Sermons https://www.gfcto.com no en-us ℗ & © 2024 Grace Fellowship Church: Toronto, ON, Canada Messages from Grace Fellowship Church: Toronto, ON, Canada Grace Fellowship Church: Toronto, ON, Canada Weekly sermons from Grace Fellowship Church of West Toronto Weekly sermons from Grace Fellowship Church of West Toronto Allie Martin information@gfcto.com The Greatness, Condescension and Glory of Christ Our Lord The Greatness, Condescension and Glory of Christ Our Lord https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-24/the-greatness-condescension-and-glory-of-christ-our-lord There are two ways to explore the mountains. We have been combing the hills and valleys for several weeks examining the details of what Christ accomplished for us in our salvation. Now it is time to hop in the plane and fly high overhead to look at the person of Christ from three distinct angles. Who He was before He came. Who He was while He was on earth. And who He is today. There are two ways to explore the mountains. We have been combing the hills and valleys for several weeks examining the details of what Christ accomplished for us in our salvation. Now it is time to hop in the plane and fly high overhead to look at the person of Christ from three distinct angles. Who He was before He came. Who He was while He was on earth. And who He is today. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-24/1253/the-greatness-condescension-and-glory-of-christ-our-lord Sun, 24 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0400 Jesus Christ: In Word and Spirit Jesus Christ: In Word and Spirit https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-17/jesus-christ-in-word-and-spirit Every member of the Trinity is involved in our salvation. As the Word of the Gospel of Jesus goes forth, the Father saves those chosen in eternity past by the power of the Holy Spirit. No wonder Paul takes the time to rejoice in the powerful safeguarding work of the Spirit to keep us to the end. Every member of the Trinity is involved in our salvation. As the Word of the Gospel of Jesus goes forth, the Father saves those chosen in eternity past by the power of the Holy Spirit. No wonder Paul takes the time to rejoice in the powerful safeguarding work of the Spirit to keep us to the end. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-17/1252/jesus-christ-in-word-and-spirit Sun, 17 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0400 God Keeps All His Promises in Christ God Keeps All His Promises in Christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-10/god-keeps-all-his-promises-in-christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-10/1251/god-keeps-all-his-promises-in-christ Sun, 10 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0500 Building Up the Body Building Up the Body https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-03/building-up-the-body God calls every Christian to minister—to love and serve others. Within the local church, each member is responsible to carry out the work of ministry which is building up the body of Christ. God calls every Christian to minister—to love and serve others. Within the local church, each member is responsible to carry out the work of ministry which is building up the body of Christ. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-03-03/1250/building-up-the-body Sun, 3 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0500 I Am His and He Is Mine I Am His and He Is Mine https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-25/i-am-his-and-he-is-mine We are good at remembering we have an inheritance waiting for us in glory. We are perhaps less faithful at remembering we are God’s inheritance. Why would He speak of us in those terms? Isn’t that making too much out of us, especially when you think about all the ways we mess up and fail Him? We are good at remembering we have an inheritance waiting for us in glory. We are perhaps less faithful at remembering we are God’s inheritance. Why would He speak of us in those terms? Isn’t that making too much out of us, especially when you think about all the ways we mess up and fail Him? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-25/1249/i-am-his-and-he-is-mine Sun, 25 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0500 His Day Will Come His Day Will Come https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-18/his-day-will-come The Bible is not a crystal ball. It is better than that. For, in His Word, God chooses to reveal some events in the future that will occur. Usually He tells us about these future things in order to refine how we are living in the present. The Apostle knew that — apart from the help of the gracious Holy Spirit — we would never fully grasp how critical the Person of Jesus Christ is to the entire creation. The Bible is not a crystal ball. It is better than that. For, in His Word, God chooses to reveal some events in the future that will occur. Usually He tells us about these future things in order to refine how we are living in the present. The Apostle knew that — apart from the help of the gracious Holy Spirit — we would never fully grasp how critical the Person of Jesus Christ is to the entire creation. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-18/1248/his-day-will-come Sun, 18 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0500 Tears in Our Eyes, Praise on Our Lips Tears in Our Eyes, Praise on Our Lips https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-11/tears-in-our-eyes-praise-on-our-lips Your suffering is real. So is God. Take them both seriously and you can have tears in your eyes but also praise on your lips. Your suffering is real. So is God. Take them both seriously and you can have tears in your eyes but also praise on your lips. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-11/1247/tears-in-our-eyes-praise-on-our-lips Sun, 11 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0500 You Are Free Indeed You Are Free Indeed https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-04/you-are-free-indeed Belief determines behaviour. Which means we will act incorrectly if we believe falsehood or we are simply ignorant of what is true. Paul understood this and began his letter to the Christians in Ephesus with a hymn that makes profound truth claims. These are not slogans or terms to be thrown around by people who like crossword puzzles. These are real things, that when properly understood, will change everything about you. Belief determines behaviour. Which means we will act incorrectly if we believe falsehood or we are simply ignorant of what is true. Paul understood this and began his letter to the Christians in Ephesus with a hymn that makes profound truth claims. These are not slogans or terms to be thrown around by people who like crossword puzzles. These are real things, that when properly understood, will change everything about you. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-02-04/1246/you-are-free-indeed Sun, 4 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0500 A Big Man with a Big Problem A Big Man with a Big Problem https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-28/a-big-man-with-a-big-problem Naaman was a great and powerful Syrian military commander. He had everything he ever wanted, but he also had one thing he only ever dreaded. Yet God chose to reach out to him, to heal him, and to draw him to himself. Naaman was a great and powerful Syrian military commander. He had everything he ever wanted, but he also had one thing he only ever dreaded. Yet God chose to reach out to him, to heal him, and to draw him to himself. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-28/1245/a-big-man-with-a-big-problem Sun, 28 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0500 Predestined in Him for a Better Family Predestined in Him for a Better Family https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-21/predestined-in-him-for-a-better-family The idea that God might have decreed our future can seem a little oppressive to modern ears. But, what if that decree included the good of His people? Would it be better if everything was left to chance? Why did the Apostle Paul find such joy in pondering God’s certain adoption of His children? The idea that God might have decreed our future can seem a little oppressive to modern ears. But, what if that decree included the good of His people? Would it be better if everything was left to chance? Why did the Apostle Paul find such joy in pondering God’s certain adoption of His children? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-21/1244/predestined-in-him-for-a-better-family Sun, 21 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0500 Chosen in Him Chosen in Him https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-14/chosen-in-him The Lord Jesus has done so much for us. And as we are positionally identified with Him, all the spiritual blessings are secured for us. All of them! What a blessing. The Lord Jesus has done so much for us. And as we are positionally identified with Him, all the spiritual blessings are secured for us. All of them! What a blessing. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-14/1243/chosen-in-him Sun, 14 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0500 God Saved the King! God Saved the King! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-07/god-saved-the-king King David wrote this song praising God for delivering him and the citizens of his kingdom Israel from the hands of all their enemies. The Greater King David was also delivered from his enemies — the death of King Jesus was the decisive victory over his enemies and ours: sin, death, hell and the Devil. Just as Israel benefited from their king’s victory, we who are kingdom citizens benefit from our King’s victory! King David wrote this song praising God for delivering him and the citizens of his kingdom Israel from the hands of all their enemies. The Greater King David was also delivered from his enemies — the death of King Jesus was the decisive victory over his enemies and ours: sin, death, hell and the Devil. Just as Israel benefited from their king’s victory, we who are kingdom citizens benefit from our King’s victory! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2024-01-07/1242/god-saved-the-king Sun, 7 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0500 In Your Own Generation In Your Own Generation https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-31/in-your-own-generation As we leave the old year behind and set out into a new year, how can we have confidence that we are living in a way that is pleasing to God? What does it mean to live a meaningful and purposeful life? And what does delighting in God have to do with it? The Bible provides answers in an unexpected place. As we leave the old year behind and set out into a new year, how can we have confidence that we are living in a way that is pleasing to God? What does it mean to live a meaningful and purposeful life? And what does delighting in God have to do with it? The Bible provides answers in an unexpected place. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-31/1241/in-your-own-generation Sun, 31 Dec 2023 11:30:00 -0500 My Big Brother My Big Brother https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-24/my-big-brother This a sermon for children, but wise adults will listen to see if it is true. In it, the preacher is going to tell you about his elder brother, which is interesting because, the last time we checked, he only had older sisters! But, perhaps whoever he is talking about might become your elder brother, too? The preacher also put all the Bible verses here in the bulletin to make it easier for you to follow along. This a sermon for children, but wise adults will listen to see if it is true. In it, the preacher is going to tell you about his elder brother, which is interesting because, the last time we checked, he only had older sisters! But, perhaps whoever he is talking about might become your elder brother, too? The preacher also put all the Bible verses here in the bulletin to make it easier for you to follow along. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-24/1240/my-big-brother Sun, 24 Dec 2023 11:30:00 -0500 A Real Man A Real Man https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-17/a-real-man One of the first great hurdles the church had to overcome after the death and resurrection of Jesus concerned his humanity. Was he really a man? Was he half a man? An “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” kind of demi-god? An illusion or apparition? Or, was he a real man? Your answer to this question might end up determining your eternal future. One of the first great hurdles the church had to overcome after the death and resurrection of Jesus concerned his humanity. Was he really a man? Was he half a man? An “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” kind of demi-god? An illusion or apparition? Or, was he a real man? Your answer to this question might end up determining your eternal future. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-17/1239/a-real-man Sun, 17 Dec 2023 11:30:00 -0500 God in The Flesh God in The Flesh https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-10/god-in-the-flesh Isaiah 7:14 appears on a lot of Christmasware, but do we understand what it meant to the man who first heard it? Do we need to in order to understand what it means? Is there a connection between Isaiah’s prophecy and the virgin birth in Bethlehem? Isaiah 7:14 appears on a lot of Christmasware, but do we understand what it meant to the man who first heard it? Do we need to in order to understand what it means? Is there a connection between Isaiah’s prophecy and the virgin birth in Bethlehem? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-10/1238/god-in-the-flesh Sun, 10 Dec 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Jesus, the Saviour The World Needs Jesus, the Saviour The World Needs https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-03/jesus-the-saviour-the-world-needs As we complete the Book of Judges and begin a series on Jesus Christ, it is good to notice the connection between the two. Judges leaves us with a bitter taste in our mouth. But the sweetness of the coming Messiah takes care of that! By seeing the two together we better understand that the entire Bible is all about one thing. One Person. Merry Christmas! As we complete the Book of Judges and begin a series on Jesus Christ, it is good to notice the connection between the two. Judges leaves us with a bitter taste in our mouth. But the sweetness of the coming Messiah takes care of that! By seeing the two together we better understand that the entire Bible is all about one thing. One Person. Merry Christmas! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-12-03/1237/jesus-the-saviour-the-world-needs Sun, 3 Dec 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Where To Go in the Day of Trouble Where To Go in the Day of Trouble https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-26/where-to-go-in-the-day-of-trouble The Book of Judges ends with a whimper. The last two events of this book perfectly capture the single greatest problem in Israel in these days and the single greatest problem in our days. It can be summarized in the words, “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” We may not kidnap dancing girls, but our solutions to life’s problems are usually just as awful, if not so remarkable. The Book of Judges ends with a whimper. The last two events of this book perfectly capture the single greatest problem in Israel in these days and the single greatest problem in our days. It can be summarized in the words, “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” We may not kidnap dancing girls, but our solutions to life’s problems are usually just as awful, if not so remarkable. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-26/1236/where-to-go-in-the-day-of-trouble Sun, 26 Nov 2023 11:30:00 -0500 The Silent Sovereignty of God The Silent Sovereignty of God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-19/the-silent-sovereignty-of-god When times are darkest, and He feels absent, He is sovereignly moving His kingdom and deliverance forward. Take heart: The sovereign silence (not absence) of God The sovereign power of God. Take heart in the sovereign silence (not absence) of God and the sovereign power of God When times are darkest, and He feels absent, He is sovereignly moving His kingdom and deliverance forward. Take heart: The sovereign silence (not absence) of God The sovereign power of God. Take heart in the sovereign silence (not absence) of God and the sovereign power of God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-19/1235/the-silent-sovereignty-of-god Sun, 19 Nov 2023 11:30:00 -0500 A Tale of Woe A Tale of Woe https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-12/a-tale-of-woe There is perhaps no darker chapter in all the Bible than Judges 19. The author records a terrible story in order to show us what happens when everyone does what is right in his own eyes. Sometimes we avoid reading texts like this, but seeing these chapters where they fit in the whole Book of Judges makes it clear. We are to take careful note… do we want to follow our own eyes or look to our Maker? May the Lord give us grace to learn and follow Him. There is perhaps no darker chapter in all the Bible than Judges 19. The author records a terrible story in order to show us what happens when everyone does what is right in his own eyes. Sometimes we avoid reading texts like this, but seeing these chapters where they fit in the whole Book of Judges makes it clear. We are to take careful note… do we want to follow our own eyes or look to our Maker? May the Lord give us grace to learn and follow Him. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-12/1234/a-tale-of-woe Sun, 12 Nov 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Psalm 1 Psalm 1 https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-05/psalm-1 https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-11-05/1233/psalm-1 Sun, 5 Nov 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Are You Sure You’re Right With God? Are You Sure You’re Right With God? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-29/are-you-sure-you-re-right-with-god Jesus is going to look people in the eye on the Day of Judgement and tell them that He never knew them. Those people will spend eternity in hell. What is so distressing about this is that those same people thought they were good with God! They were not atheists or agnostics… they were people who claimed to be in a relationship with the real God. The last chapters of Judges paint us a vivid picture of how easy it is to be spiritually self-deceived. Don’t fall prey to this horrible mistake! Jesus is going to look people in the eye on the Day of Judgement and tell them that He never knew them. Those people will spend eternity in hell. What is so distressing about this is that those same people thought they were good with God! They were not atheists or agnostics… they were people who claimed to be in a relationship with the real God. The last chapters of Judges paint us a vivid picture of how easy it is to be spiritually self-deceived. Don’t fall prey to this horrible mistake! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-29/1232/are-you-sure-you-re-right-with-god Sun, 29 Oct 2023 11:30:00 -0400 The Righteous Shall Live… in a tent? The Righteous Shall Live… in a tent? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-22/the-righteous-shall-live-in-a-tent https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-22/808/the-righteous-shall-live-in-a-tent Sun, 22 Oct 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Experiencing The Supernatural Peace of God Experiencing The Supernatural Peace of God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-15/experiencing-the-supernatural-peace-of-god https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-15/1205/experiencing-the-supernatural-peace-of-god Sun, 15 Oct 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Samson and Delilah: Strength in Weakness Samson and Delilah: Strength in Weakness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-08/samson-and-delilah-strength-in-weakness We have learned so much from the life of this enigmatic saviour, Samson. Now we hit the one story for which he seems most famous. Why is that? Why are we so intrigued by the love and manipulation of this mighty man? And is this just a bit of a forbidden titillation that snuck into our Bibles, or does it have something to teach us about Jesus Christ? After all, didn’t Jesus Himself say that all the Scriptures were pointing to Him (Luke 24:27)? We have learned so much from the life of this enigmatic saviour, Samson. Now we hit the one story for which he seems most famous. Why is that? Why are we so intrigued by the love and manipulation of this mighty man? And is this just a bit of a forbidden titillation that snuck into our Bibles, or does it have something to teach us about Jesus Christ? After all, didn’t Jesus Himself say that all the Scriptures were pointing to Him (Luke 24:27)? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-08/915/samson-and-delilah-strength-in-weakness Sun, 8 Oct 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Perhaps Not the Saviour We Expected Perhaps Not the Saviour We Expected https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-01/perhaps-not-the-saviour-we-expected Sometimes things are not as they seem. In fact, this is often the case when God is at work. What can appear as a dismal failure might actually be a roaring success. This is nowhere more evident than at the crucifixion of Jesus. An event captured well by the interesting words of Joseph, centuries earlier: “What some meant for evil, God meant for good.” Perhaps Samson’s exploits were not as sad as we tend to think. Or perhaps they were, but were pointing to Another? Sometimes things are not as they seem. In fact, this is often the case when God is at work. What can appear as a dismal failure might actually be a roaring success. This is nowhere more evident than at the crucifixion of Jesus. An event captured well by the interesting words of Joseph, centuries earlier: “What some meant for evil, God meant for good.” Perhaps Samson’s exploits were not as sad as we tend to think. Or perhaps they were, but were pointing to Another? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-10-01/914/perhaps-not-the-saviour-we-expected Sun, 1 Oct 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Uncle Louie is Coming to Dinner Uncle Louie is Coming to Dinner https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-24/uncle-louie-is-coming-to-dinner https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-24/913/uncle-louie-is-coming-to-dinner Sun, 24 Sep 2023 11:30:00 -0400 One Last Saviour One Last Saviour https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-17/one-last-saviour Samson is the only Judge whose birth is described. Remarkably it takes up an entire chapter of his story. What is most unique to his nativity is the plan of God to make him a Nazirite (not, Nazarene) from the womb. In an age of spiritual darkness and Philistine oppression, everyone is confused by the remarkable birth and ministry of this new saviour. Samson is the only Judge whose birth is described. Remarkably it takes up an entire chapter of his story. What is most unique to his nativity is the plan of God to make him a Nazirite (not, Nazarene) from the womb. In an age of spiritual darkness and Philistine oppression, everyone is confused by the remarkable birth and ministry of this new saviour. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-17/912/one-last-saviour Sun, 17 Sep 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Forgetting What Lies Behind Forgetting What Lies Behind https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-10/forgetting-what-lies-behind https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-10/911/forgetting-what-lies-behind Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Singing in a Minor Key Singing in a Minor Key https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-03/singing-in-a-minor-key The six minor Judges scattered throughout the Book of Judges have a major role to play. While we do not know as much about them as we do the others, their stories help us to understand the dire straits of idolatry and the desperate need for a full-scale and eternal rescue. From Shamgar to Abdon, the same problem remains… we need a Saviour. The six minor Judges scattered throughout the Book of Judges have a major role to play. While we do not know as much about them as we do the others, their stories help us to understand the dire straits of idolatry and the desperate need for a full-scale and eternal rescue. From Shamgar to Abdon, the same problem remains… we need a Saviour. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-09-03/910/singing-in-a-minor-key Sun, 3 Sep 2023 11:30:00 -0400 When Your Words Get You Into Trouble When Your Words Get You Into Trouble https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-27/when-your-words-get-you-into-trouble The story of Jephthah can basically be understood in one of two very different ways. One option is to see him as a rash and arrogant warlord. The other is to view him as a God-fearing saviour. Either way, the Lord felt it was important for us to both read and ponder this event in Israel’s history. Doing so should help us to understand even more clearly why it is we so desperately need a Saviour. Plus, the current preacher thinks Jephthah was one of the good guys. The story of Jephthah can basically be understood in one of two very different ways. One option is to see him as a rash and arrogant warlord. The other is to view him as a God-fearing saviour. Either way, the Lord felt it was important for us to both read and ponder this event in Israel’s history. Doing so should help us to understand even more clearly why it is we so desperately need a Saviour. Plus, the current preacher thinks Jephthah was one of the good guys. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-27/909/when-your-words-get-you-into-trouble Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:30:00 -0400 The Misery Calendar The Misery Calendar https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-20/the-misery-calendar Tenacity can be a great character quality, unless you are tenacious in your sins and constantly rejecting the warnings of God. For some reason, we can hold on to our silly belief that our idols will save us even though all the presenting evidence suggests the opposite. Judges 10 is something like a calendar with five pages on it covering many, many years. And it is not until we flip to the last page that we get any hope. Here is picture of what we are like at our worst. Let the reader beware. Tenacity can be a great character quality, unless you are tenacious in your sins and constantly rejecting the warnings of God. For some reason, we can hold on to our silly belief that our idols will save us even though all the presenting evidence suggests the opposite. Judges 10 is something like a calendar with five pages on it covering many, many years. And it is not until we flip to the last page that we get any hope. Here is picture of what we are like at our worst. Let the reader beware. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-20/908/the-misery-calendar Sun, 20 Aug 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Brambleman and the Shechemites Brambleman and the Shechemites https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-13/brambleman-and-the-shechemites https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-13/907/brambleman-and-the-shechemites Sun, 13 Aug 2023 11:30:00 -0400 The Heart of Christ in our Weaknesses The Heart of Christ in our Weaknesses https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-06/the-heart-of-christ-in-our-weaknesses As Jesus Christ lived in this world, He suffered and was tempted. Because He endured such difficulties, He is able to sympathize with us when we suffer and are tempted. In our sorrows we can have confidence that Jesus knows about our weaknesses, He cares about our weaknesses, and He reaches out to help us in our weaknesses. As Jesus Christ lived in this world, He suffered and was tempted. Because He endured such difficulties, He is able to sympathize with us when we suffer and are tempted. In our sorrows we can have confidence that Jesus knows about our weaknesses, He cares about our weaknesses, and He reaches out to help us in our weaknesses. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-08-06/906/the-heart-of-christ-in-our-weaknesses Sun, 6 Aug 2023 11:30:00 -0400 He Saved Us He Saved Us https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-30/he-saved-us https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-30/905/he-saved-us Sun, 30 Jul 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Sputtering to the End Sputtering to the End https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-23/sputtering-to-the-end As we hit the last section of Gideon’s life, we enter some of the most confusing portions of the account. There are some random events, strange questions, unclear motives and a disappointing end. But, if we move slowly, and hold our conclusions with an open hand, there are three big encouragements we can harvest from this text. As we hit the last section of Gideon’s life, we enter some of the most confusing portions of the account. There are some random events, strange questions, unclear motives and a disappointing end. But, if we move slowly, and hold our conclusions with an open hand, there are three big encouragements we can harvest from this text. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-23/856/sputtering-to-the-end Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:30:00 -0400 How To Kill a Revival How To Kill a Revival https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-16/how-to-kill-a-revival Nothing ruins a good revival like a little sinful fear and jealousy. Just as God is bringing about a great deliverance using weak Gideon and his tiny force of 300, new enemies come on the scene. Fellow Israelites. Few things sting as much as friendly fire and Gideon is busy getting buzzed by these two bees as he tries to finish off God’s enemies. Nothing ruins a good revival like a little sinful fear and jealousy. Just as God is bringing about a great deliverance using weak Gideon and his tiny force of 300, new enemies come on the scene. Fellow Israelites. Few things sting as much as friendly fire and Gideon is busy getting buzzed by these two bees as he tries to finish off God’s enemies. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-16/855/how-to-kill-a-revival Sun, 16 Jul 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Finish Well! Finish Well! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-09/finish-well Much of life is about finishing things well. Your Christian walk is no different. The Galatians were in danger of shipwrecking their faith because they were turning away from the gospel of grace and turning toward a false gospel of works and self reliance. So, in Galatians 3:1-9, the apostles call all Christians to finish their race well by relying on the Holy Spirit and by trusting the Word of God. Much of life is about finishing things well. Your Christian walk is no different. The Galatians were in danger of shipwrecking their faith because they were turning away from the gospel of grace and turning toward a false gospel of works and self reliance. So, in Galatians 3:1-9, the apostles call all Christians to finish their race well by relying on the Holy Spirit and by trusting the Word of God. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-09/854/finish-well Sun, 9 Jul 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Relish the Gospel Relish the Gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-02/relish-the-gospel Have you ever been invited to a big celebration that you were unable to attend? Luke 14:16-24 tells of a banquet that you do not want to miss out on! It is a feast to be relished, and once you have relished it you ought to tell others about it. Have you ever been invited to a big celebration that you were unable to attend? Luke 14:16-24 tells of a banquet that you do not want to miss out on! It is a feast to be relished, and once you have relished it you ought to tell others about it. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-07-02/853/relish-the-gospel Sun, 2 Jul 2023 11:30:00 -0400 How Can You Stand Before a Holy God? How Can You Stand Before a Holy God? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-18/how-can-you-stand-before-a-holy-god Because the Galatians were in danger of deserting the gospel by turning to works, Paul calls them back to the real, true gospel: justification by faith. He reminds them that Christians are declared righteous not by anything that have done, but by what has been done for them through Christ. Because the Galatians were in danger of deserting the gospel by turning to works, Paul calls them back to the real, true gospel: justification by faith. He reminds them that Christians are declared righteous not by anything that have done, but by what has been done for them through Christ. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-18/852/how-can-you-stand-before-a-holy-god Sun, 18 Jun 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Do Whatever it Takes to Protect The True Gospel Do Whatever it Takes to Protect The True Gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-11/do-whatever-it-takes-to-protect-the-true-gospel As the narrative in Galatians continues, the Apostle Paul shows us that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to protect the true gospel. He’s willing to confront and reject not only false teachers, but even another apostle whose conduct didn't match his profession. Paul shows us that the gospel is worthy of protection and that it takes intentional effort to not distort the message of Jesus. As the narrative in Galatians continues, the Apostle Paul shows us that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to protect the true gospel. He’s willing to confront and reject not only false teachers, but even another apostle whose conduct didn't match his profession. Paul shows us that the gospel is worthy of protection and that it takes intentional effort to not distort the message of Jesus. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-11/851/do-whatever-it-takes-to-protect-the-true-gospel Sun, 11 Jun 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Weak Men. Strong God Weak Men. Strong God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-04/weak-men-strong-god God is more concerned about the Object of our faith than the size of it. And this is the lesson all of Israel needs to learn, starting with Gideon. It makes no sense to fight an army unmanned with torches and smashed pottery. Neither did it make any sense to march around the walls of Jericho seven times. God has His own ways of showing His power. We would do well to listen and learn, for it is way better to be numbered among the 300 trumpeters than the thousands of dead! God is more concerned about the Object of our faith than the size of it. And this is the lesson all of Israel needs to learn, starting with Gideon. It makes no sense to fight an army unmanned with torches and smashed pottery. Neither did it make any sense to march around the walls of Jericho seven times. God has His own ways of showing His power. We would do well to listen and learn, for it is way better to be numbered among the 300 trumpeters than the thousands of dead! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-06-04/850/weak-men-strong-god Sun, 4 Jun 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Gideon: a Weak Man and a Strong God Gideon: a Weak Man and a Strong God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-28/gideon-a-weak-man-and-a-strong-god Gideon often gets a bad rap. The whole asking for signs and fleeces and stuff can make it seem like he is one big lump of doubt. Yet we find his name in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. And the Bible does not appear to condemn him for asking God to confirm His commands. While Gideon was weak, he also chose to obey. Maybe that is one big point in his life that we are supposed to learn from. Gideon often gets a bad rap. The whole asking for signs and fleeces and stuff can make it seem like he is one big lump of doubt. Yet we find his name in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. And the Bible does not appear to condemn him for asking God to confirm His commands. While Gideon was weak, he also chose to obey. Maybe that is one big point in his life that we are supposed to learn from. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-28/849/gideon-a-weak-man-and-a-strong-god Sun, 28 May 2023 11:30:00 -0400 What Type of Listener Are You? What Type of Listener Are You? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-21/what-type-of-listener-are-you What's so relevant for the Christian about a story involving sowers, soils, seeds, birds and thorns? A whole lot more than you would think! In Mark 4, Jesus tells a story about soils to help us see the different type of listeners of God's word. He wants you to examine your life and ask the question: What type of listener am I? What's so relevant for the Christian about a story involving sowers, soils, seeds, birds and thorns? A whole lot more than you would think! In Mark 4, Jesus tells a story about soils to help us see the different type of listeners of God's word. He wants you to examine your life and ask the question: What type of listener am I? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-21/848/what-type-of-listener-are-you Sun, 21 May 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Don't Go Camping With a Kenite Don't Go Camping With a Kenite https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-14/dont-go-camping-with-a-kenite There are many puzzling things in the events of Deborah’s judgeship. First off, a female Judge. Then the whole Barak refusing to go to war without her. Not to mention a foreigner woman (Jael) killing Israel’s greatest enemy (Sisera) with a tent peg and a hammer! Why is this history included in our Bibles? Are these people for us to imitate or disdain? There are many puzzling things in the events of Deborah’s judgeship. First off, a female Judge. Then the whole Barak refusing to go to war without her. Not to mention a foreigner woman (Jael) killing Israel’s greatest enemy (Sisera) with a tent peg and a hammer! Why is this history included in our Bibles? Are these people for us to imitate or disdain? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-14/847/dont-go-camping-with-a-kenite Sun, 14 May 2023 11:30:00 -0400 A Trio of Triumphs A Trio of Triumphs https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-07/a-trio-of-triumphs God’s ways often look strange to our eyes. But if all He did was predictable, one might start to think He was nothing more than our projection of what a really big man might do. This God of the Bible delights to use odd people and strange situations and surprising plot twists to show the world, He is God and there is no other. God’s ways often look strange to our eyes. But if all He did was predictable, one might start to think He was nothing more than our projection of what a really big man might do. This God of the Bible delights to use odd people and strange situations and surprising plot twists to show the world, He is God and there is no other. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-05-07/846/a-trio-of-triumphs Sun, 7 May 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Idolatry Schmolatry Idolatry Schmolatry https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-30/idolatry-schmolatry God took His people into the land as promised. They did not avoid the false gods in that land as they promised. In fact, they jumped in to the whole idolatry thing. Why are we so prone to break our promises and devote ourselves to false deities? What appeal do they have? Why do they so easily lure us into their devotion? And what will God do with us when we turn from Him? God took His people into the land as promised. They did not avoid the false gods in that land as they promised. In fact, they jumped in to the whole idolatry thing. Why are we so prone to break our promises and devote ourselves to false deities? What appeal do they have? Why do they so easily lure us into their devotion? And what will God do with us when we turn from Him? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-30/845/idolatry-schmolatry Sun, 30 Apr 2023 11:30:00 -0400 We Need a Saviour We Need a Saviour https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-23/we-need-a-saviour We often fail to realize that the problems of the ancient world are essentially our great problems as well. Not so much in the specifics of time and place, as in the inner workings of the heart. The early parts of the book of Judges can seem like a boring rehearsal of mundane geographical ditties to a casual reader, but we are close readers and thus, there is much for us to learn by considering a place like Aijalon or the odd chariot. Judges teaches us all that we NEED a Saviour. We often fail to realize that the problems of the ancient world are essentially our great problems as well. Not so much in the specifics of time and place, as in the inner workings of the heart. The early parts of the book of Judges can seem like a boring rehearsal of mundane geographical ditties to a casual reader, but we are close readers and thus, there is much for us to learn by considering a place like Aijalon or the odd chariot. Judges teaches us all that we NEED a Saviour. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-23/844/we-need-a-saviour Sun, 23 Apr 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Trust the True Gospel Trust the True Gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-16/trust-the-true-gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-16/843/trust-the-true-gospel Sun, 16 Apr 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Easter? So What? Easter? So What? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-09/easter-so-what Jesus rose from the dead. Who cares? What difference does it make? Any at all? What difference does it make in the warp and woof of real life? How does it change our relationships or the way we handle our money? Does the resurrection really matter all that much? If we are living lives where we just give in to and accept certain sins, can we really claim to be people who have been saved by a resurrected Lord? Jesus rose from the dead. Who cares? What difference does it make? Any at all? What difference does it make in the warp and woof of real life? How does it change our relationships or the way we handle our money? Does the resurrection really matter all that much? If we are living lives where we just give in to and accept certain sins, can we really claim to be people who have been saved by a resurrected Lord? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-09/842/easter-so-what Sun, 9 Apr 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Behold Your Holy God Behold Your Holy God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-02/behold-your-holy-god Have you spent much time thinking about God's holiness? Isaiah's life is forever changed when he sees a vision of His Holy God. God's holiness shows us how great God is, how sinful we are, and how much Christ Jesus has done for us. Have you spent much time thinking about God's holiness? Isaiah's life is forever changed when he sees a vision of His Holy God. God's holiness shows us how great God is, how sinful we are, and how much Christ Jesus has done for us. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-04-02/841/behold-your-holy-god Sun, 2 Apr 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Bless the Lord Bless the Lord https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-26/bless-the-lord Do you talk to yourself? Does your self answer? There might be some very important ways for us to talk to ourselves, rather than listen to our mortal enemy. And when we strike up that conversation, we will do our souls well if we point them to God. King David read his Bible and that prompted a conversation with his own soul. Praise God he let us in on it. For we should all speak to ourselves like this. Do you talk to yourself? Does your self answer? There might be some very important ways for us to talk to ourselves, rather than listen to our mortal enemy. And when we strike up that conversation, we will do our souls well if we point them to God. King David read his Bible and that prompted a conversation with his own soul. Praise God he let us in on it. For we should all speak to ourselves like this. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-26/840/bless-the-lord Sun, 26 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0400 Bringing it All Together Bringing it All Together https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-19/bringing-it-all-together God in His kindness has given us a lot of instruction about how to follow Him in this world. Central to that sojourn is life in the gathering of fellow Christians. What we refer to as, “The Church.” After unpacking many key features of that life, now is the time to sew it all together and paint a picture of what life under the sun for lovers of the Son looks like. God in His kindness has given us a lot of instruction about how to follow Him in this world. Central to that sojourn is life in the gathering of fellow Christians. What we refer to as, “The Church.” After unpacking many key features of that life, now is the time to sew it all together and paint a picture of what life under the sun for lovers of the Son looks like. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-19/839/bringing-it-all-together Sun, 19 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0400 How To Pray for Your Pastor How To Pray for Your Pastor https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-12/how-to-pray-for-your-pastor https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-12/838/how-to-pray-for-your-pastor Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Live Free Live Free https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-05/live-free In Galatians, the Apostle Paul corrects a major issue in the Galatian church—they were running the risk of distorting the gospel by adding to it. But Paul says that gospel addition actually leads to freedom restriction. In the first few verses of his letter, he gives us a preview of the rest of the book: gospel freedom and the one who brings it! In Galatians, the Apostle Paul corrects a major issue in the Galatian church—they were running the risk of distorting the gospel by adding to it. But Paul says that gospel addition actually leads to freedom restriction. In the first few verses of his letter, he gives us a preview of the rest of the book: gospel freedom and the one who brings it! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-03-05/837/live-free Sun, 5 Mar 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Deacons Deacons https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-26/deacons Deacons are qualified, model servants who assist the elders by: guarding the elders’ ministry of Prayer and Word; organizing the church’s service to others (especially to the needy); and seeking to preserve church unity. Deacons are qualified, model servants who assist the elders by: guarding the elders’ ministry of Prayer and Word; organizing the church’s service to others (especially to the needy); and seeking to preserve church unity. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-26/836/deacons Sun, 26 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Elders, Members and Authority Elders, Members and Authority https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-19/elders-members-and-authority Authority gets a bad rap in our culture. We fail to realize that the problem is not with people having authority, but in it being used inappropriately. After all, where would the world go if no one was in charge? In Christ’s church, both the members and the elders have an authority to exercise. Getting clarity on the realm of that authority is essential for the unified, thriving work of an elder-led, congregational church. Authority gets a bad rap in our culture. We fail to realize that the problem is not with people having authority, but in it being used inappropriately. After all, where would the world go if no one was in charge? In Christ’s church, both the members and the elders have an authority to exercise. Getting clarity on the realm of that authority is essential for the unified, thriving work of an elder-led, congregational church. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-19/835/elders-members-and-authority Sun, 19 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0500 The Only Son of His Mother The Only Son of His Mother https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-12/the-only-son-of-his-mother https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-12/834/the-only-son-of-his-mother Sun, 12 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Paul in Thessalonica Paul in Thessalonica https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-05/paul-in-thessalonica https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-02-05/833/paul-in-thessalonica Sun, 5 Feb 2023 11:30:00 -0500 Courage! Courage! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-29/courage God calls His people to live by the Truth He has revealed in His Word. And sometimes this means that you will have to do something hard. That takes courage. Godly courage. And that is what this sermon is all about. God calls His people to live by the Truth He has revealed in His Word. And sometimes this means that you will have to do something hard. That takes courage. Godly courage. And that is what this sermon is all about. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-29/832/courage Sun, 29 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0500 I Hold You In My Heart I Hold You In My Heart https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-22/i-hold-you-in-my-heart Pastor Steve Kim's last sermon at Grace Fellowship Church. Pastor Steve Kim's last sermon at Grace Fellowship Church. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-22/831/i-hold-you-in-my-heart Sun, 22 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0500 The Lord’s Supper, Part Three The Lord’s Supper, Part Three https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-15/the-lord-s-supper-part-three Some of the big remaining questions surrounding the Lord’s Supper have to do with what we eat and drink and who joins us at the table. Bread or potato chips? Grape juice or wine? Members of the church alone, or guests as well? Some of the big remaining questions surrounding the Lord’s Supper have to do with what we eat and drink and who joins us at the table. Bread or potato chips? Grape juice or wine? Members of the church alone, or guests as well? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-15/830/the-lord-s-supper-part-three Sun, 15 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0500 The Lord’s Supper, Part Two The Lord’s Supper, Part Two https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-08/the-lord-s-supper-part-two What should a person actually do or think about when they are participating in the Lord’s Supper? How should we think of those we are taking the Supper with? What does Jesus mean when He tells us to eat and drink “in remembrance of” Him? Is the Supper just a spiritual trip down memory lane? What should a person actually do or think about when they are participating in the Lord’s Supper? How should we think of those we are taking the Supper with? What does Jesus mean when He tells us to eat and drink “in remembrance of” Him? Is the Supper just a spiritual trip down memory lane? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-08/829/the-lord-s-supper-part-two Sun, 8 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0500 A How-To Guide For Living As Exiles A How-To Guide For Living As Exiles https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-01/a-how-to-guide-for-living-as-exiles Ever feel like you don’t quite fit in? Do you struggle to align with the world around you? Well, there’s a reason for that. As God’s people, we are strangers and exiles living in a land that is not our permanent home—we’re awaiting our heavenly promise land! 1 Peter 2:1-12 is a How-To Guide to help us faithfully navigate this world as pilgrims who are just passing through. Ever feel like you don’t quite fit in? Do you struggle to align with the world around you? Well, there’s a reason for that. As God’s people, we are strangers and exiles living in a land that is not our permanent home—we’re awaiting our heavenly promise land! 1 Peter 2:1-12 is a How-To Guide to help us faithfully navigate this world as pilgrims who are just passing through. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2023-01-01/828/a-how-to-guide-for-living-as-exiles Sun, 1 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0500 The Purpose of the Incarnation: Adoption The Purpose of the Incarnation: Adoption https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-25/the-purpose-of-the-incarnation-adoption When we think about what Christmas is all about, we think about the birth of Jesus Christ. But why was Christ born? What did he come to do? Galatians 4 shows us that the purpose of the incarnation of Jesus Christ was our adoption in God’s family. When we think about what Christmas is all about, we think about the birth of Jesus Christ. But why was Christ born? What did he come to do? Galatians 4 shows us that the purpose of the incarnation of Jesus Christ was our adoption in God’s family. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-25/827/the-purpose-of-the-incarnation-adoption Sun, 25 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Lord’s Supper, Part One The Lord’s Supper, Part One https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-18/the-lord-s-supper-part-one The Lord’s Supper is not some random church thing that we can do however we want. It has purpose and meaning and comes with a User Manual. So, we need to see how this ordinance fits into the history of our redemption and look at a couple of ways we easily mess that up. The Lord’s Supper is not some random church thing that we can do however we want. It has purpose and meaning and comes with a User Manual. So, we need to see how this ordinance fits into the history of our redemption and look at a couple of ways we easily mess that up. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-18/826/the-lord-s-supper-part-one Sun, 18 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Three C’s of Elder-led Congregational Churches The Three C’s of Elder-led Congregational Churches https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-11/the-three-c-s-of-elder-led-congregational-churches When you show up to play a game you love, you rarely do so with the rule book under one arm. We assume we are all playing the same game and in the same way, but rule books and codes of conduct become very important when someone on the field or ice or court is acting outside the expected way. Confessions, covenants and constitutions — the three C’s of local church life — help us to stay on course to finish well. When you show up to play a game you love, you rarely do so with the rule book under one arm. We assume we are all playing the same game and in the same way, but rule books and codes of conduct become very important when someone on the field or ice or court is acting outside the expected way. Confessions, covenants and constitutions — the three C’s of local church life — help us to stay on course to finish well. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-11/825/the-three-c-s-of-elder-led-congregational-churches Sun, 11 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Jesus’ Example and Call to Mission Jesus’ Example and Call to Mission https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-04/jesus-example-and-call-to-mission https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-12-04/824/jesus-example-and-call-to-mission Sun, 4 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Membership: The Biblical Basis for Local Church Membership Membership: The Biblical Basis for Local Church Membership https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-27/membership-the-biblical-basis-for-local-church-membership Is local church membership Biblical? Where is it in the Bible? The word “membership” may not be in the Bible, but that doesn’t mean the concept is not there. A careful reading of the Scriptures will show that local church membership is regularly assumed and implied in the New Testament. Is local church membership Biblical? Where is it in the Bible? The word “membership” may not be in the Bible, but that doesn’t mean the concept is not there. A careful reading of the Scriptures will show that local church membership is regularly assumed and implied in the New Testament. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-27/823/membership-the-biblical-basis-for-local-church-membership Sun, 27 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Fortify Yourself with the Grace of Jesus Christ Fortify Yourself with the Grace of Jesus Christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-20/fortify-yourself-with-the-grace-of-jesus-christ For the sake of the elect, we entrust the Gospel to faithful men, and send them with the grace of Jesus Christ. The Word of God is not bound, and the strength of the grace of Christ Jesus is more than enough. For the sake of the elect, we entrust the Gospel to faithful men, and send them with the grace of Jesus Christ. The Word of God is not bound, and the strength of the grace of Christ Jesus is more than enough. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-20/822/fortify-yourself-with-the-grace-of-jesus-christ Sun, 20 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Membership: The Job Description of Every Member Membership: The Job Description of Every Member https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-13/membership-the-job-description-of-every-member The local church is made up of members. These men and women have been bound together by their shared belief in the Gospel and their faithful obedience to Christ. Knowing their responsibilities as members will help them all to function at the top of their game. The local church is made up of members. These men and women have been bound together by their shared belief in the Gospel and their faithful obedience to Christ. Knowing their responsibilities as members will help them all to function at the top of their game. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-13/821/membership-the-job-description-of-every-member Sun, 13 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Baptism: Its Meaning Baptism: Its Meaning https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-06/baptism-its-meaning Every baptism is an opportunity to understand your own baptism better, and to rejoice anew in what God did for you. The more we grasp what is being signified, the more blessed we will be as a church and the more our collective joy in God’s saving work will glorify His Name. Every baptism is an opportunity to understand your own baptism better, and to rejoice anew in what God did for you. The more we grasp what is being signified, the more blessed we will be as a church and the more our collective joy in God’s saving work will glorify His Name. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-11-06/820/baptism-its-meaning Sun, 6 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Be a Good Pastor Be a Good Pastor https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-30/be-a-good-pastor Elder installation service. Elder installation service. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-30/819/be-a-good-pastor Sun, 30 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400 The Church: Baptism The Church: Baptism https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-23/the-church-baptism The local church is a group of saved people who identify with one another and seek to glorify God by regularly gathering together to: worship Him and proclaim His Word; affirm one another’s profession of faith by the right practice of baptism and the Lord’s Supper; and, display to the world His gospel by their authentic love. The local church is a group of saved people who identify with one another and seek to glorify God by regularly gathering together to: worship Him and proclaim His Word; affirm one another’s profession of faith by the right practice of baptism and the Lord’s Supper; and, display to the world His gospel by their authentic love. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-23/818/the-church-baptism Sun, 23 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400 What is a Church? What is a Church? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-16/what-is-a-church It is quite possible that one of the most beautiful portraits of one local church is found in Acts 2:42-47. In those early days of the first Christians, so many things were going right and it was, indeed, beautiful. But one has to ask what commitments were running in the background for these results? What had God revealed and what were they living out that bought about such rich fellowship and warm devotion to Christ? Perhaps no church will reach this ideal stage if they do not build from the right foundation. It is quite possible that one of the most beautiful portraits of one local church is found in Acts 2:42-47. In those early days of the first Christians, so many things were going right and it was, indeed, beautiful. But one has to ask what commitments were running in the background for these results? What had God revealed and what were they living out that bought about such rich fellowship and warm devotion to Christ? Perhaps no church will reach this ideal stage if they do not build from the right foundation. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-16/817/what-is-a-church Sun, 16 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400 The Thief on The Cross The Thief on The Cross https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-09/the-thief-on-the-cross There are only two ways to live. There are only two kinds of people. There are only two possible destinies for all humankind. And standing in the middle of that fork in the road is a cross. Which side are you on? There are only two ways to live. There are only two kinds of people. There are only two possible destinies for all humankind. And standing in the middle of that fork in the road is a cross. Which side are you on? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-09/816/the-thief-on-the-cross Sun, 9 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live a Life of Good Works Live a Life of Good Works https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-02/live-a-life-of-good-works The Lord Jesus Christ saved his people to be zealous for good works. That does not mean only the good works that are easy to do, but the difficult ones as well, such as lovingly rebuking a brother or sister in sin. The Christian life is filled with many hardships, but the Lord gives us his peace, presence, and grace. The Lord Jesus Christ saved his people to be zealous for good works. That does not mean only the good works that are easy to do, but the difficult ones as well, such as lovingly rebuking a brother or sister in sin. The Christian life is filled with many hardships, but the Lord gives us his peace, presence, and grace. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-10-02/815/live-a-life-of-good-works Sun, 2 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted for Righteousness' Sake Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted for Righteousness' Sake https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-25/blessed-are-those-who-are-persecuted-for-righteousness-sake esus rounds out His remarkable Beatitudes with a surprise twist at the end. This upside-down Kingdom living will not result in everything being lovely and wonderful through life. It may result in the exact opposite. But the path He calls us to is the path He trod. And in our submission to His ways, we will learn what true happiness is all about. esus rounds out His remarkable Beatitudes with a surprise twist at the end. This upside-down Kingdom living will not result in everything being lovely and wonderful through life. It may result in the exact opposite. But the path He calls us to is the path He trod. And in our submission to His ways, we will learn what true happiness is all about. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-25/814/blessed-are-those-who-are-persecuted-for-righteousness-sake Sun, 25 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Do Not Live a Disorderly Life Do Not Live a Disorderly Life https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-18/do-not-live-a-disorderly-life Idleness may not sound like a big deal, but it is a sin that Paul takes very seriously. In response to the present idleness in the life of the church, Paul employs some drastic measures in order to purge the church of this sin. Idleness may not sound like a big deal, but it is a sin that Paul takes very seriously. In response to the present idleness in the life of the church, Paul employs some drastic measures in order to purge the church of this sin. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-18/813/do-not-live-a-disorderly-life Sun, 18 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live By Praying to Your Faithful God Live By Praying to Your Faithful God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-11/live-by-praying-to-your-faithful-god God’s work to advance the gospel and build his kingdom must be done with God’s power. That is why Paul asks the Thessalonians to pray for his missionary work. The Lord is faithful and we can look to him to do what he promised to do. God’s work to advance the gospel and build his kingdom must be done with God’s power. That is why Paul asks the Thessalonians to pray for his missionary work. The Lord is faithful and we can look to him to do what he promised to do. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-11/812/live-by-praying-to-your-faithful-god Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live by Holding Fast to Truth Live by Holding Fast to Truth https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-04/live-by-holding-fast-to-truth Living in this world can feel a lot like being on a boat in the middle of a storm. When the strong winds and high waves of life hit you hard, what you need to do is hold on to something secure. In this passage, the apostle Paul calls on the Thessalonians to hold on to the truth of God’s Word. It is the only thing secure enough to keep Christians safe in the of storms of life. Living in this world can feel a lot like being on a boat in the middle of a storm. When the strong winds and high waves of life hit you hard, what you need to do is hold on to something secure. In this passage, the apostle Paul calls on the Thessalonians to hold on to the truth of God’s Word. It is the only thing secure enough to keep Christians safe in the of storms of life. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-09-04/811/live-by-holding-fast-to-truth Sun, 4 Sep 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Trust God in the Midst of Darkness Trust God in the Midst of Darkness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-28/trust-god-in-the-midst-of-darkness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-28/810/trust-god-in-the-midst-of-darkness Sun, 28 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Become What You Are Become What You Are https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-21/become-what-you-are https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-21/809/become-what-you-are Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed Are the Peacemakers Blessed Are the Peacemakers https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-14/blessed-are-the-peacemakers Are you a peacemaker or a troublemaker? God's kingdom values peace. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and he calls his kingdom citizens to be people of peace. Are you a peacemaker or a troublemaker? God's kingdom values peace. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and he calls his kingdom citizens to be people of peace. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-14/807/blessed-are-the-peacemakers Sun, 14 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed Are the Pure in Heart Blessed Are the Pure in Heart https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-07/blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart Christians belong to an upside down kingdom. In this kingdom, what matters is not the outer appearance of a person, but the inner posture of the heart. This morning, we are going to see what it means for the pure in heart to see God. Christians belong to an upside down kingdom. In this kingdom, what matters is not the outer appearance of a person, but the inner posture of the heart. This morning, we are going to see what it means for the pure in heart to see God. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-08-07/805/blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart Sun, 7 Aug 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live With a Clear Knowledge of the Truth Live With a Clear Knowledge of the Truth https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-31/live-with-a-clear-knowledge-of-the-truth The safeguard against deception is to hold fast to the truth. The remedy against fake news is to simply remember the real news. Paul writes this passage to the Thessalonians in order to correct them and comfort them in their confusion. The safeguard against deception is to hold fast to the truth. The remedy against fake news is to simply remember the real news. Paul writes this passage to the Thessalonians in order to correct them and comfort them in their confusion. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-31/804/live-with-a-clear-knowledge-of-the-truth Sun, 31 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live with Hope in the Glorious Return of Christ Live with Hope in the Glorious Return of Christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-24/live-with-hope-in-the-glorious-return-of-christ Suffering is an indelible mark of Christianity. It is the path that leads to future glory. But that does not mean it is easy to endure suffering. What Christians need in this world is hope, which comes from fixing their eyes on the glorious return of the Lord Jesus Christ, who will right every wrong and execute perfect justice and righteousness. Suffering is an indelible mark of Christianity. It is the path that leads to future glory. But that does not mean it is easy to endure suffering. What Christians need in this world is hope, which comes from fixing their eyes on the glorious return of the Lord Jesus Christ, who will right every wrong and execute perfect justice and righteousness. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-24/803/live-with-hope-in-the-glorious-return-of-christ Sun, 24 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Where is Your God? Where is Your God? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-17/where-is-your-god https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-17/802/where-is-your-god Sun, 17 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live a God-Honouring Life Live a God-Honouring Life https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-10/live-a-god-honouring-life Despite persecution, the grace of God enabled the church of Thessalonica to grow in faith, love, and perseverance. This moved Paul to give thanks to the Lord. The Thessalonians serve as a good example of how to live a God-honouring life. Despite persecution, the grace of God enabled the church of Thessalonica to grow in faith, love, and perseverance. This moved Paul to give thanks to the Lord. The Thessalonians serve as a good example of how to live a God-honouring life. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-10/801/live-a-god-honouring-life Sun, 10 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Live a Life United to God Live a Life United to God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-03/live-a-life-united-to-god Having a clear and correct vision of the return of Christ changes how one lives in the present. This persecuted church was confused about the when the Lord would return and it left them anxious and worried. Paul wrote this second letter in order to comfort, correct, and challenge them to live in light of the Lord’s return. Having a clear and correct vision of the return of Christ changes how one lives in the present. This persecuted church was confused about the when the Lord would return and it left them anxious and worried. Paul wrote this second letter in order to comfort, correct, and challenge them to live in light of the Lord’s return. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-07-03/800/live-a-life-united-to-god Sun, 3 Jul 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in God Through Rest Delight in God Through Rest https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-26/delight-in-god-through-rest The notion of rest sounds like music to the ears of a busy Canadian. Our lives are pounded with expectations and we rarely slow down long enough to engage with God. Perhaps this is due to our lack of comprehension of what it means to be saved? Have we entered into the Father’s rest? Are we living lives that depend on His endless grace to keep busy with good works? Are we doing our work now, in His strength, striving to get to that ultimate rest with Him forever? The notion of rest sounds like music to the ears of a busy Canadian. Our lives are pounded with expectations and we rarely slow down long enough to engage with God. Perhaps this is due to our lack of comprehension of what it means to be saved? Have we entered into the Father’s rest? Are we living lives that depend on His endless grace to keep busy with good works? Are we doing our work now, in His strength, striving to get to that ultimate rest with Him forever? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-26/799/delight-in-god-through-rest Sun, 26 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in God Through What He Has Made Delight in God Through What He Has Made https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-19/delight-in-god-through-what-he-has-made The things God has made tell us about Him. Not enough to get us to heaven, but enough to prove to us He exists. The written Word He has given the world is enough for the heaven part. All one need do is read about Christ and obey the Gospel to be saved. But once saved, that person enters into the joy of delighting in God THROUGH all He has made. We move from worshipping the created, to delighting in our Creator. The things God has made tell us about Him. Not enough to get us to heaven, but enough to prove to us He exists. The written Word He has given the world is enough for the heaven part. All one need do is read about Christ and obey the Gospel to be saved. But once saved, that person enters into the joy of delighting in God THROUGH all He has made. We move from worshipping the created, to delighting in our Creator. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-19/798/delight-in-god-through-what-he-has-made Sun, 19 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in the Faithful God Delight in the Faithful God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-12/delight-in-the-faithful-god It can be difficult to believe that God is for you when it seems like everything in life is against you. However, an old shepherd knew the good Shepherd in ways that proved God is always wise. It can be difficult to believe that God is for you when it seems like everything in life is against you. However, an old shepherd knew the good Shepherd in ways that proved God is always wise. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-12/797/delight-in-the-faithful-god Sun, 12 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in the Eternal God Delight in the Eternal God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-05/delight-in-the-eternal-god https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-06-05/796/delight-in-the-eternal-god Sun, 5 Jun 2022 11:30:00 -0400 God and His Gospel God and His Gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-29/god-and-his-gospel One of the sweet joys of any local church is the privilege of sending men and women to different places in the world in order to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. This has been the case for over 2000 years and the New Testament provides us an excellent model to follow. One of the sweet joys of any local church is the privilege of sending men and women to different places in the world in order to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. This has been the case for over 2000 years and the New Testament provides us an excellent model to follow. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-29/795/god-and-his-gospel Sun, 29 May 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Who Delights in the Lord? Who Delights in the Lord? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-22/who-delights-in-the-lord The idea of delighting in God might feel foreign to you, unless you have read your Bible carefully. It seems that every page is urging us to make God our greatest treasure and to do so in a relationally honest kind of way. In Psalm 73, we read of a man who almost missed this point entirely. He almost spent his life trying to complain his way into heaven. God would have none of that. And praise Him for it! The idea of delighting in God might feel foreign to you, unless you have read your Bible carefully. It seems that every page is urging us to make God our greatest treasure and to do so in a relationally honest kind of way. In Psalm 73, we read of a man who almost missed this point entirely. He almost spent his life trying to complain his way into heaven. God would have none of that. And praise Him for it! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-22/794/who-delights-in-the-lord Sun, 22 May 2022 11:30:00 -0400 The Pride of the Disciples and the Mercy of Christ The Pride of the Disciples and the Mercy of Christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-15/the-pride-of-the-disciples-and-the-mercy-of-christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-15/793/the-pride-of-the-disciples-and-the-mercy-of-christ Sun, 15 May 2022 11:30:00 -0400 The Parable of the Prodigal Son The Parable of the Prodigal Son https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-08/the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-08/792/the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son Sun, 8 May 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in God Through Honesty, Death and Contact Delight in God Through Honesty, Death and Contact https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-01/delight-in-god-through-honesty-death-and-contact It is all fine and good to talk about delighting in God. But what if in the midst of that we forget the simplest bits at the very foundation of the concept? We need to be sure that we have our baseline in place before we begin to reach for the heights. It is all fine and good to talk about delighting in God. But what if in the midst of that we forget the simplest bits at the very foundation of the concept? We need to be sure that we have our baseline in place before we begin to reach for the heights. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-05-01/791/delight-in-god-through-honesty-death-and-contact Sun, 1 May 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Love Each Other Love Each Other https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-24/love-each-other Our world feels like it is divided now as much as ever. With so many things to disagree about, it is no wonder that many in our society find it hard to get along. In the midst of widespread disunity, the church of Christ is to be different. We are not to be marked by our differences, but by our mutual Love for Jesus, and our mutual Love for each other. Love is to be the great identifier of the people of God.  Our world feels like it is divided now as much as ever. With so many things to disagree about, it is no wonder that many in our society find it hard to get along. In the midst of widespread disunity, the church of Christ is to be different. We are not to be marked by our differences, but by our mutual Love for Jesus, and our mutual Love for each other. Love is to be the great identifier of the people of God.  https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-24/790/love-each-other Sun, 24 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Delight in God Leads to Contentment in Life Delight in God Leads to Contentment in Life https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-17/delight-in-god-leads-to-contentment-in-life God is not, nor has He ever been, discontent. There has never been, nor will there ever be, a moment God grows bored, frustrated or unfulfilled. So the more we live our lives IN HIM, the more we will enjoy Him and be satisfied IN HIM every day. This is the secret that leads to true contentment, regardless of what life throws at us. God is not, nor has He ever been, discontent. There has never been, nor will there ever be, a moment God grows bored, frustrated or unfulfilled. So the more we live our lives IN HIM, the more we will enjoy Him and be satisfied IN HIM every day. This is the secret that leads to true contentment, regardless of what life throws at us. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-17/789/delight-in-god-leads-to-contentment-in-life Sun, 17 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Guarding Your Heart Guarding Your Heart https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-10/guarding-your-heart https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-10/788/guarding-your-heart Sun, 10 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Homesick for the Lord Homesick for the Lord https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-03/homesick-for-the-lord People long to find happiness, but if we look for happiness in the perishable things of this world, our hearts will ultimately be left unsatisfied. The pursuit of infinite happiness is the pursuit of the one true living God. People long to find happiness, but if we look for happiness in the perishable things of this world, our hearts will ultimately be left unsatisfied. The pursuit of infinite happiness is the pursuit of the one true living God. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-04-03/787/homesick-for-the-lord Sun, 3 Apr 2022 11:30:00 -0400 How to Delight in God When Life is Hard How to Delight in God When Life is Hard https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-27/how-to-delight-in-god-when-life-is-hard Life is hard. There is just no way around it. This world is not our home. Yet, God has called on us to delight in Him throughout the trials and troubles. How do we actually do that? David lays out an excellent pattern to show us exactly how he learned to rejoice in God, even when life hurt. We do well to learn from his example. Life is hard. There is just no way around it. This world is not our home. Yet, God has called on us to delight in Him throughout the trials and troubles. How do we actually do that? David lays out an excellent pattern to show us exactly how he learned to rejoice in God, even when life hurt. We do well to learn from his example. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-27/786/how-to-delight-in-god-when-life-is-hard Sun, 27 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Forgive Others Because You Have Been Forgiven More Forgive Others Because You Have Been Forgiven More https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-20/forgive-others-because-you-have-been-forgiven-more There is no way to navigate through this fallen world without sinning or being sinned against. That makes extending forgiveness one of the most vital practises of the Christian life. Jesus understood this, and knew how remarkable His own example was in empowering us to forgive from the heart those that sin against us. There is no way to navigate through this fallen world without sinning or being sinned against. That makes extending forgiveness one of the most vital practises of the Christian life. Jesus understood this, and knew how remarkable His own example was in empowering us to forgive from the heart those that sin against us. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-20/785/forgive-others-because-you-have-been-forgiven-more Sun, 20 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0400 Overview of Amos Overview of Amos https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-13/overview-of-amos There are lots of ways to read the Bible. One of the worst is to avoid the hard parts and cherry pick words and phrases that you think you understand. But there is profit for one who digs to understand what the text means by what is says. Having looked at every verse in Amos, we take a step back and up to view the message of the book as a whole. Having seen the intricacies, we can better appreciate the big idea. And that big idea leaves us needing God more than ever There are lots of ways to read the Bible. One of the worst is to avoid the hard parts and cherry pick words and phrases that you think you understand. But there is profit for one who digs to understand what the text means by what is says. Having looked at every verse in Amos, we take a step back and up to view the message of the book as a whole. Having seen the intricacies, we can better appreciate the big idea. And that big idea leaves us needing God more than ever https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-13/784/overview-of-amos Sun, 13 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Last Roar The Last Roar https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-06/the-last-roar The sound of the school bell might bring good news or bad. Good news if it signals the day is done and you can finally get outside and play. Bad news if it means your time to write the test is over... and you are not done. When the last trumpet sounds, will it signal joy or despair to you? Amos looks at that day and sounds a final warning. There is only one way to be ready. The sound of the school bell might bring good news or bad. Good news if it signals the day is done and you can finally get outside and play. Bad news if it means your time to write the test is over... and you are not done. When the last trumpet sounds, will it signal joy or despair to you? Amos looks at that day and sounds a final warning. There is only one way to be ready. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-03-06/783/the-last-roar Sun, 6 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Serve Because You’ve Been Served Serve Because You’ve Been Served https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-27/serve-because-you-ve-been-served Acts of service are a normal yet radical part of everyday life. The person who has been served often becomes a servant themselves. The Scripture shows us that Jesus is the greatest servant of all, and that those who have experienced and understood His goodness towards them, will in turn, live out a life service to those around them. Acts of service are a normal yet radical part of everyday life. The person who has been served often becomes a servant themselves. The Scripture shows us that Jesus is the greatest servant of all, and that those who have experienced and understood His goodness towards them, will in turn, live out a life service to those around them. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-27/782/serve-because-you-ve-been-served Sun, 27 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0500 To Tell the Truth To Tell the Truth https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-20/to-tell-the-truth To have godly courage, one must be sure that what they are doing or saying is rooted in God’s truth: The Bible. Which means that the more we know His Word, the more we will be able to move confidently and humbly through our days. To have godly courage, one must be sure that what they are doing or saying is rooted in God’s truth: The Bible. Which means that the more we know His Word, the more we will be able to move confidently and humbly through our days. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-20/781/to-tell-the-truth Sun, 20 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Silent Killer The Silent Killer https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-13/the-silent-killer Some have argued that pride is the root of all sins. If that is true, then we ought to be living with a healthy fear of never letting pride take root in our hearts. That would be easy if it knocked at the door of our hearts before entering, but pride is a silent killer. It climbs in stealthily and spreads its poison discretely. Maybe one of the reasons we will always have the poor with us, is to give us an opportunity to work at our own humility. Some have argued that pride is the root of all sins. If that is true, then we ought to be living with a healthy fear of never letting pride take root in our hearts. That would be easy if it knocked at the door of our hearts before entering, but pride is a silent killer. It climbs in stealthily and spreads its poison discretely. Maybe one of the reasons we will always have the poor with us, is to give us an opportunity to work at our own humility. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-13/780/the-silent-killer Sun, 13 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Endure Faithfully Until the End Endure Faithfully Until the End https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-06/endure-faithfully-until-the-end The way of Christ is radically different from the ways of the world. We as Christians are called to live in joyful obedience to the Word of God and endure faithfully until the end. This can feel like a daunting task, but we can take heart knowing that God has not left us alone. He promises to sanctify us and keep us until Christ calls us home. Our God is faithful. The way of Christ is radically different from the ways of the world. We as Christians are called to live in joyful obedience to the Word of God and endure faithfully until the end. This can feel like a daunting task, but we can take heart knowing that God has not left us alone. He promises to sanctify us and keep us until Christ calls us home. Our God is faithful. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-02-06/779/endure-faithfully-until-the-end Sun, 6 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Prepare for the Return of Christ Prepare for the Return of Christ https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-30/prepare-for-the-return-of-christ There are people who love to predict when this world will come to an end. The reality is, no one knows but God alone. Jesus could come back in any moment and the question we have to ask ourselves is this: Am I prepared for the return of the Lord? In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Paul teaches the saints how to be prepared and ready for the second coming of Christ.  There are people who love to predict when this world will come to an end. The reality is, no one knows but God alone. Jesus could come back in any moment and the question we have to ask ourselves is this: Am I prepared for the return of the Lord? In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Paul teaches the saints how to be prepared and ready for the second coming of Christ.  https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-30/778/prepare-for-the-return-of-christ Sun, 30 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Lion Has Roared; Who Will Not Fear? The Lion Has Roared; Who Will Not Fear? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-23/the-lion-has-roared-who-will-not-fear It is never easy to hear about your sins. We don’t mind delving in to the failings of others, but it is quite another thing to have our worst offences paraded across the evening news. Amos shows up in Israel and levels judgment on the family of God. It is direct, forceful and pointed. But, even in the courtroom of God there is room to repent. It is never easy to hear about your sins. We don’t mind delving in to the failings of others, but it is quite another thing to have our worst offences paraded across the evening news. Amos shows up in Israel and levels judgment on the family of God. It is direct, forceful and pointed. But, even in the courtroom of God there is room to repent. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-23/777/the-lion-has-roared-who-will-not-fear Sun, 23 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0500 The Roar of the Lion The Roar of the Lion https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-16/the-roar-of-the-lion If you’ve been to the zoo you might have been startled by the roar of a lion. Imagine how you would have felt had there been no bars or walls separating you from him! There came a time in Israel’s history where God showed up and roared His displeasure with His people. This was more than startling. It was terrifying. But, He did it in order to call His people back into humble fellowship with Him. That same roar echoes down to us today. If you’ve been to the zoo you might have been startled by the roar of a lion. Imagine how you would have felt had there been no bars or walls separating you from him! There came a time in Israel’s history where God showed up and roared His displeasure with His people. This was more than startling. It was terrifying. But, He did it in order to call His people back into humble fellowship with Him. That same roar echoes down to us today. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-16/776/the-roar-of-the-lion Sun, 16 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Thriving as a Christian Thriving as a Christian https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-09/thriving-as-a-christian Whether you’ve been a Christian for decades or for little over a year, it’s right and natural for you to wonder, “How do I develop as a believer? How do I mature in godliness? How do I thrive as a Christian?” In John 15:1-11, in answer to these very questions, Christ declared that the key to flourishing and fruitfulness was not a technique, system, or place, but a person. That person is Christ, and the way to thrive as a believer is to stay close to him. Whether you’ve been a Christian for decades or for little over a year, it’s right and natural for you to wonder, “How do I develop as a believer? How do I mature in godliness? How do I thrive as a Christian?” In John 15:1-11, in answer to these very questions, Christ declared that the key to flourishing and fruitfulness was not a technique, system, or place, but a person. That person is Christ, and the way to thrive as a believer is to stay close to him. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-09/775/thriving-as-a-christian Sun, 9 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Blessed are the Merciful Blessed are the Merciful https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-02/blessed-are-the-merciful One of the most prominent themes of Jesus' life was mercy--he showed mercy to those who were in desperate physical need and to those who were in desperate spiritual need. It is little surprise, then, that as he describes the values of his upside down Kingdom, he says, "blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." One of the most prominent themes of Jesus' life was mercy--he showed mercy to those who were in desperate physical need and to those who were in desperate spiritual need. It is little surprise, then, that as he describes the values of his upside down Kingdom, he says, "blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2022-01-02/774/blessed-are-the-merciful Sun, 2 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Love Jesus Because He is God Love Jesus Because He is God https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-26/love-jesus-because-he-is-god The apostle John tells us that the reason why he wrote his gospel: so that you would know that Jesus is God, and that by believing in Him you may have eternal life. Friend, eternal life is near! Love Jesus because He is God and He is worthy of our highest affection. The apostle John tells us that the reason why he wrote his gospel: so that you would know that Jesus is God, and that by believing in Him you may have eternal life. Friend, eternal life is near! Love Jesus because He is God and He is worthy of our highest affection. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-26/773/love-jesus-because-he-is-god Sun, 26 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0500 What Jesus Did: He Gave His Life as a Ransom What Jesus Did: He Gave His Life as a Ransom https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-19/what-jesus-did-he-gave-his-life-as-a-ransom Although Jesus was in a position to be served by others, he showed his disciples by word and action that he came into the world to serve others. He would ultimately do this by his death on the cross. Although Jesus was in a position to be served by others, he showed his disciples by word and action that he came into the world to serve others. He would ultimately do this by his death on the cross. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-19/772/what-jesus-did-he-gave-his-life-as-a-ransom Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0500 What is Jesus Like? He is Gentle and Lowly. What is Jesus Like? He is Gentle and Lowly. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-12/what-is-jesus-like-he-is-gentle-and-lowly There is only one place in the Gospels that speaks about what the heart of Christ is like. Jesus calls people to come to him because he is gentle and lowly in heart, and in him we find rest for our souls. There is only one place in the Gospels that speaks about what the heart of Christ is like. Jesus calls people to come to him because he is gentle and lowly in heart, and in him we find rest for our souls. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-12/771/what-is-jesus-like-he-is-gentle-and-lowly Sun, 12 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Endure With Hope Because of the Resurrection Endure With Hope Because of the Resurrection https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-05/endure-with-hope-because-of-the-resurrection When a Christian dies in this world, what happens? Where are they now? Are they okay? Will we ever see them again? These are some important questions to think about, and it seems like the Thessalonians were unclear about what happens to the Christian dead. So in order to give them real hope and good courage, Paul informs them about the glorious resurrection to come when Christ returns. When a Christian dies in this world, what happens? Where are they now? Are they okay? Will we ever see them again? These are some important questions to think about, and it seems like the Thessalonians were unclear about what happens to the Christian dead. So in order to give them real hope and good courage, Paul informs them about the glorious resurrection to come when Christ returns. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-12-05/769/endure-with-hope-because-of-the-resurrection Sun, 5 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Delight in Your God (Part Two) Delight in Your God (Part Two) https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-28/delight-in-your-god-part-two In Paul’s second prayer in Ephesians, he continues to ask God to do some remarkable things. These are not puny prayers. They are somewhat audacious. We do well to lean in to what he asks in order to instruct us on how to pray for each other. Specifically, in order to teach us how to better delight in God. In Paul’s second prayer in Ephesians, he continues to ask God to do some remarkable things. These are not puny prayers. They are somewhat audacious. We do well to lean in to what he asks in order to instruct us on how to pray for each other. Specifically, in order to teach us how to better delight in God. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-28/768/delight-in-your-god-part-two Sun, 28 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Delight in Your God (Part One) Delight in Your God (Part One) https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-21/delight-in-your-god-part-one It may surprise you that God wants you to be happy. But, that is how He created us to live and after He saves us He points our hearts back toward real joy. That joy is found, fundamentally, in God Himself. This is what we refer to as “Delighting in God.” Paul prays that Christians would discover this joy for themselves. The way they will do that is by having their minds opened to what God has actually done for them in saving them. The more they grasp what He has done, the happier they will be in Him.  It may surprise you that God wants you to be happy. But, that is how He created us to live and after He saves us He points our hearts back toward real joy. That joy is found, fundamentally, in God Himself. This is what we refer to as “Delighting in God.” Paul prays that Christians would discover this joy for themselves. The way they will do that is by having their minds opened to what God has actually done for them in saving them. The more they grasp what He has done, the happier they will be in Him.  https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-21/767/delight-in-your-god-part-one Sun, 21 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0500 Get Ready for Battle, Friends Get Ready for Battle, Friends https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-14/get-ready-for-battle-friends As people with a brand new identity, we spend the rest of our lives seeking to live like who we are really are. And this process of stopping some behaviours and adding others ushers us in to an intense spiritual battle. To fight the war properly, we need to put on the armour of the One who has already conquered our enemy. And then stand our ground until we see Him face to face. As people with a brand new identity, we spend the rest of our lives seeking to live like who we are really are. And this process of stopping some behaviours and adding others ushers us in to an intense spiritual battle. To fight the war properly, we need to put on the armour of the One who has already conquered our enemy. And then stand our ground until we see Him face to face. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-14/766/get-ready-for-battle-friends Sun, 14 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0500 The Church of Brotherly and Sisterly Love The Church of Brotherly and Sisterly Love https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-07/the-church-of-brotherly-and-sisterly-love The apostle Paul shifts his focus from sexual purity to address the church concerning brotherly love. This is something that the Thessalonians were doing well. But the exhortation was to grow even more in love for one another. The apostle Paul shifts his focus from sexual purity to address the church concerning brotherly love. This is something that the Thessalonians were doing well. But the exhortation was to grow even more in love for one another. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-11-07/765/the-church-of-brotherly-and-sisterly-love Sun, 7 Nov 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-31/blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness Jesus promises a blessing upon those who long for the very best thing of all: righteousness. Jesus promises a blessing upon those who long for the very best thing of all: righteousness. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-31/764/blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness Sun, 31 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed Are the Meek Blessed Are the Meek https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-24/blessed-are-the-meek One of the core values of the Kingdom of Heaven is meekness. But is meekness synonymous with weakness? Or could it actually be something good, something noble, something desirable? One of the core values of the Kingdom of Heaven is meekness. But is meekness synonymous with weakness? Or could it actually be something good, something noble, something desirable? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-24/763/blessed-are-the-meek Sun, 24 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Let's Just Parent Like Christians Let's Just Parent Like Christians https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-17/lets-just-parent-like-christians Are there ten thousands rules to parent in a Christlike way? Or are there just a few things to do well? Are there ten thousands rules to parent in a Christlike way? Or are there just a few things to do well? https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-17/762/lets-just-parent-like-christians Sun, 17 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Future People of God Living in the Present The Future People of God Living in the Present https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-10/the-future-people-of-god-living-in-the-present https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-10/761/the-future-people-of-god-living-in-the-present Sun, 10 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Love, Authority and Marriage Love, Authority and Marriage https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-03/love-authority-and-marriage God is calling Christians to the kind of relationship that is otherworldly. Christian marriages preach Jesus loud and clear when the partners fully embrace their roles. Of course Satan will oppose this at every turn, but there is hope for all who are humble. God is calling Christians to the kind of relationship that is otherworldly. Christian marriages preach Jesus loud and clear when the partners fully embrace their roles. Of course Satan will oppose this at every turn, but there is hope for all who are humble. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-10-03/760/love-authority-and-marriage Sun, 3 Oct 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Endure in the Race of Holiness Endure in the Race of Holiness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-26/endure-in-the-race-of-holiness The Christian life is like a long marathon race. And in this spiritual race there are God-given rules in place that we must abide by if we are to run faithfully and finish the race well. The Christian life is like a long marathon race. And in this spiritual race there are God-given rules in place that we must abide by if we are to run faithfully and finish the race well. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-26/759/endure-in-the-race-of-holiness Sun, 26 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Uniform of the Real Christian The Uniform of the Real Christian https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-19/the-uniform-of-the-real-christian https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-19/758/the-uniform-of-the-real-christian Sun, 19 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Be Honest with Your Sins - Part Two Be Honest with Your Sins - Part Two https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-12/be-honest-with-your-sins-part-two https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-12/757/be-honest-with-your-sins-part-two Sun, 12 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed are Those Who Mourn Blessed are Those Who Mourn https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-05/blessed-are-those-who-mourn https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-09-05/756/blessed-are-those-who-mourn Sun, 5 Sep 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Blessed are the Poor in Spirit Blessed are the Poor in Spirit https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-29/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit Are you caught in the riptide of sin? The worst thing you can do is swim against the current. You need help. And there is only one way to access the rescue you need. The poor in spirit are blessed. The proud in spirit are cursed. At some point, every person needs to admit their total bankruptcy before God and call for help! Are you caught in the riptide of sin? The worst thing you can do is swim against the current. You need help. And there is only one way to access the rescue you need. The poor in spirit are blessed. The proud in spirit are cursed. At some point, every person needs to admit their total bankruptcy before God and call for help! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-29/755/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit Sun, 29 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Upside Down Kingdom The Upside Down Kingdom https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-22/the-upside-down-kingdom https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-22/754/the-upside-down-kingdom Sun, 22 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Be Honest with Your Sins Be Honest with Your Sins https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-15/be-honest-with-your-sins It is easy to get lazy with sin. Sin is all around us and, frankly, in us. And familiarity can breed indifference. Yet, God never grows accustomed to our sins. They are just as offensive and unfitting to Him as they were when He punished His own Son on the cross for them. And this means people that have repented from sin and put faith in Christ must learn to live differently from the world. They must learn to call sin what God calls sin… and relentlessly kill it. It is easy to get lazy with sin. Sin is all around us and, frankly, in us. And familiarity can breed indifference. Yet, God never grows accustomed to our sins. They are just as offensive and unfitting to Him as they were when He punished His own Son on the cross for them. And this means people that have repented from sin and put faith in Christ must learn to live differently from the world. They must learn to call sin what God calls sin… and relentlessly kill it. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-15/753/be-honest-with-your-sins Sun, 15 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Get Your Actions in Line With Your Identity Get Your Actions in Line With Your Identity https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-08/get-your-actions-in-line-with-your-identity There is always a temptation to believe things in our head about God and religion, while we act in ways completely contrary to that. This kind of hypocrisy has no place in the church of Jesus and wise Christians will fight against it all the way to the grave. Foundational to learning to live like a Christian is more accurately understanding your identity - who you are as a child of the King. There is always a temptation to believe things in our head about God and religion, while we act in ways completely contrary to that. This kind of hypocrisy has no place in the church of Jesus and wise Christians will fight against it all the way to the grave. Foundational to learning to live like a Christian is more accurately understanding your identity - who you are as a child of the King. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-08/752/get-your-actions-in-line-with-your-identity Sun, 8 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Give Thanks to the Lord Who Saves You! Give Thanks to the Lord Who Saves You! https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-01/give-thanks-to-the-lord-who-saves-you Psalm 116 is all about thankfulness to God for how He saves us. When the Psalmist had no one to turn to and nowhere to run, He called to God, and the LORD saved. Now those, like the Psalmist, who have experienced the rescue of the LORD are to live in perpetual greatness for His saving grace. Psalm 116 is all about thankfulness to God for how He saves us. When the Psalmist had no one to turn to and nowhere to run, He called to God, and the LORD saved. Now those, like the Psalmist, who have experienced the rescue of the LORD are to live in perpetual greatness for His saving grace. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-08-01/750/give-thanks-to-the-lord-who-saves-you Sun, 1 Aug 2021 11:30:00 -0400 A Guidebook for the Guilty A Guidebook for the Guilty https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-25/a-guidebook-for-the-guilty King David sinned grievously, but he confessed his sin. Psalm 32 is an instruction manual given to guide us to confess our sin. King David sinned grievously, but he confessed his sin. Psalm 32 is an instruction manual given to guide us to confess our sin. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-25/749/a-guidebook-for-the-guilty Sun, 25 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0400 A Good Report of Godliness A Good Report of Godliness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-18/a-good-report-of-godliness https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-18/748/a-good-report-of-godliness Sun, 18 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Stand Together to Endure Affliction Stand Together to Endure Affliction https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-11/stand-together-to-endure-affliction Christians are never meant to walk in isolation. We are called to stand together with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It's when we are disconnected and alone that we're most vulnerable to the attacks of our spiritual enemy. In 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5, Paul stresses the importance of standing together in order to endure affliction. Christians are never meant to walk in isolation. We are called to stand together with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It's when we are disconnected and alone that we're most vulnerable to the attacks of our spiritual enemy. In 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5, Paul stresses the importance of standing together in order to endure affliction. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-11/747/stand-together-to-endure-affliction Sun, 11 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Right Response to the Gospel The Right Response to the Gospel https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-04/the-right-response-to-the-gospel When it comes to the preaching of the good news of the gospel, there is a right way to respond and a wrong way to respond. The apostle Paul thanks God for the Thessalonians' right response to the gospel. But responding to the gospel rightly doesn't mean an easy life. To live as a Christian means living a life of suffering for the Lord's sake. When it comes to the preaching of the good news of the gospel, there is a right way to respond and a wrong way to respond. The apostle Paul thanks God for the Thessalonians' right response to the gospel. But responding to the gospel rightly doesn't mean an easy life. To live as a Christian means living a life of suffering for the Lord's sake. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-07-04/746/the-right-response-to-the-gospel Sun, 4 Jul 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Rely on the Lord Rely on the Lord https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-27/rely-on-the-lord One of the most important skills to learn in this Christian life is to consistently rely on the Lord. When we lean on Him, we never fall. But, we are prone to wander. A look at King Asa teaches us what relying on God gives, and what relying on ourselves brings. One of the most important skills to learn in this Christian life is to consistently rely on the Lord. When we lean on Him, we never fall. But, we are prone to wander. A look at King Asa teaches us what relying on God gives, and what relying on ourselves brings. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-27/745/rely-on-the-lord Sun, 27 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Thank the Lord Thank the Lord https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-20/thank-the-lord God kept Grace Fellowship Church through 469 days of not being able to meet together as one church. In this Psalm, we are called to give thanks to the Lord for His powerful, faithful love. A love that shines brightly in comparison to all our failings and misgivings along the way. Thankfully, God stands ready to forgive and restore. And we respond with eternal thanks. God kept Grace Fellowship Church through 469 days of not being able to meet together as one church. In this Psalm, we are called to give thanks to the Lord for His powerful, faithful love. A love that shines brightly in comparison to all our failings and misgivings along the way. Thankfully, God stands ready to forgive and restore. And we respond with eternal thanks. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-20/744/thank-the-lord Sun, 20 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Love Test The Love Test https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-13/the-love-test https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-13/742/the-love-test Sun, 13 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Love is Relentlessly Optimistic Love is Relentlessly Optimistic https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-05/love-is-relentlessly-optimistic Our love for others is so often conditioned upon what we think of them or how they are treating us. But Christian love ought not be like this. One of the hallmarks of this love is its relentless optimism. It refuses to give up just because the other is acting poorly. Sure, there are times to be cautious and prudent, but love is excessively hopeful in the others. May God give us more and more of this, so we can become more and more like Him. Our love for others is so often conditioned upon what we think of them or how they are treating us. But Christian love ought not be like this. One of the hallmarks of this love is its relentless optimism. It refuses to give up just because the other is acting poorly. Sure, there are times to be cautious and prudent, but love is excessively hopeful in the others. May God give us more and more of this, so we can become more and more like Him. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-06-05/741/love-is-relentlessly-optimistic Sat, 5 Jun 2021 11:30:00 -0400 The Circle of Love The Circle of Love https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-29/the-circle-of-love The world can be an overwhelming place, especially for a tenderhearted Christian who wants to obey the Lord and love people. The burning question is, “Which people?” And with how much love? Am I required to love orphans in Istanbul with the same level of commitment and sacrifice with which I love my spouse? How does a finite person face a world in need of infinite love? Using concentric circles, Christians can roughly map out who they need to love and when. It is not perfect, but having a plan is better than being completely paralyzed. The world can be an overwhelming place, especially for a tenderhearted Christian who wants to obey the Lord and love people. The burning question is, “Which people?” And with how much love? Am I required to love orphans in Istanbul with the same level of commitment and sacrifice with which I love my spouse? How does a finite person face a world in need of infinite love? Using concentric circles, Christians can roughly map out who they need to love and when. It is not perfect, but having a plan is better than being completely paralyzed. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-29/740/the-circle-of-love Sat, 29 May 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Love the Weak Love the Weak https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-22/love-the-weak Widows, orphans, immigrants, the disabled. There are “weak” people in all of our lives and God calls on us to love them. This can be a tad unnerving. Love them? Not just tolerate them, or help them or pay for their food? Love them? This is the call and way to do it is rather simple. Widows, orphans, immigrants, the disabled. There are “weak” people in all of our lives and God calls on us to love them. This can be a tad unnerving. Love them? Not just tolerate them, or help them or pay for their food? Love them? This is the call and way to do it is rather simple. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-22/739/love-the-weak Sat, 22 May 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Love Your Enemy Love Your Enemy https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-15/love-your-enemy Many regard the command to love our enemies as the highest expression of Christian love, and for good reason. Loving an enemy roots our entirely in God and not within any aspect of the subject of our affection. This is the most God-like our love ever becomes, since He loved us while we were still His enemies. Many regard the command to love our enemies as the highest expression of Christian love, and for good reason. Loving an enemy roots our entirely in God and not within any aspect of the subject of our affection. This is the most God-like our love ever becomes, since He loved us while we were still His enemies. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-15/738/love-your-enemy Sat, 15 May 2021 11:30:00 -0400 Loving the Lost Loving the Lost https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-08/loving-the-lost Jesus didn't just talk about how much he loved the lost, he demonstrated his love by seeking and saving the lost. Just as he was sent by the Father, he now sends us to join him on this mission. Jesus didn't just talk about how much he loved the lost, he demonstrated his love by seeking and saving the lost. Just as he was sent by the Father, he now sends us to join him on this mission. https://www.gfcto.com/sermons/sermon/2021-05-08/737/loving-the-lost Sat, 8 May 2021 11:30:00 -0400