This sermon tackles a sensitive, sometimes scary question: does God punish? If so, when and how?

Some of us have experienced churches where God seems to be consumed with punishing. Others of us have experienced churches where happy-talk prevails and God is exclusively about positive affirmation. Where does the truth lie?

Today’s scripture: Joel 1:1-7, 15-16

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 Plagues and Punishment [39:46m]: Play Now | Play in Popup

Have you ever read some of the things Paul said in his epistles and concluded that he must really have been a jerk? Where did he get some of that stuff?

There may be another way to see it — even things like his pronouncement that women are to remain silent while in church. In this sermon, Melody Merida gives us some fresh ways to examine difficult sections of scripture.

Today’s scripture: Galatians 3:23-29

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 Jesus Changed Everything [33:23m]: Play Now | Play in Popup

When you picture the personality of God, what comes to mind? Perhaps the classic Unmoved Mover — aloof, measured, dispassionate.

When you hear about the anger of God, what do you imagine provokes that anger? Perhaps insubordination: “How dare you disobey me; don’t you know I could crush you!”

In this sermon, the prophet Hosea will challenge us to embrace a very different understanding of God’s personality  — to see God as maybe we never have before.

Today’s scripture: Hosea 11:1-9

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Use the player below to listen to this sermon. Right-click on the tag to download. Comments or questions? Please email us.

 

 Love Hurts [40:45m]: Play Now | Play in Popup

What is the secret to praying prayers of great power?

Over the years, you’ve probably heard many preachers propose answers to that question. But this sermon explores a Scripture passage that suggests an answer you’ve probably never even considered. It may be the missing link!

Today’s scripture:Ezekiel 37:1-12

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Use the player below to listen to this sermon. Right-click on the tag to download. Comments or questions? Please email us.

 

 The Missing Link [37:15m]: Play Now | Play in Popup