Victory: From Battle to Breakthrough | Sermon Series Update

As we move further into Eastertide, we continue to celebrate the truth that resurrection is not a distant memory but an ongoing, living reality. Our series, Victory: From Battle to Breakthrough, is a reminder that because Christ is risen, we are empowered to rise as well—rising in hope, courage, and boldness. With each step, we press deeper into the victory Christ has won for us, trusting that every battle we face brings us closer to breakthrough. Here’s a reflection on the past few weeks as we continue to journey in the power of resurrection.

For previous sermon summaries, click here: From Battle to Breakthrough Sermon Series Update

Week 3: Because He Rose, We Are Redeemed

Date: May 4, 2025

Scriptures: Psalm 30, Acts 9:1–6 (7–20)

While I was away on vacation, Pastor Nicole preached about redemption, and though I haven’t had the chance to listen to her message yet, I have no doubt she shared something powerful about the transformation of Saul to Paul. This transformation isn’t just about recovery—it’s about being completely redefined by Christ. Because He rose, we are redeemed.

Redemption is not just about fixing what’s broken; it’s a complete rewriting of our stories. I’ve been reflecting on my own journey of redemption—not as someone recovering from mistakes, but as someone finding rest in who I am in God. I’m learning to let go of the over-functioning that so often defines me and to rest in His grace.

Redemption is a radical call to let God rewrite our story and transform us from the inside out.

The power of Christ’s resurrection calls us to live differently, to stop striving for a marketable faith or consumer-driven church experience, and to reclaim the authentic, transformative gospel. It’s time for a reformation—a reclaiming of the deep, holy truths of our faith. This isn’t about fixing the church; it’s about rebuilding and reshaping all of us, together.

If you missed Pastor Nicole’s powerful message on redemption, I encourage you to catch up on Facebook, where you can watch the sermon. I’m also working on providing our sermons in a more direct way—not just through Facebook Live. Stay tuned for more updates on that, and in the meantime, feel free to read these brief summaries on our blog or revisit the messages on Facebook.

Week 4: Because He Rose, Waiting Isn't Wasted

Date: May 11, 2025

Scriptures: Psalm 23, Acts 9:36–43

As I returned from my vacation, I shared with you a message on waiting not being wasted. Because Jesus rose, even our seasons of waiting are filled with purpose.

We often think of waiting as time lost or wasted, but in God’s Kingdom, waiting is never wasted. In Acts 9, the story of Tabitha (Dorcas) shows us that God’s work is often done in the waiting—through prayer, faith, and expectation. When the time is right, we will see God’s power in our lives.

Waiting is a time of strengthening, refining, and preparing. Just like gold is purified through fire, we are being shaped for the breakthrough that is coming. And when the time is right, just as Tabitha was raised from the dead, we will rise again, and others will see the glory of God through us.

Closing Prayer: Loving God, We thank You for the power of the resurrection that transforms our lives—calling us to begin again, to walk in boldness, and to wait with patience, knowing that You are at work even when we can't see it. We celebrate the truth that because You rose, we are redeemed—our past no longer defines us, and our future is filled with hope.

Help us to embrace the new beginnings You offer, trusting that each step we take is part of the redemption You are working in us. Give us the courage to stand boldly for Your truth, even when it costs us, and the patience to wait for Your timing, knowing that nothing in Your Kingdom is ever wasted.

May we continue to be shaped and refined in this season, resting in the assurance that Your resurrection power is at work in us, calling us into something radically different. We are not bound by the ways of this world, but set free to live for Your Kingdom.

Guide us, Lord, as we walk together in victory, looking to You for our strength, courage, and direction. In the name of the risen Christ, we pray. Amen.

One of our youth enjoying last year's tea party

Tea Party Reminder:

Don’t forget about our Tea Party this Sunday at 2 pm! It’s a wonderful afternoon of fellowship, raffles, door prizes, and more! Tickets are $20 per person, and we’ll be giving a prize for the best hat, but you can come just as you are and enjoy a lovely, judgment-free fanciful time. See you there!