What is 'new' about the new covenant? Were there baptisms in the Old Testament? What can we learn from household baptisms? What is baptism a sign of? Is baptism necessary for salvation? In this special episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten answer questions from the Baptism and Unity in the Church lecture held on July 2, 2024. As they consider your questions, they discuss the continuity and discontinuity between the old and new covenants as well as the meaning and importance of baptism.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected].

What is 'new' about the new covenant? Were there baptisms in the Old Testament? What can we learn from household baptisms? What is baptism a sign of? Is baptism necessary for salvation? In this special episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten answer questions from the Baptism and Unity in the Church lecture held on July 2, 2024. As they consider your questions, they discuss the continuity and discontinuity between the old and new covenants as well as the meaning and importance of baptism.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to the gay Last Supper scene at the Paris Olympics. Would Jesus have invited those people to the Passover?

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to the gay Last Supper scene at the Paris Olympics. Would Jesus have invited those people to the Passover?

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Psalm 71. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Psalm 71. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

The eighth commandment prohibits theft. This means that God acknowledges personal property. God calls us to respect the property of others while being thankful for what God has given us and being good stewards of it. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss ideas like Communism and how they subvert God's law by undermining personal property. They also discuss books on Christian economics, including Jerry Bowyer's 'The Maker vs. The Takers."We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected].

The eighth commandment prohibits theft. This means that God acknowledges personal property. God calls us to respect the property of others while being thankful for what God has given us and being good stewards of it. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss ideas like Communism and how they subvert God's law by undermining personal property. They also discuss books on Christian economics, including Jerry Bowyer's 'The Maker vs. The Takers."We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected].

The sixth commandment forbids murder. How does this commandment inform our understanding of capital punishment? Or war? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss why God forbids murder and why he commands capital punishment. They also discuss how Christians can be pro-life and yet for capital punishment or just war.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

The sixth commandment forbids murder. How does this commandment inform our understanding of capital punishment? Or war? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss why God forbids murder and why he commands capital punishment. They also discuss how Christians can be pro-life and yet for capital punishment or just war.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Psalm 68. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.//Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Psalm 68. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.//Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

The sixth commandment forbids murder. How does this commandment shape our understanding of capital punishment? Or war? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss why God forbids murder and why he commands capital punishment. They also discuss questions about how Christians can be pro-life and yet for capital punishment or just war.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

We live in a world of sexual confusion that has largely ignored the the seventh commandment. The results have been catstrophic. In this commandment to not commit adultery we have a world of instruction about what God's good design is for sexuality. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss why God forbids adultery and the implications for this commandment. They discuss the reality of natural law as it pertains to our created bodies. They also discuss the implications of the seventh commandment for what it requires and what it prohibits (for instance those outlined in the Westminster Larger catechism) with regard to marriage.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses how the LBGTQ community uses elitism to silence ordinary people from saying things that are obviously true.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses how the LBGTQ community uses elitism to silence ordinary people from saying things that are obviously true.

Could John Calvin and Charles Spurgeon get along in the same church?This, According to the Word lecture, addresses this very topic. Watch as Pastor Jon unpacks baptism through the historicity of the Church.

Could John Calvin and Charles Spurgeon get along in the same church?This, According to the Word lecture, addresses this very topic. Watch as Pastor Jon unpacks baptism through the historicity of the Church.

The fifth commandment reveals God's heart for the family. By God's design, the family is the building block of culture and even the foundation of good government. The basic unit of the family makes a community, society, or nation strong. But a breakdown in the family results in bad and even tyrannical government. Likewise, bad culture and tyrannical government tends to undermine and destroy the integrity of the family. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the fifth commandment with regard to our knowledge of God and the stability of society. They also discuss practical ways that children (including adult children) ought to actively honor their parents.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

The fifth commandment reveals God's heart for the family. By God's design, the family is the building block of culture and even the foundation of good government. The basic unit of the family makes a community, society, or nation strong. But a breakdown in the family results in bad and even tyrannical government. Likewise, bad culture and tyrannical government tends to undermine and destroy the integrity of the family. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the fifth commandment with regard to our knowledge of God and the stability of society. They also discuss practical ways that children (including adult children) ought to actively honor their parents.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why Christians who fly the rainbow flag should be brought under Church discipline.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why Christians who fly the rainbow flag should be brought under Church discipline.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how sodomy ultimately kills a society and destroys the future. 

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how sodomy ultimately kills a society and destroys the future. 

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Exodus 20:17. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Exodus 20:17. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses how and why the LGBTQ ideology crumbles under it's own weight.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses how and why the LGBTQ ideology crumbles under it's own weight.

The fourth commandment isn't just about rest, it is also about work. After a week of work, God called his people to trust in him by resting from all their labors. This rest was an expression of trust in his rule and reign. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the fourth commandment and consider how we can obey this commandment today. The Sabbath was meant to be a day of rest and joy. It was a feast day in the Old Testament and a day of holy convocation (i.e. corporate worship) that pointed towards our future rest.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

The fourth commandment isn't just about rest, it is also about work. After a week of work, God called his people to trust in him by resting from all their labors. This rest was an expression of trust in his rule and reign. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the fourth commandment and consider how we can obey this commandment today. The Sabbath was meant to be a day of rest and joy. It was a feast day in the Old Testament and a day of holy convocation (i.e. corporate worship) that pointed towards our future rest.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any question for Sermon B-sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

What does it mean to "take the name of the Lord your God in vain"? Is this commandment all about language at the construction site? What is the significance of the name of the Lord? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the third commandment and how we are called to take the name, but not take the name in vain. They discuss baptism as one way in which we take the name and hypocrisy as the way that the name is taken in vain. They also discuss the age of baptism and how it relates to this discussion.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

What does it mean to "take the name of the Lord your God in vain"? Is this commandment all about language at the construction site? What is the significance of the name of the Lord? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the third commandment and how we are called to take the name, but not take the name in vain. They discuss baptism as one way in which we take the name and hypocrisy as the way that the name is taken in vain. They also discuss the age of baptism and how it relates to this discussion.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why churches must address pride month and what topics he will be covering during the month of June on The Blitz.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why churches must address pride month and what topics he will be covering during the month of June on The Blitz.

This week Pastor Rusten Harris takes us through 1 Peter 4.Our Midweek Discipleship class on the book of 1 Peter meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM, April 30- May 28.

This week Pastor Rusten Harris takes us through 1 Peter 4.Our Midweek Discipleship class on the book of 1 Peter meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 PM, April 30- May 28.

Exodus 20:14 • Sunday Sermon Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Exodus 20:14. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Exodus 20:14 • Sunday Sermon Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Exodus 20:14. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Why did God forbid making graven images? Does this include images of Jesus or Christian art? What about Christian traditions that use images in their worship? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the second commandment and how it applied during Old Testament times and since the coming of Christ. They discuss Eastern Orthodoxy and their use of images, as well as popular media like the Chosen and the Passion of the Christ. They also discuss the warning and encouragement that violating or obeying this command has implications on discipling our children.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

Why did God forbid making graven images? Does this include images of Jesus or Christian art? What about Christian traditions that use images in their worship? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the second commandment and how it applied during Old Testament times and since the coming of Christ. They discuss Eastern Orthodoxy and their use of images, as well as popular media like the Chosen and the Passion of the Christ. They also discuss the warning and encouragement that violating or obeying this command has implications on discipling our children.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

How should Christians approach God's law? Broader evangelicalism tends to think that the law primarily condemns or that Christians should "unhitch" from the Old Testament law. It tends towards antinomianism (rejecting all law) and legalism (living slavishly like we earn God's favor through law-keeping). But what we see in Scripture—in Psalm 1 and Psalm 19, for instance—is a call to love and delight in God's law. How is this possible? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the first commandment. They also discuss how the God we worship shapes our heart-posture towards his law.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

How should Christians approach God's law? Broader evangelicalism tends to think that the law primarily condemns or that Christians should "unhitch" from the Old Testament law. It tends towards antinomianism (rejecting all law) and legalism (living slavishly like we earn God's favor through law-keeping). But what we see in Scripture—in Psalm 1 and Psalm 19, for instance—is a call to love and delight in God's law. How is this possible? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the first commandment. They also discuss how the God we worship shapes our heart-posture towards his law.We hope you enjoy and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides or anything else, email us at [email protected]

Midweek Class on the book of 1 Peter meets Tuesdays, April 30 to May 28, from 6:30 —7:30 PM. You can view last weeks class here!

Midweek Class on the book of 1 Peter meets Tuesdays, April 30 to May 28, from 6:30 —7:30 PM. You can view last weeks class here!

God meeting his people on Mount Sinai is a grand and terrifying event. First comes fire and smoke, then thunder and lightning, and finally the voice of God. The people were trembling, and for good reason; the holiness of God is dangerous. If anyone touches the mountain, they will die. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the Sinai scene, what it means, and how Christ is our better Moses who brings us to a holy God. They also discuss the covenant language that God introduces to Israel and its implications for Christians today. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

God meeting his people on Mount Sinai is a grand and terrifying event. First comes fire and smoke, then thunder and lightning, and finally the voice of God. The people were trembling, and for good reason; the holiness of God is dangerous. If anyone touches the mountain, they will die. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the Sinai scene, what it means, and how Christ is our better Moses who brings us to a holy God. They also discuss the covenant language that God introduces to Israel and its implications for Christians today. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

Who is Jethro? Is he a pagan priest who comes to faith in Yahweh, or is he a Gentile believer who already knows God? What does Jethro bless Moses with? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon & Pastor Rusten examine some of these questions and look at the history of Jethro and his ancestors. They also discuss covenant theology and the differences between the covenant of grace and the covenant of works.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

Who is Jethro? Is he a pagan priest who comes to faith in Yahweh, or is he a Gentile believer who already knows God? What does Jethro bless Moses with? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon & Pastor Rusten examine some of these questions and look at the history of Jethro and his ancestors. They also discuss covenant theology and the differences between the covenant of grace and the covenant of works.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

How should Christians seek to positively impact their culture for Christ? Instead of only looking to politics, how can Christians work to reform culture in more grassroots ways from the bottom up? How should Christians approach civics and politics? What are Christians to make of "Christian Nationalism" and the different meanings given to that term? In this special episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss some of the points from the "Building for Cultural Reformation with Dr. John West" event hosted at Coram Deo Church. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

How should Christians seek to positively impact their culture for Christ? Instead of only looking to politics, how can Christians work to reform culture in more grassroots ways from the bottom up? How should Christians approach civics and politics? What are Christians to make of "Christian Nationalism" and the different meanings given to that term? In this special episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss some of the points from the "Building for Cultural Reformation with Dr. John West" event hosted at Coram Deo Church. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-sides--or anything else, email us at [email protected]

After God delivers his people from Egypt, he teaches them to rely on him as their Father by providing food and water in the wilderness. In chapter 17, the people grumble because they are without water again. This time, God provides water by instructing Moses to strike the "Rock of Horeb" with his staff. After this, God's people enter their first military conflict, but the way they win is through Moses lifting his hands. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God's provision in the wilderness point to and are fulfilled in Christ.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

After God delivers his people from Egypt, he teaches them to rely on him as their Father by providing food and water in the wilderness. In chapter 17, the people grumble because they are without water again. This time, God provides water by instructing Moses to strike the "Rock of Horeb" with his staff. After this, God's people enter their first military conflict, but the way they win is through Moses lifting his hands. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God's provision in the wilderness point to and are fulfilled in Christ.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

If you missed the Coram Deo Church event: Building for Cultural Reformation with Dr. John West, you can now watch it here.Is American culture in a death spiral? If so, what can the church do about it? Increasingly, the institutions we depend on for vibrant communities—churches, families, schools, businesses, and the media—appear to be failing. Less than two in ten Americans have a “great deal” of confidence in the church, public schools, banks, newspapers, the medical system, or the criminal justice system. More than 80% of Americans think the moral state of the nation is getting worse. We are told by some we live in a “negative world” where Christianity itself is now viewed as a threat rather than a help. In this situation, how can Christians respond constructively? Join Dr. John West as he draws on lessons from America’s past to explore how churches and Christians today can play a positive role in reforming our culture.

If you missed the Coram Deo Church event: Building for Cultural Reformation with Dr. John West, you can now watch it here.Is American culture in a death spiral? If so, what can the church do about it? Increasingly, the institutions we depend on for vibrant communities—churches, families, schools, businesses, and the media—appear to be failing. Less than two in ten Americans have a “great deal” of confidence in the church, public schools, banks, newspapers, the medical system, or the criminal justice system. More than 80% of Americans think the moral state of the nation is getting worse. We are told by some we live in a “negative world” where Christianity itself is now viewed as a threat rather than a help. In this situation, how can Christians respond constructively? Join Dr. John West as he draws on lessons from America’s past to explore how churches and Christians today can play a positive role in reforming our culture.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Luke 12:49-53. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.\\Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on Luke 12:49-53. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.\\Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

In this follow-up episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why attending a wedding between two unbelievers is not the same as attending a same-sex wedding.

In this follow-up episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why attending a wedding between two unbelievers is not the same as attending a same-sex wedding.

The Exodus isn't just about delivering the Hebrews from slavery to the tyrant Pharaoh; it's also about delivering God's people from the tyranny of sin. This is why the story doesn't end after the slaves are free from Egypt. They are then brought into the wilderness where God reveals their sinful grumbling through testing. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God uses trials to reveal areas where we are tempted to trust in something other than God, and how God's abundant provision teaches us to live in light of his care for us.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

The Exodus isn't just about delivering the Hebrews from slavery to the tyrant Pharaoh; it's also about delivering God's people from the tyranny of sin. This is why the story doesn't end after the slaves are free from Egypt. They are then brought into the wilderness where God reveals their sinful grumbling through testing. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God uses trials to reveal areas where we are tempted to trust in something other than God, and how God's abundant provision teaches us to live in light of his care for us.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon shares his thoughts and concerns regarding the He Gets Us Super Bowl commercial.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon shares his thoughts and concerns regarding the He Gets Us Super Bowl commercial.

When God's people are finally delivered from their Egyptian enemies, they respond by singing a song of praise. They praise God for bringing judgment on the Egyptians, for casting the horse and rider in the sea, and for establishing his people. It is not the kind of worship song that most evangelical churches are used to today. Why is that? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how Exodus 15 challenges our modern notions about who God is and who Jesus is, especially in light of recent efforts to soften God's edges in order to make him more palatable to our age (e.g., the "He Gets Us" campaign).We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

When God's people are finally delivered from their Egyptian enemies, they respond by singing a song of praise. They praise God for bringing judgment on the Egyptians, for casting the horse and rider in the sea, and for establishing his people. It is not the kind of worship song that most evangelical churches are used to today. Why is that? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how Exodus 15 challenges our modern notions about who God is and who Jesus is, especially in light of recent efforts to soften God's edges in order to make him more palatable to our age (e.g., the "He Gets Us" campaign).We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

What are Christians to do when they are surrounded by a culture that is opposed to them? What kind of expectations can Christians have for the Kingdom under such circumstances? Pastor Rusten Harris takes us through answers to these questions this week in James 2.

What are Christians to do when they are surrounded by a culture that is opposed to them? What kind of expectations can Christians have for the Kingdom under such circumstances? Pastor Rusten Harris takes us through answers to these questions this week in James 2.

The Red Sea crossing is one of the most celebrated acts of God's deliverance in the entire Bible. In an epic way, God saves his people from slavery by crushing the final threat of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. But this story also shows us that God's act of rescue was also meant to confront and cure Israel's cowardice. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God removes our fear of man in order to set us free from slavery to man. Rather than promoting the passivity of God's people in the face of enemies, this story gives us reason to have courage as we fear God instead of any man.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

The Red Sea crossing is one of the most celebrated acts of God's deliverance in the entire Bible. In an epic way, God saves his people from slavery by crushing the final threat of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. But this story also shows us that God's act of rescue was also meant to confront and cure Israel's cowardice. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God removes our fear of man in order to set us free from slavery to man. Rather than promoting the passivity of God's people in the face of enemies, this story gives us reason to have courage as we fear God instead of any man.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses ways in which you can talk about abortion with people who do not share your convictions.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses ways in which you can talk about abortion with people who do not share your convictions.

What does it mean that the firstborn sons of Israel were to be consecrated? Some critics of the Bible claim that the Old Testament originally commended the sacrifice of the firstborn sons, but what we see in scripture is actually the exact opposite. The firstborn sons were redeemed and consecrated for a special calling. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Exodus 13, the meaning of the consecration of the firstborn, the mixed multitude, and how Israel was made up of non-ethnic jews. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

What does it mean that the firstborn sons of Israel were to be consecrated? Some critics of the Bible claim that the Old Testament originally commended the sacrifice of the firstborn sons, but what we see in scripture is actually the exact opposite. The firstborn sons were redeemed and consecrated for a special calling. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Exodus 13, the meaning of the consecration of the firstborn, the mixed multitude, and how Israel was made up of non-ethnic jews. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to advice given by Pastor Allistair Begg for Christians to participate in the celebration of gay weddings.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to advice given by Pastor Allistair Begg for Christians to participate in the celebration of gay weddings.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on The Sanctity of Life. You are invited to our 9:30 service through Facebook Live as we worship together.\\Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Jon preaches on The Sanctity of Life. You are invited to our 9:30 service through Facebook Live as we worship together.\\Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Throughout Scripture, God divides days and seasons. He gives us holidays and feast days, and he gives us the Sabbath day. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God marks time according to his works of creation and redemption. They discuss how God uses seasonal liturgies to disciple Christians and form their imaginations. They also discuss why only the circumcised were allowed to eat the Passover meal.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Throughout Scripture, God divides days and seasons. He gives us holidays and feast days, and he gives us the Sabbath day. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how God marks time according to his works of creation and redemption. They discuss how God uses seasonal liturgies to disciple Christians and form their imaginations. They also discuss why only the circumcised were allowed to eat the Passover meal.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Rebelling against God makes you stupid. We see this principle in Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go free when his son's life is on the line. Today, one way we see this principle is in the teaching of intersectionality, which Exodus 11 utterly rejects as a worldview. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how those who reject God become futile in their thinking, and also how God's judgment comes upon both the king and the slave girl behind the handmill. When judgment is coming, your race, gender, and socio-economic status do not matter. The only distinction that matters is the blood of the Passover lamb.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Rebelling against God makes you stupid. We see this principle in Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go free when his son's life is on the line. Today, one way we see this principle is in the teaching of intersectionality, which Exodus 11 utterly rejects as a worldview. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how those who reject God become futile in their thinking, and also how God's judgment comes upon both the king and the slave girl behind the handmill. When judgment is coming, your race, gender, and socio-economic status do not matter. The only distinction that matters is the blood of the Passover lamb.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

The family is the fundamental building block of society. Pagan tyrants feel threatened by Christian family and the Church because they represent a future contrary to their rule. This is why, in Exodus 10, Pharaoh goes after the women and children. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the family for the discipleship of God's people. They discuss many ways the enemy seeks to undermine the gospel through attacking the family. We see this today in public education, LGBTQIA+ ideology, and the perversion of femininity. They also discuss how God strengthens the family in the faith through worshipping together at church and at home.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

The family is the fundamental building block of society. Pagan tyrants feel threatened by Christian family and the Church because they represent a future contrary to their rule. This is why, in Exodus 10, Pharaoh goes after the women and children. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the importance of the family for the discipleship of God's people. They discuss many ways the enemy seeks to undermine the gospel through attacking the family. We see this today in public education, LGBTQIA+ ideology, and the perversion of femininity. They also discuss how God strengthens the family in the faith through worshipping together at church and at home.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What does it mean for God to be sovereign? The story of the Exodus reveals the answer to that question. God demonstrates his sovereignty through the plagues he brought upon Egypt and by hardening Pharoah's heart. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the sovereignty of God is clearly taught in the book of Exodus. They discuss the difference between Calvinism and Hyper-Calvinism. They also discuss how God's sovereignty demonstrates his greatness and should give us great hope, especially in evangelism and missions.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What does it mean for God to be sovereign? The story of the Exodus reveals the answer to that question. God demonstrates his sovereignty through the plagues he brought upon Egypt and by hardening Pharoah's heart. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the sovereignty of God is clearly taught in the book of Exodus. They discuss the difference between Calvinism and Hyper-Calvinism. They also discuss how God's sovereignty demonstrates his greatness and should give us great hope, especially in evangelism and missions.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why does God judge? Why does God send ten different plagues to Egypt? Why frogs? Why flies? Why gnats and other swarming things? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the particulars of the plagues are not accidental or arbitrary. They discuss how the plagues against Egypt reveal that God is the true Creator, how his judgment is a form of de-creation, and how, ultimately, God's judgment is good and reveals his goodness.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why does God judge? Why does God send ten different plagues to Egypt? Why frogs? Why flies? Why gnats and other swarming things? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the particulars of the plagues are not accidental or arbitrary. They discuss how the plagues against Egypt reveal that God is the true Creator, how his judgment is a form of de-creation, and how, ultimately, God's judgment is good and reveals his goodness.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What happens when a nation abandons the truth? What lies do people start to believe? Why do nations who abandon the truth always seem to become more coercive? In this episode of Sermon B-sides, Pastor Rusten and Pastor Jon discuss Exodus 7 and the culture of ancient Egypt. They discuss how the choice facing a people is always Christ or chaos. They discuss tyranny, idolatry, the demonic, and sorcery.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What happens when a nation abandons the truth? What lies do people start to believe? Why do nations who abandon the truth always seem to become more coercive? In this episode of Sermon B-sides, Pastor Rusten and Pastor Jon discuss Exodus 7 and the culture of ancient Egypt. They discuss how the choice facing a people is always Christ or chaos. They discuss tyranny, idolatry, the demonic, and sorcery.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why does God allow setbacks and roadblocks to the things he has called us to do? How do Christians fight despair? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Moses' confusion and frustration after confronting Pharoah for the first time results in failure. They discuss how setbacks are part of God's plan. They also discuss how Christian hope for the future fights despair through faith and looks to God to keep his promises, even in the midst of roadblocks.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why does God allow setbacks and roadblocks to the things he has called us to do? How do Christians fight despair? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Moses' confusion and frustration after confronting Pharoah for the first time results in failure. They discuss how setbacks are part of God's plan. They also discuss how Christian hope for the future fights despair through faith and looks to God to keep his promises, even in the midst of roadblocks.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why so-called social justice warriors at our universities support the extremely violent acts committed by Hamas against Israeli civilians.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why so-called social justice warriors at our universities support the extremely violent acts committed by Hamas against Israeli civilians.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

Is there a conflict between feasting and reverence? Is the worship of the Church supposed to be joyful and triumphant? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss feasting in the Bible and how God desired to free the Hebrews from slavery so they would hold a feast to him. This feast is not only joyous; it is also an act of spiritual warfare. The Lord has set a table for us "in the presence of our enemies." This is important because being faithfulness will often cause Christians to "stink" to the world around them. In moments like that, Christians need to hold the line and continue to rejoice and feast together.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Is there a conflict between feasting and reverence? Is the worship of the Church supposed to be joyful and triumphant? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss feasting in the Bible and how God desired to free the Hebrews from slavery so they would hold a feast to him. This feast is not only joyous; it is also an act of spiritual warfare. The Lord has set a table for us "in the presence of our enemies." This is important because being faithfulness will often cause Christians to "stink" to the world around them. In moments like that, Christians need to hold the line and continue to rejoice and feast together.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

Sometimes the Bible is weird. Sometimes we rush past things too quickly to understand how the Bible is speaking to us through meaningful signs and the strange events in the story. Exodus 4 is a good example of that. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the meaning of Israel being God's "firstborn son," the meaning of signs, and one of the stranger events in Scripture: the story of the "bridegroom of blood."We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Sometimes the Bible is weird. Sometimes we rush past things too quickly to understand how the Bible is speaking to us through meaningful signs and the strange events in the story. Exodus 4 is a good example of that. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the meaning of Israel being God's "firstborn son," the meaning of signs, and one of the stranger events in Scripture: the story of the "bridegroom of blood."We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

Why does God reveal himself to Moses through the burning bush? How does knowing God prepare Moses his great and difficult task of confronting Pharaoh? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how knowing and fearing God gives Moses, and us, the courage we need to face any of our fears.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why does God reveal himself to Moses through the burning bush? How does knowing God prepare Moses his great and difficult task of confronting Pharaoh? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how knowing and fearing God gives Moses, and us, the courage we need to face any of our fears.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In the midst of conflict and tyranny, God raises up his man. While Pharaoh decrees forced abortions for all the new baby boys born to the Hebrews, Moses is born and set apart by God to deliver his people from slavery. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss God's pattern of raising up men during times of conflict, and how these men are often not accepted by those who need deliverance.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In the midst of conflict and tyranny, God raises up his man. While Pharaoh decrees forced abortions for all the new baby boys born to the Hebrews, Moses is born and set apart by God to deliver his people from slavery. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss God's pattern of raising up men during times of conflict, and how these men are often not accepted by those who need deliverance.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon revisits the story of Jonah and considers how different Christian leaders and the Church might respond to a national leader initiating national repentance.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon revisits the story of Jonah and considers how different Christian leaders and the Church might respond to a national leader initiating national repentance.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

What is evangelism? Why does it matter? Who is it for? What does it look like in a post-Christian culture? These are just a few of the questions we will be tackling this Fall in our Evangelism 101 Class.

In the opening chapter of Exodus, Egypt, the nation that used to know the God of Joseph, has become serpent-like. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the strategies of Egypt's tyranny and consider the ways that Christian families and strong Christian men are threats against tyrannical rule.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In the opening chapter of Exodus, Egypt, the nation that used to know the God of Joseph, has become serpent-like. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the strategies of Egypt's tyranny and consider the ways that Christian families and strong Christian men are threats against tyrannical rule.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon addresses the idea that Christians should only ever be gentle when addressing cultural issues, and explains why that can't be the case.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon addresses the idea that Christians should only ever be gentle when addressing cultural issues, and explains why that can't be the case.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how and why our culture got itself into this hot mess.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why Christians cannot confess Christ and fly the pride flag.

In this special episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon reflects on the passing of Tim Keller and shares some of the unique ways Keller influenced his preaching and teaching ministry.

Resurrection Sunday 2023

Do men matter when it comes to the issue of abortion? Is abortion exclusively a women’s health issue? Pastor Jon responds to these questions and more in this episode of The Blitz.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores what Batman can teach us about the Asbury revival.

We have been emphasizing that the book of Daniel is guide to Christian resistance. But we need to remember that Christian resistance has the goal of glorifying Christ in every square inch of life. Statism, on the other hand, tries to rob Christ of his glory as Lord. Christians resist statism in hope that the culture and the state would find their hope and joy in King Jesus. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Daniel 4 and how Daniel's witness ultimately led to King Nebuchadnezzar's conversion and bowing down to the God of Daniel.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Do you ever wonder why Nebuchadnezzar set up the golden image to be worshipped? Or why so many nations in the past required religious uniformity and unity? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how tyrants try to strengthen their state through the use of religious unity, particularly how Nebuchadnezzar tries to do so in Babylon. They also talk about modern Christians' tendency to bow the knee to the idolatrous state by accepting a kind of private pietism and limiting the jurisdiction of our faith.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Historically, tyrants like Nebuchadnezzar have targeted young men when conquering a culture. They do this because young men are often the future of a culture. Capture the men, weaken the men, turn the men, and you can turn an entire culture. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how Nebuchadnezzar uses this strategy. But they also discuss how Daniel and his companions exemplify the principles of successful Christian resistance in the face of pagan cultural indoctrination.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

We are living during a time when authority structures have been widely deteriorated and are now being actively subverted. How are Christians to respond to this trend in light of the scriptures which teach that relationships of authority and submission are designed by God and are to be honored under Christ? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider the way that the scriptures establish multiple "spheres" of government and how especially how healthy household governments are crucial to having a healthy civil government, they also discuss the trend in many evangelical churches to embrace egalitarianism in the house and in the pastorate. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What does it mean that we have died in Christ? What does it mean to live in Christ? What does it mean to "put on" Christ? What happens to Christians immediately after they die? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how Christians objectively have a new life in Christ and how this has ethical implications upon our lives. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

A new classical Christian school coming in the fall of 2023. Now accepting student applications at https://coramdeoacademykitsap.com.

Paul often uses the terms "elementary principles" or "elementary spirits" in his letters. What in the world is he talking about? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how elementary principles were part of God's plan for maturing the world before Christ came. Now that Christ has come, however, they are obsolete and actually a hindrance. They also discuss how the world celebrates a form of counterfeit humility that is really another form of pride.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores whether or not Christians can consistently hold to their biblical worldview and also vote democrat.

On the evening of October 25, 2022 at The Cloverleaf Bar & Grill in Bremerton, Washington, Dr. Glenn Sunshine delivered a lecture on the impact that the reformation had upon the doctrine of the Church, particularly in the arena of pastoral leadership and Church discipline. He concluded the lecture with a brief time of Q&A.

Pastor Rusten Harris - Psalm 50

Acts 28:1-31 preached by Pastor Rusten HarrisBig Ideas1. Con voyagePaul was one of many prisoners present on the ship that wrecked at Malta (Acts 27:41-43). This is why, when he was bitten by a viper, the natives assumed that he was a murderer getting what he deserved. When they discovered that Paul was unharmed by the bite, they decided he must be a god. In the end, Paul healed a number of sick people on the island, and they demonstrated their gratitude by providing him with supplies for the rest of his journey.2. Jesus, from beginning to end In the opening chapters of Acts, we saw how Peter proclaimed Jesus as the Christ from the Law and the Prophets. We saw how Stephen claimed that the entire history of Israel was fulfilled and realized in Jesus. Now here, in the final chapters, we find Paul seeking to persuade his countrymen that Jesus is the Messiah, arguing from the Law and the Prophets. From beginning to end, the Bible is about Jesus.3. Unhindered Acts begins with a promise and ends with a proclamation. In the beginning, Jesus promised his people that they would be his witnesses, receive power from the Holy Spirit, and that the Gospel would go from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. Now, in the final chapter, we see that promise being fulfilled. Not only did Paul complete his mission by the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, but the good news of the Gospel continued to spread without hindrance.Study Questions1. Despite Paul’s circumstances, there always seemed to be an opportunity to witness to or serve others. Whether it be soldiers, prisoners on the boat, or the superstitious and fickle people of Malta, Paul always had an audience and an opportunity to bless. What can you learn from Paul’s example?2. Throughout this study, we have emphasized how the early Church, and specifically the Apostles, preached the Gospel from the Old Testament. How has your understanding of the Gospel and the Old Testament changed or grown because of this study? What questions do you still have about the Old Testament and Jesus?3. Acts concludes with the Gospel continuing into the world, transforming lives, and saving sinners. How might this encourage you in evangelism, church ministry, and specifically church planting?

Acts 27:1-44 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Acts is historyIt is not uncommon for people to imagine the Bible as a collection of stories with a moral to be identified and applied; while the veracity of the story may be in question, the moral is not. Acts 27 destroys this faulty way of thinking. From beginning to end, Luke records, and intends for us to read his work as actual history. In fact, Luke is not simply retelling a story he heard from someone else. He’s telling the story that he personally witnessed (Acts 27:1) These events actually took place, and it is because they actually took place that they matter so much. 2. Storms and sovereignty Storms seem to be a somewhat regular occurrence in the Bible. Whether it be Jonah who was running from God (Jonah 1:4), Jesus who was busy taking a nap below deck as the waves raged on (Luke 8:23), or Paul and the other 275 passengers, sometimes God’s people find themselves in storms. In every instance, it is clear that God is the God of the storm and has power over it. He can call up storms, and he can calm them. He can also sustain us in their midst.3. The promises of God In a life-threatening storm, Paul possessed a rare confidence. This confidence was not just prideful arrogance or foolish ignorance. Rather, it was confidence in the promises of God. Once again, Jesus appeared to Paul in a dream and promised him that he would stand before Caesar and that neither he nor any of the other men on the ship would lose their lives. God had promised it, and Paul could be confident that God keeps his promises.Study Questions1. What if Acts was not history but just a collection of stories meant to inspire you? How would that impact the way you read Acts? How does understanding that Acts is history change the way you read it?2. God’s sovereignty did not mean that Paul would avoid suffering and storms. Rather, God’s sovereignty meant that Paul had hope in the midst of his troubles. How does the sovereignty of God change the way you relate to your own struggles? What if God was not sovereign? How would that impact the way you understand difficult times?3. To the eye, it looks as if certain death is coming to the ship and all aboard. But Paul did not assess his situation based on what he could see but on what God had promised him. He chose to walk by faith and not by sight (Hebrews 11:1). Do you tend to walk according to what you see or what you believe? How can you grow in walking according to the promises of God?

Acts 25:1-27Big Ideas1. Foiled againNumerous times, the Jews sought to kill Paul. Whether it was stoning him and leaving him for dead outside the city gates (Acts 14:19) or devising a plan to ambush him in transit, Paul was constantly in danger (2 Corinthians 11:24-29). In this text, Paul once again escapes a murder plot. This highlights not only the fierce opposition Paul dealt with on a regular basis, but also the incredible resolve he had to witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The closer he gets to fulfilling his mission, the harder it gets.2. Salvation and suffering If we step back and look at Paul’s life, we see both high and low points. He witnessed incredible works of God, even being used by God to miraculously heal people. And yet, Paul also suffered and walked through drawn-out, difficult seasons. How many times would he be falsely accused? How many times would he narrowly escape a plot to take his life? How many times would he have to stand before a ruler or judge to plead his case yet again? Salvation and grace do not mean that everything goes our way. It means that when nothing goes our way, our God is still with us and still loves us. 3. Testifying to kingsAfter Paul encountered the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus, Jesus revealed that he would testify before kings (Acts 9:15). What Paul did not know at that time was that the relentless accusations from the Jews, both of a religious and political nature, would be the mechanism by which God would use Paul to testify to the Gospel before kings. With each accusation, a hearing would take place, and at every hearing, Paul would testify about Jesus. Study Questions1. Sometimes it feels like you just can’t catch a break. How do you respond in seasons like that? How do you feel about God?2. Our salvation in Jesus does not make us immune to suffering in the world. How have you experienced suffering and how has God used that experience to grow and sanctify you?3. In many ways, Paul’s Christian life and ministry was a series of divinely placed disasters, each moving him closer to God’s ultimate goal. How has God used divine disasters in your life? Looking back on your life, how do you see God continually moving you toward his ultimate goal?

Big Ideas1. Lies, lies, and more liesPaul had to deal with at least three false accusations made against him by Tertullus. First, he was accused of stirring up riots, which, in fact, were stirred up by the Jews, not Paul. Second, he was accused of leading an uprising against the Jews. Though there were a number of rebellions against the Jews, Paul had no interest in leading one. Third, he was accused of profaning the temple by bringing a Gentile into the inner court. Each accusation was an attempt to destroy Paul’s reputation and undermine his ministry. 2. Paul’s defenseEach accusation leveled against Paul was patently false. He was guilty of nothing. But he was not content to simply argue his innocence. Paul argued the continuity between what he believed and what the Pharisees believed, identifying their shared faith in the God of Abraham, belief in the Law and the Prophets, and the resurrection of the dead. In making his case this way, Paul was not simply refuting their false accusations but was also exposing that they were out of step with their own Jewish faith. 3. Going thereJohn the Baptist was a prisoner of Herod because he spoke out against Herod’s immorality and adulterous marriage (Mark 6:18). As a result, he was imprisoned, and though Herod was curious about John, he ultimately beheaded him. Paul’s story follows a very similar arc: imprisoned by an immoral, adulterous king who is intrigued by Paul’s message and teaching. Luke shares that Paul spoke to Felix about righteousness and self-control, things Felix knew little about. Additionally, Paul spoke about the coming judgment, something that would have been deeply troubling to Felix, given his rampant immorality. It was clear that Paul cared more about the truth of God and the salvation of Felix than he did about his own freedom. Study Questions1. Have you ever been the victim of false accusations? How did you respond? What did the accusations reveal about your accuser?2. Throughout the book of Acts, Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of the Old Testament and the Jewish people, not a break from it. In what ways did Jesus fulfill the Old Covenant and the Old Testament story and expectations?3. There are times when witnessing to the truth of Jesus will put you in very uncomfortable situations. How can Paul’s bold witness to Felix encourage you in bold witness?

Acts 23:12-35 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Narrow escapeWhether it be Moses being rescued from the river, the spies being protected in Jericho, or Jesus escaping Herod’s massacre, narrow escapes are everywhere in the Bible. Here, Paul narrowly escapes an assassination conspiracy. While these escapes may be narrow, they are never coincidental or dumb luck. Rather, these are examples of God’s divine providence. God was not done with Paul, and nobody was going to kill Paul until he was. 2. Strange supportersOne cannot read this text without seeing the great and sad irony. Paul was a Jew who believed in Christ, and yet his own Jewish brothers were conspiring to kill him, even vowing not to eat until they took his life. It is the Gentiles who come to Paul’s rescue, protecting him from the Jews’ murderous conspiracy and transporting him safely to Caesarea via military escort. God is always full of surprises! 3. Luke, the historian Acts is not a myth or wishful thinking. Acts is history and Luke, the author, is a historian. In this text, we find a great example of how thorough Luke’s investigation was. Beginning in verse 26, we have a summary of the letter from Claudius Lysias to Governor Felix. How Luke got this document or became aware of its contents is unclear. What is clear is that Luke did the necessary heavy lifting to get ahold of such information. Acts isn’t just a story; it’s true history.Study Questions1. Life can be full of close calls and narrow escapes. But God is sovereign over all of it. What are some of your close calls and how did God protect you during those moments? 2. Sometimes we are surprised by who opposes us and who supports us. Have you ever been caught off-guard by the opposition or support you received from an individual? How did you handle it? What was the outcome? What did you learn?3. When reading the amazing stories in Acts, it’s easy to forget that these are real stories about real people. Acts is not just some fairy tale meant to inspire us; it is the true history of the early first-century Church. How does seeing Acts, and the rest of the Bible, as history change the way you read it?

Taught by Melissa Butler on May 6, 2022.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why the literal, physical, historical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the most important issue in the world.

In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten continues looking at Bible passages on labor, work, wealth, and economics. In the opening pages of Genesis, God forms the original and foundational economic unit: the household. Pastor Rusten explores the particular roles of men and women in the household.

Acts 21:26 — 22:29 preached by Pastor Brandon JohnstonBig Ideas1. Blinding bias and assumptionsOnce again, Paul was in trouble with his Jewish brothers. Not for what he had done, but, rather, for what they claimed he had done (Acts 21:28). Gentiles were not allowed into the temple beyond the court of the Gentiles, and Paul was thought to have violated this law. Paul, however, was innocent. Bias and assumptions can lead us to “see” what we want to see. They can blind us to the truth because it is at odds with what we want to be true. This mistake nearly cost Paul his life.2. Speaking their languageWhen Paul was allowed to address the mob, he spoke to them in their language, which, of course, was Hebrew. This was more than mere pragmatism. Paul knew that he was falsely seen as being opposed to the Law of Moses. As Paul shares his elite Jewish pedigree as a student of the prestigious and well-respected Gamaliel, he speaks in their language. This was clearly an attempt on Paul’s part to build a bridge with his Jewish brothers so they might understand that the Gospel of Jesus Christ was not against their Jewish heritage, but the very fulfillment of it. 3. Fight for your rightOnce again, we see Paul appealing to his legal rights as a citizen. While this makes some Christians uncomfortable, Paul had no problem doing it. As a Roman citizen, he was protected from being beaten without a trial (Acts 22:25-29). Submission to the authorities did not mean having to accept or obey whatever the Roman tribune had ordered. No, the centurion himself was under the law. In appealing to his rights as a Roman citizen, Paul asked the centurion to act in conformity with the law. Christians should not hesitate to follow Paul’s example.Study Questions1.  Have you ever been dealt with unfairly because of false assumptions someone had about you? How have you acted unfairly against others because of your own biases or assumptions? How can you avoid this in the future?2. Communicating with others often requires both content and connection. What are some ways that you can “speak their language” as you try to share the Gospel with others?3. Sometimes Christians misunderstand the biblical command to submit to authorities as submitting no matter what (Romans 13:1). How do Paul’s actions help us understand what submission to the authorities looks like? In what sense can resistance to the authorities be an act of loving obedience?

In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at the gospel ministry in Ephesus. Ephesus was a strategic location for the gospel. The gospel began to spread in Ephesus through the ministry of Apollos. Then, Paul spent over two years teaching there, resulting in all Asia Minor hearing the gospel.

You are invited to join us for our midweek class on the book of Revelation. We will be gathering on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Classes will run from January 25 through March 15, take a short break, and resume for the Spring Session.

Acts 20:17-38 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Biblical eldershipKnowing that he would never again visit the Ephesian church, Paul offers his final instruction and encouragement to the elders, whom he charged to shepherd the flock (Acts 20:28). This model of Church leadership is consistent throughout the entire New Testament. Local churches are to be governed by a plurality of biblically qualified men entrusted with their oversight (1 Timothy 3:1-7).2. The whole counsel of God’s Word It is not uncommon for Christians to think that the Old Testament is not for them. After all, isn’t Christianity a New Testament thing? Well, yes and no. Jesus does show up in the New Testament, but the Old Testament from beginning to end testifies to Jesus (John 5:39). This is why Paul was committed to teaching the entire Old Testament to the early Church. The whole Bible is for the whole Church.3. Beware of the wolves Paul knew that wolves—false teachers pretending to be Christians—would attack the Church, attempting to teach erroneous doctrine. This is exactly what happened to the Ephesian church, which lead Paul to write 1 Timothy (1 Timothy 1:18-20). The Church must always be on guard against wolves. This begins with elders who are deeply committed to sound biblical theology and unafraid to call out false teachers and teaching when necessary.Study Questions1. What is the biblical model for Church leadership in this text? How is it similar to or different from other models of Church leadership you are aware of or have experienced?2. What parts of the Bible are most confusing or intimidating to you and why? What does this text teach you about those parts of the Bible?3. What is a wolf and what do they do? What wolves or false teaching is threatening the Church today?

You are invited to join us for our midweek class on the book of Revelation. We will be gathering on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Classes will run from January 25 through March 15, take a short break, and resume for the Spring Session.

Does the Bible have anything to say about my career and my workweek? In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten looks at the beginning of the Bible story when God first creates humanity in his image. At that point, God gave them a vocation that fit that image, what many theologians call "the cultural mandate" or "the dominion mandate." This has profound implications for our careers and labors.

Acts 19:11-41Big Ideas1. Naked and ashamedIn his letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul wrote that we battle “against the spiritual forces of evil” (Ephesians 6:12). Satan is real. Demons are real. The battle is real. However, Jesus is Lord over everything, even dark spiritual forces. The demons actually know that (James 2:19)! This truth is powerfully demonstrated in the text. Those who seek to confront dark spiritual forces in their own power and for their own personal gain will only be left naked and ashamed. Apart from Jesus, we have no power over or protection from demons.2. Jesus, idols & riots Because the Gospel proclaims the absolute lordship of Jesus over everything, it always draws a line and brings division (Luke 12:51). It doesn’t just call us to believe something privately in our hearts. It calls all people everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). Some believe and repent, while others dig in their heels. In this text, the transformation taking place in the city turned people away from idolatry, which was a lucrative business. In other words, Christianity was hurting the bottom line of those who profited from idolatry. Consequently, those who lost business stirred up a riot in an effort to intimidate the Christians.3. Unavoidable conflict Conflict is a constant theme throughout the book of Acts. It always arises because of preaching and teaching the Gospel. This conflict is not initiated by the Church. Rather, the rebellious world reacts to the Gospel with disdain, opposition, intimidation, and sometimes riots. This kind of conflict is unavoidable. Many of us have been taught to avoid all conflict at any cost. We assume that a lack of conflict is the greatest sign of Christian maturity. The book of Acts invites us to rethink how we understand and relate to Gospel conflict.Study Questions1. Why were the sons of Sceva powerless against the evil spirit in this text?2. What do you think motivated the riots at Ephesus? To what were the people truly devoted?3. How do you relate to conflict? What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy conflict? What will avoiding conflict cost you?

Women's Training: Christ-Shaped Identity taught by Kelly HighfieldHow does God's Word instruct women to live? Coram Deo member Kelly Highfield teaches about the model we find in Proverbs 31 and instructs ladies in how they can be shaped into the likeness of Christ as they find their identity in him.

What happens when the Gospel confronts the cultured pagans of Athens? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Paul's address to the Areopagus. In this passage, Paul shares the Gospel with people who are not familiar with the Old Testament. We can learn from Paul's example here; while he sought to make the Gospel understandable, he did not soften the claims of the Gospel that the Athenians found offensive.

As the Gospel spreads throughout the Greek world, the Church experiences more and more conflict. Religious leaders stir up riots. Paul and his team are accused of turning the world upside down. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Paul's missionary trips to Thessalonica and Berea, and why it's significant that Luke mentions converted women in Acts.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to the idea that a woman who feeds her own children is an oppressed victim of the patriarchy. He also explores a theology of food.

God made the world in such a way that little things add up. A field bears fruit after many steps of cultivation and care. We mature by walking step-by-step in Christ. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten begins a series on a biblical view of work and vocation. He starts by looking at Proverbs 24:30–34 and considering the Bible's teaching on habits. He discusses the importance of cultivating holy habits that are in step with the Spirit as we grow into the likeness of Christ.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James resume their series on Coram Deo's worship liturgy. The Confession of Sin holds a prominent position in our worship services. It uniquely speaks to us about the person and work of Jesus Christ as our perfect sacrifice and priest, through whom we come to offer holy worship to God.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores the meaning of inalienable rights. He also explores how the biblical worldview forms their foundation. As SCOTUS prepares to hand down decisions on abortion and vaccine mandates, the issue of inalienable rights will be front and center.

Crucial to the witness of the Church in the world is maintaining the distinction between the Church and the world. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten takes a look at Paul's commands in 1 Corinthians 5:9–6:5, which are increasingly controversial in our world today.

Big Ideas1. Timothy’s circumcisionIn this text we are introduced to Timothy, the son of a Jewish Christian mother and an unbelieving Greek father. Given the mission to deliver the verdict of the Jerusalem counsel to Jews living in other regions, Timothy was circumcised. At first glance this may seem out of line with Paul’s strong words against requiring circumcision of new believers in Galatians (Galatians 2:11-16). Why, then, was Timothy circumcised? There is a fundamental difference between being circumcised out of respect, as is the case in Acts 16, and requiring circumcision for salvation, as was the case in Galatia. Works are not bad, but relying on works for salvation is inconsistent with the Gospel. The distinction matters.2. When the Spirit says “No”Perhaps one of the most surprising things in this text is the Spirit of God prohibiting Paul and Timothy from entering specific regions for Gospel work (Acts 16:6-7). Why would the Spirit of God keep Paul and Timothy from certain places? One reason this text offers is that God had other plans for them. Rather than Asia or Bithynai, God wanted them in Macedonia. God is all about bringing the good news of the Gospel to the entire world. But he’s not doing it all at once, nor is he doing it through a single missions team. We each play a role in God’s mission and his plans for us are particular. That means sometimes God will keep us from certain tasks in order to use us for others. 3. Lydia’s conversionAt first glance, Paul and Timothy’s interaction with Lydia may seem coincidental. They just happened to run into her at a place where people from the community gathered for prayer, and Lydia just happened to be there. However, Luke tells us that Lydia was already a believer in God, meaning she had rejected the prevalent polytheism of her day and committed herself to the monotheistic worldview of the Jewish people. But she still had not heard about Jesus. Upon hearing the news, she and her family converted and were baptized. God was at work in Lydia long before Paul and Timothy showed up, and he would continue to work in and through her long after they left.Study Questions1.  What is the difference between being circumcised out of respect and being circumcised as a requirement for salvation? What are some more modern examples of this principle?2. Has God ever closed a door in your life that made no sense at the time? Where did that closed door eventually lead you?3. How might the story of Lydia’s conversion encourage you in mission?

Christ the King is born! Oh come let us adore Him! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!You are invited to join us as we celebrate that light on Friday, December 24 at one of our Christmas Eve services. You can expect a simple and warm time that will include singing traditional Christmas songs, Scripture readings, a short homily, and of course, the lighting of candles.

Santa Claus is one of the most prominent symbols in the modern celebration of Christmas and yet he's also one of the most hotly contested. How should Christians interact with the story of Santa? In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James dive into the historical roots of the Santa Claus story and unearth the actual man behind the sleigh.

To the Jew first, and then to the Gentile—we see that pattern throughout the book of Acts. The mission starts in the synagogues until Peter or Paul get kicked out. Then they preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 14 notice wild swings that Paul would experience in his missions. In this chapter, Paul and Barnabas bring the Gospel to the Gentiles in Lystra. At first, the crowds worship Paul and Barnabas as Zeus and Hermes, but then they stone Paul and drag him outside of the city. These experiences become the way God advances his kingdom and spreads his Gospel.

The Gospels often say that Jesus fulfills prophecy, but we don't always understand how. For example, how does Jesus fulfill the prophecy "Out of Egypt I called my son" (Matthew 2:15)? In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten considers how the birth of Jesus fulfills some of these prophecies and why that gives us good reason to celebrate this Christmas.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon addresses some common objections to the claim of virgin birth.

Within the Church, there are good kinds of unity and bad kinds of unity. There are good kinds of division and bad kinds of division. While the goal is that the Church be united in the same mind and the same judgment, this doesn't happen automatically. We must pursue proper unity and strive towards this goal. In this Episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten takes a look at 1 Corinthians and considers how Paul addresses the factionalism that was present there.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James talk about producing "Advent 2021: Devotionals & Liturgies."Pick up a free copy this week in person.Download a digital version or purchase additional print copies at coramdeochurch.org/advent.

Big Ideas1. Debating doctrineSome people assume that doctrinal debates are useless or even harmful. Yet in this text, we see the importance of coming together to consider what the Bible says and working to pursue doctrinal accuracy and clarity. This is not at odds with peace. Rather, it is through doctrinal clarity that peace is cultivated, extended, and protected.2. Moses and the mission of the ChurchThe issue of circumcision comes up over and over again throughout Acts. In many ways, it is the doctrinal debate of the 1st century Church. Must Gentiles who come to faith in Jesus also become Jews by adopting Jewish practices such as circumcision? Or, is faith in Jesus sufficient to save? The Jerusalem council is a key moment in Acts and the life of the early Church. As a result of the council, three decisions were made. First, faith in Jesus is sufficient to save and circumcision is not necessary. That is a Gospel issue. Second, the Gentile believers should respect their Jewish friends by not eating meat sacrificed to idols. That is a love issue. Third, Gentile believers were to avoid sexual immorality. That is a moral issue. Through this decree, the councilclarified what was necessary for salvation, how peace could be protected among the Jewish and Gentile believers, and reaffirmed the Old Testament sexual ethic as binding for all believers.3. Disagreement among key leadersDisagreement among key church leaders is not common, but it does happen. And when it does, this text almost always comes up. This debate, unlike the Jerusalem council, was not doctrinal nor was it binding for others. This disagreement between Paul and Barnabas was personal and pragmatic. Barnabas wanted to take Mark on the next journey. Paul did not. In the end, they went their separate ways, each doing important mission work.Study Questions1. How do you feel about doctrinal debates? Do you tend to have an unhealthy aversion or attraction to them? Why do they matter?2. In many ways, the Jerusalem council’s goal was to maintain doctrinal clarity and practical unity within the Church. How are doctrine and unity related to one another?3. To maintain unity, the Gentile converts were asked not to eat certain foods for the sake of their Jewish brothers. This was not a forever binding decision, but a temporary way to protect the unity of the early Church. What preferences have you had to give up to protect the unity of the Church? How can preferences destroy the unity of the Church?

Big Ideas1. A divided cityA cycle of controversy seems to continually follow the missionary work of the Church in Acts. Missionaries are sent. The Gospel is preached. The city erupts in conflict and division. Christians are beat up and/or threatened. Repeat. These stories in Acts question many of the assumptions we have regarding mission, evangelism, and Church life. We must remember that Jesus himself told us that he did not come to bring peace but division on earth (Luke 12:51). This is because the peace that Jesus offers is a peace the world does not want.2. Holy FearWhen Paul and Barnabas preach the Gospel and perform miracles, the people of Lystra confuse them for mythological gods and offer them worship. Imagine the power and financial gain Paul and Barnabas would have possessed had they not corrected the people of Lystra. Rather than taking advantage of the people, Paul and Barnabas cried out, corrected the people, and continued to teach the Gospel and point them to Jesus. Only a holy fear of God can protect our hearts from such temptations.3. The mission must go onPaul was stoned and left for dead outside the city gates. The preacher lay there lifeless, bloodied, and abandoned. This is how the crowds responded to Paul’s Gospel preaching. But Paul wasn’t dead, and he certainly wasn’t done. Instead of abandoning the mission, Paul got up and went back to work preaching and teaching the Gospel. The world can’t stop beating up preachers, and preachers can’t stop preaching the Gospel.Study Questions1. How do you tend to respond to conflict with others over issues of the Gospel? Are you intimidated and filled with fear? What expectations do you have? In what ways does this text encourage or challenge you?2. In one city, the people wanted to worship Paul. In the next, they wanted to kill him. How can we avoid the temptation to accept false peace and the temptation to avoid righteous suffering?3. In what ways has false peace or righteous suffering kept you from sharing your faith with others?

Fathers have a uniquely weighty job as they are called by God to lead their families and raise their children in the fear and admonition of the LORD. In this training, Elder Candidate Kim Highfield looks at how fathers ought to discipline their children by making and executing a plan to train them in righteousness.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how and why our culture got itself into this hot mess.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to critique that clear, strong, Biblical teaching on sexual immorality turns people away and compromises the mission of the Church.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how pastors and organizations slowly drift away from biblical convictions and into liberal theology.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to critique that clear, strong, Biblical teaching on sexual immorality turns people away and compromises the mission of the Church.

In this special pride month episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why Christians cannot confess Christ and fly the pride flag.

In this special episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon reflects on the passing of Tim Keller and shares some of the unique ways Keller influenced his preaching and teaching ministry.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how pastors and organizations slowly drift away from biblical convictions and into liberal theology.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon compares the courage, clarity, and conviction of Tucker Carlson with some well-respected Christian leaders and organizations.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon compares the courage, clarity, and conviction of Tucker Carlson with some well-respected Christian leaders and organizations.

Resurrection Sunday 2023

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon shares some of his experiences with Acts 29, Mars Hill Church, and Mark Driscoll, and explains why Coram Deo Church left the Acts 29 Network.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon shares some of his experiences with Acts 29, Mars Hill Church, and Mark Driscoll, and explains why Coram Deo Church left the Acts 29 Network.

Do men matter when it comes to the issue of abortion? Is abortion exclusively a women’s health issue? Pastor Jon responds to these questions and more in this episode of The Blitz.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores what Batman can teach us about the Asbury revival.

We have been emphasizing that the book of Daniel is guide to Christian resistance. But we need to remember that Christian resistance has the goal of glorifying Christ in every square inch of life. Statism, on the other hand, tries to rob Christ of his glory as Lord. Christians resist statism in hope that the culture and the state would find their hope and joy in King Jesus. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Daniel 4 and how Daniel's witness ultimately led to King Nebuchadnezzar's conversion and bowing down to the God of Daniel.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Do you ever wonder why Nebuchadnezzar set up the golden image to be worshipped? Or why so many nations in the past required religious uniformity and unity? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how tyrants try to strengthen their state through the use of religious unity, particularly how Nebuchadnezzar tries to do so in Babylon. They also talk about modern Christians' tendency to bow the knee to the idolatrous state by accepting a kind of private pietism and limiting the jurisdiction of our faith.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In Daniel 2, God reveals his plan for history to King Nebuchadnezzar, from the time of the kingdom of Babylon to the coming of the kingdom of Christ. The kingdom of Christ destroys the kingdoms of the world and grows to fill the earth. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the ramifications of this revelation and what it means for us today living under the kingdom of Christ.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In Daniel 2, God reveals his plan for history to King Nebuchadnezzar, from the time of the kingdom of Babylon to the coming of the kingdom of Christ. The kingdom of Christ destroys the kingdoms of the world and grows to fill the earth. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the ramifications of this revelation and what it means for us today living under the kingdom of Christ.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Historically, tyrants like Nebuchadnezzar have targeted young men when conquering a culture. They do this because young men are often the future of a culture. Capture the men, weaken the men, turn the men, and you can turn an entire culture. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how Nebuchadnezzar uses this strategy. But they also discuss how Daniel and his companions exemplify the principles of successful Christian resistance in the face of pagan cultural indoctrination.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Are grace and the Gospel the same thing? If not, why? Does it really matter? Pastor Jon responds to these questions and more in this episode of The Blitz.

Are grace and the Gospel the same thing? If not, why? Does it really matter? Pastor Jon responds to these questions and more in this episode of The Blitz.

The Elders of Coram Deo discuss with their church body the potential acquisition of our neighboring buildings.

The Elders of Coram Deo discuss with their church body the potential acquisition of our neighboring buildings.

We are living during a time when authority structures have been widely deteriorated and are now being actively subverted. How are Christians to respond to this trend in light of the scriptures which teach that relationships of authority and submission are designed by God and are to be honored under Christ? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider the way that the scriptures establish multiple "spheres" of government and how especially how healthy household governments are crucial to having a healthy civil government, they also discuss the trend in many evangelical churches to embrace egalitarianism in the house and in the pastorate. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

What does it mean that we have died in Christ? What does it mean to live in Christ? What does it mean to "put on" Christ? What happens to Christians immediately after they die? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how Christians objectively have a new life in Christ and how this has ethical implications upon our lives. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Merry Christmas! Pastor Rusten preaches from Luke 2:15-20 on this Christmas Lord's day.

Merry Christmas! Pastor Rusten preaches from Luke 2:15-20 on this Christmas Lord's day.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon critiques Andy Stanley's position on the virgin birth and explains why the virgin birth is so important to the Christian faith.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon critiques Andy Stanley's position on the virgin birth and explains why the virgin birth is so important to the Christian faith.

A new classical Christian school coming in the fall of 2023. Now accepting student applications at https://coramdeoacademykitsap.com.

Paul often uses the terms "elementary principles" or "elementary spirits" in his letters. What in the world is he talking about? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how elementary principles were part of God's plan for maturing the world before Christ came. Now that Christ has come, however, they are obsolete and actually a hindrance. They also discuss how the world celebrates a form of counterfeit humility that is really another form of pride.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In the coming of Christ, God revealed the great mystery that the Gentiles would be brought into the people of God. God promised this to Abraham and hinted at it throughout the Old Testament. But when Christ came, he fulfilled it. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss what it means that Christ is the Lord of all the nations. They also discuss how the Gospel brings us into maturity.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In the coming of Christ, God revealed the great mystery that the Gentiles would be brought into the people of God. God promised this to Abraham and hinted at it throughout the Old Testament. But when Christ came, he fulfilled it. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss what it means that Christ is the Lord of all the nations. They also discuss how the Gospel brings us into maturity.We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores whether or not Christians can consistently hold to their biblical worldview and also vote democrat.

On the evening of October 25, 2022 at The Cloverleaf Bar & Grill in Bremerton, Washington, Dr. Glenn Sunshine delivered a lecture on the impact that the reformation had upon the doctrine of the Church, particularly in the arena of pastoral leadership and Church discipline. He concluded the lecture with a brief time of Q&A.

In Colossians, Paul calls Christ the "firstborn of all creation." To understand what he means, we need to interpret Scripture with Scripture. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the deity of Christ, how Christ is the second Adam, and how Scripture helps us to understand what Colossians is referring to. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

In Colossians, Paul calls Christ the "firstborn of all creation." To understand what he means, we need to interpret Scripture with Scripture. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the deity of Christ, how Christ is the second Adam, and how Scripture helps us to understand what Colossians is referring to. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected].

Why do so many churches lose the gospel? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how thankful we ought to be when a church truly understands and treasures the gospel. They also discuss how the key to not losing the gospel is to keep your eyes on Christ while avoiding the traps of legalism and antinomianism. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected]

Why do so many churches lose the gospel? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how thankful we ought to be when a church truly understands and treasures the gospel. They also discuss how the key to not losing the gospel is to keep your eyes on Christ while avoiding the traps of legalism and antinomianism. We hope you enjoy, and as usual, if you have any questions for Sermon B-Sides—or anything else for that matter—e-mail us at [email protected]

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon considers some of the issues and challenges that arise when thinking through theonomy.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon considers some of the issues and challenges that arise when thinking through theonomy.

Pastor Rusten Harris - Psalm 50

Preacher: Pastor Brandon JohnstonText: Psalm 49

Preacher: Pastor Brandon JohnstonText: Psalm 49

Acts 28:1-31 preached by Pastor Rusten HarrisBig Ideas1. Con voyagePaul was one of many prisoners present on the ship that wrecked at Malta (Acts 27:41-43). This is why, when he was bitten by a viper, the natives assumed that he was a murderer getting what he deserved. When they discovered that Paul was unharmed by the bite, they decided he must be a god. In the end, Paul healed a number of sick people on the island, and they demonstrated their gratitude by providing him with supplies for the rest of his journey.2. Jesus, from beginning to end In the opening chapters of Acts, we saw how Peter proclaimed Jesus as the Christ from the Law and the Prophets. We saw how Stephen claimed that the entire history of Israel was fulfilled and realized in Jesus. Now here, in the final chapters, we find Paul seeking to persuade his countrymen that Jesus is the Messiah, arguing from the Law and the Prophets. From beginning to end, the Bible is about Jesus.3. Unhindered Acts begins with a promise and ends with a proclamation. In the beginning, Jesus promised his people that they would be his witnesses, receive power from the Holy Spirit, and that the Gospel would go from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. Now, in the final chapter, we see that promise being fulfilled. Not only did Paul complete his mission by the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, but the good news of the Gospel continued to spread without hindrance.Study Questions1. Despite Paul’s circumstances, there always seemed to be an opportunity to witness to or serve others. Whether it be soldiers, prisoners on the boat, or the superstitious and fickle people of Malta, Paul always had an audience and an opportunity to bless. What can you learn from Paul’s example?2. Throughout this study, we have emphasized how the early Church, and specifically the Apostles, preached the Gospel from the Old Testament. How has your understanding of the Gospel and the Old Testament changed or grown because of this study? What questions do you still have about the Old Testament and Jesus?3. Acts concludes with the Gospel continuing into the world, transforming lives, and saving sinners. How might this encourage you in evangelism, church ministry, and specifically church planting?

Acts 27:1-44 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Acts is historyIt is not uncommon for people to imagine the Bible as a collection of stories with a moral to be identified and applied; while the veracity of the story may be in question, the moral is not. Acts 27 destroys this faulty way of thinking. From beginning to end, Luke records, and intends for us to read his work as actual history. In fact, Luke is not simply retelling a story he heard from someone else. He’s telling the story that he personally witnessed (Acts 27:1) These events actually took place, and it is because they actually took place that they matter so much. 2. Storms and sovereignty Storms seem to be a somewhat regular occurrence in the Bible. Whether it be Jonah who was running from God (Jonah 1:4), Jesus who was busy taking a nap below deck as the waves raged on (Luke 8:23), or Paul and the other 275 passengers, sometimes God’s people find themselves in storms. In every instance, it is clear that God is the God of the storm and has power over it. He can call up storms, and he can calm them. He can also sustain us in their midst.3. The promises of God In a life-threatening storm, Paul possessed a rare confidence. This confidence was not just prideful arrogance or foolish ignorance. Rather, it was confidence in the promises of God. Once again, Jesus appeared to Paul in a dream and promised him that he would stand before Caesar and that neither he nor any of the other men on the ship would lose their lives. God had promised it, and Paul could be confident that God keeps his promises.Study Questions1. What if Acts was not history but just a collection of stories meant to inspire you? How would that impact the way you read Acts? How does understanding that Acts is history change the way you read it?2. God’s sovereignty did not mean that Paul would avoid suffering and storms. Rather, God’s sovereignty meant that Paul had hope in the midst of his troubles. How does the sovereignty of God change the way you relate to your own struggles? What if God was not sovereign? How would that impact the way you understand difficult times?3. To the eye, it looks as if certain death is coming to the ship and all aboard. But Paul did not assess his situation based on what he could see but on what God had promised him. He chose to walk by faith and not by sight (Hebrews 11:1). Do you tend to walk according to what you see or what you believe? How can you grow in walking according to the promises of God?

Acts 26:1-32Big Ideas1. It’s about the resurrectionThe physical resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of all Christian hope and faith. Christians believe that Jesus is the Christ because Jesus was raised from the dead on the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:4). This is not only the heart of Paul’s preaching, but it is the primary thrust of Paul’s apologetics. Every Jew knew and believed that God was able to raise the dead. Any “God” who could not do that was not much of a god. Therefore, according to Paul’s argument, no Jew had any reason to reject the claim that God could have raised Jesus. The question was not, “Can God raise the dead?” The question was, and is, “Did God raise Jesus?” If so, he must be Lord.2. Which “felt needs?”It is not uncommon to hear preachers appeal to the felt needs of their listeners. People have needs, and Jesus meets those needs. Preachers will claim that if you want your needs to be met, you need to come to Jesus. Of course, there is some truth to that. However, that is not how Paul presents the Gospel in this text. Instead, Paul refers to the resurrection of Jesus, the forgiveness of sins, the defeat of Satan, and salvation, to name a few. It is important, when communicating the Gospel, to not confuse the benefits of the Gospel with the Gospel itself.3. A Christian nation?It is clear from this text that Paul’s desire was not a pluralistic society in which Christianity, secularism, and other religions could occupy space and co-exist until the end of time. No, Paul wanted everyone to become Christian, even the king and the governor (Acts 26:28-29). While many today might be embarrassed by this, and even argue that it is inappropriate for those in power to govern in light of their Christian convictions, Paul was unapologetic about his desire to see all come to faith.Study Questions1. How central is the resurrection of Jesus in your conversations with others about your faith? Why should the resurrection of Jesus be primary in our evangelistic conversations?2. How can felt needs be a distraction from the Gospel? What is the difference between the Gospel and the blessings we receive from the Gospel?3. Is it appropriate to call our leaders to repentance and faith in Christ? Is it appropriate for leaders to govern according to their Christian convictions? Why or why not?

Acts 26:1-32Big Ideas1. It’s about the resurrectionThe physical resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of all Christian hope and faith. Christians believe that Jesus is the Christ because Jesus was raised from the dead on the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:4). This is not only the heart of Paul’s preaching, but it is the primary thrust of Paul’s apologetics. Every Jew knew and believed that God was able to raise the dead. Any “God” who could not do that was not much of a god. Therefore, according to Paul’s argument, no Jew had any reason to reject the claim that God could have raised Jesus. The question was not, “Can God raise the dead?” The question was, and is, “Did God raise Jesus?” If so, he must be Lord.2. Which “felt needs?”It is not uncommon to hear preachers appeal to the felt needs of their listeners. People have needs, and Jesus meets those needs. Preachers will claim that if you want your needs to be met, you need to come to Jesus. Of course, there is some truth to that. However, that is not how Paul presents the Gospel in this text. Instead, Paul refers to the resurrection of Jesus, the forgiveness of sins, the defeat of Satan, and salvation, to name a few. It is important, when communicating the Gospel, to not confuse the benefits of the Gospel with the Gospel itself.3. A Christian nation?It is clear from this text that Paul’s desire was not a pluralistic society in which Christianity, secularism, and other religions could occupy space and co-exist until the end of time. No, Paul wanted everyone to become Christian, even the king and the governor (Acts 26:28-29). While many today might be embarrassed by this, and even argue that it is inappropriate for those in power to govern in light of their Christian convictions, Paul was unapologetic about his desire to see all come to faith.Study Questions1. How central is the resurrection of Jesus in your conversations with others about your faith? Why should the resurrection of Jesus be primary in our evangelistic conversations?2. How can felt needs be a distraction from the Gospel? What is the difference between the Gospel and the blessings we receive from the Gospel?3. Is it appropriate to call our leaders to repentance and faith in Christ? Is it appropriate for leaders to govern according to their Christian convictions? Why or why not?

Acts 25:1-27Big Ideas1. Foiled againNumerous times, the Jews sought to kill Paul. Whether it was stoning him and leaving him for dead outside the city gates (Acts 14:19) or devising a plan to ambush him in transit, Paul was constantly in danger (2 Corinthians 11:24-29). In this text, Paul once again escapes a murder plot. This highlights not only the fierce opposition Paul dealt with on a regular basis, but also the incredible resolve he had to witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The closer he gets to fulfilling his mission, the harder it gets.2. Salvation and suffering If we step back and look at Paul’s life, we see both high and low points. He witnessed incredible works of God, even being used by God to miraculously heal people. And yet, Paul also suffered and walked through drawn-out, difficult seasons. How many times would he be falsely accused? How many times would he narrowly escape a plot to take his life? How many times would he have to stand before a ruler or judge to plead his case yet again? Salvation and grace do not mean that everything goes our way. It means that when nothing goes our way, our God is still with us and still loves us. 3. Testifying to kingsAfter Paul encountered the resurrected Christ on the road to Damascus, Jesus revealed that he would testify before kings (Acts 9:15). What Paul did not know at that time was that the relentless accusations from the Jews, both of a religious and political nature, would be the mechanism by which God would use Paul to testify to the Gospel before kings. With each accusation, a hearing would take place, and at every hearing, Paul would testify about Jesus. Study Questions1. Sometimes it feels like you just can’t catch a break. How do you respond in seasons like that? How do you feel about God?2. Our salvation in Jesus does not make us immune to suffering in the world. How have you experienced suffering and how has God used that experience to grow and sanctify you?3. In many ways, Paul’s Christian life and ministry was a series of divinely placed disasters, each moving him closer to God’s ultimate goal. How has God used divine disasters in your life? Looking back on your life, how do you see God continually moving you toward his ultimate goal?

Big Ideas1. Lies, lies, and more liesPaul had to deal with at least three false accusations made against him by Tertullus. First, he was accused of stirring up riots, which, in fact, were stirred up by the Jews, not Paul. Second, he was accused of leading an uprising against the Jews. Though there were a number of rebellions against the Jews, Paul had no interest in leading one. Third, he was accused of profaning the temple by bringing a Gentile into the inner court. Each accusation was an attempt to destroy Paul’s reputation and undermine his ministry. 2. Paul’s defenseEach accusation leveled against Paul was patently false. He was guilty of nothing. But he was not content to simply argue his innocence. Paul argued the continuity between what he believed and what the Pharisees believed, identifying their shared faith in the God of Abraham, belief in the Law and the Prophets, and the resurrection of the dead. In making his case this way, Paul was not simply refuting their false accusations but was also exposing that they were out of step with their own Jewish faith. 3. Going thereJohn the Baptist was a prisoner of Herod because he spoke out against Herod’s immorality and adulterous marriage (Mark 6:18). As a result, he was imprisoned, and though Herod was curious about John, he ultimately beheaded him. Paul’s story follows a very similar arc: imprisoned by an immoral, adulterous king who is intrigued by Paul’s message and teaching. Luke shares that Paul spoke to Felix about righteousness and self-control, things Felix knew little about. Additionally, Paul spoke about the coming judgment, something that would have been deeply troubling to Felix, given his rampant immorality. It was clear that Paul cared more about the truth of God and the salvation of Felix than he did about his own freedom. Study Questions1. Have you ever been the victim of false accusations? How did you respond? What did the accusations reveal about your accuser?2. Throughout the book of Acts, Jesus is presented as the fulfillment of the Old Testament and the Jewish people, not a break from it. In what ways did Jesus fulfill the Old Covenant and the Old Testament story and expectations?3. There are times when witnessing to the truth of Jesus will put you in very uncomfortable situations. How can Paul’s bold witness to Felix encourage you in bold witness?

Acts 23:12-35 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Narrow escapeWhether it be Moses being rescued from the river, the spies being protected in Jericho, or Jesus escaping Herod’s massacre, narrow escapes are everywhere in the Bible. Here, Paul narrowly escapes an assassination conspiracy. While these escapes may be narrow, they are never coincidental or dumb luck. Rather, these are examples of God’s divine providence. God was not done with Paul, and nobody was going to kill Paul until he was. 2. Strange supportersOne cannot read this text without seeing the great and sad irony. Paul was a Jew who believed in Christ, and yet his own Jewish brothers were conspiring to kill him, even vowing not to eat until they took his life. It is the Gentiles who come to Paul’s rescue, protecting him from the Jews’ murderous conspiracy and transporting him safely to Caesarea via military escort. God is always full of surprises! 3. Luke, the historian Acts is not a myth or wishful thinking. Acts is history and Luke, the author, is a historian. In this text, we find a great example of how thorough Luke’s investigation was. Beginning in verse 26, we have a summary of the letter from Claudius Lysias to Governor Felix. How Luke got this document or became aware of its contents is unclear. What is clear is that Luke did the necessary heavy lifting to get ahold of such information. Acts isn’t just a story; it’s true history.Study Questions1. Life can be full of close calls and narrow escapes. But God is sovereign over all of it. What are some of your close calls and how did God protect you during those moments? 2. Sometimes we are surprised by who opposes us and who supports us. Have you ever been caught off-guard by the opposition or support you received from an individual? How did you handle it? What was the outcome? What did you learn?3. When reading the amazing stories in Acts, it’s easy to forget that these are real stories about real people. Acts is not just some fairy tale meant to inspire us; it is the true history of the early first-century Church. How does seeing Acts, and the rest of the Bible, as history change the way you read it?

Taught by Melissa Butler on May 6, 2022.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why the literal, physical, historical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the most important issue in the world.

Acts 22:30 — 23:11 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Living in all good consciencePaul narrowly escaped an unlawful beating, but he was far from being out of trouble. Wanting to know more about the accusations that were brought against Paul, the Roman tribune called together a meeting with the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Paul begins his address by declaring that he had lived his “life before God in all good conscience up to this day” (Acts 23:1). While Paul’s good conscience did not protect him from false accusations and brutal treatment, it did give him the confidence to trust that, whatever man may say about him, he was innocent before God.2. Paul’s apology Like Jesus when he was unlawfully arrested, Paul was punched in the mouth. This act of aggression violated the law, and Paul called it out. Paul apparently did not know that the High Priest had ordered that punch. Speaking against the High Priest was a violation of the Law, and, when it was brought to Paul’s attention, he owned his mistake. This humble action powerfully demonstrated that Paul was not opposed to the Law of Moses, but deeply committed to it (Exodus 22:28)! 3. A little diversionThe Pharisees and Sadducees both opposed Jesus, but for different reasons. The same was true about their view of Paul. But Paul knew that these groups disagreed vehemently over the issue of resurrection. The Pharisees believed in it, while the Sadducees did not. In what appears to be a stroke of brilliance, Paul ignites a heated debate between these two groups, making their disagreement the focus. As a result, Paul once again escapes. Study Questions1. Dealing with false accusations can be devastating. However, a good, clean conscience before God is a blessing that can anchor us when we are falsely accused. How is your conscience before God? Are there any areas of unconfessed or unrepented sin in your life? What would need to happen for you to have a clean conscience?2. Apologizing to someone can be the most difficult and humiliating experience, especially when that person has hurt you, as was the case with Paul. Yet, being hurt or offended does not negate our responsibility to apologize when we have sinned against someone else. Are there any people in your life to whom you need to apologize?3. Jesus told us that, among wolves, we must be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). Many people find this instruction to be confusing, but, in this text, Paul becomes an example of this for us. What can you learn from the way Paul evaded trouble in this text? How was he wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove?

Acts 22:30 — 23:11 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Living in all good consciencePaul narrowly escaped an unlawful beating, but he was far from being out of trouble. Wanting to know more about the accusations that were brought against Paul, the Roman tribune called together a meeting with the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Paul begins his address by declaring that he had lived his “life before God in all good conscience up to this day” (Acts 23:1). While Paul’s good conscience did not protect him from false accusations and brutal treatment, it did give him the confidence to trust that, whatever man may say about him, he was innocent before God.2. Paul’s apology Like Jesus when he was unlawfully arrested, Paul was punched in the mouth. This act of aggression violated the law, and Paul called it out. Paul apparently did not know that the High Priest had ordered that punch. Speaking against the High Priest was a violation of the Law, and, when it was brought to Paul’s attention, he owned his mistake. This humble action powerfully demonstrated that Paul was not opposed to the Law of Moses, but deeply committed to it (Exodus 22:28)! 3. A little diversionThe Pharisees and Sadducees both opposed Jesus, but for different reasons. The same was true about their view of Paul. But Paul knew that these groups disagreed vehemently over the issue of resurrection. The Pharisees believed in it, while the Sadducees did not. In what appears to be a stroke of brilliance, Paul ignites a heated debate between these two groups, making their disagreement the focus. As a result, Paul once again escapes. Study Questions1. Dealing with false accusations can be devastating. However, a good, clean conscience before God is a blessing that can anchor us when we are falsely accused. How is your conscience before God? Are there any areas of unconfessed or unrepented sin in your life? What would need to happen for you to have a clean conscience?2. Apologizing to someone can be the most difficult and humiliating experience, especially when that person has hurt you, as was the case with Paul. Yet, being hurt or offended does not negate our responsibility to apologize when we have sinned against someone else. Are there any people in your life to whom you need to apologize?3. Jesus told us that, among wolves, we must be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). Many people find this instruction to be confusing, but, in this text, Paul becomes an example of this for us. What can you learn from the way Paul evaded trouble in this text? How was he wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove?

Ephesus was full of spiritual darkness, and it was a city where the cures were as bad as the ailments. We see this in the syncretistic exorcists and magic books full of spells to cast out demons or heal from sickness. What is magic exactly? Do Christians need to be on guard against spiritual darkness today? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 19 and consider how the gospel delivers people from spiritual darkness.

Ephesus was full of spiritual darkness, and it was a city where the cures were as bad as the ailments. We see this in the syncretistic exorcists and magic books full of spells to cast out demons or heal from sickness. What is magic exactly? Do Christians need to be on guard against spiritual darkness today? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 19 and consider how the gospel delivers people from spiritual darkness.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why faithful preachers must address the LGBTQ+ revolution ideology from the pulpit, and what it means if they don't.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains why faithful preachers must address the LGBTQ+ revolution ideology from the pulpit, and what it means if they don't.

In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten continues looking at Bible passages on labor, work, wealth, and economics. In the opening pages of Genesis, God forms the original and foundational economic unit: the household. Pastor Rusten explores the particular roles of men and women in the household.

Acts 21:26 — 22:29 preached by Pastor Brandon JohnstonBig Ideas1. Blinding bias and assumptionsOnce again, Paul was in trouble with his Jewish brothers. Not for what he had done, but, rather, for what they claimed he had done (Acts 21:28). Gentiles were not allowed into the temple beyond the court of the Gentiles, and Paul was thought to have violated this law. Paul, however, was innocent. Bias and assumptions can lead us to “see” what we want to see. They can blind us to the truth because it is at odds with what we want to be true. This mistake nearly cost Paul his life.2. Speaking their languageWhen Paul was allowed to address the mob, he spoke to them in their language, which, of course, was Hebrew. This was more than mere pragmatism. Paul knew that he was falsely seen as being opposed to the Law of Moses. As Paul shares his elite Jewish pedigree as a student of the prestigious and well-respected Gamaliel, he speaks in their language. This was clearly an attempt on Paul’s part to build a bridge with his Jewish brothers so they might understand that the Gospel of Jesus Christ was not against their Jewish heritage, but the very fulfillment of it. 3. Fight for your rightOnce again, we see Paul appealing to his legal rights as a citizen. While this makes some Christians uncomfortable, Paul had no problem doing it. As a Roman citizen, he was protected from being beaten without a trial (Acts 22:25-29). Submission to the authorities did not mean having to accept or obey whatever the Roman tribune had ordered. No, the centurion himself was under the law. In appealing to his rights as a Roman citizen, Paul asked the centurion to act in conformity with the law. Christians should not hesitate to follow Paul’s example.Study Questions1.  Have you ever been dealt with unfairly because of false assumptions someone had about you? How have you acted unfairly against others because of your own biases or assumptions? How can you avoid this in the future?2. Communicating with others often requires both content and connection. What are some ways that you can “speak their language” as you try to share the Gospel with others?3. Sometimes Christians misunderstand the biblical command to submit to authorities as submitting no matter what (Romans 13:1). How do Paul’s actions help us understand what submission to the authorities looks like? In what sense can resistance to the authorities be an act of loving obedience?

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how Biden's nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson is antithetical to Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of a world in which character is more important than skin color.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explains how Biden's nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson is antithetical to Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of a world in which character is more important than skin color.

In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at the gospel ministry in Ephesus. Ephesus was a strategic location for the gospel. The gospel began to spread in Ephesus through the ministry of Apollos. Then, Paul spent over two years teaching there, resulting in all Asia Minor hearing the gospel.

You are invited to join us for our midweek class on the book of Revelation. We will be gathering on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Classes will run from January 25 through March 15, take a short break, and resume for the Spring Session.

We often think about the fourth commandment only as a command to rest on the Sabbath day, but it is much more than that. It completely reshapes our understanding of why we work and what our work is for. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten explores how this commandment to rest is also a commandment to work.

We often think about the fourth commandment only as a command to rest on the Sabbath day, but it is much more than that. It completely reshapes our understanding of why we work and what our work is for. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten explores how this commandment to rest is also a commandment to work.

Acts 20:17-38 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Biblical eldershipKnowing that he would never again visit the Ephesian church, Paul offers his final instruction and encouragement to the elders, whom he charged to shepherd the flock (Acts 20:28). This model of Church leadership is consistent throughout the entire New Testament. Local churches are to be governed by a plurality of biblically qualified men entrusted with their oversight (1 Timothy 3:1-7).2. The whole counsel of God’s Word It is not uncommon for Christians to think that the Old Testament is not for them. After all, isn’t Christianity a New Testament thing? Well, yes and no. Jesus does show up in the New Testament, but the Old Testament from beginning to end testifies to Jesus (John 5:39). This is why Paul was committed to teaching the entire Old Testament to the early Church. The whole Bible is for the whole Church.3. Beware of the wolves Paul knew that wolves—false teachers pretending to be Christians—would attack the Church, attempting to teach erroneous doctrine. This is exactly what happened to the Ephesian church, which lead Paul to write 1 Timothy (1 Timothy 1:18-20). The Church must always be on guard against wolves. This begins with elders who are deeply committed to sound biblical theology and unafraid to call out false teachers and teaching when necessary.Study Questions1. What is the biblical model for Church leadership in this text? How is it similar to or different from other models of Church leadership you are aware of or have experienced?2. What parts of the Bible are most confusing or intimidating to you and why? What does this text teach you about those parts of the Bible?3. What is a wolf and what do they do? What wolves or false teaching is threatening the Church today?

Pastor Kim Highfield teaches on how men's identities ought to be formed by the person and work of Jesus.

Pastor Kim Highfield teaches on how men's identities ought to be formed by the person and work of Jesus.

Does the Bible have anything to say about my career and my workweek? In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten looks at the beginning of the Bible story when God first creates humanity in his image. At that point, God gave them a vocation that fit that image, what many theologians call "the cultural mandate" or "the dominion mandate." This has profound implications for our careers and labors.

You are invited to join us for our midweek class on the book of Revelation. We will be gathering on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Classes will run from January 25 through March 15, take a short break, and resume for the Spring Session.

Acts 20:1-16 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Teaching, teaching, and more teachingPaul was a prolific teacher. In this text, he provided teaching and instruction for believers, through the night and well into the early morning hours. Even after one person fell asleep and fell from a window, narrowly escaping death, Paul continued. Not only was Paul a teacher, but the Church had an appetite for and commitment to biblical teaching and instruction.2. The necessity of encouragementWhen we think of Paul, we tend to think of writing, teaching, preaching, and church planting. Of course, he did all of those things, but in this text, we are also told about how he encouraged Christians. While sound doctrine and proper theology are absolutely vital for the life of the local church, we also need a consistent diet of encouragement.3. Kids and Church We do not know how old Eutychus was, but we do know that he was young and present for Paul’s late-night teaching marathon. Many of us grew up believing that “Church” was for adults and that the kids belonged in a special age-appropriate ministry environment. These “environments” follow individuals well into their college years. What we know from this text and others such as Ephesians 6, is that kids were present for worship with their families and were expected to participate in weekly worship.Study Questions1. Why is Bible teaching so important for the Church? How have you grown through biblical instruction?2. How have you been blessed by the encouraging words or presence of a friend? How can you encourage those around you?3. What, if any, experience did you have as a kid in the Church? Why is it important to include kids in weekly worship? What reasons exist for not having kids present for corporate worship on Sundays?

Acts 20:1-16 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Teaching, teaching, and more teachingPaul was a prolific teacher. In this text, he provided teaching and instruction for believers, through the night and well into the early morning hours. Even after one person fell asleep and fell from a window, narrowly escaping death, Paul continued. Not only was Paul a teacher, but the Church had an appetite for and commitment to biblical teaching and instruction.2. The necessity of encouragementWhen we think of Paul, we tend to think of writing, teaching, preaching, and church planting. Of course, he did all of those things, but in this text, we are also told about how he encouraged Christians. While sound doctrine and proper theology are absolutely vital for the life of the local church, we also need a consistent diet of encouragement.3. Kids and Church We do not know how old Eutychus was, but we do know that he was young and present for Paul’s late-night teaching marathon. Many of us grew up believing that “Church” was for adults and that the kids belonged in a special age-appropriate ministry environment. These “environments” follow individuals well into their college years. What we know from this text and others such as Ephesians 6, is that kids were present for worship with their families and were expected to participate in weekly worship.Study Questions1. Why is Bible teaching so important for the Church? How have you grown through biblical instruction?2. How have you been blessed by the encouraging words or presence of a friend? How can you encourage those around you?3. What, if any, experience did you have as a kid in the Church? Why is it important to include kids in weekly worship? What reasons exist for not having kids present for corporate worship on Sundays?

In the Bible, God uses normal people like Paul and Elijah as instruments in his mission. We may think that Paul and Elijah were invincible, but they struggled with despair and the pressures of their task. But in these moments, we see God graciously comfort and strengthen them. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at the story of Paul in Corinth and Jesus' promise that Paul would not be harmed there.

In the Bible, God uses normal people like Paul and Elijah as instruments in his mission. We may think that Paul and Elijah were invincible, but they struggled with despair and the pressures of their task. But in these moments, we see God graciously comfort and strengthen them. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at the story of Paul in Corinth and Jesus' promise that Paul would not be harmed there.

Acts 19:11-41Big Ideas1. Naked and ashamedIn his letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul wrote that we battle “against the spiritual forces of evil” (Ephesians 6:12). Satan is real. Demons are real. The battle is real. However, Jesus is Lord over everything, even dark spiritual forces. The demons actually know that (James 2:19)! This truth is powerfully demonstrated in the text. Those who seek to confront dark spiritual forces in their own power and for their own personal gain will only be left naked and ashamed. Apart from Jesus, we have no power over or protection from demons.2. Jesus, idols & riots Because the Gospel proclaims the absolute lordship of Jesus over everything, it always draws a line and brings division (Luke 12:51). It doesn’t just call us to believe something privately in our hearts. It calls all people everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). Some believe and repent, while others dig in their heels. In this text, the transformation taking place in the city turned people away from idolatry, which was a lucrative business. In other words, Christianity was hurting the bottom line of those who profited from idolatry. Consequently, those who lost business stirred up a riot in an effort to intimidate the Christians.3. Unavoidable conflict Conflict is a constant theme throughout the book of Acts. It always arises because of preaching and teaching the Gospel. This conflict is not initiated by the Church. Rather, the rebellious world reacts to the Gospel with disdain, opposition, intimidation, and sometimes riots. This kind of conflict is unavoidable. Many of us have been taught to avoid all conflict at any cost. We assume that a lack of conflict is the greatest sign of Christian maturity. The book of Acts invites us to rethink how we understand and relate to Gospel conflict.Study Questions1. Why were the sons of Sceva powerless against the evil spirit in this text?2. What do you think motivated the riots at Ephesus? To what were the people truly devoted?3. How do you relate to conflict? What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy conflict? What will avoiding conflict cost you?

What happens when the Gospel confronts the cultured pagans of Athens? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Paul's address to the Areopagus. In this passage, Paul shares the Gospel with people who are not familiar with the Old Testament. We can learn from Paul's example here; while he sought to make the Gospel understandable, he did not soften the claims of the Gospel that the Athenians found offensive.

Women's Training: Christ-Shaped Identity taught by Kelly HighfieldHow does God's Word instruct women to live? Coram Deo member Kelly Highfield teaches about the model we find in Proverbs 31 and instructs ladies in how they can be shaped into the likeness of Christ as they find their identity in him.

Acts 19:1-10 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. John’s baptismThis can be one of the most confusing texts in all of Acts. But it doesn’t need to be. John’s baptism was a baptism of preparation (Matthew 3:1-3). It marked turning from past sins toward the Christ who was to come. However, baptism in Acts is baptism into Christ and his Church (Romans 6:3, Ephesians 4:4-5). It wasn’t about what God was about to do, but rather about what he had already done through Christ. Now, because of Jesus, our atoning sacrifice, we can receive the gift of the Spirit (Acts 2:31-33).2. Speaking boldly Luke refers to the Apostles and the Church as speaking boldly numerous times throughout Acts. It’s one of his favorite adjectives to describe their preaching. It emphasizes the confidence, clarity, and conviction of the speakers. They knew what they believed and understood why it mattered. They were willing to pay the price for their boldness, as they often did. But regardless of the outcome, they would not be silenced or discouraged.3. Protecting the flock It was Paul’s regular practice to reason with Jews in the synagogue about Jesus and his Kingdom wherever he went. Some were convinced, but others remained skeptical. However, in this text, the situation became unhealthy as skeptics began speaking evil of the believers. In an effort to protect the flock, Paul removed himself and his converts from the synagogue and found another place to gather for instruction. Though the attacks would have been nothing new for Paul, they would have created an unnecessary burden for the new believers.Study Questions1. Why is baptism so important? Have you been baptized? Why or why not? How is John’s baptism different from other baptisms recorded in Acts?2. Talking about your faith can be intimidating, especially in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christianity. How can you grow in clarity and confidence around sharing your faith?3. Do you think Paul was right to remove himself and his converts from the synagogue? What principles might you take away from his decision?

Acts 19:1-10 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. John’s baptismThis can be one of the most confusing texts in all of Acts. But it doesn’t need to be. John’s baptism was a baptism of preparation (Matthew 3:1-3). It marked turning from past sins toward the Christ who was to come. However, baptism in Acts is baptism into Christ and his Church (Romans 6:3, Ephesians 4:4-5). It wasn’t about what God was about to do, but rather about what he had already done through Christ. Now, because of Jesus, our atoning sacrifice, we can receive the gift of the Spirit (Acts 2:31-33).2. Speaking boldly Luke refers to the Apostles and the Church as speaking boldly numerous times throughout Acts. It’s one of his favorite adjectives to describe their preaching. It emphasizes the confidence, clarity, and conviction of the speakers. They knew what they believed and understood why it mattered. They were willing to pay the price for their boldness, as they often did. But regardless of the outcome, they would not be silenced or discouraged.3. Protecting the flock It was Paul’s regular practice to reason with Jews in the synagogue about Jesus and his Kingdom wherever he went. Some were convinced, but others remained skeptical. However, in this text, the situation became unhealthy as skeptics began speaking evil of the believers. In an effort to protect the flock, Paul removed himself and his converts from the synagogue and found another place to gather for instruction. Though the attacks would have been nothing new for Paul, they would have created an unnecessary burden for the new believers.Study Questions1. Why is baptism so important? Have you been baptized? Why or why not? How is John’s baptism different from other baptisms recorded in Acts?2. Talking about your faith can be intimidating, especially in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Christianity. How can you grow in clarity and confidence around sharing your faith?3. Do you think Paul was right to remove himself and his converts from the synagogue? What principles might you take away from his decision?

Acts 18:18-28 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Evangelism and discipleshipThere were two primary elements to Paul’s ministry. The first was evangelism, in which Paul proclaimed the Gospel to people who did not yet know Jesus; the goal of evangelism is conversion. The second was discipleship, which is the ongoing biblical teaching and instruction of Christians. The goal of discipleship is maturity and growth in obedience. Both of these are important tasks and neither can be ignored.2. We never stop learningIn this text, Luke introduces us to Apollos, a gifted and passionate teacher. However, his gifting and passion did not negate his need for ongoing growth, instruction, and theological development. Through Aquila and Priscilla, God provided the instruction that Apollos needed to continue growing and maturing as an effective Bible teacher so that others could be encouraged and blessed by his ministry.3. New gifted leaders are not a threatPaul has occupied much of Luke’s attention in the recent chapters of Acts. He has been the leading evangelist and teacher, traveling from city to city, preaching the Gospel and establishing new churches. But in this text, Luke mentions Apollos, another gifted and powerful teacher, who, like Paul, effectively proved that Jesus was the Christ. Rather than seeing Apollos as a threat, Luke commends him as a gift to the Church.Study Questions1. The Church needs both discipleship and evangelism. Which do you feel more equipped for and why? How are you using your gift to benefit others?2. Disciples never stop learning. How have you experienced personal growth over the past year? In what areas of your life would you like to grow over the next year?3. How do you feel when another individual who is gifted in similar ways shows up at your work, your community group, or in any other sphere of your life? What would need to happen in order for you to see them as a gift to be encouraged?

Acts 18:18-28 preached by Pastor Jon NeedhamBig Ideas1. Evangelism and discipleshipThere were two primary elements to Paul’s ministry. The first was evangelism, in which Paul proclaimed the Gospel to people who did not yet know Jesus; the goal of evangelism is conversion. The second was discipleship, which is the ongoing biblical teaching and instruction of Christians. The goal of discipleship is maturity and growth in obedience. Both of these are important tasks and neither can be ignored.2. We never stop learningIn this text, Luke introduces us to Apollos, a gifted and passionate teacher. However, his gifting and passion did not negate his need for ongoing growth, instruction, and theological development. Through Aquila and Priscilla, God provided the instruction that Apollos needed to continue growing and maturing as an effective Bible teacher so that others could be encouraged and blessed by his ministry.3. New gifted leaders are not a threatPaul has occupied much of Luke’s attention in the recent chapters of Acts. He has been the leading evangelist and teacher, traveling from city to city, preaching the Gospel and establishing new churches. But in this text, Luke mentions Apollos, another gifted and powerful teacher, who, like Paul, effectively proved that Jesus was the Christ. Rather than seeing Apollos as a threat, Luke commends him as a gift to the Church.Study Questions1. The Church needs both discipleship and evangelism. Which do you feel more equipped for and why? How are you using your gift to benefit others?2. Disciples never stop learning. How have you experienced personal growth over the past year? In what areas of your life would you like to grow over the next year?3. How do you feel when another individual who is gifted in similar ways shows up at your work, your community group, or in any other sphere of your life? What would need to happen in order for you to see them as a gift to be encouraged?

As the Gospel spreads throughout the Greek world, the Church experiences more and more conflict. Religious leaders stir up riots. Paul and his team are accused of turning the world upside down. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss Paul's missionary trips to Thessalonica and Berea, and why it's significant that Luke mentions converted women in Acts.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon responds to the idea that a woman who feeds her own children is an oppressed victim of the patriarchy. He also explores a theology of food.

God made the world in such a way that little things add up. A field bears fruit after many steps of cultivation and care. We mature by walking step-by-step in Christ. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten begins a series on a biblical view of work and vocation. He starts by looking at Proverbs 24:30–34 and considering the Bible's teaching on habits. He discusses the importance of cultivating holy habits that are in step with the Spirit as we grow into the likeness of Christ.

Acts 18:1-17 preached by Pastor Jon Needham on February 6, 2022.Big Ideas1. Jesus and the Old Testament...againWhenever Paul attempts to reason with the Jews that Jesus is the Christ, he always argues from the Old Testament. Always. Why? Because the Old Testament, with all of its types, antitypes, shadows, and promises, is all about Jesus. He is not an add-on to the Old Testament. Rather, he is the very foundation—the heart and soul of it. To reject Christ is to miss the entire point of the Old Testament.2. Protection promised, protection provided Paul did not live an easy life (2 Corinthians 11:23-29). Nearly everywhere he traveled and preached he faced opposition, riots, personal attacks, and physical violence. Yet God was gracious and merciful to him and his suffering was not endless. God knew Paul’s suffering and the limitations of his finitude and promised Paul protection for a season of approximately 18 months as he contended for the Gospel (Acts 18:9-11). 3. Protection from the magistratesThroughout Acts, some Jews incite trouble for the Apostles. At times they did this by stirring up the local magistrates (Acts 17:6 & 18:12). However, in this text, Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, refuses to participate in the Jews’ opposition to Paul, because their issue with Paul was theological, not legal. In doing so, God provided protection for Paul from the Jews through the local magistrates who are God’s servants (Romans 13:4). Study Questions1. How does rejecting Jesus change the way we understand the Old Testament? In what ways is Jesus prefigured and promised in the Old Testament?2. Sometimes we just need a break. How has God provided you with seasons of rest during difficult times in your life?3. God is sovereign over all, even godless magistrates. How might this truth encourage you during a time of political turmoil?

Acts 18:1-17 preached by Pastor Jon Needham on February 6, 2022.Big Ideas1. Jesus and the Old Testament...againWhenever Paul attempts to reason with the Jews that Jesus is the Christ, he always argues from the Old Testament. Always. Why? Because the Old Testament, with all of its types, antitypes, shadows, and promises, is all about Jesus. He is not an add-on to the Old Testament. Rather, he is the very foundation—the heart and soul of it. To reject Christ is to miss the entire point of the Old Testament.2. Protection promised, protection provided Paul did not live an easy life (2 Corinthians 11:23-29). Nearly everywhere he traveled and preached he faced opposition, riots, personal attacks, and physical violence. Yet God was gracious and merciful to him and his suffering was not endless. God knew Paul’s suffering and the limitations of his finitude and promised Paul protection for a season of approximately 18 months as he contended for the Gospel (Acts 18:9-11). 3. Protection from the magistratesThroughout Acts, some Jews incite trouble for the Apostles. At times they did this by stirring up the local magistrates (Acts 17:6 & 18:12). However, in this text, Gallio, the proconsul of Achaia, refuses to participate in the Jews’ opposition to Paul, because their issue with Paul was theological, not legal. In doing so, God provided protection for Paul from the Jews through the local magistrates who are God’s servants (Romans 13:4). Study Questions1. How does rejecting Jesus change the way we understand the Old Testament? In what ways is Jesus prefigured and promised in the Old Testament?2. Sometimes we just need a break. How has God provided you with seasons of rest during difficult times in your life?3. God is sovereign over all, even godless magistrates. How might this truth encourage you during a time of political turmoil?

In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the sanctity of human life is rooted in the image of God. They also discuss how the fear of God should shape our posture towards this issue—especially with regard to abolishing legal abortion.

In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the sanctity of human life is rooted in the image of God. They also discuss how the fear of God should shape our posture towards this issue—especially with regard to abolishing legal abortion.

Acts 17:16-34 preached by Pastor Rusten HarrisBig Ideas1. Provoked by idolsG.K. Chesteron is believed to have said, “When people stop believing in God, they don’t believe in nothing, they believe in everything.” When we reject the Creator, we end up believing in myths. This was certainly the case in Athens. Paul observed the overwhelming religious devotion of the people. They were, however, devoted to idols: false, empty, and powerless gods. It was their vain hope in these false gods that provoked Paul to preach the Gospel of the true and living God.2. Our God is not needySeeing an altar that was dedicated to an unknown god, Paul takes the opportunity to declare the one true God. Unlike the false gods that were worshipped throughout the Roman Empire, the God revealed to us in scripture and through his Son Jesus is not needy. He does not need us to give him a temple nor does he need anything else from anyone, for he alone is the self-sufficient triune creator of all things. In every way, he is infinitely superior to the false gods represented at the Areopagus. 3. The God who pursuesNothing is coincidental. Not the times we live in, the families we are born into, nor our zip codes or addresses. God determines all of this with the intention of drawing us to him. He has determined a day of judgment and has appointed his Son, Jesus, to be both judge and deliverer for all who put their trust in him. Study Questions1. Paul was provoked by the vain things that the people were trusting. Though our culture doesn’t erect statues and idols, we do put our hope in things that cannot save us. What are some of our cultural idols? What are some of yours?2. Read Psalm 115. List the ways that God is superior to idols.3. In this text, Paul claims that God has arranged our lives in particular ways in order that we might find him. In what ways has God arranged your life specifically to bring you to him?

Acts 17:16-34 preached by Pastor Rusten HarrisBig Ideas1. Provoked by idolsG.K. Chesteron is believed to have said, “When people stop believing in God, they don’t believe in nothing, they believe in everything.” When we reject the Creator, we end up believing in myths. This was certainly the case in Athens. Paul observed the overwhelming religious devotion of the people. They were, however, devoted to idols: false, empty, and powerless gods. It was their vain hope in these false gods that provoked Paul to preach the Gospel of the true and living God.2. Our God is not needySeeing an altar that was dedicated to an unknown god, Paul takes the opportunity to declare the one true God. Unlike the false gods that were worshipped throughout the Roman Empire, the God revealed to us in scripture and through his Son Jesus is not needy. He does not need us to give him a temple nor does he need anything else from anyone, for he alone is the self-sufficient triune creator of all things. In every way, he is infinitely superior to the false gods represented at the Areopagus. 3. The God who pursuesNothing is coincidental. Not the times we live in, the families we are born into, nor our zip codes or addresses. God determines all of this with the intention of drawing us to him. He has determined a day of judgment and has appointed his Son, Jesus, to be both judge and deliverer for all who put their trust in him. Study Questions1. Paul was provoked by the vain things that the people were trusting. Though our culture doesn’t erect statues and idols, we do put our hope in things that cannot save us. What are some of our cultural idols? What are some of yours?2. Read Psalm 115. List the ways that God is superior to idols.3. In this text, Paul claims that God has arranged our lives in particular ways in order that we might find him. In what ways has God arranged your life specifically to bring you to him?

It is popular among Christians today to reduce the Gospel to personal "spiritual" application only. We believe that Christ has no plan to make an impact on the wider culture. As a result, we forget that Christ is Lord of all. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 16:16–40 and discuss how, even in the early Church, we see Christ's impact in all aspects of life—including economics, civics, and the family.

It is popular among Christians today to reduce the Gospel to personal "spiritual" application only. We believe that Christ has no plan to make an impact on the wider culture. As a result, we forget that Christ is Lord of all. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 16:16–40 and discuss how, even in the early Church, we see Christ's impact in all aspects of life—including economics, civics, and the family.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James resume their series on Coram Deo's worship liturgy. The Confession of Sin holds a prominent position in our worship services. It uniquely speaks to us about the person and work of Jesus Christ as our perfect sacrifice and priest, through whom we come to offer holy worship to God.

Big Ideas1. Women and JesusTwice in this text, Luke mentions that powerful and influential women were coming to faith in Jesus through the ministry of Paul. These simple details contradict many misrepresentations of the Gospel and Christian theology. First, the Gospel was attractive to both men and women, rich and poor. Second, these leading, influential, and financially independent women did not see the Gospel or the Church as a threat to their womanhood. Rather, many of them enthusiastically embraced the Gospel and a Christian worldview. Far from feeling repressed, these women of high standing were compelled by the Gospel. 2. An ad hominem complimentWhen an individual engaged in a debate can no longer defend their position or overcome their opponent’s argument, they often resort to personal attacks. It is essentially an admittance of defeat. These sorts of attacks are not uncommon in Acts. Paul had clearly demonstrated from the Old Testament that Jesus was the Christ. When his opponents could not disprove his argument, they sought to discredit the character of his team by causing a public uproar. This is the ad hominem compliment. 3. The political Gospel We are often told that the Gospel is not political. That, however, is a misrepresentation of the Gospel and would have made no sense to the early Church; Luke highlights this fact for us in the text. The Church was rightly accused of claiming that Jesus was King and that Caesar was not. The implications of such a claim “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). It was not a simple misunderstanding but rather an accurate assessment of the Gospel which commands every knee to bow to him and all tongues confess that he alone is Lord, not Caesar.Study Questions1. How do the numerous influential women coming to faith in this text contradict modern objections to Christianity? 2. What is an ad hominem argument? Have you ever been on the receiving end of such an argument? How might you respond in the future when you find yourself being accused?3. What does this text teach us about the political nature and implications of the Gospel?

Big Ideas1. Women and JesusTwice in this text, Luke mentions that powerful and influential women were coming to faith in Jesus through the ministry of Paul. These simple details contradict many misrepresentations of the Gospel and Christian theology. First, the Gospel was attractive to both men and women, rich and poor. Second, these leading, influential, and financially independent women did not see the Gospel or the Church as a threat to their womanhood. Rather, many of them enthusiastically embraced the Gospel and a Christian worldview. Far from feeling repressed, these women of high standing were compelled by the Gospel. 2. An ad hominem complimentWhen an individual engaged in a debate can no longer defend their position or overcome their opponent’s argument, they often resort to personal attacks. It is essentially an admittance of defeat. These sorts of attacks are not uncommon in Acts. Paul had clearly demonstrated from the Old Testament that Jesus was the Christ. When his opponents could not disprove his argument, they sought to discredit the character of his team by causing a public uproar. This is the ad hominem compliment. 3. The political Gospel We are often told that the Gospel is not political. That, however, is a misrepresentation of the Gospel and would have made no sense to the early Church; Luke highlights this fact for us in the text. The Church was rightly accused of claiming that Jesus was King and that Caesar was not. The implications of such a claim “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). It was not a simple misunderstanding but rather an accurate assessment of the Gospel which commands every knee to bow to him and all tongues confess that he alone is Lord, not Caesar.Study Questions1. How do the numerous influential women coming to faith in this text contradict modern objections to Christianity? 2. What is an ad hominem argument? Have you ever been on the receiving end of such an argument? How might you respond in the future when you find yourself being accused?3. What does this text teach us about the political nature and implications of the Gospel?

Today, the Church faces constant pressure to redefine loving our neighbors to fit with the world's definition. This tendency can undermine the Gospel. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how redefining "sin" and "love" robs our neighbors of the truth of the Gospel: that Christ came to save us from our sin. When we do this, we compromise both the Gospel and the distinction between the Church and the world.

Today, the Church faces constant pressure to redefine loving our neighbors to fit with the world's definition. This tendency can undermine the Gospel. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how redefining "sin" and "love" robs our neighbors of the truth of the Gospel: that Christ came to save us from our sin. When we do this, we compromise both the Gospel and the distinction between the Church and the world.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores the meaning of inalienable rights. He also explores how the biblical worldview forms their foundation. As SCOTUS prepares to hand down decisions on abortion and vaccine mandates, the issue of inalienable rights will be front and center.

Crucial to the witness of the Church in the world is maintaining the distinction between the Church and the world. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten takes a look at Paul's commands in 1 Corinthians 5:9–6:5, which are increasingly controversial in our world today.

Big Ideas1. Slavery and freedomIn this chapter, we are introduced to a nameless slave girl who was apparently owned by a group of people (Acts 16:19). She was also slave to a dark spirit that enabled her to tell fortunes, a lucrative business that generated a great deal of revenue for her owners. Consequently, she was a dual slave. After growing irritated, Paul rebuked the spirit that possessed her, rendering her useless to her owners, who were slaves to money. In return, they had Paul and Silas beaten up and thrown into prison. Though shackled and guarded, Paul and Silas are actually more free than even their captors.2. According to plan The imprisonment of Paul and Silas seems like a major defeat. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that things are working out perfectly. As a result of their imprisonment and God’s amazing rescue, a Philippian jailer and his family come to faith in Christ. The one who was responsible for their mistreatment ends up inviting them over for dinner. Indeed, God had prepared a banquet for Paul and Silas in the presence of their enemies (Psalm 23:5). 3. Our rights as citizensAfter realizing that they had screwed up, the magistrates who threw Paul and Silas into prison decided to secretly let them go. One might imagine that Paul and Silas would happily make their escape, but that’s not what happened. Paul refused to let the magistrates off the hook for their mistreatment of Roman citizens. He could have easily just walked away, but instead he demanded that the magistrates own their mistake and apologize to them. Rather than escaping, Paul held the magistrates accountable for their violation of his rights as a citizen. Study Questions1. In this text we see many examples of how we can be enslaved: spirits, people, the love of money. What are some ways in which you have experienced slavery, and how has Jesus set you free?2. The imprisonment of Paul and Silas looks like a disaster, but it ends up being a victory. How has God turned apparent disasters into victories in your life?3. Paul refused to allow the magistrates to violate his rights as a Roman citizen. What principles can you take away from his example?

Big Ideas1. Slavery and freedomIn this chapter, we are introduced to a nameless slave girl who was apparently owned by a group of people (Acts 16:19). She was also slave to a dark spirit that enabled her to tell fortunes, a lucrative business that generated a great deal of revenue for her owners. Consequently, she was a dual slave. After growing irritated, Paul rebuked the spirit that possessed her, rendering her useless to her owners, who were slaves to money. In return, they had Paul and Silas beaten up and thrown into prison. Though shackled and guarded, Paul and Silas are actually more free than even their captors.2. According to plan The imprisonment of Paul and Silas seems like a major defeat. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that things are working out perfectly. As a result of their imprisonment and God’s amazing rescue, a Philippian jailer and his family come to faith in Christ. The one who was responsible for their mistreatment ends up inviting them over for dinner. Indeed, God had prepared a banquet for Paul and Silas in the presence of their enemies (Psalm 23:5). 3. Our rights as citizensAfter realizing that they had screwed up, the magistrates who threw Paul and Silas into prison decided to secretly let them go. One might imagine that Paul and Silas would happily make their escape, but that’s not what happened. Paul refused to let the magistrates off the hook for their mistreatment of Roman citizens. He could have easily just walked away, but instead he demanded that the magistrates own their mistake and apologize to them. Rather than escaping, Paul held the magistrates accountable for their violation of his rights as a citizen. Study Questions1. In this text we see many examples of how we can be enslaved: spirits, people, the love of money. What are some ways in which you have experienced slavery, and how has Jesus set you free?2. The imprisonment of Paul and Silas looks like a disaster, but it ends up being a victory. How has God turned apparent disasters into victories in your life?3. Paul refused to allow the magistrates to violate his rights as a Roman citizen. What principles can you take away from his example?

Big Ideas1. Timothy’s circumcisionIn this text we are introduced to Timothy, the son of a Jewish Christian mother and an unbelieving Greek father. Given the mission to deliver the verdict of the Jerusalem counsel to Jews living in other regions, Timothy was circumcised. At first glance this may seem out of line with Paul’s strong words against requiring circumcision of new believers in Galatians (Galatians 2:11-16). Why, then, was Timothy circumcised? There is a fundamental difference between being circumcised out of respect, as is the case in Acts 16, and requiring circumcision for salvation, as was the case in Galatia. Works are not bad, but relying on works for salvation is inconsistent with the Gospel. The distinction matters.2. When the Spirit says “No”Perhaps one of the most surprising things in this text is the Spirit of God prohibiting Paul and Timothy from entering specific regions for Gospel work (Acts 16:6-7). Why would the Spirit of God keep Paul and Timothy from certain places? One reason this text offers is that God had other plans for them. Rather than Asia or Bithynai, God wanted them in Macedonia. God is all about bringing the good news of the Gospel to the entire world. But he’s not doing it all at once, nor is he doing it through a single missions team. We each play a role in God’s mission and his plans for us are particular. That means sometimes God will keep us from certain tasks in order to use us for others. 3. Lydia’s conversionAt first glance, Paul and Timothy’s interaction with Lydia may seem coincidental. They just happened to run into her at a place where people from the community gathered for prayer, and Lydia just happened to be there. However, Luke tells us that Lydia was already a believer in God, meaning she had rejected the prevalent polytheism of her day and committed herself to the monotheistic worldview of the Jewish people. But she still had not heard about Jesus. Upon hearing the news, she and her family converted and were baptized. God was at work in Lydia long before Paul and Timothy showed up, and he would continue to work in and through her long after they left.Study Questions1.  What is the difference between being circumcised out of respect and being circumcised as a requirement for salvation? What are some more modern examples of this principle?2. Has God ever closed a door in your life that made no sense at the time? Where did that closed door eventually lead you?3. How might the story of Lydia’s conversion encourage you in mission?

What does the Bible teach about angels? Why do the stories of Christ's birth have so many scenes with angels? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how the Bible talks about angels, their relation to the Old and New Covenants, and how they often inspired fear in those who encountered them.

What does the Bible teach about angels? Why do the stories of Christ's birth have so many scenes with angels? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how the Bible talks about angels, their relation to the Old and New Covenants, and how they often inspired fear in those who encountered them.

Merry Christmas! At the fullness of time, Christ was born in Bethlehem. The coming of Jesus was the long-awaited fulfillment of the promise given at the beginning of the story in Eden. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how the practices and traditions of Advent teach us to consider Jesus' long-awaited arrival so we can learn to wait in hope for his coming kingdom.

Christ the King is born! Oh come let us adore Him! Gloria, in excelsis Deo!You are invited to join us as we celebrate that light on Friday, December 24 at one of our Christmas Eve services. You can expect a simple and warm time that will include singing traditional Christmas songs, Scripture readings, a short homily, and of course, the lighting of candles.

Merry Christmas! At the fullness of time, Christ was born in Bethlehem. The coming of Jesus was the long-awaited fulfillment of the promise given at the beginning of the story in Eden. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider how the practices and traditions of Advent teach us to consider Jesus' long-awaited arrival so we can learn to wait in hope for his coming kingdom.

In this special Christmas edition of The Blitz, Pastor Jon examines what the creeds, confessions, and (more importantly) the Scriptures teach us about the identity of Jesus.

In this special Christmas edition of The Blitz, Pastor Jon examines what the creeds, confessions, and (more importantly) the Scriptures teach us about the identity of Jesus.

Santa Claus is one of the most prominent symbols in the modern celebration of Christmas and yet he's also one of the most hotly contested. How should Christians interact with the story of Santa? In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James dive into the historical roots of the Santa Claus story and unearth the actual man behind the sleigh.

Merry Christmas! What exactly happened on that first Christmas? Was that baby that in the manger also God? Is Jesus also a human? Did the Old Testament anticipate this at all? In this Advent Episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the deity of Jesus, the incarnation, and how the Bible anticipates the astounding miracle of the Word made flesh.

Merry Christmas! What exactly happened on that first Christmas? Was that baby that in the manger also God? Is Jesus also a human? Did the Old Testament anticipate this at all? In this Advent Episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the deity of Jesus, the incarnation, and how the Bible anticipates the astounding miracle of the Word made flesh.

To the Jew first, and then to the Gentile—we see that pattern throughout the book of Acts. The mission starts in the synagogues until Peter or Paul get kicked out. Then they preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten look at Acts 14 notice wild swings that Paul would experience in his missions. In this chapter, Paul and Barnabas bring the Gospel to the Gentiles in Lystra. At first, the crowds worship Paul and Barnabas as Zeus and Hermes, but then they stone Paul and drag him outside of the city. These experiences become the way God advances his kingdom and spreads his Gospel.

The Gospels often say that Jesus fulfills prophecy, but we don't always understand how. For example, how does Jesus fulfill the prophecy "Out of Egypt I called my son" (Matthew 2:15)? In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten considers how the birth of Jesus fulfills some of these prophecies and why that gives us good reason to celebrate this Christmas.

Have you ever noticed how different the sermons preached in the book of Acts are from the sermons you might hear today? Rather than being mere motivational boosts, the sermons in Acts focus on how Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament, and they do so in a punchy, to-the-point way. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider these sermons and the way they put trust in the Word and promises of God.

Have you ever noticed how different the sermons preached in the book of Acts are from the sermons you might hear today? Rather than being mere motivational boosts, the sermons in Acts focus on how Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament, and they do so in a punchy, to-the-point way. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider these sermons and the way they put trust in the Word and promises of God.

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon addresses some common objections to the claim of virgin birth.

Within the Church, there are good kinds of unity and bad kinds of unity. There are good kinds of division and bad kinds of division. While the goal is that the Church be united in the same mind and the same judgment, this doesn't happen automatically. We must pursue proper unity and strive towards this goal. In this Episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten takes a look at 1 Corinthians and considers how Paul addresses the factionalism that was present there.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James talk about producing "Advent 2021: Devotionals & Liturgies."Pick up a free copy this week in person.Download a digital version or purchase additional print copies at coramdeochurch.org/advent.

Big Ideas1. Debating doctrineSome people assume that doctrinal debates are useless or even harmful. Yet in this text, we see the importance of coming together to consider what the Bible says and working to pursue doctrinal accuracy and clarity. This is not at odds with peace. Rather, it is through doctrinal clarity that peace is cultivated, extended, and protected.2. Moses and the mission of the ChurchThe issue of circumcision comes up over and over again throughout Acts. In many ways, it is the doctrinal debate of the 1st century Church. Must Gentiles who come to faith in Jesus also become Jews by adopting Jewish practices such as circumcision? Or, is faith in Jesus sufficient to save? The Jerusalem council is a key moment in Acts and the life of the early Church. As a result of the council, three decisions were made. First, faith in Jesus is sufficient to save and circumcision is not necessary. That is a Gospel issue. Second, the Gentile believers should respect their Jewish friends by not eating meat sacrificed to idols. That is a love issue. Third, Gentile believers were to avoid sexual immorality. That is a moral issue. Through this decree, the councilclarified what was necessary for salvation, how peace could be protected among the Jewish and Gentile believers, and reaffirmed the Old Testament sexual ethic as binding for all believers.3. Disagreement among key leadersDisagreement among key church leaders is not common, but it does happen. And when it does, this text almost always comes up. This debate, unlike the Jerusalem council, was not doctrinal nor was it binding for others. This disagreement between Paul and Barnabas was personal and pragmatic. Barnabas wanted to take Mark on the next journey. Paul did not. In the end, they went their separate ways, each doing important mission work.Study Questions1. How do you feel about doctrinal debates? Do you tend to have an unhealthy aversion or attraction to them? Why do they matter?2. In many ways, the Jerusalem council’s goal was to maintain doctrinal clarity and practical unity within the Church. How are doctrine and unity related to one another?3. To maintain unity, the Gentile converts were asked not to eat certain foods for the sake of their Jewish brothers. This was not a forever binding decision, but a temporary way to protect the unity of the early Church. What preferences have you had to give up to protect the unity of the Church? How can preferences destroy the unity of the Church?

King Herod killed James and continued to persecute Christians because it was politically advantageous. God later strikes him down. Shortly after this, we see the conversion of Sergius Paulus, the Roman governor of Cyprus. Why does Acts emphasize kings and rulers? How is Sergius supposed to rule now that he is a Christian? In this Episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider these questions, and share some general thoughts on various versions of Two Kingdom Theology.

King Herod killed James and continued to persecute Christians because it was politically advantageous. God later strikes him down. Shortly after this, we see the conversion of Sergius Paulus, the Roman governor of Cyprus. Why does Acts emphasize kings and rulers? How is Sergius supposed to rule now that he is a Christian? In this Episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider these questions, and share some general thoughts on various versions of Two Kingdom Theology.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James explore the first movement of Coram Deo's worship liturgy: the Call to Worship. The call orients us around God our creator and sustainer.

Big Ideas1. A divided cityA cycle of controversy seems to continually follow the missionary work of the Church in Acts. Missionaries are sent. The Gospel is preached. The city erupts in conflict and division. Christians are beat up and/or threatened. Repeat. These stories in Acts question many of the assumptions we have regarding mission, evangelism, and Church life. We must remember that Jesus himself told us that he did not come to bring peace but division on earth (Luke 12:51). This is because the peace that Jesus offers is a peace the world does not want.2. Holy FearWhen Paul and Barnabas preach the Gospel and perform miracles, the people of Lystra confuse them for mythological gods and offer them worship. Imagine the power and financial gain Paul and Barnabas would have possessed had they not corrected the people of Lystra. Rather than taking advantage of the people, Paul and Barnabas cried out, corrected the people, and continued to teach the Gospel and point them to Jesus. Only a holy fear of God can protect our hearts from such temptations.3. The mission must go onPaul was stoned and left for dead outside the city gates. The preacher lay there lifeless, bloodied, and abandoned. This is how the crowds responded to Paul’s Gospel preaching. But Paul wasn’t dead, and he certainly wasn’t done. Instead of abandoning the mission, Paul got up and went back to work preaching and teaching the Gospel. The world can’t stop beating up preachers, and preachers can’t stop preaching the Gospel.Study Questions1. How do you tend to respond to conflict with others over issues of the Gospel? Are you intimidated and filled with fear? What expectations do you have? In what ways does this text encourage or challenge you?2. In one city, the people wanted to worship Paul. In the next, they wanted to kill him. How can we avoid the temptation to accept false peace and the temptation to avoid righteous suffering?3. In what ways has false peace or righteous suffering kept you from sharing your faith with others?

Fathers have a uniquely weighty job as they are called by God to lead their families and raise their children in the fear and admonition of the LORD. In this training, Elder Candidate Kim Highfield looks at how fathers ought to discipline their children by making and executing a plan to train them in righteousness.

Jew and Gentile. Circumcision, food laws, and the ceremonial law. The Holy Spirit and the conversion of the Gentile centurion Cornelius and his household. Ethnic identity and covenant identity. "Ordinances" and the "elementary principles of the world." Why does the Old Testament have laws that Christians don't observe anymore, while it has other laws that they do? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider questions that seem like foreign concepts to us, but were very prevalent and monumental in the New Testament. Considering these questions will help you understand major themes of the New Covenant and the Gospel.

Jew and Gentile. Circumcision, food laws, and the ceremonial law. The Holy Spirit and the conversion of the Gentile centurion Cornelius and his household. Ethnic identity and covenant identity. "Ordinances" and the "elementary principles of the world." Why does the Old Testament have laws that Christians don't observe anymore, while it has other laws that they do? In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten consider questions that seem like foreign concepts to us, but were very prevalent and monumental in the New Testament. Considering these questions will help you understand major themes of the New Covenant and the Gospel.

The church in Corinth was a mess! Divisions, incest, and drunkenness at the Lord's Supper are a few of the problems we learn are going on there. Yet Paul expresses his gratitude to God for them, and even says he is confident Jesus will sustain and be faithful to them. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten considers the reality of God's grace and the messiness of Church.

The church in Corinth was a mess! Divisions, incest, and drunkenness at the Lord's Supper are a few of the problems we learn are going on there. Yet Paul expresses his gratitude to God for them, and even says he is confident Jesus will sustain and be faithful to them. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten considers the reality of God's grace and the messiness of Church.

Big Ideas1. Stephen’s seminaryThis text is primarily made up of a sermon that Paul delivered on the Sabbath. He began with the calling of Abraham and followed the story of God through Egypt, King David, and the prophets, claiming that the entire story was about Jesus. Where did Paul learn to preach Christ from the Old Testament in this way? Paul heard a very similar sermon from the lips of Stephen whose death Paul condoned (Acts 7). It is impossible not to hear Stephen’s voice in Paul’s sermon. Though Paul approved of Stephen’s death, Stephen’s sermon would continue to bear Gospel fruit in the ministry of a radically changed Paul.2. Getting the Gospel rightGospel confusion is not uncommon, but Gospel clarity is everywhere in Acts. Whenever the Gospel is preached, it always entails the announcement that Jesus is Lord over all and that there is forgiveness of sins in his name alone. You won’t find much about how Jesus meets and fulfills all of our felt psychological and emotional needs. You won’t find anything about how Jesus will take away all of your sadness. But you will find plenty about the need for repentance, the coming judgment, and the salvation that Jesus offers to all.3. Conflict and conversionNobody is indifferent to the announcement that Jesus is Lord. Neutrality is a myth. When the Gospel is proclaimed, some respond in repentance and faith to the good news that Jesus is Lord. Others respond with anger, hatred, and judgment because the Gospel threatens their sense of autonomy. The Gospel always produces conflict and conversion.Study Questions1. Stephen’s teaching clearly had a profound impact on Paul. What Christian teachers or pastors have had a profound impact on your understanding of the Gospel?2. Take a moment to go back and read the sermons in Acts 2:14-36, 7:1-53, 13:16-41. How would you summarize these sermons? What is the Gospel according to them? Is it different from what you tend to think the Gospel is?3. Conflict and rejection are normal responses to the Gospel in Acts. How might this encourage or challenge you in personal evangelism?

Big Ideas1. Stephen’s seminaryThis text is primarily made up of a sermon that Paul delivered on the Sabbath. He began with the calling of Abraham and followed the story of God through Egypt, King David, and the prophets, claiming that the entire story was about Jesus. Where did Paul learn to preach Christ from the Old Testament in this way? Paul heard a very similar sermon from the lips of Stephen whose death Paul condoned (Acts 7). It is impossible not to hear Stephen’s voice in Paul’s sermon. Though Paul approved of Stephen’s death, Stephen’s sermon would continue to bear Gospel fruit in the ministry of a radically changed Paul.2. Getting the Gospel rightGospel confusion is not uncommon, but Gospel clarity is everywhere in Acts. Whenever the Gospel is preached, it always entails the announcement that Jesus is Lord over all and that there is forgiveness of sins in his name alone. You won’t find much about how Jesus meets and fulfills all of our felt psychological and emotional needs. You won’t find anything about how Jesus will take away all of your sadness. But you will find plenty about the need for repentance, the coming judgment, and the salvation that Jesus offers to all.3. Conflict and conversionNobody is indifferent to the announcement that Jesus is Lord. Neutrality is a myth. When the Gospel is proclaimed, some respond in repentance and faith to the good news that Jesus is Lord. Others respond with anger, hatred, and judgment because the Gospel threatens their sense of autonomy. The Gospel always produces conflict and conversion.Study Questions1. Stephen’s teaching clearly had a profound impact on Paul. What Christian teachers or pastors have had a profound impact on your understanding of the Gospel?2. Take a moment to go back and read the sermons in Acts 2:14-36, 7:1-53, 13:16-41. How would you summarize these sermons? What is the Gospel according to them? Is it different from what you tend to think the Gospel is?3. Conflict and rejection are normal responses to the Gospel in Acts. How might this encourage or challenge you in personal evangelism?

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores the simple wisdom and truth that Genesis 1 provides for a world gone mad.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James discuss the idea of covenant renewal worship. God established this pattern of worship in the Old Testament before fulfilling it in Christ.

Jesus commands his disciples to love their enemies because he wants them to reflect the kindness and love of God expressed in the Gospel. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten looks at this section of Jesus' "Sermon on the Plain" in Luke 6 and considers what it means to love our enemies.

On the evening of November 2, 2021 at Hale's Ales Barrelhouse in Bremerton, Washington, Dr. Glenn Sunshine delivered a lecture on the history of the Christian theology of resistance to tyranny. He concluded the lecture with a brief time of Q&A.

On the evening of November 2, 2021 at Hale's Ales Barrelhouse in Bremerton, Washington, Dr. Glenn Sunshine delivered a lecture on the history of the Christian theology of resistance to tyranny. He concluded the lecture with a brief time of Q&A.

Big Ideas1. Prayer and fastingIn this text, the Holy Spirit calls out Paul and Barnabas for a particular missionary venture. This call, however, came in the context of worship, devotion, prayer, and fasting. As the Church pursued God through worship and devotion, God spoke to the Church. How did the Holy Spirit speak to the Church? Well, we don’t exactly know. But we do know that this encounter occurred in the context of worship. As we meet God in worship, he directs our steps.2. A real and present darknessIn our last text, we were confronted with angels who are sent by God to help his people. In this text, we see that there are also very real dark realities at work in this world seeking to deceive people. Elymas was a Jewish magician and false prophet. He was an evil man and an enemy of God who sought to distract others from the truth of God. Paul called him a “son of the devil” (Acts 13:10). Christians need to understand that these enemies exist and that there are dark spiritual realities behind these people who seek to undermine the truth and work of God.3. Jesus winsElymas sought to distract and deceive the proconsul, that he might eternally suffer. But Jesus saved the proconsul. Ironically, Elymas, a man who claimed to be able to see, was stricken with blindness, while the proconsul was given sight to see the truth and glory of God in Christ. Jesus always wins.Study Questions1. The Church encountered God in the context of worship, prayer, and fasting. How are you doing in personal spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible reading, and fasting?2. Have you ever personally encountered a uniquely evil person like Elymas who intentionally sought to distract and deceive people? How did you respond?3. Sergius Paulus was the proconsul of Cyprus. He served in an official political office much like that of a governor. Paul taught him the Gospel and Sergius became a Christian. How might this text challenge the assumptions we make regarding the separation of Church and state?

Big Ideas1. Angels and Peter’s great escapeOnce again in our text, we find angels doing God’s work and providing aid and rescue to God’s people. Christians often don’t know what to do when it comes to angels. Some obsess over angels while others try to avoid the topic altogether. What’s clear throughout the Bible is that angels do exist and God does use them to help his people in times of great need. Angels should not be worshipped, for only God deserves our worship. On the other hand, angels should not be avoided or feared. They are God’s servants and our helpers. The author of Hebrews goes as far as to say that some of us have encountered angels without even knowing it (Hebrews 13:2)!2. Our enemies fall into their own pit In the imprecatory Psalms, David prays that his enemies would fall into the pit they have dug for him (Psalm 35:8). This text in Acts is a perfect example of God doing just that. The leaders that killed James and imprisoned Peter, presumably with plans to kill him also, had their evil turned back on them. The guards were put to death and King Herod died in the most public and humiliating way. God will not be mocked and his enemies will not escape his justice and judgment.3. The gates of hell shall not prevail This text ends with the most incredible contrast. Those who seek to destroy the Church will themselves be destroyed by God. Meanwhile, the Church, which is hated by the world, continues to grow and multiply, especially in the face of opposition. Psalm 2 speaks plainly of this reality. When the world conspires against Jesus, God laughs and mocks them. Jesus promised us that the gates of hell will not prevail (Matthew 16:18). We ought to expect nothing else.Study Questions1. What do you think about angels? Do you tend to ignore or obsess over them? What does this text teach us about angels?2. Opposition and suffering were ordinary experiences in the early Church, and yet the Church was not discouraged. How do you think the Church was able to endure these experiences without losing heart?3. How can this text encourage you when you face opposition or endure suffering because of your faith in Jesus?

Soon after meeting Jesus and beginning to preach that he was the Christ, Saul was on a hit-list. In Acts 9 we read of two separate conspiracies to kill Saul. Saul could've avoided this by being silent or by pursuing a life of private piety. But that wasn't an option for Saul. Instead, God used him to stir up holy controversy. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss the dynamics of Saul's 'lightning rod status' and how this was actually a gift to the Church.

The letter of Jude is a letter of warning. It seeks to convict, equip, and strengthen its readers to stand against the temptations of unbelief, sexual immorality, and rebellion against God's authority. It encourages God's people to persevere in the faith once for all delivered to the saints. But the power that makes all this encouragement possible is found in the last two verses of the letter. In this Episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten finishes the letter of Jude by looking at its concluding doxology, where we learn that Christ holds us and keeps us from stumbling.

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James kick off a series of episodes on Coram Deo's worship liturgy. But before diving into the specifics of our liturgy, they address the basic question: "What is liturgy?"

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon discusses how God used evil for good in the life of Joseph. Then he explores how God might be using this season to bring an explosion of Christian entrepreneurship in our community.

Big Ideas1. An imperfect ChurchWhile the majority of this text is about faithful and obedient Christians loving and serving others, Luke does mention those Jewish believers who refused to share their lives with non-Jews. This issue was among the biggest issues the Church in Acts faced. This isn’t the first time Luke has mentioned it, and it’s not the last. Being a historian, Luke is not interested in painting the prettiest picture of the Church. Instead, he speaks the truth. And the truth is that the 1st century Church, like every other Church, was an imperfect Church. We need not be afraid to acknowledge the sin and brokenness in our history. We are not the heroes, Jesus is.2. Doctrine mattersWhen the Jerusalem Church heard of conversion in Antioch, they didn’t just celebrate the news; they sent Barnabas to observe the reports of conversions. Certainly part of Barnabas’ mission was to verify that these people had actually come to faith in Jesus and had not just been caught up in some new religious fervor. Barnabas also brought Paul in so that he might teach and instruct these new believers. Why? Because providing faithful biblical teaching and instruction is a practical way of caring for and loving Christians. Doctrine matters.3. Financial generosityUpon hearing about the forthcoming famine, the Church in Antioch mobilized to provide financial support for their brothers in Judea. Financial generosity is one of the repeating themes throughout Acts. As recipients of God’s generosity in Christ, Christians are eager to share with those in need. This is especially true when it comes to sharing with other Christians in need (Galatians 6:10). Financial generosity is a practical expression of God’s love and care for others and is a natural expression of godly gratitude.Study Questions1. Does Luke’s honesty about the moral issues and sin in the early Church build or erode your confidence in the truthfulness of his account? Why?2. Ongoing teaching and instruction is essential to Christian growth and maturity. In addition to weekly worship, how do you pursue doctrinal and theological instruction? Is this an area of strength or weakness for you?3. Have you ever been the recipient of financial generosity? How did it affect you? How can you grow in financial generosity?

When Saul met Jesus on the Damascus Road, everything changed. The sovereign grace of God met Saul and made a train wreck of his life as it was. He went from persecutor to ardent supporter of the Church; from opposed to mixing with Gentiles to uniting Gentiles and Jews within the Church; from hauling Christians to the magistrate to preaching the Gospel to kings. In this episode of Sermon B-Sides, Pastor Jon and Pastor Rusten discuss how the grace of God meets us and subjects everything in our lives to him.

Being a mother is hard work. Moms have the rewarding yet difficult job of raising little disciples of Christ while also growing in Him themselves. In this teaching, Lacey Kuhns reminds moms about the joy and challenge of growing as Godly mothers in Christ.

Being a mother is hard work. Moms have the rewarding yet difficult job of raising little disciples of Christ while also growing in Him themselves. In this teaching, Lacey Kuhns reminds moms about the joy and challenge of growing as Godly mothers in Christ.

There is a sense in which the gospel of Jesus is both "against the world" and "for the world." This isn't just a theoretical tension, but a tension that shows up in our relationships and lives in tumultuous ways. It is a tension that we are called to walk through in faith and the love of God. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten considers the letter of Jude, specifically the call on the church to persevere in times of increased tension.

Big Ideas1. Circumcised criticsThe Church has no lack of critics. Sometimes, when the Church is in error or in sin, the criticism is warranted and should be received as God’s gracious invitation to repent. But at other times, the criticism is baseless and motivated by jealousy, insecurity, and fear. The circumcised critics in this text fall into the latter category. What better way to respond to Peter’s successful evangelism than to criticize his efforts? When God is on the move, you’ll always find a church member complaining about it.2. Prejudice and racism die slowly Peter had a front-row seat to the conversion of Cornelius and his Gentile buddies. When he was criticized for it, he defended the Gospel and stood up for his new Gentile brothers and sisters. But Peter’s struggle with prejudice and racism was not over. Later, Paul would confront Peter for slipping back into his old ways, favoring Jews and marginalizing the believing Gentiles (Galatians 2:11-13). Our struggle against sin never ends. Though we are forgiven and have new power to live new lives in Christ, we still struggle against sin and must be brought back to the truth of God over and over again. 3. The unity of the ChurchSomething unprecedented was taking place in the early Church. Individuals and families from every ethnicity were being brought together and reconciled to one another in the Church. This had never been seen before. Not in Israel. Not in the world. In Jesus, God was creating a new humanity in which people from every nation were invited to repent, trust in Jesus, receive forgiveness, and be reconciled to God and one another. Study Questions1. When have you received justified criticism? When have you received unjustified criticism? How did you respond?2. Peter, and some in the early Church, struggled to see the Gentile believers as equals. Faith in Jesus did not make this sin automatically disappear. Against what sins have you or do you continue to struggle? What growth have you seen? What work remains to be done?3. Church unity is something that Luke continues to emphasize through Acts. How can you contribute to and cultivate unity in your church?

In this episode of Doxological, Pastor Ryan interviews worship leader and songwriter, Wendell Kimbrough. Wendell has written several songs that we sing at Coram Deo Church. Ryan talks to him about singing the Psalms, his writing process, and how the Psalms have shaped him and his faith.Listen to Wendell's new single, See How Good It Is (Psalm 113), featuring Sandra McCracken!https://www.wendellk.com/shgWendell's Site: https://www.wendellk.com/Wendell's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wendellkmusic

In this episode of The Blitz, Pastor Jon explores some of the theological, Christological, philosophical, ethical, and legal issues that must be considered when thinking through whether or not the COVID19 vax mandates are biblical.

Who doesn't want to be liked? Who doesn't want to be thought of as wonderfully winsome and radically relevant by all people? It's a temptation for the church today, and it's been a temptation in the past as well. So, Jesus warns his disciples of it. What might it mean if everyone speaks well of you? Jesus compares this situation to the false prophets that went before, and he pronounces his "woe" upon them. But how does this square with things like the expectation that pastors are to "be well thought of by outsiders" (1 Corinthians 9:22) or Paul's method of becoming "all things to all people, that by all means I might save some" (1 Timothy 3:7)? In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten looks at Jesus' warning and considers these questions.

Big Ideas1. Dreams, visions, and angelsThe primary way God speaks to his people is through his Word. However, at times, God uses dreams, visions, and angels to communicate with and instruct individuals. God used the angel Gabriel to announce the coming birth of Jesus to Mary. God used an angel in a vision to instruct Joseph not to leave his pregnant virgin fiancé. In this story, God uses both visions and angels to help Peter and Cornelius learn about the blessings of the Gospel.2. Divine appointmentsOne of the things that stands out in this text is how God was at work in both Peter and Cornelius, arranging for their introduction and fellowship. God spoke to Peter three times in a dream. He also gave Cornelius a vision in which an angel appeared to him. Both of these unique experiences brought Peter and Cornelius together for a divine appointment which would prove transformative for the early Church. 3. God shows no partiality among those who trust in ChristThe encounter between Peter and Cornelius accomplished two important things. First, Peter brought the Gospel to Cornelius and, as a result, numerous Gentiles at Caesarea believed and were baptized. Second, God demonstrated to Peter that the ethnic divisions that had been part of Israel’s past history had been demolished in and through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). Believing Jews and Gentiles were now equals in Christ. Neither Peter nor anyone else could reject those to whom God had given his Spirit. Study Questions1. What is the significance of Peter’s vision? What did it mean for God to instruct Peter to kill and eat any animal?2. Has God ever spoken to you or given you encouragement through a dream or a vision? What is the danger of trusting in dreams or visions?3. The early Church, which was primarily made up of believing Jews, struggled to accept believing Gentiles as equals in Christ. Are there any believing groups or individuals that you struggle to see and accept as equals in Christ?

The doxology we often hear at the end of the Lord's Prayer, "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen," may not have been part of the original prayer. But it uses language that has calls back to a prayer of King David in 1 Chronicles 29. In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten takes a look at King David's prayer and considers why we ought to pray doxologies.

Big Ideas1. Like Jesus, like discipleThis story in Acts reads like a retelling of two of Jesus’ miracles found in the Gospels (Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:21-43, Luke 8:40-56). Jesus healed a woman who had been sick for twelve years, then brought a young girl back to life. In Acts, Peter healed a man who had been sick for eight years and then brought a dead woman back to life. Luke’s point seems to be that Jesus is continuing his work through his people. The similarities in the stories indicate that Jesus is at work through Peter. Remember that Jesus promised his disciples that they would do even greater works (John 14:12). 2. Wonders and faithThe wonders, signs, and miracles in Acts are never an end in themselves. Rather, they serve to validate the claims and teaching of the Apostles as they establish the doctrine of the early Church. Additionally, they play a vital role in the initial conversions of various communities. As God’s power is demonstrated through an Apostle in a particular region, the message is then believed and the mission moves forward (Acts 9:35 & 42). 3. Resuscitation vs. resurrectionWhile there have been miraculous healings mentioned in Acts thus far, this is the first instance of a dead person being brought back to life. It is a common mistake to call a miracle like this a resurrection story. Resurrection is far more than a return to life from death. Resurrection entails the giving of a new body that is immortal in nature (1 Corinthians 15:42-43). Only Jesus has experienced resurrection and received a new immortal body. The story of Tabitha in Acts is an example of resuscitation. She was dead, and her close friends knew it. Her situation appeared totally hopeless. However, some disciples reached out to Peter, knowing that, as an Apostle, God had done great and amazing things through him. By God’s power, Tabitha was brought back to life. Though not immune to the sorrows and ailments of life, she was granted more years of faithful service and acts of mercy. And consequently, many in Joppa believed in Jesus. Study Questions1. Take a moment to read one of the miracle stories listed in the first point above. What similarities do you see between Jesus’ miracle and Peter’s? What differences do you find? 2. What is the functional purpose of miracles in the book of Acts? How can we pervert the purpose of miracles and miss the point?3. Why do you think we do not see miracles as frequently today as the early Church did in Acts?

In this episode of the The Blitz, Pastor Jon covers why the COVID vaccine mandates are 100% biblical.

Announcing a new podcast from Coram Deo Church! Doxological is an ongoing conversation about the crossroads of music, liturgy, and theology, and how they shape everything from the Lord's Table to the dinner table. In this inaugural episode, Pastor Ryan James and Brynn James ask, “Why do we sing together in corporate worship?” Ryan and Brynn explore how singing uniquely honors God, uniting, teaching, and transforming the Church as we submit to the Lordship of Christ.

Big Ideas1. Jesus changes usPaul’s story is a dramatic example of what is true about everyone Jesus saves. Paul experienced a radical transformation so extreme that other believers were reluctant to trust it. How could the man who persecuted Christians now be preaching the Gospel? There is only one explanation: When Jesus saves us, he also changes us. Through faith in Jesus, we are saved from the consequences of sin and its power over us. This freedom from sin is found only in Jesus and always results in a radically different lifestyle.2. Faithful ministry often brings fierce opposition Paul’s testimony and conversion served as a compelling example of the power of Jesus and his Gospel. He was also a vigorous Gospel teacher and preacher, which resulted in many people coming to faith in Jesus. None of this was welcomed by the Jewish leaders. In fact, as with Jesus, they sought to kill Paul in order to shut down the Church and its ministry. Though this type of extreme opposition is foreign to most of us, persecution is increasingly becoming a more normal reality for many Christians in our country. This is because faithful ministry is often met head-on with opposition from the world. Nobody is indifferent to the claims of Jesus. 3. Conflict outside the Church, peace within the ChurchTwice in this text, Luke refers to murderous threats and attempts made against Paul. These threats were also intended to intimidate anyone who would support or agree with Paul and his ministry. Consequently, these threats, which were aimed at Paul, also hit the Church. However, the Church continued to experience peace and growth. Study Questions1. How did the Church initially receive Paul? What changed their position?2. How has Jesus freed you from enslaving sins? What areas currently need growth in terms of obedience?3. What, if any, opposition have you faced as a Christian? What elements of the Christian faith currently bring the fiercest opposition from the world?4. How can the Church simultaneously face opposition and experience peace and growth?

After Jesus teaches his disciples to pray for forgiveness, he teaches them to pray, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." In this episode of Bible Thoughts, Pastor Rusten looks at the last petition of the Lord's prayer and considers what temptation is and why Jesus teaches us to pray for God to deliver us from it.

Church member Kim Highfield teaches on the topic of “The Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind of Men in Christ.”

Church member Kim Highfield teaches on the topic of “The Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind of Men in Christ.”

Dr. Glenn Sunshine has written books such as 'Slaying Leviathan,' and '32 Christians Who Changed Their World.' He is one of the hosts of 'The Theology Pugcast.'https://thetheologypugcast.com/

Dr. Glenn Sunshine has written books such as 'Slaying Leviathan,' and '32 Christians Who Changed Their World.' He is one of the hosts of 'The Theology Pugcast.'https://thetheologypugcast.com/

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Psalm 73. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.//Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.

Join us this Sunday as Pastor Rusten preaches on Psalm 73. You are invited to watch our 9:30 service on Facebook Live.//Coram Deo is a nondenominational church that meets in Bremerton, WA. We exist to love God, connect people, and change the world. When we gather together on Sundays, we hear the preaching of God’s Word, and respond by worshipping & taking communion together.