses you out and how do you handle it?
This week at Saturday Night Alive we will dive head first into this issue of stress. Learning how God can get us through it, we will be better equipped to face the world and the stress that is inevitable.
What is it that stresses you out and how do you handle it?
This week at Saturday Night Alive we will dive head first into this issue of stress. Learning how God can get us through it, we will be better equipped to face the world and the stress that is inevitable.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Tell me what you want, what you really really want!
What do you really want? We have asked the people on the streets of Keokuk last week and we got their feedback! We might might want a new TV, a new house or healthy family. But what if what we really wanted just kept leaving us empty week after week, year after year. We place so much stock in what we want next, only to find what little lift it gives our life.
I remember wanting a new pair of Pepe Jeans when I was in 8th grade. These jeans were going to lift me out of the "dork" category and all of a sudden I would be not only cool- but rad! With my tight rolled Pepe jeans I marched into the middle school only to find that nothing changed. And so it is for us. Is what we really want, going to give us what we really want it to give us?
HERE is the message from last week that covers this very issue.
This week come and see the response to our next question: If you could ask God one question, what would it be?
I remember wanting a new pair of Pepe Jeans when I was in 8th grade. These jeans were going to lift me out of the "dork" category and all of a sudden I would be not only cool- but rad! With my tight rolled Pepe jeans I marched into the middle school only to find that nothing changed. And so it is for us. Is what we really want, going to give us what we really want it to give us?
HERE is the message from last week that covers this very issue.
This week come and see the response to our next question: If you could ask God one question, what would it be?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Food food food food FOOD!
That's right, it is eating time at First Christian Keokuk! This Saturday, October 4th, after the Saturday Night Alive worship, we are grilling out on the patio! Join in for free food - all you can eat! We're sure looking forward to it! Mmmmmmm...
What One Thing Do You Really Want?
What one thing do you really want? What an open ended question! It might be health, wealth, a new car or time with friends. We all have our own answer to that question, but what if you got to hear the answers of other people? You get your chance this week! Starting this Saturday we will open each message with a short "Person on the Street" interview. Their answers will help set the course for the message each week.
Take a look at the questions we will look at over the next four weeks:
October 4th "What One Thing Do You Really Want?"
October 11th "What One Question Do You Have For God?"
October 18th "What Stresses You Out?"
October 25th "What Do You Love To Eat?"
Look out when you are out on the town! If you see Geoff Mitchell or Brad Fekete, they might have a question for you!
Take a look at the questions we will look at over the next four weeks:
October 4th "What One Thing Do You Really Want?"
October 11th "What One Question Do You Have For God?"
October 18th "What Stresses You Out?"
October 25th "What Do You Love To Eat?"
Look out when you are out on the town! If you see Geoff Mitchell or Brad Fekete, they might have a question for you!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Snow balls filled with rocks
Once when I was a kid, I got trapped in a snow ball fight. This would not be a big deal except for the fact the other kids had rock filled snow balls and were blocking my path to school. With the only way out of the woods leading right past the painful stockpile of weapons, my friends and I needed a plan. Robert, who was older than I (and short a few more brain cells,) declared that he would lead the running charge through the gauntlet. Ryan and I followed - a few steps behind - for sure getting hit but nothing like what Robert had to handle. It was a difficult run for us, but not devastating - Robert had drawn the fire.
I think of Jesus and the future he has secured for us when I remember this story from my childhood. Upon the cross, he was devastated and suffered to death to show us all that we are not alone in any difficult times. And death was not to be the end for him or for us either. While life at times will be tough, Jesus has already led the way for all of us.
In the 5th chapter of Revelation John is taken to heaven where he is saddened by all the suffering and lonliness in earth. Then he sees the image of a lowly, humble lamb. All in heaven rejoice loudly because the lamb is the only one found worthy! God has given the power to forgive the past and conquer the future to this lamb, who is also the mighty lion of Judah, Jesus Christ! And as Jesus Christ's own, we are forgiven of our past mistakes, and given the opportunity to live free with Him in the present with a clear hope of everlasting life for our future. Heaven was wild with praise for the promises of this lamb! With Jesus, throughout life's hurts and hopes, we can be joyful as well!
HERE is the message from last week that included this story.
I think of Jesus and the future he has secured for us when I remember this story from my childhood. Upon the cross, he was devastated and suffered to death to show us all that we are not alone in any difficult times. And death was not to be the end for him or for us either. While life at times will be tough, Jesus has already led the way for all of us.
In the 5th chapter of Revelation John is taken to heaven where he is saddened by all the suffering and lonliness in earth. Then he sees the image of a lowly, humble lamb. All in heaven rejoice loudly because the lamb is the only one found worthy! God has given the power to forgive the past and conquer the future to this lamb, who is also the mighty lion of Judah, Jesus Christ! And as Jesus Christ's own, we are forgiven of our past mistakes, and given the opportunity to live free with Him in the present with a clear hope of everlasting life for our future. Heaven was wild with praise for the promises of this lamb! With Jesus, throughout life's hurts and hopes, we can be joyful as well!
HERE is the message from last week that included this story.
Monday, September 22, 2008
A Fresh Future begins today!
We all have worries about the future. It might be saving for retirement, the security of our job, our health, or the choices our kids are facing. The future, at times, seems like a great unknown. How do we trust God with our future, a future free from fear? This Saturday we will explore just that. We will find comfort for our future from an often scary book: Revelation. The last book of the Bible is God's last word for our future. Come find clear words of hope from this often confusing book.
Miss last week? Listen to the message right HERE!
Miss last week? Listen to the message right HERE!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Online Sermons!
Here is the message from this past Saturday. Take a listen and see what you think. Next week we will explore how God can give us a Fresh Start this day. We hope you will step out of your comfort zone and join us for worship this Saturday at 5:35 PM at First Christian Church. Even in the midst of a rain storm and up against the Iowa/Iowa State game, we had a huge turnout for worship. Come join the growing number of people who are finding a Fresh Start at Saturday Night Alive.
Monday, September 8, 2008
A Great Start and a Fresh Start
We had a great start to Saturday Night Alive this week. Over 400 people gathered for an evening of worship and celebration. It was a great start. You hope you will be there this week for A Fresh Start.
Saturday, September 13th, begins a three week series on learning how God gives us a Fresh Start. The first week will explore how we let go and find a Fresh Past. The next week we will discuss God's refreshing spirit in the moment. The final week we look at God's Fresh Future for us.
Are you looking for a Fresh Start? We hope to see you this week as we find that together.
Saturday, September 13th, begins a three week series on learning how God gives us a Fresh Start. The first week will explore how we let go and find a Fresh Past. The next week we will discuss God's refreshing spirit in the moment. The final week we look at God's Fresh Future for us.
Are you looking for a Fresh Start? We hope to see you this week as we find that together.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Your Invitation to Saturday Night Alive
Check us out on Youtube and forward it to your friends!
Youtube video created by Noel Brown. Great job Noel!
Saturday September 6th at 5:35 PM!
What is there to do in Keokuk on a Saturday night? While I am sure there are more options than we realize, our community is about to add an exciting experience to the calendar. Starting September 6th at 5:35, First Christian Church is launching Saturday Night Alive, a new worship experience, and you are invited!
This new worship experience will offer modern music and a relevant message, at a time that is convenient for you. Maybe you work swing shift, visit your grandma in Kahoka on Sundays, or just enjoy sleeping in. No matter your schedule, you will value the convenience and relevance of Saturday Night Alive.
So whether you are considering faith for the first time or the last time, we have room for you. Come discover that faith can come alive, hope can be restored and that church can be fun. But more important, you can tap into the power of God that proves your future does not have to be defined by your past.
Who is invited? Everyone- and we mean everyone!
Where is it at? First Christian Church in Keokuk (The old Wal Mart).
What time? 5:35 PM- easy to remember.
What do I wear? Come as you are.
What will I find? Modern Music, Relevant Message, Real People.
This new worship experience will offer modern music and a relevant message, at a time that is convenient for you. Maybe you work swing shift, visit your grandma in Kahoka on Sundays, or just enjoy sleeping in. No matter your schedule, you will value the convenience and relevance of Saturday Night Alive.
So whether you are considering faith for the first time or the last time, we have room for you. Come discover that faith can come alive, hope can be restored and that church can be fun. But more important, you can tap into the power of God that proves your future does not have to be defined by your past.
Who is invited? Everyone- and we mean everyone!
Where is it at? First Christian Church in Keokuk (The old Wal Mart).
What time? 5:35 PM- easy to remember.
What do I wear? Come as you are.
What will I find? Modern Music, Relevant Message, Real People.
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