“Paraphrase of Jeremiah instructing the exiles in Babylon to seek the prosperity and blessing of the city.”
Pastor Sam Gibson teaches from Romans 8 that rejection is inevitable for Christians, but God uses it to form us. The solution to being shaped by rejection or enslaved by the need for human recognition is the Spirit of adoption—receiving identity, status, and inheritance in Christ so we can respond to rejection from the place of being beloved. He contrasts the imposter/orphan self (performance, people-pleasing, needing recognition) with the beloved/adopted self (secure, free to risk, rooted in the Father's love) and issues practical invitations to receive healing and be reborn into that reality.
“Seek the welfare of the city, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”
Pastors unpack the Christmas narratives to show Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises (the second Adam, the Word made flesh, Prince of Peace), explain differences in Matthew and Luke's genealogies, and apply those truths to contemporary debates about immigration — arguing Jesus was not an “illegal immigrant,” urging Christians to love people while respecting lawful roles of the state, and encouraging faithful, compassionate discipleship at Christmas.
“as Jeremiah told us we pray for the welfare of our city; we don't curse our city; we don't speak negatively about our city.”
Pastor Kimberly Ray preaches from Joshua 1:1–7 calling the congregation to 'advance and hold'—to move forward by faith, claim the territory God has promised, and maintain it despite opposition. The sermon emphasizes walking with purpose, being strong and courageous, obedience to God's word, intergenerational discipleship, corporate prayer, and practical responses (giving, altar ministry, baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit). Church life updates and community engagement (FaithWorks, vaccine town hall, outreach events) frame the message.
