Christ Community Church - Leawood Campus - SUNDAY MESSAGES

Romans 12:3-8 // Matt RustenThis video explores the concept of Christian community as a diverse family united in purpose. It highlights the importance of recognizing, valuing, and using spiritual gifts for the growth of the body of Christ. The video emphasizes humility, wise use of gifts, and mutual service as essential components of a thriving Christian community.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49317827PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.09.22

Romans 12:1-2 // Ben BeasleyThis video explores the concept of Christian transformation as a lifestyle change. It discusses how the gospel fosters a community of individuals growing together, overcoming challenges, and living counter-culturally. The focus is on the importance of being shaped by God's purpose rather than worldly influences.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49314788PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.09.15

Romans 11:33-36 // Tom NelsonRomans 11 reveals the extraordinary nature of life with a wonderful God. It's not about having all the answers or solving every puzzle; it's about embracing the mysteries of faith and appreciating God's immense wisdom and unique ways. This journey encourages worship, humility, and a growing sense of wonder as we learn to live together as a diverse family. The more we learn about the heart of God, the more mystery we uncover, and the deeper our appreciation for His remarkable character and actions.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49310904PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.09.08

Romans 11:1-32 // Brent Nelsen In Romans 11, Paul paints a vivid picture of God's heart for all of humanity. He addresses Israel's rejection of the Messiah, highlighting the importance of a chosen remnant and the potential for future restoration. The inclusion of Gentiles into God's family through faith is emphasized, underscoring the necessity of avoiding pride and embracing humility. Ultimately, Paul's message is one of hope, reminding us that God's gifts and calling are irrevocable and His desire is to have mercy on all.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49307280PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new24.09.01

Romans 9:30-10:21 // Ben BeasleyRomans 10 reveals the heart of God's plan for salvation. It's a message of radical inclusivity—anyone who believes in Jesus can join God's family, regardless of their heritage or past actions. Paul passionately argues that righteousness comes through faith alone, not by following rules or relying on ancestry. This chapter is a call to embrace God's mercy and to share this good news with everyone so they too can find their place in His family.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49304139PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.08.25

Explore this message of mercy and belonging from Romans 9. Discover how God forms a diverse, multi-ethnic family through unexpected paths, challenging cultural norms and personal expectations. Uncover the historical context of Jewish and Gentile relations in ancient Rome, and understand how God's faithfulness and justice remain unwavering amidst shifting circumstances.Key Takeaways:God's mercy forms the foundation of a diverse family united through faith, not ancestry.God's choices throughout history have always been based on unmerited grace and promise.Understanding the historical context of Jewish-Gentile relations enriches our understanding of God's plan for a multi-ethnic community.Embracing God's diverse family calls us to live harmoniously with those who are different from us.

2 Kgs. 25:27-30; Mt. 1:6b-17 // Ben BeasleyIn this episode, we explore the story of King Jehoiachin of Judah and how it connects to the coming of Jesus. You'll see how God's faithfulness shines through even in times of judgment, and how the promise of a Davidic king finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49297484PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.08.11

2 Kings 22: 1-11 // Tom NelsonKing Josiah of Judah led a remarkable reign dedicated to restoring faith in Yahweh. This video explores his reforms, the rediscovery of the Torah, and his tragic end. King Josiah's story is one of remarkable devotion and religious revival. As a young king, he takes the throne and spearheads the repair of the Temple. A pivotal discovery within the Temple leads to a kingdom-wide reformation. Idols are destroyed, pagan worship is purged, and the Passover is observed with renewed fervor. Despite Josiah's dedication, judgment hangs over his reign. A prophecy foretells hardship, and Josiah meets an untimely death in battle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49294214PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.08.04

2 Kings 21:1-6 // Tom NelsonKing Manasseh of Judah: From Evil to Redemption? This king did terrible things, but his story has a surprising twist! ➡️ Watch to see how God's forgiveness can change everything.King Manasseh of Judah is known for his extreme wickedness. He promoted pagan worship, sacrificed his own son, and led the people astray. However, there's more to the story. After facing punishment, Manasseh repented and turned back to God. This video explores Manasseh's journey and the message of hope it offers.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49291104PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.07.28

Hezekiah: The Man Who Trusted/ Christ Community Church - Leawood / Brent BovitzHezekiah: King of Judah defied empires and trusted in God, see how his faith transformed a nation, along with his personal struggles. King Hezekiah reigned for 29 years, marked by both spiritual reform and political defiance. He purged the kingdom of pagan worship, restored the temple in Jerusalem, and renewed the Passover celebration. Facing a mighty Assyrian army, Hezekiah placed his trust in God, leading to a miraculous victory. However, his later pride in his wealth brought a prophetic rebuke.Key Takeaways:Hezekiah's leadership brought religious renewal and political independence.He trusted in God's power over worldly empires.Faith can be tested by both challenges and success.

King Joash of Judah starts strong, repairing the Temple with God's guidance, but after his mentor dies, Joash takes a dark turn. This story explores the importance of lasting wisdom and what happens when we stray from the right path.What immediately stands out in the telling of King Joash’s story is how very young he is when he becomes king. We are also told that right by his side as his mentor, advisor and guide is a godly spiritual leader by the name of Jehoiada. Jehoida’s good and wise influence has its effect on young King Joash and we read that Joash ``did'' what was right in the Lord’s sight. What a promising start for this young king! How is it possible for someone who seems so good, who did so much good, only to do so much bad and end so badly?Key Takeaways:Joash's reign highlights the importance of mentorship in developing good character.Staying true to your values requires constant effort, even after a strong start.True wisdom comes from a higher power, not just from ourselves.2 Kings 12:1-2 // Tom Nelson24.07.14SERMON NOTES: http://bible.com/events/49284596

If we as followers of Jesus are going to avoid the perils of misguided zeal, then let us prayerfully remember that God-honoring zeal needs the guardrails of mature wisdom, close knit local church community, a teachable spirit and all of us need personal accountability.Jehu’s story reminds us we are looking for a new and better king. A king who is both perfectly righteous and just. A king with a perfectly pure heart and a perfectly harnessed zeal. At the cross, as Jesus died for your sin and mine, justice and mercy met at the cross. The good news of the Gospel is that forgiveness and new life is offered to each one of us when we in repentance and faith embrace Jesus as our Messiah, our Savior and Lord.2 Kgs. 9:1-13 // Tom NelsonKey Takeaways• Jehu's actions were praised by God in some ways, but not in others• True devotion to God goes beyond outward appearances• Our motivations matter more than our actionsRelated SearchesKing Jehu of Israel, Baal worship, Following God with all your heartSERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49277989PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.06.30

King Ahab of Israel reigns as one of the most wicked kings in history. Influenced by his wife Jezebel, he promotes pagan worship and persecutes prophets. Yet, even in the darkest times, God's grace and power shine through. This video explores the story of Ahab, his conflict with the prophet Elijah, and the enduring message of God's pursuit of humanity.Key Takeaways:King Ahab's reign is marked by idolatry and disobedience to GodDespite the darkness, God continues to offer grace and seek redemptionThe story of Elijah and Ahab highlights God's power and unwavering pursuit.1 Kgs. 16:29-30 // Nathan MillerSERMON NOTES: http://bible.com/events/49276254PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/newRelated Searches:King Ahab and Elijah, Idolatry in the Bible, God's forgiveness in the Bible24.06.23

King Asa's 41-year reign in Judah offers a compelling story of leadership and faith. Watch to explore his successes in removing idolatry and leading a prosperous Judah, as well as the challenges he faced when his trust in God wavered.Key Takeaways:Leaders who prioritize faithfulness to God can bring about positive change.Trust and obedience are crucial aspects of a strong relationship with God.Even good leaders can make mistakes, but learning from them is essential.1 Kgs. 15:9-15; 2 Chr. 15:1-7 // Tom NelsonSERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49272788PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/newRelated Searches: Bible stories, leadership and faith, trusting God, overcoming challenges24.06.16

Rehoboam & Jeroboam: The Kings of DivisionThis video explores the story of Rehoboam and Jeroboam, two kings of Israel whose poor leadership decisions led to the division of the kingdom. Learn valuable lessons about leadership and the consequences of bad choices from this Biblical story.Key Takeaways:Wise leadership is crucial for a nation's stability.Ignoring the needs of the people can lead to rebellion and division.Following God's will brings blessings, while disobedience leads to judgment.Related Searches: Kings of Israel, Divided Kingdom, Bible Stories, Leadership Lessons1 Kgs. 12:1-14, 25-33 // Ben BeasleySERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49269316PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.06.09

King Solomon, son of David, starts his reign with incredible wisdom and accomplishments: a magnificent temple, booming trade, and fair government. But was that his true legacy? This video explores Solomon's rise and fall, how his worship turned away from God, and the importance of lasting faithfulness.Solomon's impressive achievements as kingThe turning point in his leadershipWhy his legacy is more than just accomplishmentsHow your worship shapes who you are remembered as1 Kgs. 2:1-10; 3:5-14; 8:54-61;11:4-6 // Brent NelsenSERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49264580PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.06.02

Romans 8:31-39 // Ben BeasleyHave you ever questioned what happens when life throws its punches? Does death bring an end? Can anything truly separate us from God? In this video, we unpack the liberating message of God's unwavering love for His children. Are you feeling lost or afraid? Wondering if anything can stop the good life God promises? This video explores the incredible truth: Nothing can separate us from God's love! Discover how to live confidently, knowing God's rescue plan is unstoppable. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49257664PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.05.26

Romans 8:28-30 // Ben BeasleyWe’ve been in this series Romans: For Life, where we’ve learned from the Apostle Paul, Rabbi Paul, that we aren’t just saved from eternal evil but we are saved for something else: we are saved for eternal glory and for God’s good Spirit-filled work in our lives. Paul’s confidence is rooted in who he understands God to be. Paul is rooting his confidence not just in the happening of this, but in the God who is in sovereign control of all the happenings of the universe. When we embrace faith in Jesus we are God’s children. And we are co-heirs with Christ. Meaning we have the same inheritance as Jesus.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49257653PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24. 05.19

Romans 8:26-27 // Tom NelsonPrayer can be hard for all of us. Sometimes we struggle to pray because we don’t know what words to pray. We wonder what to say? I think one of Satan’s greatest strategies when it comes to prayer is to stop prayer in its tracks by convincing us we need to formulate just the right words before we pray. That somehow if we get our prayer words just right, God will hear us. Paul’s words here in Romans are so encouraging in this regard. Sometimes in prayer we simply groan in God’s direction. We must remember the Holy Spirit meets us right where we are even when we are speechless, even when all we can do is groan. The Holy Spirit groans with us and He prays on our behalf.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49254181PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.05.12

Romans 8:18-25 // Brent NelsenGod’s kingdom isn’t fully here on earth yet. The picture of Isaiah 11, of a restored creation, is not yet a full reality. But we’ve been given a taste, and it makes us crave more. When I look around I see violence and discord and hatred. I see creation in subjection and decay. But I know what’s coming, and I know because I’ve had a foretaste. I see God at work renewing the broken pieces in my life. I see him at work restoring relationships around me. I see it in my community group when we experience the joy of gathering together as God’s people. I see it in miraculous answers to prayer requests. And I see it in creation. Every spring, the trees bud, and flowers push through the frozen ground. Everything begins to turn green, and the earth comes back to life. Springtime for me is a yearly visual reminder that God brings life from death. That’s the hope that we have as followers of Jesus.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49243655PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24. 05.05

Romans 8: 12-17 // Tom NelsonLet me ask you. Are you a child of God? John 1…those who receive Jesus…Have your The cross declares many things. That we are forgiven, we are loved, but it also declares welcome home! We are extravagantly welcome home — not because our sin isn’t real, heinous, or deserving of exclusion — but because our older brother, Jesus, paid for our sin on the cross. He took all the judgment you and I deserved so that we might receive all the blessings. A future homecoming…Already not yet… Future in our home– the night before Jesus’s crucifixion, Jesus told his disciples that he was going away for a time to prepare a future home for them. There would be a future welcoming home.Jesus words’ I go to prepare a place for you…a future homecoming… In Christ, You are dearly loved! You are totally secure! A glorious future awaits you. Thanks be to God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49247179PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new24. 04. 28

Romans 8: 5-13 // Ben BeasleyIn order for something to truly die, it has to be cut off from its source of life. Which means we have to learn how to make room for the Spirit to access the deepest roots of our fleshly desires. We have to learn how to create space to be aware of where the Spirit is trying to access so we can keep up with him and let him in. And it’s going to take time, right? Change takes time. It takes time to kill this stuff that is deeply ingrained in us. And the Enemy is working to keep us living according to the flesh, so we have some resistance. What we have to do is discern where the Spirit is trying to work on us and rely on His presence and power in our daily, ordinary lives. The best practice for creating space for the Spirit to reach the roots of your heart is prayer. Remember, He lives in you. He speaks to you. So take time this week in prayer to ask him for guidance, to help you see what needs to be killed and where the source of life needs to be cut off. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49243658PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24. 04. 21

Romans 8:1-5 // Ben BeasleyPlanet Fitness has an interesting tagline: “Welcome to the judgement free zone.” Where else can we find that? It’s rare, isn’t it? Much more common is constant criticism. Rampant negativity. Harsh condemnation. We see and experience this, both from others, and from ourselves. The truth is, some of us are our worst critics.And yet, in Romans 8:1, the Apostle Paul writes, “There is now NOW condemnation…” Incredible! How is this possible? Engage this passage with us to find out…SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49240076PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24. 04. 14

Romans 7:14-25 // Ben BeasleyThe biggest fights are the ones we have within ourselves. How does Jesus shape the fight waging within? It may not be what we thought. Join us as we continue to see how God has rescued us not only from death but for Life in the book of Romans. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49236520PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new07.04.24

Matthew 28: 1-20 // Tom NelsonThe cross where Jesus shed his innocent blood for our sin and the empty tomb that defeated death is the greatest expression of love ever offered to you and to me. The empty tomb is the greatest assurance of God’s loving presence with us now and for all eternity. Peering into the empty tomb we hear the words of God in Old Testament Scripture, “I have loved you with an everlasting love, therefore I have drawn you to myself with my loving kindness. The empty tomb invites each one of us to respond to the new life it makes possible. Jesus' invitation to each one of us is to in repentance and faith embrace his tender loving arms and his nail scarred hands. Jesus is calling. Jesus is calling you. His arms are open wide. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49232432PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24. 03. 31

Romans 7:7-13 // Ben BeasleyOne of the ironic dynamics of God’s law is that the more we know, the more we feel and recognize brokenness in our lives. With the grace of the gospel in Jesus, what value does God's law bring? Are we supposed to feel guilt and shame when we hear the law? What is God’s law for anyway if it's not very effective at restraining unrighteousness and injustice?Join us as we continue through the book of Romans where we’ll see the role of God’s law for us today.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49214772PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.03.24

Romans 7:1-6 // Ben BeasleyWhat we belong to gives us an identity, sense of community, and even drastically affects our self-worth. Whether we find our belonging in sports, career, family, romantic relationships, or even religious observance, there are many good things that we are tempted to worship as ultimate things, but each leaves us restless and empty inside.Join us as we continue to see in the book of Romans why our ultimate belonging is to Jesus and how that is such good news for us. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49221839PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.03.17

Romans 6:15-23 // Ben BeasleyLife is full of paradoxes that make our life either run or crash, depending on how you look at it. Humans are full of contradictions and God knows it! He has chosen many paradoxes to reveal who he is and to show us what it looks like to follow him. Would you join us as we study one of the biblical paradoxes? Dive deep with us into the paradox of graceSERMON NOTES (YouVersion):https://bible.com/events/49221839PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.10.03

Romans 6:11-14 // Tom NelsonOne of the greatest battles of history is not “out there,” but rather, is “in here.” Herein lies a crucial insight as to why following Jesus can be so hard. There is a battle being waged not just with our bodies but in our bodies. In Christ we now live and breathe in a new realm, not of mere religious obligation or moral conformity, but to the realm of grace which is an intimate relationship with God. Being under grace means we are now part of Jesus’ new kingdom. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49214771PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new 24.03.03

The question of “who am I?” Is the result of living in an age where expressivism as an individual and embodied endeavor is seen as the highest good. Anything that doesn’t allow me to express myself, either is itself a sin or it’s dogmatic. And this is a tension with our age that we feel as Christians. Why? Because Jesus has something to say about who we are. Jesus gives you an identity. And even more, Jesus sets boundaries to our sexual self-expression. Why? Because throughout the Christian tradition, Chrsitians have understood that following Jesus is an embodied experience. We don’t just follow Jesus in our minds, or in our souls, there is a synthesis between our heart and our bodies. And what does that mean: well it means, that as Christians, we don’t just have a hope that we assent to in our minds. But equally, as Christians, our bodies too can preach our hope. Our bodies can preach our hope. Ben BeasleyMatthew 5:27-30 & Hebrews 10:22-23 24.01.28SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://www.bible.com/events/49198317PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new

Romans 6:1-11 // Brent NelsenWhen we think of rescue, it’s natural to ask: “Rescue from what?” But with Jesus, rescue is more! When God sought to rescue creation from brokenness, injustice, sin and death, he always planned to save us “for” a more beautiful, good, and true way of being. Jesus didn’t just save us from sin but for life—with him—now and forever. But how is life with God different from life without God? And why would anyone actually want that kind of life? Join us as we continue walking through the Letter of Romans to explore what God has in store for your life and mine today. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49214772PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.02.25

Matthew 25:31-46 // Ben BeasleyHell, in the Bible, is not some underground torture chamber. Hell is a place outside the city of the New Jerusalem, that God excludes because he wants to cast out the darkness for the light, to protect from the destruction of the fires of sin, and so the fullness of restoration will remain over destruction. God excludes sin and the powers of hell from his kingdom because of his goodness, and not in spite of his goodness. This ultimate reconciliation with God, this is the dream that we dream for our world. This is also God’s heavenly dream for the world coming to earth. A real hell means there is real news to be shared. There is good news, and that good news is real: Jesus is here to reconcile you back to God. Take him up on it. Reach out, he won’t let you go. SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://www.bible.com/events/49209492 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.02.18

Psalm 13 // Ben Beasley“I used to go to church and pray, and then my best friend got sick and died… How can I believe in God when that happened?” My friend told me this in 7th grade, and it would be the first but not last time I would hear what I would later learn that theologians and philosophers call “the problem of evil”. Why does an all good and all powerful God permit evil and suffering?While God does not give us an answer to our “why” question, he does show us “how” to find meaning through suffering and experience that we are not alone. Join us as we learn how to lament our suffering with God through Psalm 13.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion):https://www.bible.com/events/49211028 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.02.11

Matthew 22:15-22 // Tom Nelson Wherever you find yourself in this matter of faith and politics, whatever your political leanings, right, left, or somewhere in the middle, the question we need to thoughtfully ask is (Slide) How Should Followers of Jesus Navigate Politics? And let’s be honest, we as followers of Jesus can and do at times fall into some political potholes. This is a big challenge in our contemporary moment, but has also been true throughout the 2000 year history of the church. The relationship of God and government has always been a difficult navigation for followers of Jesus and the church. Throughout history, there have been various kinds of governments and both good and bad governing officials and a wide range of views among Christians. The topic of politics and faith is a vast and multi-facet subject and I cannot begin to cover all the terrain or address many of the questions or concerns you may have.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49205732PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.02.04

Genesis 1:26-28 & Luke 10:38-42 // Ben BeasleyFollowing in the footsteps of the design of our Creator, and the dignity made known by our Savior, the church is called to uphold and declare the dignity of women. Even with our failings and distortions, this has always been the calling of the church, and we see it even in the early church. How do we do that? Or maybe a better question is, how do we grow in doing that? Deeper than you or me, deeper than male or female, the beauty of God and the witness of Jesus and his church is at stake. I long for the beauty of God to be displayed more powerfully in our day, and in the church, and by God’s people. May God lead us through His word in this effort. May God encourage us and correct us by His Spirit. And may God give us the courage to live this out, even and especially when it is costly. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/live/Omh_bHuXycgSERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://www.bible.com/events/49198307 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.01.21

2 Tim 3:16-17 // Ben BeasleyHoly Scripture - the Old Testament and the New Testament together - for Christians, the Bible is the foundation of our faith. Why? Through Holy Scripture, through the Bible, we come to know who God is. Through it, we discover who God has made us to be. Through it we are able to remember what God has done, how he has acted. And through it, we are able to see where this is all going, and why we are actually here, and what really is wrong with the world. Through it, we find out about Jesus. Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49193353 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.01.14

Matthew 16: 13-18 // Tom NelsonThe church is a messy place with messy broken people. The church is also a healing community for the broken. A faith community where the power of the Gospel transforms lost causes into beloved children of God! Never are we a lost cause, never are we so broken we can not be made whole by Jesus. The church falls short and fails because she faces spiritual warfare. The church lives in the context of an invisible war. Satan’s greatest fury is directed toward the church. I am not offering the church an excuse or giving the church a pass on its past and present failures. But I do want to ask a crucial question. Should we give up on the church because the church sometimes falls short and fails? Jesus declares an emphatic No!Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49189836 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new24.01.07

Matthew 2:1-12 // Brent NelsenIt’s all too easy to skim through the Christmas narrative and miss out on key aspects of that story. The three Wise Men are some of the most misremembered and misunderstood characters of Christmas, and yet their story teaches us a crucial lesson about Christmas and its relevance for life today.Join us as we look at Christmas through the eyes of the Wise Men, and see who is the True King we should worship.Sermon Notes: https://bible.com/events/49184309Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.12.31

Matthew 1:18-25 // Ben BeasleyChristmas wasn’t welcome news to even the faithful…at first. Christmas in many ways disrupts our best laid plans. The question is NOT whether Christmas messes with our lives. The question IS how we show up when Christmas comes into our tidy lives. Join us as we look over the shoulders of someone who experienced the utter disruption of Christmas and still leaned in. Sermon Notes: https://bible.com/events/49180532 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.12.24

Luke 1: 46-55 // Tom NelsonThis morning through the eyes of Mary’s faith we see that we are never so obscure as to be overlooked by God. What is it about Mary’s story that is so endearing and enduring, that speaks so deeply to us to our greatest aspirations, our deepest longings? Jesus…here Messianic Son, the very son of God, savior of the world yes, first and foremost, but there is also something about Mary herself, her beautiful heart and her sense of wonder and hope. On the canvas of her obscurity, Luke paints a beautiful heart portrait of Mary, Luke has three bold brush strokes. Mary’s complete trust, costly obedience, and remarkable humility. Join us as we look further.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49180493 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.12.17

Luke 1: 1-5 // Ben BeasleyEveryone thinks about Christmas a little differently. This Christmas season, we’re on a journey to see Christmas through the eyes of faith. But this raises an important question: What happens when Christmas is NOT what you thought it would be? And what if it’s been like that for a while. How do we look at Christmas through faith when we’ve been trained in doubt?Join us as we look at what God has for us today in the story of Zechariah in Luke 1. Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49177440 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.12.10

Ruth 1: 1-5 // Tom NelsonAdvent is a season of both waiting & expectation. A time for each of us to slow down and reflect on the story of our lives and what God is doing in our world. As we journey through this Advent season as a church, we are peering into the lives of characters in the bible who looked at the brokenness, uncertainty, and suffering in their life and saw something different. As human beings, we are hardwired to belong, to fit into a community, when we don’t experience the secure attachment of belonging we encounter the deep pain of soul-suffocating aloneness. When we don’t belong, we feel like an outsider in an insider world. God welcomes the outsider to His family and Ruth is the ultimate outsider—yet she is never outside the loving eyes of God. God sees those most unseen. God uses the most unlikely to be a part of the most impossible.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49173779 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.12.03

Romans 5:15-21 // Ben BeasleyIn our passage today we find Paul continuing his excursus on Adam that we had last week. And he assumes that the reader knows the story of Adam. When Paul says Adam is a type, he is setting up a contrast between Adam and Christ. In our passage today we are going to see three contrasts which are: We are separated through rejection, but are welcomed through receiving; Our death comes from the first man, but our life comes from the perfect man; and our sin is great, but God’s grace is always greater. God’s grace through Jesus is a free gift. But it’s only yours if you reach out to it. You’ve got to reach. God’s grace is enough. Will you receive it?Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49170332 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.11.26

Romans 5:12-14 // Ben BeasleyWe’ve all had that moment when who you want to be and who you are is met with frustration. Where does that frustration come from? You can’t help but be hopeful that there’s more but we often experience our helplessness in our inability to change. Is this a me problem or something more? Join us as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans and see what’s really going on in the world and in us in this world.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49167265 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.11.19

Romans 5: 5-11 // Tom NelsonWhat have we been rescued for? Paul’s good news answer in our text today is God rescued us for friendship. Paul gives three life-giving implications of God befriending us. As God’s friend, we are lavishly loved, we are sacrificially loved and we are securely loved. Paul is saying when it comes to our friendship with God there is extravagant love, lavished on us, poured out on us in unbounded generosity and in us by God through the Holy Spirit.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49157096 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.11.12

Romans 5:1-6 // Ben BeasleyPaul names many benefits to being rescued by Jesus, including the offer of great hope even in our suffering. We have not only been rescued from something, but also for something. We are the hope of the glory of God. Suffering cannot defeat the great hope we have in Jesus. In fact, “hope will develop indirectly, as a byproduct of the persevering work we do in response to suffering. This hope that God gives us will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.Join us as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans and see three reasons why we can find hope and even boast in our suffering”. Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49156859 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.11.05

Romans 4: 13-25 // Ben BeasleyThink with me for a moment about the last time you saw the stars on a clear night. The stars are supposed to represent a place of transcendence. The divine. A sacred place we trust to guide us, elevate us, point us higher, to order us. But, in a modern world, more and more, doubt is where we live. Not only doubt, but rising depths of despair, mistrust of institutions and we are dealing with an epidemic of loneliness. Paul has a simple message for us in our human reality of despair that we rarely speak of, but all encounter. In a dark world, trusting God is our north star.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49156854 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.10.29

Romans 4: 1-12 // Ben BeasleyGod wants nothing more than your trust. Trust is the only way to intimacy. God wants us to live in his presence and be blameless; live in his face and be whole. Trust is the only way to see God for who he is: a God of forgiveness and grace. Trust is the way to receive what you want most because trust leads to intimacy and a real relationship. Ultimately that is what we all want. And the good news is that we can all have it! All we have to do is grow in trusting God by resting in His forgiveness and grace, being courageous, and pursuing intimacy with our loving God who wants nothing more than our trust.Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49153308 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.10.22

Romans 3:27-31 // Tom NelsonSermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49146488 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new23.10.15

Romans 3:21-26 // Gabe CoyleThere are few questions that are quite as loaded and comforting as “Are you okay?” The range of responses could be “Sure” to “Not even close.” What God has to offer us in this space is the answer we long for, but without him we don’t have the eyes to see. Join us as we continue our rescuing journey in the book of Romans and learn how we can be okay today…and forever. Sermon Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49142765 Prayer Requests: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new