{"id":8719,"date":"2020-01-14T11:27:50","date_gmt":"2020-01-14T16:27:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/?page_id=8719"},"modified":"2020-01-14T11:27:52","modified_gmt":"2020-01-14T16:27:52","slug":"by-series","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/by-series","title":{"rendered":"By Series"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"The<\/a>

A 12-Part Journey Through the Meta-Narrative of Scripture. For decades, physicists have searched for a \"Theory of Everything,\u201d a single framework that explains how the universe works. But even the most perfect equation can\u2019t tell us why we exist, why the world feels so broken, or where history is actually headed. In this series, we aren't just looking at isolated \"Bible stories.\" We are looking at THE STORY. From the first spark of creation to the final glory of consummation, we will discover how the Bible provides the ultimate story that explains everything.<\/div>

\"Vision<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Christmas<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Jesus<\/a>

In this series, we are going verse by verse through the book of Hebrews. This book is all about Jesus and how he is greater than all!<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

In this series, we will speak about some of the historic spiritual habits of the church. The habits themselves are good, but we will see that they are disciplines with no inherent power of their own, but when connected to the Holy Spirit, have infinite power. Spiritual habits act as a conduit that connects us to the power of the Holy Spirit. We not only open up and ask the Spirit to fill us, we create habits that give Him a conduit to fill us and use us to do God\u2019s will.\r\n<\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

In a world where communication is often loud but shallow, where misunderstandings can divide families and churches, we\u2019re turning to Ephesians 4 for a better way. The apostle Paul shows us how our words, when shaped by the gospel, can actually build up the body of Christ and bring unity to our homes. Whether you\u2019re leading a family, growing in marriage, raising kids, or simply trying to live at peace with others, this series is for you. Paul\u2019s wisdom applies to both our family and our church family, reminding us that communication is more than just talking\u2014it\u2019s about growing up together into Christ.<\/div>

\"Kingdom<\/a>

Some have called the Sermon on the Mount, \u201cthe greatest sermon ever preached by the greatest preacher who ever lived.\u201d In this series, we will go verse by verse through Matthew 5-7.<\/div>

\"Easter<\/a>

We celebrate the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!<\/div>

\"Gospel<\/a>

Our goal is to collaborate with other churches so that every man, woman and child has repeated opportunities to see, hear, and respond to the good news of Jesus.\r\n\r\nThe primary way this happens is when every member of the churches in our communities starts living their lives centered on the gospel.<\/div>

\"It's<\/a>

In 586 B.C., the armies of Babylon had destroyed the temple in Jerusalem\u2014God\u2019s house, the symbol of his presence with them. In 538 B.C. King Cyrus of Persia overthrew Babylon and decreed that the Jewish exiles could return to their beloved city and rebuild the temple. So they traveled to Jerusalem and began the work. But due to opposition and confused priorities, nearly 18 years had passed and the work was still at a standstill (Ezra 4:4-5). Then a voice was heard, the Lord spoke through the prophet Haggai calling God\u2019s people to consider their priorities. They were saying it wasn\u2019t time to rebuild God\u2019s house, but God disagreed. God spoke through Haggai telling His people, \u201cIt\u2019s Time to Be Strong, Do the Work, and to Be Fearless!\u201d Although Haggai is a small book, it is filled with challenge and promise, reminding us of God\u2019s claim on our lives and on our priorities.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

The three gifts the Magi brought to Jesus were very unusual gift to give to a baby. Yet, they are perfectly suited for One who is King, Mediator and Savior.<\/div>

\"Real<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

The cartoon series, \u201cThe Family Circus,\u201d was created by self-taught artist and cartoonist, Bil Keane in 1959. Cartooning from his home office with family all around, Keane was inspired and soon began drawing \u201cThe Family Circus,\u201d using his five children as subject matter. Keane said, \u201cIf there is a philosophy behind the feature, it is that a home filled with love and laughter is the happiest place in the world.\u201d<\/div>

\"God<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Heaven<\/a>

Many Christians today seem to doubt and know nothing of heaven. What do you know about heaven? What do you believe about it? Are you focused on heaven? In this 6-week series, we cover a lot of ground as the Bible has much to say about our eternal destiny with him: Heaven.\r\n<\/div>

\"Meditations<\/a>

Many people around the world find things to admire about Jesus: a great teacher, a great leader, a great example. But many also have a problem with the Christ of the Cross. It is troublesome and gruesome. It makes us think about suffering and blood. Instead of conquering and winning, it is weakness and losing. It might seem foolish, but it turns out to be God\u2019s plan to erase the separation between a righteous and holy God and sinful people. As we prepare ourselves for Resurrection Sunday, we\u2019re spending the next few weeks meditating on the Cross.<\/div>

\"God<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Simple<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Advent<\/a>

Advent means \u201ccoming, appearing, or arrival.\u201d It speaks of Christ\u2019s past appearing in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago as well as His future promised appearing. As believers, we live between these two advents of Christ.\r\n\r\nTherefore let us watch and wait for Christ\u2019s soon return! We light candles of hope, peace, joy, and love, remembering the promises of God.<\/div>

\"From<\/a>

The series is based on the eight blessings or beatitudes that Jesus declared in His Sermon on the Mount. These eight blessings of Jesus actually turn worldly wisdom upside down. For they declare that the world\u2019s wisdom about finding happiness and blessing is actually the opposite of what is needed.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

Do you remember the Three Rs of Learning from elementary school \u2013 Reading, wRiting, and aRithmetic? The three Rs of Parenting are Receive, Raise, Release. We all feel unqualified at times to raise our children, but God\u2019s Word has a lot to say about children and parenting and it is a source of help for us.<\/div>

\"Come<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Searching<\/a>

In this series, we're going verse by verse through the book of Judges, seeing how God continually showed mercy on the Israelites by sending them a rescuer in the form of a \"judge,\" and how the Israelites responded by continually drifting away from God's law. As we study this disturbing and violent book, we can recognize our need for a true savior and how God satisfied his love and his justice through the person of Jesus Christ.<\/div>

\"Renovate<\/a>

We all tend to think that if we could renovate our house, or our job, or our marriage, or our \u2026, then we\u2019d be happy, but the truth is that life is not lived from the outside \u2013 in, but from the inside \u2013 out. We live from our hearts. So what does it mean to let God renovate, to transform our hearts? It means to have the heart of Christ, the character of Christ formed in you. <\/div>

\"Rediscover<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Righteousness<\/a>

As we go verse by verse through the book of Romans, we learn how God wants to make us right with Himself and each other.<\/div>

\"Belong<\/a>

This series is based on the first step of our Life on Life Discipleship process - Belong. It covers the basics of how to be confident of your salvation and begin the journey of discipleship. <\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

<\/div>

\"4<\/a>

Gospel Saturation is the church owning the lostness of an identified people in a defined place, ensuring that every man, woman, and child has repeated opportunities to see, hear, and respond to the Good News of Jesus Christ where they live, learn, work, and play.\r\n\r\nThis is just a way of restating the command that Jesus gave the church: Mark 16:15 (ESV) And he said to them, \u201cGo into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.\"\r\n\r\nPerhaps the church in America has been too focused on building its own kingdom, rather than being active members of Christ\u2019s ever-increasing Kingdom. <\/div>

\"Hymns<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Repent<\/a>

This series goes verse by verse through the book of Zechariah.<\/div>

\"Movement<\/a>

Because 2000 years ago, the Lord Jesus told His disciples to \u201cGO and MAKE DISCIPLES\u201d and He has called His disciples, His church, to be on the move ever since. So the church is not a place, it\u2019s a people. The church is not a monument, it\u2019s a movement!<\/div>

\"Simply<\/a>

We long for the simplicity of Christmas without all the pressure of sales, gifts and a busy calendar. Join us as we learn how to celebrate Simply Christmas.<\/div>

\"Gospel<\/a>

This series is called \u201cGospel 365\u201d because it is good to be reminded of the gospel every day, 365 days, of every year of our lives. Why? Because the gospel isn\u2019t merely the starting point of our faith; the gospel is the daily sustenance of our faith. As Christians, we need to remind ourselves of it everyday! What does the word \u201cgospel\u201d mean? It means \u201cgood news.\u201d It\u2019s the good news that God so loved us that He gave His Son Jesus to die for our sins that we might believe on Him and receive eternal life.\r\n<\/div>

\"Better<\/a>

Over 4 weeks we\u2019ll be discussing how God has created us to be a relational people, a people meant for community and a people of faith who are better together. The truth is we need God and we need one another. We are created for relationship. We were made to love God and one another.<\/div>

\"Parenthood<\/a>

Let\u2019s admit it. Parenting can be very scary! Many of us, as parents, have felt that with even more intensity over the last year. Some of us became homeschool teachers overnight. We probably spent more time with our kids last year than any time before. And that likely revealed both some joys and some pains. The fact is that parents often not only feel afraid, but angry, frustrated, exhausted, and even at times, a desire to escape. Parents feel overwhelmed and under-qualified. In this series, we\u2019re going to learn the 3 \u201cRs\u201d of Parenting: Receive, Raise up, and Release.<\/div>

\"I'm<\/a>

Barna recently hosted a \u201cState of the Church\u201d event aimed at helping church leaders understand what people think of the church in general. One of the key questions they asked was the question of perception. The number 1 feedback from this study, \u201c41% say the church is known for the things they are against.\u201d When the unchurched believe the church to be against them, they will struggle to see themselves as a participant.\r\n\r\nIn this series we hope to encourage you with the Word of God that the Gospel and the Lord Himself are characterized more by what they are for than what they are against.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

Who is in control? We want to be in charge but sometimes fear, anxiety, or some other thing actually rules. What if there was a better way to live than always struggling for control? Come and hear how who we put on the throne changes everything. This series is an exposition of 1 Samuel<\/div>

\"Easter<\/a>

During Easter weekend, we take time to truly \u201cbehold\u201d the empty tomb and contemplate how we can live without fear, tell others and be ready for Christ\u2019s coming.<\/div>

\"Palm<\/a>

On this day, we remember the day of Christ\u2019s triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the first day of Passion Week, so named because it was the week that ended with Christ\u2019s suffering and death on the cross. Passion Week began with Christ\u2019s triumphal entry on Sunday and ended with His terrible exit on Friday.<\/div>

\"Seeing<\/a>

Have you ever been listening to a popular song on the radio and found yourself surprisingly moved by the truth in its lyrics? That\u2019s because all truth is God\u2019s truth and even those far from God can be inspired by God. As we examine popular music from today, we will learn how to see the sacred in the secular.<\/div>

\"Making<\/a>

We\u2019re spending 3 weeks talking about what the Bible says about your money and possessions and how \u201cmaking a change\u201d to manage your stuff God\u2019s way, leads to financial freedom, joy and peace.<\/div>

\"Christmas<\/a>

You know it\u2019s Christmas by all the lights. Lights on trees, in windows, hanging like icicles on rooftops, lights shining everywhere! It\u2019s ironic that at the darkest time of the year, during the time of the winter solstice when our nights are the longest and our days are the shortest, that we celebrate the season with lights! But Christmas lights are not about lighting up the dark nights of winter, but about pointing to the true light, the Great Light, Jesus Christ.<\/div>

\"Making<\/a>

Whenever God wants to get a work done, He lays hold of a people who are willing to rise up. In the Old Testament, it was Nehemiah and those returning from Babylonian exile who answered the call of God to Rise Up. Today, God is calling us!<\/div>

\"Dangerous<\/a>

Do you believe in the importance of prayer, yet you often feel that your prayer life is missing something? You\u2019re not alone. Many believers today admit that they\u2019re not satisfied with their prayer life.\r\n\r\nWhat are \u201csafe\u201d prayers? They\u2019re the kind of prayers that sound like a laundry list of needs without any mention of what God is doing or wants to do in your life or in this world. They are prayers that sound rote and practiced, rather than fresh and passionate. They\u2019re boring prayers, to us, and probably, to God too. But what if we began to pray \u201cdangerous prayers?\u201d Prayers that cry out to God for an answer? Prayers that are God-sized and God-willed? Prayers that stretch us outside of our comfort zone? If we were to begin praying \u201cdangerous prayers\u201d together as a church, who knows what would happen!<\/div>

\"Letters<\/a>

In this series, we are going verse by verse through the first 3 chapters of the book of Revelation.<\/div>

\"This<\/a>

This series is about God\u2019s design for the family and how following God\u2019s design, with God\u2019s help, results in God\u2019s blessing on our families. Don\u2019t you want God\u2019s blessing on your family? It begins by giving it to God saying, \u201cGod, this is Your family!\u201d<\/div>

\"What<\/a>

As we move towards reopening our lives from COVID-19, what have we learned? How has this season changed our priorities about what really matters in life?<\/div>

\"You<\/a>

Has life become almost impossible to handle? Pandemics, cancellations, quarantines, layoffs, shortages, social distancing\u2026 No one had these in their 2020 plans. Many feel that they can\u2019t handle one more thing! Where do we turn at times like this?\r\n<\/div>

\"More<\/a>

Do you want to experience more happiness and contentment? Do you want to experience more joy? Do you want to be more blessed? In this series, we learn why Jesus said, \"It is more blessed to give than to receive.\"<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

We all make lists at Christmas. Wish lists, guest lists, maybe even naughty or nice lists. But did you know that God has a gift list too? And that you're on it?<\/div>

\"Life<\/a>

The theme for this series is found in 2 Timothy 2:2 - \"and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.\"\r\n\r\nOver 3 weeks, we look at what it means to be a disciple and what it means to be a discipler of others.<\/div>

\"House<\/a>

One of the marks of the early church was a rhythm they developed. We see it in Acts 5:42: \u201cAnd every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.\u201d That\u2019s the mark of the early church that we want to focus on: their commitment to Christ and to one another; and the weekly rhythm of how they met together to express that commitment in large groups and in small groups \u201chouse to house.\u201d\t<\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

We all want what's best for our families, but have we considered how much God cares about our families? In this series, we will learn God's plan and purpose for the family, for parenting, and for marriage.<\/div>

\"Who's<\/a>

Imagine if every believer could answer that question with the name of a person who is far from God \u2013 a person for whom they\u2019re praying and with whom seeking to share the gospel. That\u2019s the intention behind Who\u2019s Your One. We believe God\u2019s people don\u2019t merely need another method for evangelism \u2013 what they need is a white-hot passion to see people who are far from God experience the new life He offers through Jesus Christ.<\/div>

\"Got<\/a>

Do you have questions about God? That\u2019s normal. Even the followers of Jesus were full of questions that first Easter. Yet, they experienced reasons to believe. During this series, we\u2019re going to tackle some of the tough questions of faith.<\/div>

\"Rise<\/a>

We're going on a spiritual journey together, through the book of Nehemiah, asking \"God, what do you want to do through me?\". <\/div>

\"Christmas<\/a>

Have you unwrapped the gift yet? It\u2019s been sitting under the tree for you for some time. But it\u2019s not really yours until you open it. Have you unwrapped the gift of the Son of God, Jesus Christ and received Him as your Lord and Savior? It\u2019s not enough to guess at the contents, to shake the box and even hold it in your lap. It\u2019s not really yours until you open it.\t<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

The emotional need we have to be loved by another was put inside us by God. Unfortunately, our desire to be loved is never fully met because people let us down. However, if we will receive God\u2019s love for us and reciprocate that love in return, we will experience a satisfaction like we\u2019ve never known. There are amazing parallels between how God loves us and how we love one another. Understanding how God loves us will help us better love him back in return, expressing our love fully using every means possible.<\/div>

\"Community<\/a>

People today are looking for community. They want something real, something that will meet their needs of companionship and identity. Whether they recognize it or not, God has made all of us with a deep desire for a relationship with Him and with one another. We long for authentic community. We can experience this authentic community when we pursue the four devotions of the early church found in Acts 2:42.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

Do you remember the Three Rs of Learning from elementary school \u2013 Reading, wRiting, and aRithmetic? The three Rs of Parenting are Receive, Raise, Release. We all feel unqualified at times to raise our children, but God\u2019s Word has a lot to say about children and parenting and it is a source of help for us.<\/div>

\"Heart<\/a>

In this 3-week series, we will learn about the biblical basis for the purpose, mission and vision of our church. More than that, we will learn how God wants each of us, as members of His Church, to have a Heart for God, Heart for Each Other, and Heart for Our World.<\/div>

\"Psalms<\/a>

Has worry, fear or depression ever made you feel soul-sick? We go to a doctor when our bodies are sick, but where do we go when we need help for our souls? Go to the Psalms. They are God\u2019s medicine for the soul!<\/div>

\"Living<\/a>

We're going verse by verse through the book of Daniel. In the book of Daniel, we have a book that encourages us when we feel like we aren't at home, when we wonder where God is in our trials and tribulations.<\/div>

\"Vision<\/a>

Vision Sunday is the day we try and put into words a God-sized destiny that we could never reach without His help.<\/div>

\"#goals<\/a>

We often look at the lives, relationships, possessions, and accomplishments of others and say to ourselves, \"I want that.....#goals.\" Yet, God has even better #goals for you. What better way to start a new year than to find out what these #goals are?<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

What color is your Christmas? Whether you're feeling blue or dreaming of white, we're spending the 4 Sundays of December experiencing the sounds and story of Christmas!<\/div>

\"Set<\/a>

The gospel frees us by grace. This simple yet powerful message is unpacked in the book of Galatians. During this series, we go verse by verse through the whole book of Galatians.<\/div>

\"Three<\/a>

Don\u2019t we all want a better life? Some think that politics or government can give us a better life. Some think protests and violence will lead to a better life. Some think that a better life means material things, like a new house, new car, new clothes, or a giant 4k TV. But the problem is that all of these are just externals. Focusing on the externals will not bring a better life. What we need is an internal change. We need a new heart.\r\n\r\nThis new heart can only be found in Jesus. He promised abundant life for those that would follow Him. A life that is full and overflowing. Does this describe your life? Don\u2019t you want a better life?<\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

God cares about the family \u2013 and he cares about your family. During this series, we\u2019ll discover how following Christ and God\u2019s design and intent for the family leads to blessing.<\/div>

\"So<\/a>

You try to be good. You go to church when you can. You pray. But is that really what it means to be a Christian?\r\n\r\nIn this sermon series, we look at the 3 strands of the Gospel. We sometimes only emphasize 1 or 2 of them and we therefore have a skewed perspective of what it means to be a Christian.<\/div>

\"Paradox:<\/a>

Paradox is defined as a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition that when investigated or explained may prove to be well founded or true.\r\n\r\nAs we study God\u2019s Word, we often find these sorts of paradoxical statements that challenge our thinking and our way of life. Over the next few weeks we\u2019ll be looking at biblical wisdom that goes contrary to the wisdom of the world, yet is the only truly wise way to live.<\/div>

\"LIFE<\/a>

\u201cWinning the Game of Life: Once all players have retired, all players count their money. The winner is the player with the most combined wealth.\u201d \u2013 Rules to the Game of Life by Milton Bradley\r\n\r\n\u201cLife is a game. Money is how we keep score.\u201d \u2013 Ted Turner, Billionaire media mogul and philanthropist\r\n\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s the game of life. Do I win or do I lose? One day they\u2019re gonna shut the game down. I gotta have as much fun\r\n\r\nand go around the board as many time as I can before it\u2019s my turn to leave.\u201d \u2013 Tupac Shakur, Rapper (shot to death\r\nin a drive by shooting in 1996)\r\n\r\n\u201cHe who dies with the most toys wins!\u201d \u2013 Malcolm Forbes, Billionaire publisher\r\n\r\nThe truth is that the one who dies with the most toys is still dead! The truth is that life is not a game. It is real. It has meaning. And the decisions we make in our life has present and ongoing consequences.\r\n\r\nFind out in this series why Easter is a Game Changer!<\/div>

\"Last<\/a>

We all treasure the last words of our loved ones. They tend to reveal the thoughts closest to their hearts. The last words of Christ are very revealing about his heart for us.<\/div>

\"Financial<\/a>

Our financial and spiritual condition are linked. How we manage our finances says a lot about what we believe, and about whom we trust. In this series, we will discover how to manage our finances according to God\u2019s plan so we can be free to fully commit ourselves to him and his purpose for our lives.<\/div>

\"Resolved<\/a>

Our New Years sermon for 2017<\/div>

\"Christmas<\/a>

Our Christmas Eve service<\/div>

\"Christmas<\/a>

Don\u2019t you just love all of the wonderful Christmas classic movies? These are some of the more enjoyable things about the Christmas season. For many families these movies are must-sees throughout the holidays. Many of these classics bring us back to our childhood and give us reason to pile in the living room with our families and enjoy the season. In this series we will pull a few of these Christmas classics and show how their redemptive themes point to the larger Christmas meaning. As we look at Elf, Scrooge, and Grinch we will see how the themes in these movies point to the salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ.<\/div>

\"Exiles<\/a>

Do you ever feel like an exile? Like you just don\u2019t fit into this old world? How should we live as Christians when the dominant cultural and political forces are at odds with our faith? In this 3-part series, we're going verse by verse through 1 Peter 1-2 to see how Peter instructed the church in what is now modern day Turkey could live as exiles in this world.<\/div>

\"Stand<\/a>

In this series, we are going verse by verse through the book of 2 Thessalonians to see how we can stand firm until Christ's return.<\/div>

\"Worship<\/a>

In this series, we will see how closely linked our worship is to our witness. We will see that our worship and witness is foundational, transformational, relational, missional and reproducible to our faith. This series is loosely based on the book, The Great Commission to Worship by David Wheeler and Vernon M Whaley<\/div>

\"Authentic<\/a>

People today are looking for authenticity. They want something real. And they have a deep seated need for relationships, for community. Whether they recognize it or not, God has made all of us with a deep desire for a relationship with Him and with one another. We long for authentic community. In the book of Acts, Luke described the \u201cauthentic community\u201d of the first century church. He said they were marked by four \u201cdevotions.\u201d They were: a shared faith, a shared family, a shared food, and a shared focus. We can experience this authentic community when we pursue these four devotions. <\/div>

\"Parenting<\/a>

Don't you wish kids came with an owners manual? Many times, we try to parent in our own strength and not rely on the Lord for our wisdom and strength. In this series, we will learn how to Receive our children from the Lord, Raise them up into the Lord, and then Release them back to the Lord.<\/div>

\"Ready<\/a>

In this series we will be studying what it means to be prepared and ready for Christ\u2019s return. As we go verse by verse through 1 Thessalonians we will see how the apostle Paul encouraged that church to be ready for Christ\u2019s return. They were facing many challenges that we still face today including persecution and even death. As we study these Scriptures we will see how to rightly face these challenges by placing our hope in the resurrection of Jesus and His return.<\/div>

\"Faith<\/a>

The Bible is filled with great men and women of the faith. As we examine these faith heroes we will see how God used them mightily and how will use us too. All of these heroes point to Jesus who is the champion that initiates and perfects our faith. We too can be faith heroes as we devote our lives to Christ.<\/div>

\"What<\/a>

For many of us, Easter means things like Spring Break, trips to see family, and traditions like egg hunts and candy. These are all fine things, but Easter really means Hope, Life, and Joy.<\/div>

\"Gospel<\/a>

During this series we will be discussing how we can make the gospel the center focus of our lives by building relationships, sharing the gospel, and introducing people to our community of believers. Together, these three activities will not only result in a gospel centered lifestyle for us, but it will create an invitational culture in our church that will bring those far away from God into the Kingdom. <\/div>

\"Generosity:<\/a>

We're going verse by verse through 2 Corinthians 8-9 to learn how to live generous lives in response to God's gift to us.<\/div>

\"Fresh<\/a>

There\u2019s something about a new year that makes us want a fresh start. We all want to change something, but the problem is that it\u2019s impossible to change ourselves without the help of the One who made us. This deep desire for a new and fresh you, is actually from God.<\/div>

\"Stones:<\/a>

We see that in ancient times people would mark the moments of God's work by placing stones like a memorial. They also used stones to prepare for what was ahead by making altars and renewing their covenant with God. We too can look back and remember and look forward and renew.<\/div>

\"Carols:<\/a>

In this series we are unpacking some of our most beloved carols for the Christmas season. We will see how a few of these ancient tunes actually have much to say about the person of Jesus, His glorious incarnation, and the fulfillment of prophesy. We believe that the good news of the birth of Jesus and that God dwelled with us to save and redeem us is worthy of beautiful praise. This is why Christ\u2019s birth makes us sing!<\/div>

\"On<\/a>

No matter if you are a new believer, young in your faith or someone who has believed in Jesus Christ for many years it is always wise to go back to the basics of our faith. In this series we will look at some of the most fundamental attributes of faith such as assurance, forgiveness, and thankfulness. During this 6 week series, we will study 6 basic characteristics of being a Christian.<\/div>

\"Spiritual<\/a>

We all want a better life, don't we? Jesus promised abundant life for those that would follow him - a life that is full and overflowing. During this 4 week series, we're going to examine the 3 commitments that we can make as we follow Christ that will lead to a better spiritual life.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

In this series, we spend 4 weeks in the Lord's Model Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13. Learning to pray like Jesus and following his rhythm, we can experience great intimacy with God and transformation of ourselves and the world around us.<\/div>

\"Faith<\/a>

How is your family doing? How is your marriage? Your parenting? Your teens? What is the foundation of your family? In this series, we will look at how God wants us to have families that are built on faith.<\/div>

\"9<\/a>

We're digging in to the nine fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. When we walk with the Spirit, we begin to bear the mark of Jesus: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.<\/div>

\"An<\/a>

Each year, Wilson Community Church takes a weekend to raise awareness of the plight of the orphan and vulnerable child in Wilson and abroad. We were all once orphaned and fatherless spiritually, and God made a way for us to be sons and daughters through the person and work of Jesus Christ. As a result, God has called the church to make a way for the orphan to have hope and a family.<\/div>

\"Rise<\/a>

This sermon series starts on Easter Sunday and goes verse by verse through 1 Corinthians 15. The first two sermons look back at the good news and historical fact of the resurrection of Jesus. The second two sermons look forward to what we can know about our future heavenly bodies and Christ\u2019s return.<\/div>

\"A<\/a>

This sermon series goes verse by verse through the book of Malachi. The book of Malachi contains some tough questions that the people of Israel were asking of God, and God's response. We will learn about this dialogue and how God still speaks to us today.<\/div>

\"Reset<\/a>

Don't you wish life had a reset button? Like the one you press on your computer when it gets gummed up and stops responding? Or how you can reset your wireless router at home when things stop working? God gives us a reset button that we can press to accept his forgiveness and grace to reset our souls with him, and then that allows us to reset every aspect of our lives back to their \"factory settings\", the way God intended for us. Take the Reset Challenge<\/a><\/div>

\"Foundations<\/a>

Has anyone ever made you feel intellectually inferior for being a Christian? In this sermon, Justin Norden helps us understand how to build our life's foundation on Christ alone, and how that allows us to be intellectually stimulated and have a consistent world-view.<\/div>

\"Not<\/a>

In this sermon series, we're going verse by verse through the book of 2 Timothy. The main theme of 2 Timothy can be found in 2 Timothy 1:8: \"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God.\" <\/div>

\"The<\/a>

How do we grow as Christians? What habits help us grow to be more like Jesus? Dallas Willard says, \"The disciple is one who, intent on becoming Christ-like and so dwelling in his faith and practice, systematically and progressively rearranges his affairs to that end.\" In this sermon series, we're going to learn how to do just that.<\/div>

\"Simplify<\/a>

What is really important in life? Learn how to simplify your life to focus on what really matters.<\/div>

\"Kingdom<\/a>

We all want the best for our kids, don't we? But sometimes, in the busyness and struggles of life, we settle\u2026And want them just to be \u201cgood\u201d. We fill their lives with good things: a good diet, good education, good opportunities, good sports, good memories, good routines, and sometimes neglect the \u201cbest\u201d thing. Children are entrusted to us by God. And He desires Kingdom Kids.<\/div>

\"FAIL:<\/a>

Are you tired from trying to do life your way? How's that working for you anyway? In our sermon series called \"FAIL\", we look at some life strategies that sound like a good idea, but in reality they fail us. Instead, we discover how to live God's way.<\/div>

\"Diagnosing<\/a>

We spend time diagnosing and improving our physical health. How do we know whether we are spiritually healthy? What can we do about it? Do you thirst for God? Are you growing in obedience to God's Word? Are you more loving and forgiving? Do you have a growing concern for the spiritual condition of others? Are you growing in generosity in your serving and giving? Are you learning to be content in every circumstance?<\/div>

\"Resurrection<\/a>

Resurrection hope moves our state of groaning into a consideration of glory. This resurrection hope that is anchored in Jesus helps make sense of our suffering, it explains our longing and empowers our enduring expectation.<\/div>

\"Entrusted:<\/a>

Towards the end of Paul's ministry, he passed the baton of the gospel on to his disciple, Timothy, who was establishing the church at Ephesus. How can we faithfully receive this gospel that has been entrusted to us and pass it on to the next generation?<\/div>

\"SHAPEd<\/a>

This sermon series can help you understand and respond to God's unique call on your life. Take the SHAPEd Challenge<\/a><\/div>

\"Advent<\/a>

Want to join a conspiracy? This year, we're joining churches around the world to turn Christmas up-side down (actually right-side up) and buck the trend of consumerism this Christmas season. Worship Fully. Spend Less. Give More. Love All.<\/div>

\"Flow<\/a>

How to live a life of joyful generosity, with one hand open to God and the other one open to others, letting God's power and provision \"flow\" to and through you. <\/div>

\"I<\/a>

In the Book of John, Jesus made 7 \"I AM\" statements. In this series, we learn how Jesus is the answer to life's deepest longings.<\/div>

\"Ignite<\/a>

Are you ready for God to ignite your relationship with him? What could happen if every believer lives a lifestyle of daily repentance, is in the Word daily, and seeks God's face in prayer? Take the Ignite Challenge<\/a><\/div>

\"Parables<\/a>

Parables are little stories with kingdom ideas. Mark 4:30 (GNT) \u201cWhat shall we say the Kingdom of God is like?\u201d asked Jesus. \u201cWhat parable shall we use to explain it?\u201d<\/div>

\"True<\/a>

John 4:23 tells us that God is looking for those who will worship him in spirit and truth. In this 4-part series, we look at 4 characters in the Bible that teach us what it means to truly worship.<\/div>

\"Honor<\/a>

Everyone has a boss. Everyone has a leader, an authority, a parent, people in our lives who we owe honor to. Why should we show honor to others? What does showing honor to others have to do with God? <\/div>

\"Jonah:<\/a>

Do you ever feel like you've wasted your life? Like it is too late for God to use you? Are you trying so hard to be comfortable in life that you've ended up bored stiff? <\/div>

\"Evangelium<\/a>

\"Evangelium\" is the Latin word for \"Good News\". We often misunderstand the Gospel and make it about good advice, earning, religion, or self-improvement. But the Gospel is simply Good News, and it is about relationship, receiving, and surrender.<\/div>

\"Loving<\/a>

In Acts 2:42, Jesus told his disciples that they would be his witnesses in \"Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.\" He said this because they were in Jerusalem. We live in Wilson. Also, in Jeremiah 29:4-7, the prophet God told the Israelites to seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you.\" In this sermon series, we are learning how to share our love in the city God has sent us to.<\/div>

\"Healthy<\/a>

In Luke 2:52, the Bible tells us that Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, favor with God, and favor with man. Do you want to grow more like Jesus? This sermon series will help us evaluate how we are doing in our discipleship - or how we are doing in our journey of becoming more like Jesus.<\/div>

\"All<\/a>

What do you want for Christmas this year? What is your grown-up Christmas list? In this 4-part series, we will be discovering how to celebrate the best gifts of all - the gifts given to us by God through his Son Jesus Christ.<\/div>

\"Time<\/a>

In this eight part series, we will be exploring God's vision for our church and for your household together. When we submit to God's plan for our lives, when we believe in the miraculous power of God, and when we commit to putting everything aside to pursue it, what could happen at WCC? What could happen at your house? Its time to thrive, not just survive at this house and your house. <\/div>

\"Walk<\/a>

In this sermon, Pastor Jonathan Minter walks us through the Gospels to see just how it was that Jesus walked when he was on this earth, and then challenges us \"walk as Jesus did\".<\/div>

\"How<\/a>

In this sermon, Justin Norden, from our teaching team, helps us understand how to apply the Great Commission to our lives. This is a follow-on from his sermon in July on the Great Commandment.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

In this four part series, we studied the four devotions of the early church found in Acts 2:42. Instead of re-inventing the wheel, we seek to do church the way they did it at the beginning. We devote ourselves to the apostles' teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer through our Community Groups.<\/div>

\"iCommit<\/a>

In this sermon series, we studied the three commitments every WCC member should make. 1) Celebrate God's Son 2) Connect to God's People and 3) Contribute to God's Kingdom<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

In this sermon, Justin Norden, from our teaching team, helps us understand the Great Commandment and why it is more important than any doctrine. <\/div>

\"Hope<\/a>

Stephen Combs, Pastor of Worship and Youth at Wilson Community Church, speaking on the word \"Hope\" on Sunday, July 15th.<\/div>

\"Family<\/a>

This series covers important topics for the family, such as parenting, singleness, marriage and more.<\/div>

\"Authentic<\/a>

An exposition (verse by verse study) of the book of 1 John<\/div>

\"Witness<\/a>

This series contains practical advice on how to share your faith with confidence that it is God who empowers our witnessing.<\/div>

\"War<\/a>

In this series, Pastor Gary tackles some of the tough issues of the day by looking at how our world view affects everything we believe.<\/div>

\"Noel<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Faith<\/a>

This 10-part series explores the foundations of Christian theology (the study of God) through our 10 essentials of belief.<\/div>

\"Believe<\/a>

This message series looks at the word \"believe\" found in the Gospel of John.<\/div>

\"True<\/a>

This message was timed to coincide with July 4th festivities as a reminder of where true freedom comes from.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

In this sermon series, we look at the four passages of scripture that are crucial for the believer to understand the person and the work of Christ.<\/div>

\"Be<\/a>

This single message was timed to coincide with one of many false predictions of the end of the world, this one on May 21st, 2011.<\/div>

\"Novus<\/a>

Christ's resurrection makes everything new.<\/div>

\"The<\/a>

The cross of Christ is the dividing point of human history. It is a stumbling block to some and to some it is the power of God. This series explores the cross and why it is much more than the gold jewelry we wear around our necks.<\/div>

\"Redemption:<\/a>

In this sermon series, we go through the book of Ruth to explore the theme of Redemption and what it means to us today.<\/div>

\"Safe<\/a>

Much of our lives are spent acquiring protections to keep us safe. But Jesus calls us to something bigger than safety. <\/div>

\"Simplify<\/a>

In our modern society, we are bombarded with information and distractions. Learn how to simplify life so you can focus on what is really important.<\/div>

\"Unto<\/a>

For this Christmas season, we unpack the titles of Jesus found in Isaiah 9.<\/div>

\"Awaken:<\/a>

An exposition of 2 Peter.<\/div>

\"Perfect:<\/a>

We all want to pursue the \"Good Life\", but what if there is something better? In this series that started on October 10th, 2010 (10\/10\/10) we explore how God wants what is best for us.<\/div>

\"Hymns:<\/a>

In this series, we take a look at famous hymns and the themes from the Bible that come from each of those songs.<\/div>

\"Go<\/a>

This message series is taken from Luke 5:1-11 where Jesus told Peter to put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch.<\/div>

\"One<\/a>

We joined together with churches around the world to preach a common series.<\/div>

\"Parenting<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Re<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Shaken<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Crooked:<\/a>

<\/div>

\"Financial<\/a>

<\/div>

\"9<\/a>

This series looks at the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5.<\/div>

\"Back<\/a>

<\/div>

\"One<\/a>

We look again at our \"One Thing\" as a church, and how we can make 3 simple commitments to put \"First Things First\"<\/div>

\"Extreme<\/a>

A family and parenting series.<\/div>

\"Hope<\/a>

Our Easter sermon series from 2009<\/div>

\"7<\/a>

A series on spiritual disciplines<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-8719","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8719","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8719"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8719\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8720,"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8719\/revisions\/8720"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.garycombs.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8719"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}