Becoming a Spiritual Dynamo

Ryan Lowery

Acts 1:1-8

The author of Acts, Luke, is widely considered to be a historian of the highest class. We learn from his recordings of the accounts of the disciples as they were taught by Jesus after his resurrection. They are told to go to Jerusalem to wait for the Holy Spirit. Our community of Christians today is only possible due to this moment in history. The beginning of the spreading of the Gospel is about to begin.

The Resurrection

Scott Risley

Mark 16:3-4

The resurrection of Jesus Christ has been portrayed by some scholars as a nice parable for modern, rational people. If the resurrection was not a literal, historical event; however, the ramifications for Christianity and humanity as a whole would be life-altering, and so the evidence must be examined thoroughly. The accounts given in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John present a complete picture of the events that transpired on that Sunday, and through studying them skeptics and believers alike can gain a realistic and accurate perspective of the resurrection.

The Cross

Conrad Hilario

2 Corinthians 5:21

Through the details of the crucifixion, the world witnesses the depth of love that God has for humanity. At the cross we see Jesus, the king of the world, go through mental and physical torture to gift forgiveness for humanity's moral debt. God judged and punished His son for all the sin and atrocities committed by humanity. Jesus died for his enemies and his death is adequate for all people.

Behold, Your King

Scott Risley

Psalms 22:14-18

Death by crucifixion is brutal and bloody, and Jesus' death on the cross was no exception. However, Jesus' death was not merely an execution but rather God's plan for the salvation of mankind, and his death simultaneously fulfilled Old Testament prophecy and satisfied God's wrath. Through his sacrifice, we are able have our moral debt paid in full and to experience a personal relationship with God.

The Cross

Dennis McCallum

John 19:1-30

The most important event in history happened when Jesus Christ went to the cross to take on God's judgment for sin Himself so that all people could have forgiveness and eternal life if they accept Jesus' payment for our sins. What Jesus underwent was not only physical torment through beatings, a crown of thorns around his head and crucifixion; but psychological and spiritual torment as well by enduring the wrath of God to pay for all human sin. Choosing to make a decision concerning Jesus' offer of forgiveness through the cross is the most important decision a person can make.

The God of the Bible

Jeff Gordon

Revelation 1:1-20

God communicates through John to write to the seven churches in Asia about their new standing in Christ and how they can anticipate His return. John's vision of Christ's deity and a closer look at the elements in the vision reveal Christ's power and motivations as the perfect sacrifice and ultimate master of death.

Following Jesus' Example

Ryan Lowery

Philippians 1:27-2:13

Once we have received the gospel, we are called to live lives that reflect what God has done in our life. The apostle Paul advocates this to the church of Philippi. Paul highlights three aspects of understanding God's love: 1) Placing a high value on unity with other Christians; 2) God is sovereign; and 3) God's love includes letting us suffer. Rather than shy away from, God calls us to draw close to Him and one another as we try and emulate Jesus' love and humility in our lives.

True Greatness

Scott Risley

John 12:12-43

Jesus comes to Jerusalem and predicts his death. He was not the king people expected. Despite observing the miraculous signs Jesus performed throughout his ministry, many didn't believe and some were too afraid to admit they did believe. Jesus suffered and died so humanity could have life. His followers are to imitate his example to be truly great.

Suffering with God's Perspective

Ryan Lowery

Philippians 1:1-30

As the apostle Paul begins his letter, he communicates an eternal perspective amidst severe suffering and imprisonment. Paul actively takes six steps to cultivate this perspective: 1) thanksgiving for past blessings; 2) confidence in God's work continuing; 3) remembering that he was not alone in God's work; 4) seeing his suffering in context of God's larger plan; 5) keeping his priorities in order; and 6) keeping a focus on eternity.