St Marcus MKE Sermons

This week we’ll study Luke 9:21-27 under the theme “Take Up Your Cross.” Jesus’ call to discipleship is startlingly clear: following Him requires daily self-denial and cross-bearing. We’ll explore what this means (and doesn’t mean), why the cost of refusing Him is far greater than the cost of obedience, and how this difficult path paradoxically leads to true freedom and joy.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying Romans 12:1-5, where the Apostle Paul urges believers to offer themselves to God, to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, and to live humbly as interdependent members of Christ’s Body. John Mark Comer’s Practicing the Way, in the chapter titled “How? A Rule of Life,” builds on this vision by offering a practical framework. This “Rule of Life” is not rigid legalism, but intentional patterns and everyday rhythms that foster freedom in the believer’s life. Just as the body thrives when every part fulfills its purpose, so too does the soul flourish when ordered around abiding, becoming, and doing like Jesus.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Ephesians 4:1-6 under the theme “Do As Jesus Did.” The Apostle Paul calls believers to live a life worthy of the divine calling they've received—a life marked by humility, patience, love, and unity. True spiritual maturity comes not by age but through intentional discipleship, learning to “do as He did” in every area of life.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying 2 Peter 1:3-8 under the theme “Become Like Him.” As John Mark Comer writes, “You will never work harder for anything in your life than Christlike character, and nothing else will ever feel like such an unearned gift. This is a paradox you simply have to experience for yourself.” (Practicing The Way, pg. 111) Or, as Peter writes, "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” (2 Pet. 1:3)SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we’re studying Colossians 3:1-10 and letting it inform our reading of John Mark Comer’s Practicing the Way, in which he encourages Christians to “apprentice" Jesus. As Paul said, “Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is.” Since our status before God is secure, we are to be aware of his presence, attentive to his voice, and refuse to allow anything to keep us from him. We are to live a life that is conducive to knowing and growing in him. Our focus this weekend is on the first goal of apprenticeship to Jesus: to be with him.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

THIS WEEK: This week, we will be studying 2 Timothy 2:1-9 under the theme “Apprentice to Jesus.” While the term “disciple” gets used frequently in Christianity, what exactly does it mean? Is there a distinction to be made between having faith in Jesus and being a disciple of Jesus? We’ll see how the term apprentice is a helpful illustration to consider as we think about how Jesus trains us to carry out his work in the world.SERIES SUMMARY: This series is based on the best-selling Christian book, Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer. This work guides Christians toward spiritual formation by following the lifestyle of Jesus — through intentional practices like silence, sabbath, simplicity, and community. It emphasizes becoming like Jesus by doing what he did, integrating faith into everyday life through rhythm, discipline, and deep apprenticeship.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

On this Juneteenth celebration weekend, we reflect on Micah 6:6-8 and its call for justice, mercy, and humility before God. We examine the persistent issue of social injustice and the delusion of self-righteousness, emphasizing the need for repentance and reliance on God's grace. Through the lens of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings, we are reminded of the transformative power of love and the Christian duty to uplift the marginalized of society.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This weekend we conclude our O Church Arise series with a celebration of the Day of Pentecost. The Pentecost account in Acts 2 is a thrilling story of how Jesus sent the Holy Spirit as he promised, and the Christian Church was born in an awesomely powerful way. Two thousand years later, Christians may wonder where all that power is today. Come and worship with us this weekend to consider just how powerfully the Spirit still acts today by filling us up with his Word and sending us out with his blessing.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will study Acts 1:1-11 under the theme “Ascension: Handing Over the Keys of Ministry to the Church.” Why did Jesus ascend into heaven? Wouldn’t it have been more beneficial for God’s Son to stay, work miracles, and convert everyone? Well….not according to him. This is for many reasons we’ll discuss, all related to the believer’s life purpose.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying Acts 14:8-20 under the theme “Platforming the Right Person.” Americans have a fascination with celebrity and an intoxication with talent. It destroys our relationship with God….and others. Paul and Barnabas would have none of it. Jesus is the only god who came down to earth in human form. No one else can hold a place of ultimate value in our lives.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This weekend, we’re studying Acts 11:1–18 under the theme “Religious Discrimination.” In this pivotal moment, Peter defends his mission to the Gentiles after God reveals that the Gospel breaks through ethnic and religious barriers—proving salvation is not by cultural conformity but by grace alone. We’ll see how God confronts human prejudice, expands our understanding of His grace, and calls us to reject man-made divisions in favor of His unifying Gospel.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Acts 6:1-7 under the theme “Strategic Ministry.” All of God’s people are called to service in his Body (the Church), but we’re not called to serve in the same ways. Each of God’s children is gifted for a role. When we don’t use our gifts to fill our role or we use our gifts in the wrong role, the Body suffers. Looking to Jesus as our Head, we find a way to troubleshoot problems in the Church by compassionately getting God’s people to serve in the right positions.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying Acts 5:12-16 under the theme “Healing in the Church’s Shadow.” Undeniably, God worked miracles through the Apostles and the early Christian Church. Does he do the same today? This requires us to meditate on the nature of a miracle and see what role we play as a member of Jesus’ Body (i.e. the Church) today.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus’ rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In studying Philippians 2:5-11, we examine Jesus' path of humility and ultimate exaltation, contrasting earthly leaders with His servant leadership. Discover how adopting Christ's mindset can transform relationships and lead us to serve others selflessly, reflecting His glory and majesty.Speaker: Seminarian Zach ThielHow can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This Easter message from John 21:18 explores the profound encounter between Mary Magdalene and the risen Jesus. Discover why Mary, a woman with a broken past, was the first to witness the resurrection and how her story reveals the transformative power of grace. As we delve into themes of sin, reconciliation, and spiritual blindness, learn how Jesus calls each of us by name, inviting us to see Him clearly and share His love with the world. Uncover the hope and redemption found in the resurrection of Christ.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In Luke 18:9-18, Jesus told a parable about two men who went to the temple to pray: a virtue-signaling Pharisee and a miserable tax collector who couldn’t even lift his face because of his shame. Jesus’ startling judgment was that it was only the tax collector who went home justified. The assumption of many religious people is that, on some level, God’s approval is based on our personal obedience and good deeds. We’ll see that humble prayer begins where our self-righteousness ends - not with declarations of how good we are, but with desperate hands empty enough to receive what Christ has done.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week's Lenten reflection delves into the profound abandonment Jesus experienced on the cross, highlighting His cry of forsakenness. We examine how this ultimate sacrifice ensures that believers are never truly alone, as Jesus endured separation from God to guarantee our eternal companionship with Him. Through His love and sacrifice, Jesus dismantles the power of sin and death, offering us everlasting comfort and presence.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we're studying Luke 16 and exploring the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, focusing on the theme of "An Unnamed Rich Man." We'll uncover the reality of hell, the sufficiency of God's Word, and the profound love of Jesus Christ, who endured suffering to save us. We'll explain the spiritual implications of self-centeredness and the eternal trajectory of our choices. Take heart in the gospel truth that, through Christ's sacrifice, we're invited to turn from self-centeredness and embrace the everlasting joy and love found in God's presence.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week's Lenten meditation explores the mockery and suffering Jesus endured before His crucifixion. We reflect on how human rebellion and rejection of authority mirror the actions of those who mocked Christ. Despite the shame He bore, Jesus's sacrifice offers us redemption, transforming our shame into honor and securing our place in His eternal kingdom.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 15:11-32 under the theme “A Parable of Two Sons.” This will be our third straight week hearing Jesus teach on The Banquet. We’ve heard about a Narrow Door. We’ve heard about Making Excuses. And now he’s teaching about the difference between repentant sinners and self-righteous religious practitioners. We’ll explain why the traditional title “The Parable of the Prodigal Son,” which dates back to 16th century English translations and even the Latin Vulgate, is tremendously misleading. This text is as much, or more, about an obedient older brother and how he still stands outside the banquet.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In this week's Lenten meditation, we examine Peter's denial of Jesus and the fear-driven weakness that led to it. We reflect on how our actions can mirror Peter's, revealing our tendency to deny Christ in moments of self-preservation. Despite our failures, Jesus's grace remains sufficient, offering us the strength to repent and the assurance of His enduring love.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 14:15-24 under the theme “A Generous Invitation.” Last week, Jesus talked about the timeliness of response to his gracious invitation. This week, we see that humans, particularly those who are greatly blessed, are often inclined to make excuses for not coming when they realize how disruptive this impending feast could be to their present life. But if the animal has been slaughtered and the food prepared, the feast will continue for all who are hungry and willing to drop everything.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In this Lenten reflection, we examine Jesus's prayerful struggle in Gethsemane, where he faces overwhelming sorrow. We explore the significance of the cup of suffering, representing God's wrath, which Jesus willingly accepts for humanity's sins. Despite the disciples' apathy, Jesus's love and sacrifice offer profound forgiveness and redemption.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 13:22-30 under the theme “The Kingdom’s Narrow Door.” Jesus regularly needed to teach the people of his day that they would not be saved by their pedigree or moral performance. Rather, we can only be saved by grace through faith in him. Everyone is invited to pass through that door, but the door itself is narrow and you cannot bring a bunch of things with you. Letting go of the things of this world requires humility, trust, and urgency.  The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In this Lenten meditation, we explore the moment at the Last Supper when Jesus reveals that one of his disciples will betray him, causing deep sadness among them. We delve into how Judas's deliberate betrayal underscores the depth of human sinfulness and the potential for betrayal within us all. Despite this, we find hope in Jesus's unwavering love and sacrifice, which offer forgiveness and redemption.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 11:1-13 under the theme “Jesus on Prayer.” The most common response most Christians give when asked about their prayer life is “I probably should be doing it more.” Why is it so difficult? We’ll discuss what stands in the way and what is available to us.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This Lenten season, yield to the message of repentance and renewal from Joel 2:12-19 and embrace the timeless call to rend our hearts and welcome our wounded Savior. Return to God with sincerity. Experience His gracious mercy and compassion. Prepare for the resurrection of Jesus Christ.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 9:28-36 under the theme “The Transfiguration.” One of the more misunderstood and underappreciated moments in the Gospels, this account teaches us about the universal human quest for glory and Jesus’ counterintuitive approach.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week’s message will focus on the account of “Martha and Mary” from Luke 10:38-42. Αfter a series of spectacular miracles by Jesus and profound experiences and teachings for his disciples, Jesus stops at the home of Martha. Martha immediately goes to work preparing an elaborate meal while her sister Mary drops everything to sit at Jesus’ feet. Martha, “worried and upset,” becomes critical of Mary and even Jesus. Christians today still struggle with fear and spiritual unrest when it feels like their work is for nothing. Jesus offers a gentle but urgent call to choose the one thing needed: to place ourselves at his feet, because it’s only there that we can hear his word and be ready for service.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

Guest Preacher Jonathan Hein of WELS Congregational Services and Director of the WELS Commission on Congregational Counseling delivers a special message on Psalm 150 for St. Marcus' 150th Church Anniversary. Click here to view the full service.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

In studying Luke 9, we explore Jesus' commissioning of the 12 disciples and the balance between sweet service and strong statements in Christian ministry. We will delve into how believers can live modestly and aim strategically to spread the Gospel, embracing their role as Christ's ambassadors.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 8:22-25 under the theme “Power Over Storms.” After a period of teaching his disciples, Jesus offers them a period of testing. Jesus’ disciples indeed have faith, but the question is whether or not they will use their faith in life’s most trying times. Similarly, for many Christians, it’s not a matter of not having faith, but a matter of not opportunistically expressing faith to help navigate life’s difficult storms.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying Luke 5:17-26 under the theme “Forgiving a Paralyzed Man.” Luke’s Gospel repeatedly shows the theme of Jesus’ healing for a hurting world. Jesus lets us know He is Lord and he has the power to forgive sins. Through our faith in Jesus, we are forgiven. He encourages us to bring people to him through our faith.The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we will be studying Luke 4:38-44 under the theme “A Messiah Who Heals Many Kinds of Problems.” Luke’s Gospel repeatedly shows the theme of Jesus’ healing for a hurting world. That hurt sometimes takes the form of physical ailments, social alienation, or demonic attack. As Lord over all, Jesus knows and has exactly what we need, no matter what is hurting us. With his Spirit upon us, we can offer the same to the world.SERIES SUMMARY: The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we study Luke 4:14-20 under the theme “Rejecting a Familiar Savior.” The Jews wanted a Messiah. They just didn’t want the REAL Messiah. A relationship with the real Messiah requires humility and repentance. It leads to a life spent favoring the hurting of the world. And it empowers you to walk through and away from the rejections you may face. SERIES SUMMARY: The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week, we’ll focus on Jesus’ baptism from Luke 3:15-17 and 21-22, where we see His dependence on the Father and His absolute commitment to God’s will. The Trinity’s presence highlights and affirms Jesus as the one chosen to carry out God’s rescue mission. Despite humanity's natural tendency to rebel against God’s authority, Jesus identified with us. We now receive the benefit of Jesus’ saving work through our own baptisms, including the Father’s approval and the Spirit’s presence, empowering and transforming us to live for Him and trust in His grace.SERIES SUMMARY: The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Luke 3:1-14 under the theme “A Cultural Contrarian.” We are introduced to John the Baptist who prepared the way for the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. John was unabashed with the truth, countercultural in lifestyle, and compelling to all. He had a mission from God and simply did not care who hated him for it. As we start a new year and new teaching series we can learn from John about the courage to live missionally.SERIES SUMMARY: The goal of Dr. Luke’s Gospel is to present the universal reach of Jesus’ gift of salvation. As a man of science, Luke was not particularly interested in mere spiritual opinions, feelings, rumors, or legends. Educated and orderly, Luke sifted through the garbage of misinformation and bad ideas to bring substantiated eyewitness verification of the truth—a gracious reality of mercy and justice for all.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

We explore the profound comfort found in Romans 8, emphasizing that if God is for us, no one can stand against us. Through the lens of the Apostle Paul's teachings, we are reminded of Christ's inseparable love and the impregnable defense He provides against the accusations of sin and the grave. As we face life's challenges, we are encouraged to trust in the unchanging love of Jesus, which remains steadfast regardless of our circumstances.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This Christmas Day message explores the transformative power of knowing Jesus, the eternal Word made flesh. Discover how His incarnation brings light to our darkness and hope to our world. Delve into the true meaning of Christmas and the depth of God's love. Celebrate the season and be inspired to live as redeemed children of God.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will conclude our study of Revelation with Revelation 22:1-14 under the theme “The Evolution of Paradise.”SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Revelation 21:1-6 under the theme “A New Heaven and a New Earth.” Whereas Christians often get lost in the many strange and spectacular details of the Book of Revelation, they forget that its primary purpose God intended is Living Hope for his people to face anything in the present.SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Revelation 19:1-10 under the theme “The Wedding Supper and the Lamb.” Our praise of God in the present gets derailed when we forget the temporal nature of enticing beauty, overprioritize otherwise good things, or lose track of all the Lord has done and has promised. Our “Hallelujah” today is possible and powerful only to the degree we anticipate the Wedding Supper of the Lamb.SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

Leading up to Chapter 14, we hear of the dangers that are to come to us in this world. Even in our troubles, fears, hardships, and pain, we learn that this is not a time to worry. Rather "This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people." "This calls for wisdom." The end of times is no different from the beginning of time — God always delivers! SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

Our next step in Revelation takes us to the heavenly throne room in Chapter 5, where John’s heart breaks over the sealed scroll—until everything changes when the Lamb steps forward. The new song of heaven bursts out, celebrating what Jesus has done. He has made us a kingdom and priests through His sacrifice. Here we see that unrestrained, joy-filled worship is what we were made for and we join in the chorus sung in heaven as we discover the infinite worth of the Lamb. SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Revelation 3:14-22 under the theme “A Letter to the Church in Laodicea.” It is in these verses that we learn how Jesus notoriously deemed Laodicea “lukewarm,” saying that if they did not repent, he would spit them out. Prosperity has a way of deceiving God’s people into believing in their own self-sufficiency. Christ calls us to repent and see not only our need for God’s grace but the King’s generous provision of it. SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Revelation 2:1-7 under the theme “A Letter to the Church in Ephesus.” Ephesus had been a pivotal congregation in the Early Church, but they’d lost their original love. It’s entirely possible for a Christian congregation (or individual) to check major boxes of doctrine and religious practice, but lose internal vitality. We’ll see how that fall happens and needs to be done to reignite vibrancy. SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying Revelation 1:8-18 under the theme “Introducing the Alpha and the Omega.” This week we read the Apostle John’s introductory image of Jesus in heaven. John is overwhelmed. But the Lord tells him, “Do not be afraid,” because this all-powerful King holds the keys to our future. SERIES SUMMARY: The book of Revelation has fascinated Christians for two millennia. As apocalyptic literature, it’s unique in the New Testament for numerous reasons, not the least of which is that it is the book that speaks of things yet to come. Revelation is a message to Christians to remain faithful to Christ and to resist evil. It includes visions and images that point to Jesus' return as the ultimate King, Warrior, and Savior, and the restoration of his people. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be celebrating the Reformation, as well as concluding our series on David, studying 2 Samuel 12:1-25 under the theme “The Repentant Will Be Reconciled.” The first of Martin Luther’s famous 95 Theses states: “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ‘Repent’ (Mt 4:17), he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance.” Contrary to what this world thinks about progress or self-image, by God’s design, the path forward for humanity is always in humbling ourselves before a holy, gracious Lord. This week we’ll see how David experiences new life in repentance, but also how the prophet Nathan skillfully addresses sin in the life of a man he loved. SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying 2 Samuel 11:1-27 under the theme “The Proud Will Fall.” Here, we encounter perhaps the most notorious series of sins in the Bible. Amongst other things, we learn the power of sin to grow from a cell in our hearts to a monster that can ruin our lives. But we also learn that no murderer or adulterer is beyond God’s saving grace. SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

This week we will be studying 2 Samuel 9:1-13 under the theme “Kindness to Friends & Those in Need.” David had experienced the goodness of God, and he’d also made a vow reflecting that goodness to his friend Jonathan. So, when David had opportunity to do good to Jonathan’s family after Jonathan had passed away, he seized the moment. David’s kindness is a picture of what Jesus (the GREATER David) came to do for us, but also an inspiration to proactively seek out opportunities to extend God’s undeserved goodness to others. SERIES SUMMARY: The life of David is the single longest narrative in all of ancient literature of a single human life. Dramatically packed with scandal, betrayal, murder, and redemption, it may or may not surprise readers that David is one of Scripture’s most relatable characters. Much like our lives; however, David’s narrative is less about David and more about the one to whom David points. How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you’d like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive