Standalone
7 sermons in this series
Why Do Bad Things Happen?
Why do tragedies pierce the very fabric of our understanding of God’s goodness? In a prayer night sermon, Pastor Josh confronts the heart-wrenching question of why disasters—like the devastating flooding that claimed lives in Texas—occur, especially at places that hold spiritual significance. Drawing from the story of a beloved Christian camp ravaged by calamity, he acknowledges the deep questions surrounding tragedy, urging the congregation to anchor their understanding in Scripture rather than the chaos of emotions that can arise in such crises. Pastor Josh emphasizes that the Bible is essential in deciphering the nature of God amidst suffering, reinforcing the belief that God is fundamentally good, and suffering is part of the human experience due to sin and a fallen world. Incorporating Scripture to navigate the complexities of God’s sovereignty, he sheds light on the reasons for suffering, including judgment, discipline, and the development of character within believers. This message resonates deeply within our spiritual journeys, inviting you to confront your own questions about tragedy and faith.
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An Offering God Accepts
Pastor Josh emphasizes that every person is inherently a worshiper, but the critical question is what or whom we choose to worship. He contrasts true worship, which is directed to Yahweh and rooted in faith, with false worship that arises from pride, self-interest, or societal influences. Using the examples of Cain and Abel, he warns that even worship offered to the right God can be rejected if it doesn’t come from a sincere heart and a genuine relationship built on God's terms. Ultimately, Pastor highlights that true worship encompasses every aspect of our lives, requiring not just songs on a Sunday, but a complete sacrifice of self to God's will and righteousness.
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The Jealousy of the Lord - Numbers 25
In this sermon, Pastor Troy emphasizes that God is a jealous God, underscoring the importance of worshiping Him alone and avoiding idolatry. He draws parallels between the Israelites' historical infidelity to God and the modern Church's tendency to mix secular influences with their faith, ultimately warning against the dangers of compromising God’s sovereignty. Pastor Troy highlights that God's jealousy is rooted in His deep love for His people and serves as a protective measure against spiritual harm. He challenges congregants to examine their lives for idols and to actively remove anything that usurps God's rightful place in their hearts.
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The Bible in 40 Minutes
Pastor Josh Troester takes the congregation on a sweeping overview of the entire Bible in 40 minutes, emphasizing how all scripture points to Jesus. He explains the significance of creation, the fall of man through sin, and God's plan of redemption, establishing the vital role of Jesus as the Savior. The message illustrates humanity's consistent pattern of disobedience and God's faithfulness in raising up leaders, including the prophets and kings, leading to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ for our sins. Finally, Pastor highlights the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus and the hope of eternal life with God, reiterating that Christianity is not about rules, but about embracing the grace offered through Christ.
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If Christ Raised, So Can You... - 1 Corinthians 15
Pastor discusses the pivotal message of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15, emphasizing its foundational importance for faith and salvation. He outlines the overwhelming evidence supporting the resurrection, including eyewitness accounts and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, highlighting the transformative power of Christ's victory over sin and death. The sermon calls believers to be steadfast, immovable, and actively engaged in their faith, proclaiming the good news of Jesus with purpose. Ultimately, Pastor encourages attendees to live in the victory of Christ, reminding them that their labor in the Lord is never in vain.
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Lessons from Three Dying Men
Pastor Josh Troester discusses the profound events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus, focusing on the interactions between Jesus and the two criminals crucified alongside him. He emphasizes the distinct lessons we can learn from each of the three dying men: the first illustrates the folly of bargaining with God based on personal need, while the second recognizes the difference between God and man, admitting his own guilt and seeking mercy instead. The sermon culminates in the understanding that the greatest gift is not merely paradise, but the relationship with Jesus himself, highlighting the significance of being with Him. Ultimately, Pastor encourages all to embrace the grace offered through the cross, where salvation becomes accessible to everyone, regardless of their past.
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Religion vs Relationship - Isaiah 58
Pastor Josh discusses the importance of authentic relationship with God versus empty religious rituals, particularly in the context of fasting. He emphasizes that true fasting should stem from a desire to be close to God and to confess our sins, rather than as a means to manipulate God for personal gain. The dangers of self-righteousness and pride are highlighted, as they can lead to despair or a judgmental attitude toward others. Ultimately, Pastor encourages the congregation to seek genuine connection with God, allowing His grace to produce love and generosity toward others, fostering true spiritual growth and healing.
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