Sharing Good News

Originally preached on January 19, 2025.

scripture

Acts 1:1–11

Series

Our Purpose

summary

This sermon from Acts 1:1–11 introduced the church’s new mission by emphasizing that our purpose is to share the good news of Jesus Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and reign. Jesus commissions his followers to continue his ministry, empowers them through the Holy Spirit, and calls them to be his witnesses rather than becoming distracted by politics, speculation, or secondary issues. As citizens of God’s kingdom and people immersed in the Spirit’s work, believers are sent into the world with a clear mission: proclaim the gospel and invite others to respond to Christ. The central refrain of the sermon was simple: the gospel demands a response.

Sharing Good News (Acts 1:1–11)

Aaron Halstead

For All People

Originally preached on January 26, 2025.

scripture

Ephesians 2:11–22

Series

Our Purpose

summary

This sermon from Ephesians 2:11–22 emphasized that the gospel is universally relevant and accessible to everyone. Paul reminds believers that they were once outsiders, separated from God and without hope, but through the blood of Christ they have been brought near and reconciled to God. Jesus broke down every barrier that divides people, creating one family united in him. As a result, the church should reflect God’s heart for all people by welcoming outsiders, proclaiming the gospel with compassion, and helping disciples grow into the image of Christ. The central message was that the heart of God beats for every person, and the church exists to share that good news with all people.

For All People (Ephesians 2:11-22)

Aaron Halstead

Through the Word

Originally preached on February 2, 2025.

scripture

2 Timothy 3:14–4:2

Series

Our Purpose

summary

This sermon from 2 Timothy 3:14–4:2 emphasized that the church must center its faith and practice on God’s Word as its ultimate authority. Paul urges Timothy to remain committed to Scripture because it creates a spiritual family, leads people to salvation in Christ, speaks with God’s own voice, and forms believers into mature disciples. As a result, every church member is called into ministry, should cultivate Bible-shaped speech that encourages and corrects others, and must patiently help one another grow in Christ. The main message was that the Word of God and the Spirit of God are sufficient to sustain, guide, and strengthen the church.

Through the Word (2 Timothy 3:14–4:2)

Aaron Halstead

In Our Worship

Originally preached on February 9, 2025.

scripture

Romans 11:33–12:2

Series

Our Purpose

summary

This sermon from Romans 11:33–12:2 taught that worship is much more than singing or attending church—it is a whole-life response to the greatness and mercy of God. After marveling at God's wisdom and grace, Paul calls believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, living lives of reverence, gratitude, service, and obedience. The main emphasis was that worship does not stop on Sundays; every part of life can become an act of worship when it is lived for God's glory.

As We Work (Romans 11:33-12:2)

Aaron Halstead

As We Work

Originally preached on February 16, 2025.

scripture

1 Thessalonians 4:9–12

Series

Our Purpose

summary

Work is worship when it’s lived as love under God, within your calling, and before the world. Paul calls believers to live a quiet, faithful life—loving others, working diligently, and avoiding anxious striving. Our everyday work is a God-given calling meant to serve others and reflect Christ.

As We Work (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)

Aaron Halstead

By Our Witness

Originally preached on February 23, 2025.

scripture

Acts 1:8

Series

Our Purpose

summary

Acts 1:8 teaches that every believer is called to be a witness for Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit. A witness simply tells what they know of Christ and lives in a way that reflects Him. This witness becomes disciple-making as we go, baptize new believers, and teach them to follow Jesus. Beginning locally and extending globally, the mission of the church is Spirit-empowered and shared by all believers through both words and actions.

By Our Witness (Acts 1:8)

Aaron Halstead