Luke 10:38-42 “Lessons from the Land: Bethany”

Message: Luke 10:38-42 “Lessons from the Land: Bethany”

-There are many things we must do in life, but what is the most important human task? There are a lot of opinions about this matter, but Jesus resoundingly and definitively answers it when he tells Martha that ‘Mary has chosen what is better.’ But what is most shocking about this passage isn’t that Mary left her sister to do the work of hospitality. Are you engaged in the most important task of life?  

Luke 18:35-19:10 “Lessons from the Land: Jericho”

Message: Luke 18:35-19:10“Lessons from the Land: Jericho”

As Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem for the events that will lead up to his crucifixion, he stops over in Jericho. It is here that he answers the call of a blind beggar who cries out to him and also saves a rich man from an empty way of life. God desires to restore all who call out to him, from the least to the greatest, because all humanity is in equal need of restoration.

Matthew 16:13-20 “Lessons from the Land: Caesarea Philippi”

Message: Matthew 16:13-20“Lessons from the Land: Caesarea Philippi”

Jesus takes the disciples to Caesarea Philippi, the capital of Gaulanitus. It was here that the world believed the gates of Hell were to be found. Standing nearby the ancient pagan shrine to Pan and the underworld, Jesus asks the disciples who they say he is. Each of us must come to know and recognize God in an intimate way. If we believe Christ is the center, then this confession will re-center our lives.

Luke 8:26-39 “Lessons from the Land: Gergesa”

Message: Luke 8:26-39 “Lessons from the Land: Gergesa”

As we continue to visit the places Jesus ministered on the Sea of Galilee, we now move toward the darkest region of all, known as the Decapolis. This was a Gentile region where Jesus extends his ministry beyond the Jewish people and toward the Gentiles. In this place, a man who had been living in separation and exclusion was made whole and restored to his family. This man became a witness of God’s love and power among this non-believing region. The next time Jesus returned here many came out to see him.

Psalm 1 "Surprised by Pleasure - The Joy of Following God's Word"

Message: Psalm 1 "Surprised by Pleasure - The Joy of Following God's Word"

Devin Scott brings the message this week.

John 8:1-3 “Lessons from the Land: Magdala”

Message: John 8:1-3 “Lessonsfrom the Land: Magdala”

This week we visit a city called Magdala, on the Western side of the lakeshore. This is the town that Mary Magdalene was from, just seven miles south of Capernaum, Jesus’ ministry base. Jesus restored Mary’s life and she dedicated the rest of her life to him. She is mentioned more times in the Gospels than most of the Apostles. Her life is an example to us of what it looks like to be transformed by Jesus and devote ourselves to following him. Like Mary Magdalene, it is important to remember what Jesus has rescued us from and called us to.

John 14:1-4 “Lessons from the Land: Chorazin”

Message: John 14:1-4 “Lessons from the Land:Chorazin”

In Chorazin you will find an incredible example of the family home, known as an “insula.” In Jewish terminology, this was called at Bet Av, or ‘The Father’s House.’ It is not a mansion, like many westerners are prone to think of, but a community living center. When Jesus goes to the Father’s house to prepare a place for us, he is talking about bringing us into intimate community with the Father, himself, and the believing community.