Before Pontius Pilate

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Savior

Scripture:  Matthew 27:11-26

March 29th, 2026

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Before the Council

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Savior

Scripture:  Matthew 26:57-68

March 22nd, 2026

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Betrayed and Arrested

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Savior

Scripture:  Matthew 26:47-56

March 15th, 2026

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Prayer in Gethsemane

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Savior

Scripture:  Matthew 26:36-46

March 8th, 2026

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Sword of the Spirit

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

February 22^nd, 2026

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Sword of the Spirit

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

February 15^th, 2026

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Helmet of Salvation

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

February 8^th, 2026

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Shoes of Peace

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

January 25^th, 2026

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Sheild of Faith

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

February 1^st, 2026

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Breastplate of Righteousness

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

January 18^th, 2026

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Belt of Truth

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Series Title:  Gentle Warrior

Scripture:  Ephesians 6:10-18

January 11^th, 2026

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What is Gentleness?

2026 Theme:  Gentleness

Scripture: Galatians 5:22-23

January 4^th, 2026

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Faithful to the End

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3-9

December 28th, 2025

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Christ

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  The Unexpected Messiah

Scripture: John 1:1-18

December 24th, 2025

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Love

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  The Unexpected Messiah

Scripture: John 3:16-21

December 21st, 2025

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Joy

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  The Unexpected Messiah

Scripture: Luke 1:26-45

December 14th, 2025

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Peace

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  The Unexpected Messiah

Scripture: Luke 2:8-20

December 7th, 2025

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Hope

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  The Unexpected Messiah

Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25

November 30^th, 2025

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Hold the Line

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  Guard the Treasure

Scripture:  2 Timothy 4:1-22

November 23^rd, 2025

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For the Bible Tells Me So

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  Guard the Treasure

Scripture:  2 Timothy 3:1-17

November 16^th, 2025

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Fan the Flame

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  Guard the Treasure

Sermon Scripture:  2 Timothy 1:1-26

Key Point:  “Standing strong in the Faith requires a firm foundation in Christ in the face of opposition and suffering.”

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49510038

Fan the Flame

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  Guard the Treasure

Sermon Scripture:  2 Timothy 1:1-18

Key Point:  “Standing strong in the Faith requires a firm foundation in Christ in the face of opposition and suffering.”

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49510026

Attending to Attaching

2025 Theme:  Faithfulness

Series Title:  A Return to Disciple-Making

Scripture:  Matthew 22:34-40

October 5^th, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49500934

Sermon Title:  From Shallow to Deeper

Sermon Scripture:  James 1:19-27

Key Point:  “From shallow to deeper, a disciple must put into practice what he/she learns from Scripture.”

Key Point:   “From reaching to making, salvation begins with sharing Jesus with those who are lost.”

The New Covenant

(Matthew 26:17-29)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

August 31^st, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49467317

Davidic Covenant

(2 Samuel 7:1-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

August 24^th, 2025

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Mosaic Covenant

(Exodus 19:1-6, 24:3)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

August 17^th, 2025

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Abrahamic Covenant

(Genesis 12:1-3)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

August 10^th, 2025

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Noahic Covenant

(Genesis 9:8-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

August 3^rd, 2025

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The Day of the LORD

(2 Peter 3:1-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

July 27^th, 2025

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Don’t Be Deceived

(2 Peter 2:1-22)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

July 20^th, 2025

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Pay Close Attention

(2 Peter 1:12-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

July 13^th, 2025

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Grow in Faith

(2 Peter 1:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “On Guard”

July 6^th, 2025

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(1 John 2:15-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

June 29^th, 2025

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Anxiety

(Philippians 4:4-9)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

June 22^nd, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49441711

The Love of a Godly Father

(Luke 15:11-32)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

June 15^th, 2025

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The Holy Spirit

(Acts 2:1-41)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

June 8^th, 2025

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Anger

(James 1:19-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

June 1^st, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49441705

Judgmentalism

(Matthew 7:1-5)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

May 25rd, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49428870

Jealousy

(Acts 13:38-52)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

May 18th, 2025

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The Influence of a Godly Mom

(2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

May 11th, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49428843

Selfishness

(2 Timothy 3:1-5)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  ““Respectable” Sins”

May 4th, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49428824

Waiting in Jerusalem

(Acts 1:1-8)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust the Plan”

April 27th, 2025

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He’s Alive!

(John 20:11-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust the Plan”

April 20th, 2025

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Arrival in Jerusalem

(John 12:12-19)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust the Plan”

April 13th, 2025

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Back in Bethany

(John 12:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust the Plan”

April 6th, 2025

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A Wee Little Man

(Luke 19:1-10)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Final Approach”

March 30th, 2025

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The Blind See

(Luke 18:35-43)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Final Approach”

March 23^rd, 2025

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Jesus Prepares the Disciples for his Death

(Luke 18:31-34)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Final Approach”

March 16^th, 2025

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The Final Straw

(John 11:45-57)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Final Approach”

March 9^th, 2025

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www.northmaincog.org/online

Raised from the Dead

(John 11:1-44)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Final Approach”

March 2^nd, 2025

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Putting An End To Gossip

(James 1:19-21; 4:11-12)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Gossip:  Destroyer of Trust

February 23^rd, 2025

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Responding To Gossip

(Psalm 140)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Gossip:  Destroyer of Trust

February 16^th, 2025

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Resisting Gossip

(Ephesians 4:21-32)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Gossip:  Destroyer of Trust

February 9^th, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49373234

Recognizing Gossip

(Proverbs 18:8, 26:22)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Gossip:  Destroyer of Trust

February 2^nd, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49373230

David Trusts GOD

(1 Samuel 17:32-51)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust: Faith’s Home”

January 26^th, 2025

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Abraham Trusts GOD

(Genesis 22:1-19; Hebrews 11:17-19)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust: Faith’s Home”

January 19^th, 2025

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Noah Trusts GOD

(Genesis 6:5-22)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust: Faith’s Home”

January 12^th, 2025

Follow along on the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49373218

www.northmaincog.org/online

The Fruit of Faithfulness

(Galatians 5:22-23; Hebrews 11:1)

Yearly Theme:  “Faithfulness Is…”

Series Title:  “Trust: Faith’s Home”

January 5^th, 2025

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Press On

(Philippians 3:12-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

December 29^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49363459

In the Bible, there is a long history of people who, rather than forgetting what was behind them, focused on the past events of their lives and, in so doing, found themselves worse off than if they had just pressed on toward God's high calling on their lives.  As we come to the close of another year, it’s important that we do not live in the past but rather learn from it—build upon it—and press on to what lies ahead.  As we read the passage of scripture that corresponds to today's message, we receive some helpful instruction from the apostle Paul about forgetting what is behind and pressing on to what is ahead.  Follow along with me…

Jesus

(Luke 2:25-32)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

Series Title:  “What Child is This”

December 24^th, 2024

Wise Men

(Matthew 2:1-12)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

Series Title:  “What Child is This”

December 22^nd, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49357125

Now, let’s consider the story of the birth of GOD’s only Son, Jesus.  But let’s consider it through the eyes of the Wise Men who came two years after His birth.  Having been men of astronomy and astrology, they took their cues from the stars and ancient documents that foreshadowed coming events in human history.  Noticing an anomaly forming in the sky, the wise men followed a star to the place where Jesus was born in Bethlehem.  Having traveled from the East, their journey was a long one, but it would not be in vain.  They would come face to face with not only the “King of the Jews,” but the very Creator of the Universe and everything in it.  They would come face to face with the Christ, the “Word Made Flesh.”  Let’s take a closer look:

Shepherds

(Luke 2:8-20)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

Series Title:  “What Child is This”

December 15^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49357122

Today, we come to the scene of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem as written by Luke.  Interestingly, the angel that heralded the news of His birth came first (and only) to some unnamed shepherds who were guarding their flocks of sheep on the hillsides just outside of the small town of Bethlehem that night.  But why the shepherds?  Why not the religious leaders in Jerusalem?  Why not the Jewish High Priest, or the Pharisees, or the teachers of the law and the scribes?  Wouldn’t they be the obvious choice?  They would have known more details than the shepherds did about the coming Messiah.  They would have been able to verify and document with Hebraic prose the importance of this most longed-for special visitation.  But it was to the shepherds that the angel went with the good news of the newborn Savior, born in the

Mary

(Luke 1:26-38)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

Series Title:  “What Child is This”

December 8^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49357099

Like Mary, you may seem insignificant and obscure.  You may think that you have nothing to offer GOD; nothing that would make Him look your way.  But you must remember you are fearfully and wonderfully made!  GOD knows you better than you know yourself, and He loves you and desires you just as much as any other character in His grand story in the Bible.  You are not insignificant; you are chosen.  Do you choose Him?  Are you willing to be the LORD’s servant?  Are you willing to be a conduit of GOD’s message of salvation to the world that He has placed you in?

Joseph

(Matthew 18:1-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… the Great I AM”

Series Title:  “What Child is This”

December 1^st, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49353878

Joseph’s story is anything but normal.  It’s one of a kind; it’s unique; it’s quirky; it’s important.  Of all the men mentioned in the Bible, the story of Joseph, though only briefly mentioned, is significant in light of the kind of man Joseph was.  In the very few verses that mention him in the Gospels, we seem to get a glimpse of a kind and quiet man; unassuming and humble, while also strong and courageous.  It’s hard not to imagine what Joseph was really like.  Our minds are prone to fill in the blanks where Scripture remains silent about the stepfather of Jesus.  However, there are some important points to his character that are illuminated in the verses we have surrounding the birth of Christ.  Let’s take a closer look…

One Day at a Time

(John 10:1-10)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

November 24^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49351180

As we close out our series on the spiritual disciplines of Solitude and Silence today, we must remember the importance of not drifting through life aimlessly, but rather living every day with purpose and meaning in the ebb and flow of spending time alone with GOD and living in community with others.

Calling

(1 Kings 19:11-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

November 17^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49347488

So as we wind down this series over the next couple of weeks, we come full circle to Elijah’s story once again.  If you remember where we started back in September; Elijah had just experienced one of the greatest victories over the pagan prophets of Baal in the Northern Kingdom and had over 400 of them put to death for their deception and treachery over the people of Israel.  However, when Queen Jezebel heard that he had put her prophets to death, she was incensed and put a death warrant out for him.  In fear for his life, Elijah, discouraged and seeking refuge, ran south into the wilderness by himself.  All alone GOD met with him there.  After feeding him and allowing him to rest, GOD sent Elijah further into the wilderness to Mount Sinai to wait on Him there.  The following instructions that GOD give him is where we pick up the rest of the story…

Guidance

(1 Corinthians 2:1-16)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

November 10^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49344168

As we learn the spiritual disciplines of spending time alone in solitude and silence, we begin to learn and discern the presence of GOD.  We don’t necessarily learn this through feelings and emotions, but by discerning the reality of GOD’s presence as we quiet ourselves before Him and bring all that we are and all that He is into complete focus.  Jon Bloom, in his book, Desiring God, writes,  “God designed your emotions to be gauges, not guides.  They’re meant to report to you, not dictate to you.  The pattern of your emotions (not every caffeine-induced or sleep-deprived one!) will give you a reading on where your hope is because they are wired into what you believe and value – and how much.”

The Presence

(Jeremiah 29:10-14)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

November 3^rd, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49340530

It’s not until we seek GOD with our whole heart and stand completely in His presence with what is true about ourselves, that we are able to encounter His utter and complete love for us.  And this is what GOD truly desires for us to experience.  Though a part of His nature is wrath and judgment because of sin, the overwhelming essence of His nature is love.  Sadly, we avoid His presence because most of us feel unlovable.  As a result, we stand on the outskirts of His Kingdom and His throne room, peering in from the outside, when all the while He is calling us to come inside and experience His abundance. 

The Mirror

(Lamentations 3:22-33)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

October 27^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49337174

When God makes us wait upon Him, it becomes a profound journey of self-reflection, compelling us to confront aspects of ourselves that may be unsettling or painful. This period of introspection, though challenging, holds the potential for significant personal growth and transformation. Throughout this process, God's compassion and love remain steadfast, guiding us with gentle patience toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and our purpose.

Empty

(Philippians 2:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

October 20^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49333831

Being empty is a scary thing indeed.  Who are we when we’re empty?  What defines us when those things we use to fill the void in our lives keep leaving us unfulfilled and hollow?  Am I my occupation?  Am I my gender, race, or ethnicity?  Who am I when all that seems to define me are the external things in life – the labels the world uses to describe me?  Why do I keep striving and searching for the perfect situation or thing to make me happy?  This emptiness, this God-shaped hole, can never truly be filled apart from surrendering to GOD in solitude and silence.  It’s in these moments of time spent with GOD that this empty space is filled with that which is truly freeing and satisfying for the soul.

Soul Rest 

(Matthew 18:1-4) 

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious” 

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise” 

October 13th, 2024 

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49330654 

As we continue our series about learning the spiritual disciplines of solitude and silence, we come to a passage in the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament.  At the beginning of Matthew 18, Jesus is confronted by His disciples with the question of who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. Calling a little child to Himself as an example, Jesus told them that anyone who wanted to enter the Kingdom of Heaven must become as humble as a little child.  “Childlike faith and trust in GOD is the key to true contentment and soul rest.” 

Burnout

(Psalm 131:1-3; Ecclesiastes 1:1-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

October 6^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49327304

As we continue our series today on Solitude and Silence, we need to address the importance of what it means to rest our minds.  Just as our bodies need physical rest, our minds also need rest from all of the thoughts, dreams, pursuits, and busyness that consume them.  In order to illustrate this, we come to a couple of passages that focus on the importance of being still and quieting our minds from relentless pursuits. King Solomon (King David’s son in the Old Testament) wrote a book from his own experience of having everything, including knowledge and wisdom, only to find those pursuits pointless.  That’s not to say that wisdom and knowledge shouldn’t be gained in this life, however, if all of our days are spent in relentless pursuit of those things devoid of our pursuit of GOD then they are truly meaningless and drive us to exhaustion. 

Exhausted

(Psalm 127:1-2)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

September 29^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49323693

Physical Rest is necessary for a healthy mind and spirit, and this requires complete trust in God for our daily provision.

Depleted

(Matthew 11:28-30)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

September 22^nd, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49320177

Overcoming either being tired or dangerously tired is tied directly to our willingness to find rest in GOD.  Spending time alone with Him in solitude and silence is the best and most important way to recalibrate our body, mind, and soul.  Join us this Sunday as we look at Jesus’ take on this in the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament.

Resistance

(Matthew 6:19-34)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

September 15^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49317219

Solitude and silence with GOD can stoke our deepest fears.  Though this seems counterintuitive, being alone with GOD can conjure thoughts and feelings of inadequacy and vulnerability.  To be in the presence of a perfect GOD, and having to face our own imperfections directly, can be very uncomfortable and disconcerting.  As a result, the natural inclination for many people is to resist the disciplines of solitude and silence and being alone with the Father in heaven. So, how do we overcome fear, and the resistance to be alone with GOD? Let’s find out together:

Sacred Space

(Genesis 28:10-22)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

September 8^th, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49313689

There are spaces and places throughout our lives that stand out as significant to us and upon our return to the places and spaces, there is often a sense of nostalgia that draws us back.  Even when we are not in those spaces, smells and sounds can take us back to those places instantly. Where is a sacred space where you spend time alone with GOD in solitude and silence?  Have you established one?  Maybe it’s a corner chair in a room somewhere in your house, maybe it’s a park bench at your favorite park, or maybe it’s a space in your backyard.  Wherever it is, make it a priority to meet regularly with GOD there.  Don’t fill the air with words; just listen for His still small voice.

Whisper

(1 Kings 19:1-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Glorious”

Series Title:  “Beyond the Noise”

September 1^st, 2024

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49310152

When was the last time you sat still before the LORD in solitude and silence, allowing the sediment of your heart, soul, mind, and strength to settle enough in order to hear the still small voice of GOD?  It’s time to begin this journey! As we start a new series today, we come to a great example of this in the book of 1 Kings in the Old Testament and the prophet Elijah. 

Rescue Us

(Matthew 6:9-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “The Goodness of Prayer”

August 25^th, 2024

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As we close out our series on the LORD’s Prayer today, we focus on the last verse in the passage.  In this verse, Jesus specifically instructs His disciples to request GOD the Father’s deliverance from temptation and evil.  Let’s take a look once more…

Give and Forgive

(Matthew 6:9-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “The Goodness of Prayer”

August 18^th, 2024

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As we continue in our series on the LORD’s Prayer, we come to verses 11 and 12 that shift in focus from GOD to the believer.  In these two verses Jesus instructs His disciples to pray for daily provision of physical (and many scholars would agree, spiritual) sustenance.  In addition, the prayer continues with a focus on the central theme of forgiveness from GOD toward us, and from us toward others who have hurt and/or offended us.  Let’s take a closer look again today:

(Matthew 6:9-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “The Goodness of Prayer”

August 11^th, 2024

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As we continue our series today on the LORD’s Prayer, we come to the next verse that Jesus instructs His disciples to pray.  As you consider GOD’s Kingdom and Will in your own life today, is it worth everything for you to pursue?  Are you willing to lay everything down for GOD’s Kingdom to come in your own life, and His will to be done on earth through you as it is done in heaven?

(Matthew 6:9-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “The Goodness of Prayer”

August 4^th, 2024

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Prayer is two-way communication between a person and the GOD of all creation.  It’s speaking and listening.  It’s praise and thanksgiving; it’s gratitude and worship.  It’s also petitions and appeals, as well as expressing hopes and desires. One cannot pray the Lord’s prayer having no faith in GOD, and expect it to have any effect on the individual.  And this leads us to our key point and the subject of our prayer:  GOD.

Key Point:  “GOD is holy and the only one to whom we should pray.”

(Daniel)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

July 28^th, 2024

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Today, we come to the final book in our series on the prophets.  Though the book of Daniel is in the section of the books of the major prophets, it’s actually considered in the Hebrew Scriptures as a part of the section known as the “Writings.”  Due to the nature of his book, however, Daniel is unique in that he does prophecy, thus our purpose for including him in this series.

(Ezekiel)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

July 21^st, 2024

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GOD’s refining fire is meant not only as a means of punishment, for it truly is a painful experience to be under GOD’s judgment, but also of purification, to make ready the people and the land for GOD’s purposes once more.  GOD doesn’t merely bring destruction through judgment because of His anger against idolatry, but because of His love for humanity to find Him once more amidst the ash and rubble.  Sometimes things must be consumed by the fire so that we can see the love of GOD that is left in its wake. Key Point:  “The LORD’s judgment is meant to purify.”

(Jeremiah and Lamentations)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

July 14^th, 2024

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Though Jeremiah’s story ends with him (and many, many others) being taken with a remnant of people (against his will) to Egypt for refuge, his message would continue to plague the people who were trying to avoid GOD’s judgment.  Ultimately all that Jeremiah prophesied would come true, and he would be vindicated, though not in his lifetime.  He would die in exile like the rest of the first-generation exiles, but he would also continue to be blessed by GOD for his faithfulness.

(Isaiah)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G major”

July 7^th, 2024

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Though Isaiah prophesied warnings and judgment to the nations of Israel and Judah, he also focused on hope in GOD’s plan of salvation not just for the Jews but for the nations of the world.  Isaiah’s messianic prophecies are so prolific that one would have to be completely blind to the metanarrative of his message.  And what was that message specifically?  It was a message centered on judgment (yes), but more importantly on the future of life beyond GOD’s judgment.  Because GOD loves humanity so much, Isaiah tells us that He was willing to become Immanuel (GOD with us).[1]  And in His coming to be with us, He would fulfill the promise He made to Abraham so very long ago to become a blessing to the nations so that all the world would know that there is one GOD who loves them and in Whom there is everlasting hope.[2]   

[1] Isaiah 7:14.

[2] Genesis 12:1-3.

(Malachi)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

June 30^th, 2024

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About the last book of the Old Testament, Biblical scholars, Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart write, “Malachi’s book is a graphic indicator of the moral and spiritual apathy of the time, which expressed itself in various forms of contempt for Yahweh and the covenant.”¹ Angry at GOD and merely going through the motion of worship, their actions mocked GOD and the covenant they made with Him.  Bringing sacrifices to Him that were diseased and crippled, they worshiped Him with contempt.  The priests weren’t any better.  They had left GOD’s path of righteousness and in so doing had caused many people to stumble in their faith.  Showing favoritism to some and rejecting others, the priests’ corruption was a hindrance in the worship of GOD to the fledgling group of exiles who were returning to Jerusalem. 

(Haggai)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

June 16^th, 2024

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Join us as we talk about the Minor Prophet Haggai and how God desires righteousness and obedience from his people.

(Zephaniah)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

June 9^th, 2024

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Judgment and hope go hand in hand.  Judgment means fear for the one who is in opposition to GOD, but it means hope for those who are faithful to Him.  Throughout every generation – Old Testament, New Testament, and now – there has been a remnant of faithful believers who have not bowed down to idols, who have not adopted sinful practices, and who have not become numb to the wickedness of the world.  They have done justice, loved mercy, and walked humbly with GOD.  However, as many as have remained faithful to GOD there are countless others who have compromised their faith by adopting the way of the world, and thus have stood in the crosshairs of GOD’s wrath and judgment. 

(Micah)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

May 26^th, 2024

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As we continue our series today on the Minor Prophets, we come to the Prophet Micah.  Micah was a prophet from the Southern Kingdom, Judah, and lived in the small town of Moresheth some 25 miles southwest of Jerusalem.[1]  According to Scripture, he prophesied between 740 BC and 686 BC and spanned the reigns of Jotham and Hezekiah.  In his lifetime, he witnessed the overthrow of the Northern Kingdom, Israel in 722 BC by the Assyrian Empire and foresaw the coming destruction of Judah and Jerusalem.

[1] Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart, How to Read the Bible Book by Book, (Zondervan:  Grand Rapids, Michigan; 2002), 235.

(Hosea)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G minor”

May 19^th, 2024

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As we continue our series on the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament, we come to the longest of the 12 minor prophets (14 chapters):  Hosea.  Hosea is a prophet from the northern kingdom of Israel, more than likely from Samaria, who is called by GOD to prophesy against the northern kingdom for their continued idolatry and unfaithfulness to Him.  In the process of calling Hosea to prophesy, GOD also tells him to go and marry a woman who has been sexually promiscuous.  It must be noted here that this seems counter to the character of GOD, and at first glance it definitely is.  However, as we consider the writings of Hosea, we see that Hosea is writing this part of the narrative in the past tense.  Many scholars deduce from this that having married Gomer and gone through the difficulties of her unfaithfulness to him throughout his years married to her, he is, in hindsight, declaring GOD’s hand and guidance throughout his marriage to her. 

(Amos)

Yearly Theme: “Goodness is… Governing”

Series Title: “Goodness in G minor”

May 12th, 2024

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Living in constant compromise to GOD’s commands always puts us on the wrong side of justice and mercy.  The key to living in a just society is its willingness to be in complete surrender to GOD’s will and ways. 

(Jonah 1-4)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Genuine”

Series Title:  “Goodness in G Minor”

May 5^th, 2024

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Join us as we talk about Jonah, his story, and how God loves our enemies as much as He loves us.

(2 Samuel 7:1-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Genuine”

Series Title:  “Giant Slayer:  A Man After GOD’s Own Heart”

April 28^th, 2024

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As we close out our series today on King David in the Old Testament, we come to a passage that illustrates this theme of unexpected blessings perfectly.  After many years on the run from King Saul, camping out in the countryside and wilderness, Saul finally dies on the battlefield thus leaving the throne of Israel vacated.  David, who had been anointed as king nearly a decade and a half earlier by the prophet Samuel is now free to ascend the throne and take his rightful place in leadership over the people of Israel. 

(1 Samuel 24:1-22)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Genuine”

Series Title:  “Giant Slayer:  A Man After GOD’s Own Heart”

April 21^st, 2024

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As we continue our series on David in the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel today, we come upon a scene when tensions have run so high between King Saul and David that David is now on the run from Saul in the wilderness region of Engedi near the Dead Sea.  Hiding out in caves with a few of his loyal men, David is trying to escape the wrath of Saul who seeks to kill him in a jealous fit of rage.  Saul sees David as a threat, and thus, an enemy, and pursues to eliminate him and any chance he might have at taking the throne of Israel away from him or his own family.  David, however, wishes Saul no harm.  Though Saul has become an enemy, David does not desire to lay a hand on him but instead trusts in GOD for his future.  But what is David to do, when an opportunity arises that seems straight from GOD to take Saul out?  Let’s read and find out…

(1 Samuel 17:32-51)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Genuine”

Series Title:  “Giant Slayer:  A Man After GOD’s Own Heart”

April 14^th, 2024

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Today, we come to one of those stories that would qualify as incredible and hard to believe by most people:  The story of David and Goliath.  David a handsome shepherd boy small in stature with only a sling and a stone as his weapon of choice, faces Goliath – a nearly 10-foot-tall behemoth of a man in full battle regalia – on a battlefield.  Who would you think is favored to win?  If you were a betting person, who would you put money on? Let’s read together and see what happens.

(1 Samuel 16:1-13)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Genuine”

Series Title:  “Giant Slayer:  A Man After GOD’s Own Heart”

April 3^rd, 2024

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As we begin a new series today, entitled “Giant Slayer:  A Man After GOD’s Own Heart,” we learn that outward appearances aren’t always what they seem.  In 1 Samuel 16, we come upon a scene in the Old Testament that bears this out in a very profound way. Let’s take a closer look this morning.

(John 11:17-44)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Grace”

Series Title:  “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right”

March 31^st, 2024 (Easter Sunday)

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How many times have you uttered the words “If only”? I can honestly say I have said it more often than I should have.  And I’ve thought it more often than I’ve said it. There is one “if only” that stands out in the Bible that has serious pain and emotion surrounding it.  It’s found in the Gospel of John in the New Testament in the story of the death of Lazarus. 

(Romans 5:6-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Grace”

Series Title:  “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right”

March 24^th, 2024

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Today we come to a passage in Paul’s letter to the Romans that talks about this triumphant Christ, and the sacrifice that He made so that anyone who believed in Him would be set free.  We will see that in GOD’s perfect timing, Jesus came and died for sinners so that in His death and resurrection all who believed in Him would be set free.

Law and Grace

(Romans 5:20-6:4)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Grace”

Series Title:  “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right”

March 17^th, 2024

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In our passage for discussion today, we will be exploring GOD’s wonderful gift of grace as contrasted with our (human’s) sinful state.  Grace is how a person is “let off the hook” (so to speak) for things they have done or committed against another, be it GOD or neighbor.  It’s the extension of GOD’s unmerited favor upon humanity even in the face of the atrocities of sin and death.  No matter the amount or extent of the sins of humanity, GOD’s grace abounds all the more.  But there is one great condition:  A person must willingly receive this grace and leave a life of sin.  Let’s take a closer look this morning:

(Romans 4:1-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Grace”

Series Title:  “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right”

March 10^th, 2024

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Join us this morning as we talk about how time is a friend to those who trust in the Lord.

Adam and Jesus

(Romans 5:12-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Grace”

Series Title:  “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right”

March 3^rd, 2024

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There is a great decision that exists for us all:  Will we continue to be Adam, or will we surrender to Christ?  There are only two ways to go.  As we come to a new series today entitled “Course Correction:  How Jesus Sets Things Right,” we will be exploring the many contrasts that exist between sin and salvation, darkness and light, law and grace, Adam and Christ, as written about in Paul’s letter to the Romans.  We will learn that the only solution to the problems of sin and death is receiving the grace that GOD offered through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. 

(Genesis 4:1-16; Romans 12:17-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Great”

Series Title:  “Breaking Bad:  The Consequences of Sin”

February 25^th, 2024

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As we close out our series today on the “Consequences of Sin,” we do so by looking at the story of Cain and Abel and the devastating result of choosing evil over good.  As we’ll read, Cain is confronted with a choice:  Either listen to the voice of sin as it crouches at his door, or listen to the voice of GOD telling him to overcome it.  Lest we think we’re any different, we too continually face the reality of choices throughout our lives that will either set us on a course for good, or set us on a course for evil.  What will we choose?  Let’s take a look at Cain’s story today.

(Genesis 3:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Great”

Series Title:  “Breaking Bad:  The Consequences of Sin”

February 18^th, 2024

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Evil and darkness pervade this fallen world.  There seems to be tragedy and heartbreak around every corner of the world.  And we have to ask, is there any end in sight of our current maladies?  Is there any hope beyond the broken?  To that, the answer is a resounding, “Yes!”  Christ came once and for all time to deal with the problem of evil by taking the world's sin upon His shoulders and receiving the punishment and wrath for humankind.  However, there is often another question that persists:  “What is evil and where did it come from?”  Did GOD create it?  Is it really just an illusion? 

(Genesis 2:18-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Great”

Series Title:  “Breaking Bad:  The Consequences of Sin”

February 11^th, 2024

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Loneliness has become all too commonplace in a world with billions of people.  But this hasn’t always been the case.  There was a time when humans and GOD dwelt in perfect community together, unencumbered by insecurities, formalities, or insincerity.  All was well and all was good.  But how did this original perfect community come about, and how do we return to the type of community GOD originally created us for?  Let’s take a look at the creation account in Genesis 2 to find out…

Good and Evil

(Genesis 2:4-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is… Great”

Series Title:  “Breaking Bad:  The Consequences of Sin”

February 4^th, 2024

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When GOD created the Universe and everything in it, He deemed it good; in fact, He deemed it very good.  And “good” by GOD’s design is perfection, with no deviation at all (not even a Planck Length off).  However, GOD’s good creation also held within it the possibility of becoming off-center, so to speak.  In the center of the Garden of Eden, where GOD placed the first man, was a tree that was forbidden for humans to partake:  The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.  Let’s read the Genesis chapter two account of the ongoing creation narrative:

(Genesis 1:1-26 – 2:3)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is…”

Series Title:  “Goodness:  Two Sides of the Same Coin”

January 28^th, 2024

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The shining achievement of GOD’s creation was (and still is) humanity.  It may not seem that way now, considering all the horrible things that humans have done throughout the millennia, but the very essence of humanity was (and still is) extremely significant to GOD and His purposes within all of creation.  Created perfect, humans were entrusted with the greatest of responsibilities, to govern and reign over all the living creatures of the earth.  After He breathed the breath of life into the first humans and gave them the mandate to rule, GOD took a long look over all that He created and declared that it was “very good!”

Let’s delve deeper into the goodness of humankind today as we explore the reason for GOD’s creation of humans…

(Genesis 1:1-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is…”

Series Title:  “Goodness:  Two Sides of the Same Coin”

January 21^st, 2024

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As we continue our series on goodness this morning, we will be exploring the “good” creation of the “good” Creator.  As we mentioned last week, only good can come from GOD, who is the essence of all that is good.  Thus, everything that GOD created was created good.  Let’s take a closer look again this morning:

(Genesis 1:1-25; Mark 10:17-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is…”

Series Title:  “Goodness:  Two Sides of the Same Coin”

January 14^th, 2024

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What do we mean when we say, “GOD is Good?”  Do we really understand the meaning of that phrase?  To say “GOD is Good” is to assert something of His nature.  And if His nature is good then we need to understand what that means in order to live a life that produces goodness as a fruit of GOD’s Spirit in us.  One of the best places to start to understand GOD’s goodness is in the first chapter of the whole Bible, Genesis 1.  Let’s take a closer look:

(Galatians 5:22-23)

Yearly Theme:  “Goodness is…”

Series Title:  “Goodness:  Two Sides of the Same Coin”

January 7^th, 2024

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As we come into a new year (2024), we do so at North Main with a focus on the fruit of the Spirit, “Goodness.”  However, I’ve already read articles and listened to podcasts that are not so hopeful for the year ahead.  Pessimism and negativity have already taken hold in many peoples’ minds, so much so, that the word “goodness” isn’t even in their vocabulary.  But what does the Bible say about goodness?  Let’s take a look:

(Luke 2:39-52)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Atonement”

Series Title:  “The Kindest Gesture the World Has Ever Known”

December 31^st, 2023

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(Luke 2:1-20)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Atonement”

Series Title:  “The Kindest Gesture the World Has Ever Known”

December 24^th, 2023

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Jesus’ birth fulfilled a promise in the making since the beginning of time.  Not only the Jews, but all peoples at all times throughout human history had awaited this one moment in time, whether they realized it or not.  From the moment of the Fall in Genesis 3 to that one fateful night in the small town of Bethlehem in Judea some 2000 years ago, the world waited in great anticipation for a Savior.  And how GOD orchestrated this moment in time is wonderful and significant.

(Luke 1:26-38)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Atonement”

Series Title:  “The Kindest Gesture the World Has Ever Known”

December 17^th, 2023

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When we lose our grip on the future, we lose our grip on the importance of life.  And when we lose our grip on the importance of life, we lose our reason for hope.  And when we lose our reason for hope there is no peace.  And when there is no peace, desperation sets in.  And, when desperation sets in, we do irrational things that all too often result in devastating outcomes.

(Matthew 2:1-12)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Atonement”

Series Title:  “The Kindest Gesture the World Has Ever Known”

December 10^th, 2023

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As we continue our series on the birth of Christ, and consider the kindest gesture the world has ever known, we look to the second chapter of Matthew’s Gospel.  In this section of Scripture Matthew describes visitors that come from the east to worship the newborn King, but he also speaks of Herod, the brutal, paranoid King of Judea bent on destroying any competition for the throne.  In this story of contrasts,, we see a Shepherd born in a place for livestock (of all places), having been laid in a feeding trough for animals, who would be the world’s Savior.

(Matthew 1:18-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Atonement”

Series Title:  “The Kindest Gesture the World Has Ever Known”

December 3^rd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49162141

As we look to the birth of Jesus this Advent season, our attention is drawn to the reason for His birth.  Though it’s a cute story of a young couple betrothed, making the long journey by foot from Nazareth to Jerusalem to be recorded in the Roman census, and finding the only place to bed down to be a stable where Mary would ultimately give birth to the long-awaited Messiah, there is significantly more to the narrative.  Because the story has become so common in our culture, we all too often miss the point of the story for the commercialized babe in a manger.  And what was the purpose for the birth of Christ?  To save His people from their sins.

(Colossians 1:3-14)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Appreciative”

Series Title:  “Thankful Kindness”

November 26^th, 2023

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As we explore another one of the Apostle Paul’s letters in the New Testament this morning, we find – yet again – Him praying for knowledge and spiritual wisdom, but this time, for the Church at Colossae, he also prays that they will be filled with joy, always thanking the Father in Heaven.

(Philippians 1:3-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Appreciative”

Series Title:  “Thankful Kindness”

November 19^th, 2023

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We come to another passage of Scripture from one of Paul’s letters in the New Testament.  The circumstances surrounding this letter are not great for Paul; he is writing from prison.  However, in this short letter to the Church at Philippi, Paul encourages the believers to stay committed to Christ and overflow with love more and more as they continue to learn and grow in Him.  Let’s take a closer look this morning:

(Ephesians 1:15-23)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Appreciative”

Series Title:  “Thankful Kindness”

November 12^th, 2023

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Wisdom is our topic for discussion today.  However, not just wisdom, but spiritual wisdom.  There is “wisdom,” and there is “spiritual wisdom.”  The difference between the two isn’t clear on the surface, but the significance of that difference carries with it the weight of eternity.  Wisdom is clarity of understanding and knowledge of that which is true and right, and it is also the ability to make proper judgments based on that knowledge.  Spiritual Wisdom goes further in that, the Source of understanding and knowledge is GOD and His Word.

(2 Corinthians 4:1-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Appreciative”

Series Title:  “Thankful Kindness”

November 5^th, 2023

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In his first letter to the Corinthian Church in Greece, the Apostle Paul lays out some pretty difficult topics in order to correct some misunderstandings of the Christian faith that had taken root in the assembly there.  There were issues of pride, selfishness, greed, sexual sin within the church, and much more that needed to be dealt with in order for the Corinthian Christians to align with the Gospel of Christ. The only way to make it through suffering and pain in this life is to know that the only way out of our darkest moments is to follow the One who went through the valley of the shadow of death and conquered the grave completely.

So how can we learn to be thankful and kind even during the darkest moments of life?  Let’s read Paul and find out:

(Luke 17:11-19)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

October 29^th, 2023

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Join us for church this Sunday at 10:30 am as we talk about one of the miracles of Jesus in Luke 17 or online: www.northmaincog.org/online.

(Luke 13:10-17)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

October 22^nd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49156019

Today, we come to another passage of the healing ministry of Jesus.  As was often the case, He came in direct conflict with the religious leaders who became outraged by His ministry and miracles.  After healing a woman who was bent over for 18 years, the leader of the synagogue where Jesus was condemned not only Jesus, but the woman and anyone who would come to the synagogue seeking healing on the Sabbath.  Let’s take a closer look:

(Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

October 15^th, 2023

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Today we come to a miracle of Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark that is important to understand but difficult to comprehend.  Not only is there a need for healing and deliverance made known to Jesus, but His response seems uncharacteristic of His very nature.  What we will learn through this passage is more than meets the eye; what we will learn through this miracle is the very heart of GOD.  Let’s take a look:

(John 5:1-15)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

October 8^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49148528

We come to a miracle of Jesus today in the city of Jerusalem during one of the annual Jewish festivals.  Jesus was in town celebrating the festival when he encountered a man who had been ill for some 38 years and unable get around.  Sitting on his mat near the pool of Bethesda near the Temple courts, he encounters Jesus and will forever be changed by the chance meeting.  Let’s take a look:

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

September 24^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49145536

Join us this Sunday as we talk about what it looks like to become a true agent of kindness by recognizing and receiving it for ourselves.

(Mark 5:21-23, 35-43)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

September 24^th, 2023

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As we continue our series on the miracles of Jesus today, we come to a particular passage where a man’s faith is put to the test as he hopes that Jesus can heal his 12-year-old daughter.  Before Jesus can get there, the girl dies, and all hope seems lost.  However, Jesus instructs the man that it’s not over yet.  Let’s take a look:

(Luke 5:12-16)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

September 17^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49138558

Today we come upon one occasion where Jesus’ compassion far exceeded His concern about cultural mores or social pleasantries.  The great compassion of GOD through Jesus knows no bounds.  Let’s take a look:

(John 2:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Astounding”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

September 10^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49135058

As we consider the life of Jesus (specifically His miracles) over the next several weeks in our series entitled:  Kindness 24/7, we will be exploring the extravagant and exceptional side of GOD’s kindness through Jesus.  We will see how Jesus’ life was anything but mediocre, and how He approached people and situations with a sense of love and compassion through kindness in action.

Today we come upon the very first recorded miracle of Jesus in the Gospels:  Turning Water Into Wine.  Let’s take a look:

(Ephesians 4:17-32)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amazing”

Series Title:  “Kindness 24/7”

September 3^rd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49128191

(Daniel 4:19b-27)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amazing”

Series Title:  “KING of kings”

August 27^th, 2023

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We come to one of the last passages of Scripture in the book of Daniel where Nebuchadnezzar is mentioned.  Though he wouldn’t be the last king of Babylon, his story ends on a bitter-sweet note.  What Nebuchadnezzar would have to learn the hard way is that Yahweh is a patient and loving GOD who gives multiple chances to do the right thing and that the greatness he had been given came only as a result of Yahweh’s hand.  But pride is a fickle thing.  Because of his immense pridefulness and arrogance, Nebuchadnezzar had to be humbled in order to learn that Yahweh truly is the only GOD to be worshiped as the KING of heaven.  Let’s take a look at the conclusion of his story today:

(Daniel 3:19-29)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amazing”

Series Title:  “KING of kings”

August 20^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49124588

Today, as we continue our series on the Old Testament book of Daniel, we come to a very famous passage that involves three men and a fiery furnace.  Yahweh would rescue the three Jewish exiles from the fire, and humble Nebuchadnezzar by showing him the error of his ways. 

Humility is a virtue not easily acquired and difficult to keep.  It’s difficult to know when you have it, and hard to know when you’ve lost it.  Its antithesis, pride, often masquerades as humility, but the difference is in the focus of the individual.  False humility is demonstrated when a person is more concerned about how they are perceived by others than they are about serving others.  Pride can convince us that we’re humble by showing us how good we think we are rather than the truth of who we really are compared to the goodness of GOD.  Let’s pick up the story today in Daniel chapter three:

(Daniel 3:1-18)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amazing”

Series Title:  “KING of kings”

August 6^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49120888

As we continue our series today, we continue with a passage that we began last week in Daniel 2.  If you remember, we explored the narrative of Daniel approaching King Nebuchadnezzar with an appeal not to execute all the wise men of Babylon for not being able to know and understand the king’s dream, which had disturbed him greatly.  Being given more time to seek the answers from Yahweh, Daniel once again came to the king to tell him his dream and what it meant.  No matter where we go in the world, we cannot escape the reality that the world in which we live is broken and fallen as a result of sin.  The kingdoms of this world, the nations that rise and fall, are only temporary compared to the eternal Kingdom of GOD. We pick up from there today:

(Daniel 2:24-27)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amazing”

Series Title:  “KING of kings”

August 6^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49117689

We come to not only a passage of Scripture today, but an entire book, that is saturated with dream content and dream interpretation.  The Old Testament book of Daniel was written by a Jewish exile by the same name during the time of the Babylonian conquest of Judah.  Daniel, among many other men of nobility or royalty, was one of the chosen men of exiled Jews to be taught, and well-versed, in every branch of learning.  They were also to be gifted, knowledgeable, and wise in judgment, for the purpose of serving in Nebuchadnezzar’s royal palace.[1]  From the time of Nebuchadnezzar’s rule to the first year of King Cyrus’s reign, Daniel would serve under four kings as written in the Bible (Nebuchadnezzar 43, Belshazzar 14, Darius 3, Cyrus 6) over the span of two different empires (the Babylonians and the Medo-Persians).

[1] Daniel 1:3-7.

(Ezekiel 37:15-28)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Advancement”

Series Title:  “Kindness in Exile”

July 30^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49114546

Why is it so hard to maintain unity (especially within the Church)?  I contend the reason is that maintaining unity requires conceding personal wants, wills, and desires and being willing to not always have our own way.  Now, this doesn’t mean that the truth, nor the Word of GOD, should ever be compromised.  However, what it does mean is that our firm resolve should always be toward reconciliation and restoration.

Today, as we close out our series entitled, “Kindness in Exile,” we come to a passage of promised unity and restoration from GOD to His exiled people.  Let’s take a look…

(Ezekiel 37:1-14)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Advancement”

Series Title:  “Kindness in Exile”

July 23^rd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49110987

Today, we will be exploring a rather famous and familiar passage from the Old Testament book of Ezekiel called “The Valley of Dry Bones.”  In this passage GOD takes Ezekiel in the Spirit to a place where dry human bones are in abundance.  Through a series of commands, GOD tells Ezekiel to bring back to life the bodies that the bones represented.  Through this, GOD wants Ezekiel to see that though the nation of Israel (its people) have – in essence – died, He plans on resurrecting them to new life.  Let’s take a closer look:

(Ezekiel 34:1-31)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Advancement”

Series Title:  “Kindness in Exile”

July 16^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49107674

Those who remained faithful to GOD and obedient to the laws of GOD were often oppressed the most by the national leaders of Israel because they stood in the way of supposed “progress.”  As the national leaders compromised their worship of GOD by allowing pagan worship and cultic practices to enter into the land and the holy places, there was not only a loss of identity as the people of GOD, but a loss of purpose as a nation among nations.  Thus, as we read in Jeremiah and Ezekiel, the weakened nation of Israel/Judah succumbed to the physical attacks of foreign nations like Assyria and Babylon and ultimately sent into exile throughout their empires.  But GOD wasn’t through with them as we will see.  He had a plan to bring them home and establish them once more.  However, this time it would be different.  Let’s take a look…

(Ezekiel 18:1-32)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Advancement”

Series Title:  “Kindness in Exile”

July 9^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49104407

Key Point: “Every person is accountable to GOD.” This concept of accountability raises important questions about morality, ethics, and the nature of the human condition, and has been the subject of philosophical and theological debate for centuries. In Ezekiel 18, it talks about how each person is responsible for their actions and choices. The Israelites have been avoiding taking responsibility for their sins, but God makes it clear that each person will be judged based on their actions, not their ancestors’ actions. God wants us to turn away from our sins and obey Him. So, remember that we're all accountable for our own choices and we should strive to make good ones!

(Ezekiel 11:14-21)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Advancement”

Series Title:  “Kindness in Exile”

July 2^nd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49101197

As we begin a new series today, we will be looking at the exiled Jews in the prophecies of Ezekiel in the Old Testament.  Where we pick up the narrative today is in chapter 11. The Israelites believed that the reason they were left behind was that GOD approved of them and their behavior, thus giving them the land of their former countrymen as a reward.  But this wasn’t true, and GOD would have Ezekiel speak not only to the remaining Jews in Jerusalem but also to the exiles in the land of Babylon in order to set the record straight as to what GOD was really doing behind the scenes.

(Jeremiah 29:1-14 NLT)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Kindness through Discipline”

June 25^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49097416

As we conclude our series today on Jeremiah, we read a letter that he wrote on behalf of GOD to the elders, priests, prophets, and all the people who had been exiled to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar.  This letter was a letter of hope.  It was a letter that reminded the people that GOD had not forgotten them and that His punishment would not last forever. 

In this letter, GOD tells the exiles to settle into the places that they have been placed in this foreign land.  He tells them to build homes, have children, and pray for the prosperity of the towns in which they live.  He tells them to beware of false prophets who are only telling them what they want to hear, rather than the truth.  And He encourages them to wait expectantly and patiently on Him while in exile because their exile would not last forever.  Let’s take a look at GOD’s word to the exiles…

(1 Samuel 2-3; Matthew 1:18-25)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Kindness through Discipline”

June 18^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49091375

Father's Day is always a special opportunity to reflect on the importance of fatherhood in our lives. Join us as we explore the qualities of Jesus that show us intimately what a great father figure should look like.

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amended”

Series Title:  “Kindness through Discipline”

June 11^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49091047

As we continue our series today through the book of Jeremiah, entitled “Kindness through Discipline,” we come to a passage of hope.  After having warned the leaders and the people of Judah about impending judgment from GOD through the Babylonian Empire’s invasion of the land, GOD gives Jeremiah a word of hope to the people for future generations; a descendant of David who will come and rule with wisdom and do what is right throughout the land.  This ruler will be called, “The Lord is our Righteousness,” and on that day Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety.  Let’s take a closer look today:

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Amended”

Series Title:  “Kindness through Discipline”

June 4^th, 2023

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As we begin a new series today, we will be taking a look at the Old Testament prophecies of Jeremiah.  Jeremiah prophesied during the final years of Judah’s existence as a nation.  Judah was comprised of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, the two remaining tribes of Israel.  We turn to Jeremiah 18 and witness one of those times when GOD was expressing to His people His willingness to show them mercy rather than judgment.  This is the story of the Potter and the Clay…

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “In the Meantime”

May 28^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49083635

In this final section of Habakkuk, Habakkuk sings a hymn to GOD for His faithfulness in the midst of impending judgment upon the nation of Judah.  Those who remain faithful to GOD, and who have not worshiped the gods of the pagan nations around them will be spared, but will also be exiled like the rest of the nation.  However, in their exile, they will remain joyful and hopeful in the GOD of their salvation.  Though sorrow may last for a while, joy will sustain them through dark times.  Those who remain faithful to GOD in the midst of judgment will learn that the LORD is their strength. 

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “In the Meantime”

May 21^st, 2023

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True success and pleasure aren’t found in the fleeting treasures of this world but in the eternal goodness of GOD’s blessings and promises.

(1 Kings 3:16-27)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “In the Meantime”

May 14^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49076670

To highlight the uniqueness of GOD’s special design of mothers on this Mother’s Day, we will be looking at a passage of Scripture that isn’t really looked at for such an occasion.  It’s the story of two mothers who brought a case before King Solomon; a case fraught with confusion, deception, and death.  This case is a case of two moms, two babies, and the death of a child.  Let’s take a look…

(Habakkuk 1:1-11)

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “In the Meantime”

May 7^th, 2023

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Have you ever wanted to blame GOD for the problems in life?  Have you ever doubted the existence of GOD in light of all of the evil and chaos in the world?  Has there ever been a moment when you became frustrated with GOD because it seems that “bad” people around you seem to prosper while you suffer?

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Suffering Servant”

April 30^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49065851

As we come to our final sermon in this series, we have journeyed with Jesus and the disciples through “Holy Week.”  We have seen Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem during the week leading up to the Jewish Passover.  We have watched the disciples become confused and disillusioned in the wake of Jesus’ crucifixion.  We have witnessed the bewilderment of the disciples’ reaction to the resurrected Christ.  And we have seen how Jesus redirected the disciples’ expectations and attention away from the establishment of an earthly kingdom and to the reality of an eternal Kingdom.

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Suffering Servant”

April 23^rd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49065850

As we move further into the resurrection narrative of Jesus today, we come to a passage in Luke’s writing in the book of Acts.  After having spent 40 days on the earth giving witness to His resurrection from the grave, Jesus is now ready to leave the disciples.  However, He does so with promises:  1) to send the Holy Spirit, and 2) to return someday.

It's a healthy set of expectations that Jesus left His followers with, and it’s with expectation that we too move and have purpose within GOD’s will as His followers today.

Let’s take a look at Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples before ascending to heaven:

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Suffering Servant”

April 16^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49062373

Have you ever doubted?  More specifically, have you ever doubted in the existence of GOD, the resurrection of Jesus, or the truth of the Bible?  Today, as we continue to our discussion on the resurrection of Christ, we come to the passage immediately following the story of the meeting of Jesus with the disciples who were on the road to Emmaus.  If you remember, Cleopas and his cohort were on their way back home after the Passover and Sabbath in Jerusalem.  It was Sunday, and as they walked home, they were disillusioned and discouraged over what they had just experienced.  Jesus, who they were followers of, had been crucified and buried.  And though there were reports from some of the women and other disciples that the tomb He was buried in was empty, they don’t believe that Jesus has actually risen from the grave. 

So, how does one deal with doubts?  How can a person overcome the doubts that so easily trap and confuse?  Here’s the takeaway:

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Suffering Servant”

April 9^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49058343

Jesus’ disciples experienced great discouragement when He was arrested and crucified.  They thought that was the end of the story; the end of the road that Jesus had led them down.  However, they neglected to remember ALL that He had told them was going to happen.  They couldn’t seem to remember that Jesus had told them that all of this was going to happen when they entered Jerusalem for the last time.  So, discouragement ruled their hearts.

Two disciples in particular, Cleopas and his wife, were on their journey back home the Sunday morning after the crucifixion of Jesus, and while on their way, another traveler happens upon their path that joins them in on their long walk home.  Let’s take a look at their story today:

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Suffering Servant”

April 2^nd, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49054807

Today is “Palm Sunday.”  It’s the day leading into holy week when Jesus made His triumphal entry, and was hailed as King by the throngs of people that lined the roads leading into Jerusalem.  It is a day of celebration, as Jesus is recognized by the crowd as the One King who has come in the name of the LORD.  He is hailed as Hosanna, the One who saves, and the son of King David, the long-awaited Messiah.

The celebration of Jesus’ entry would be short-lived, for later in the week, He would be arrested, beaten, and condemned to death by crucifixion.  However, for our purposes today we will only be looking at His triumphal entry. 

Though all of the Gospels record Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, we will be exploring Luke’s account.  Let’s take a look: 

Yearly Theme:  “Kindness is… Action”

Series Title:  “Kindness in the Land”

March 26^th, 2023

Follow along in the Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49051042

We come to our final sermon in the series entitled “Kindness in the Land,” and we come upon a judge by the name of Samson.  Samson is the final judge in the Old Testament book of Judges before the prophet/judge, Samuel, came onto the scene.  Samson, however, was not a good judge.  Having been given great physical strength, and having taken the Nazarite vow of holiness and dedication to GOD (no wine or grapes, no touching of dead bodies, and no cutting of the hair of the head), Samson took for granted that his strength, position, and authority came from the LORD.  As a result, he became cocky and arrogant.  And with pride ruling in his heart, he was eventually destined to fail.