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Bethel Lutheran Church CupertinoTrust in FaithTrust in Faith
And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying.
For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them.
Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
Luke 12:29–31
I remember fondly the holiday gatherings we had as a family.
Many of these featured dinner at our house with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and many cousins.
I can also picture my mother an...2025-08-1013 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoStuffingStuffing
And he said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed,
for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.”
Luke 12:15
Of all things Jesus said, this may be the most un-American.
We love stuff and we tend to define ourselves by it.
This is not a uniquely American or modern atribute, as Jesus was speaking to the same instinct 2,000 years ago.
It isn’t that having possessions is bad, rather we need to spend our time focusing on the right thing (God)
and not be consumed...2025-08-0316 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPrayer TimePrayer Time
Message delivered by Pastor Nate Winterhof.2025-07-2715 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoDoing and BeingDoing and Being
Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him.
She had a sister named Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to what he was saying.
But Martha was distracted by her many tasks.
Luke 10:38–40
The story of Mary and Martha seems to be written for our time.
One sister is doing all the work of welcoming Jesus into her home, while the other one sits at the feet off Jesus.
This story has sibling rivalry, the balance of an active and...2025-07-2014 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGood NeighborGood Neighbor
An expert in the law stood up to test Jesus.
“Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do you read there?”
He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself.”
And he said to him, “You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.”
But wanting to vindicate himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
...2025-07-1313 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoReady, Set, Go!Ready, Set, Go!
After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go.
Luke 10:1
The sending of the 70 (or 72) becomes the start of the apprenticeship for the disciples becoming apostles.
Disciples are students of a rabbi, while apostles are those sent by God to share the good news and invite others to follow in faith.
The first mission came with mixed results as this holy work is challenging and difficult.
There were some high points mixed in.
Join...2025-07-0619 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFollow ThroughFollow Through
As they were going along the road, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.”
And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.”
Luke 9:57–58
Following Jesus was a complete commitment.
The disciples left their jobs, families, and homes.
In many cases, they traveled with Jesus for three years, going from place to place, sharing the good news and healing people.
This was not a call for everyone and Sunday’s gospel shares examples of...2025-06-2912 min
KFM On DemandThe Bible Study Podcast - #925 Sermon - Trinity SundayThis episode is a sermon that I preached at my home church, Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California. It was preached on Trinity Sunday and Father's Day. The topic is the Trinity. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2025-06-2615 minThe Bible Study Podcast#925 Sermon - Trinity SundayThis episode is a sermon that I preached at my home church, Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California. It was preached on Trinity Sunday and Father's Day. The topic is the Trinity. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2025-06-2615 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoSet FreeSet Free
When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, shouting, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?
I beg you, do not torment me,” for Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man.
(For many times it had seized him; he was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the wilds.)
Luke 8:28–29
Sunday features one of the most powerful healing stories in scripture.
A man is...2025-06-2215 min
TransfiguredDr. Jim - We shouldn't take the gains of Liberalism for grantedIn this episode of Transfigured, I sit down with Dr. Jim to delve into a range of pressing intellectual and spiritual topics. We explore his recent writings on his Substack, "Around the Corner," his perspective on the "re-enchantment" narrative currently popular in some online spaces, and a critical engagement with modernism. Using Carlos Eire's book "They Flew" (about the levitating St. Joseph of Cupertino) as a springboard, we discuss the nature of evidence, the moral responsibilities tied to metaphysical claims, and the vital role of institutions (like those in science, medicine, and education) in fostering self-correction and upholding human...2025-06-161h 29Bethel Lutheran Church CupertinoTrinityTrinity
Message delivered by Chris Christensen.2025-06-1514 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoSpirit PowerSpirit Power
Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them.
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
Acts 2:3–4
Sunday is Pentecost, a day we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit and remember how the disciples were given the ability to speak the gospel in every language.
I have often wondered whether Pentecost was a miracle of hearing or a miracle of speaking.
But perhaps it is both!
It is a miracle wh...2025-06-0815 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoOne PrayerOne Prayer
I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.
As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
John 17:20–21
In Jesus’ farewell discourse (chapters 14-17 in John) Jesus offers his wisdom, insight, and encouragement with the disciples on their last night together.
Chapter 17 concludes with Jesus praying for unity for the church.
In a time of frag...2025-06-0112 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoThe AdvocateThe Advocate
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you.
John 14:26
As Jesus was preparing to go to the cross he was also preparing the disciples to carry on the ministry and mission of the church.
He promises them that even though he is leaving, he will not leave them orphaned
(14:18)
and will send the Advocate to lead and guide them.
The Advocate is the Holy Spirit which will continue to teach the disciples...2025-05-2517 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoReal LoveReal Love
I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.
Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
John 13:34-35
Real love is demonstrated not merely in the words we speak.
Jesus commands the disciples to “love one another” in such a way that others would know from their actions they were followers of Jesus.
This is a high bar to clear.
I hope others see in me the love of Jesu...2025-05-1816 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGatekeepingGatekeeping
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
Jesus said “I AM the good shepherd.”
How fitting that on the Sunday after the new pope was elected we hear these words once again.
Because Jesus is a good shepherd, he protects the sheep and leads them to green pastures and still waters.
By contrast, the thief seeks to kill and destroy, thinking only of himself.
Jesus told the disciples to listen for his voice and follow him.
Easy to say but...2025-05-1112 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoWhat Now?What Now?
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.”
Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.”
John 21:15–16
In the gospel of John, Jesus’ final recorded appearance occurs after Peter and other disciples decide to go fishing.
After being sku...2025-05-0414 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGo in PeaceGo in Peace
After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side.
Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you.
As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”
John 20:20–21
When Jesus appeared to the disciples on Easter evening they were filled with uncertainty, anxiety, and fear.
Jesus shares God’s peace with them and they are moved with joy.
They are also given a mission and being sent into the world to share God’s peace and forgiveness.
Join us Sunday as...2025-04-2714 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoChrist is Risen!Christ is Risen!
But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared.
They found the stone rolled away from the tomb.
Luke 24:1–2
Easter morning (as we know it) was filled with more fear than joy.
When the tomb is found empty the women who came to anoint Jesus were filled with more questions than answers.
What happened to Jesus' body?
And yet these women shared their experience and from there the church was born.
Join us Sunday as we celebrate the ri...2025-04-2011 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFor YouFor You
Message delivered by Pastor Kelly Sandin.2025-04-1808 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPalm SundayPalm Sunday
When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples,
saying, “Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden.
Untie it and bring it here.
If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ just say this, ‘The Lord needs it.’”
Luke 19:29–31
Palm Sunday begins our Holy Week journey.
Jesus entered Jerusalem riding a modest colt.
He does this to fulfill the Messianic prophesy but also to demons...2025-04-1311 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoExtravagant BlessingExtravagant Blessing
Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.
There they gave a dinner for him.
Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.
Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair.
The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
John 12:1–3
Mary offered an extravagant blessing to Jesus, by anointing his feet with a very expensive perfume.
This was an act of love and...2025-04-0612 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFather and SonsFather and Sons
Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.
And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
So he told them this parable: “There was a man who had two sons.
The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’
So he divided his property between them…
Luke 15:1–3,11–12
The parable of the Prodigal Son is among the most well known scriptures.
Jesus tells this parable in the midst of...2025-03-3013 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFruit BearingFruit Bearing
Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard;
and he came looking for fruit on it and found none.
So he said to the gardener, ‘See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree,
and still I find none.
Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?’
He replied, ‘Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it.
If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut...2025-03-2310 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoJerusalem ProphetJerusalem Prophet
Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it!
How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!
Luke 13:34
Jesus had a deep love, like most Jewish people, for Jerusalem.
His parents regularly brought him to the city for religious festivals and observances
(cf. Luke 2:41) so he was very familiar with it.
His love for Jerusalem is evident in his lament that the beloved people have not embraced his ministry or...2025-03-1614 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoTested and ReadyTested and Ready
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness,
where for forty days he was tempted by the devil.
Luke 4:1–2
The season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday and Sunday’s gospel features the story of Jesus’ temptation for forty days in the wilderness.
It has always struck me that the Spirit of God leads
(or drives cf. Mark 1:12)
Jesus into this time of temptation or testing.
The same Spirit that descends upon Jesus at his baptism ushers him into a very challe...2025-03-0915 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFaith JourneyFaith Journey
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2025-03-0610 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoTransfigurationTransfiguration
Message delivered by Pastor Nate Winterhof.2025-03-0214 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoJudge NotJudge Not
Do to others as you would have them do to you.
Luke 6:31
I learned the “golden rule” as a child.
Treat others as you wish to be treated is simple yet profound.
It requires empathic imagination to pause before taking an action and wonder
“how would I feel if someone did this to me?”
Imagine a world where people actually did this!
Like many of Jesus’ teachings, it is straightforward but very challenging.
Join us Sunday as we explore this instruction and others that are even more difficult.
Message delivered by Pastor Ben2025-02-2315 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoBlessings and WoesBlessings and Woes
Then he looked up at his disciples and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
“Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.
“Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Luke 6:20–21
The beatitudes of Jesus convey the moral vision of God.
God calls blessed those the world would not.
The poor, the hungry, the mourning, those who struggle are those who are blessed in God’s eyes.
To the rich, the powerful, the contented, he offers a warning.
“Woe to you w...2025-02-1614 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoCalled OutCalled Out
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.”
When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.
Luke 5:10–11
The call stories of the disciples are profound.
Jesus approaches ordinary people because he sees in them something they cannot see in themselves.
Simon Peter, after witnessing the miraculous catch of fish, begs to “go away” from him because of his sin.
Jesus sees Simon differently. He sees his faith, his gifts, his leadership, and his potential.
So it is with us.
Go...2025-02-0911 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoLove ActuallyLove Actually
And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13
Last week we heard from chapter 12 of 1 Corinthians.
In that chapter, Paul encourages the church to see the value of all gifts within a congregation.
In chapter 13, he continues the encouragement by highlighting the importance of love.
In humility and love, we see in one another that we are all beloved children of God.
It is not about being the richest, the strongest, or even the most faithful.
The church is called to be a place...2025-02-0214 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoJob DescriptionJob Description
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Luke 4:18–19
This Sunday our gospel text features Jesus returning to his hometown and reading from the prophet Isaiah.
The passage he chose reads like the job description of the Messiah: bring good news to the poor, release the captive, heal the blind, e...2025-01-2613 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoWedding FeastWedding Feast
On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there.
Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding.
When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.”
And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me?
My hour has not yet come.”
His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”
John 2:1–5
Everyone’s favorite miracle story: water into wine!
What might seem like a frivolous party trick actu...2025-01-1914 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoBelovedBeloved
The Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove.
And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
Luke 3:22
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.
Isaiah 43:1
These scriptures, to be read on Sunday, offer a powerful reminder of our intimate connection to our creator.
God knows our name, God’s love is for...2025-01-1214 min
The Bible Study Podcast#901 - Sermon - Put on LoveThis episode is a sermon given at my home church Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino California on verses from Luke and from Colossians. The Luke verses are The Boy Jesus at the Temple. The title is "Put on Love." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2025-01-0920 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoEnlightenedEnlightened
This Sunday we celebrate Epiphany, commemorating the journey of the Wisemen who come to honor the newborn Christ child.
As they share their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh they foreshadow the story of Jesus.
Join us Sunday as we follow the star to find our savior.
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2025-01-0510 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPut on LovePut on Love
Message delivered by Chris Christensen.2024-12-2919 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoNativity SeenNativity Seen
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2024-12-2511 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoSong of MarySong of Mary
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb.
And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry,
“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.”
Luke 1:41–42
In the days leading up to the birth of Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the angel Gabriel were working overtime.
Elizabeth (Mary’s cousin) and Zechariah could not have children
and were told by Gabriel that they would have a son John who will be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Then the angel come...2024-12-2210 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoBearing FruitBearing Fruit
Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees;
every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Luke 3:9
This Sunday we will hear part two of the Lukan version of the John the Baptist story.
John speaks a prophetic word that calls people to repent and prepare for the coming Messiah,
instructing them to bear fruit worthy of repentance.
In other words, repentance is not merely an internal change of heart,
but an outward change in behavior that becomes a blessing...2024-12-1511 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPrepare the WayPrepare the Way
He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Luke 3:3
John the Baptist played a key role in the story of Jesus.
Through his ministry of baptism and message of repentance, people’s hearts and minds were being prepared for Jesus.
Advent is a time of spiritual renewal, a time for us to be prepared for Jesus.
Let’s follow John’s lead and prepare the way!
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2024-12-0809 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoHeads UpHeads Up
Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory.
Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Luke 21:27–28
On Sunday we begin our Advent journey.
Advent is a time of beginnings but also a time of waiting.
The gospel text this week features apocalyptic images from Jesus predicting the Second Coming.
This will include power and dangerous signs but also the Son of Man coming in power and glory and bringing redemption and wholenes...2024-12-0109 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoNo WorriesNo Worries
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2024-11-2707 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoAlpha and OmegaAlpha and Omega
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8
Sunday is Christ the King Sunday, the final Sunday of the church year.
We celebrate that Jesus is the King of kings, Lord of lords, and how God’s reign is eternal.
We also know that we live between the Alpha (beginning) and the Omega (end) and in this in-between time things are not always as God would intend.
We know God’s reign will bring an end to evil...2024-11-2412 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoTemple BodyTemple Body
As he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him,
“Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!”
Then Jesus asked him, “Do you see these great buildings?
Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”
Mark 13:1–2
The Temple in Jerusalem was the most sacred place for the Jewish people.
It was a place of worship, reverence, and pride.
When Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple it would have provoked a big reaction, both among the disciples and his adversaries.
His prophesy i...2024-11-1711 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoWidow's MiteWidow's Mite
For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.
Mark 12:44
The story of the widow’s “mite” (a very small denomination of money) is a story of faith in God’s provisions.
Jesus is at the Temple watching people make financial gifts, with some wealthy people giving large sums.
Jesus sees the widow place two small copper coins in the collection and he sees her great faith.
She gave all that she had, trusting God woul...2024-11-1011 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGod's PromiseGod's Promise
When Mary came where Jesus was and saw him, she knelt at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, he was greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved.
John 11:32–33
On Sunday we will remember all the saints who gone to heaven before us, particularly those who have died in the past year.
As we remember these beloved children of God, we are grounded in God’s promise of eternal...2024-11-0310 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGod's WordGod's Word
Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples;
and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
John 8:31–32
On Sunday we will celebrate and remember the Reformation.
One of Martin Luther’s great contributions to the church was a renewed emphasis on studying scripture.
Jesus tells would be followers to “continue in my word” to understand the truth about God and life.
This same invitation is given to us, to study, learn, and live out the Word of...2024-10-2714 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGod's GloryGod's Glory
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2024-10-2013 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoGod FirstGod First
Message delivered by Pastor Nate Winterhof.2024-10-1316 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoChildlike FaithChildlike Faith
People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them;
and the disciples spoke sternly to them.
But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them,
“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them;
for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.
Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.”
Mark 10:13–15
In the past few weeks, our gospel texts have featured Jesus interacting with children in positi...2024-10-0612 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoUs and ThemUs and Them
Whoever is not against us is for us.
Mark 9:40
These words of Jesus are spoken to the disciples who heard of someone, not following Jesus, who was healing people in Jesus’ name.
Their instinct was to stop this man because he was not part of their group.
This “us v. them” mentality is pervasive in our world now and in Jesus’ time.
We love to make distinctions of who is in and who is out, and we can become very precise about how these lines are drawn.
Jesus teaches us to consider things d...2024-09-2915 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFirst ServeFirst Serve
Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them,
“What were you arguing about on the way?”
But they were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest.
He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.”
Mark 9:33–35
I have a confession to make: I am competitive.
I like to compete and I like to win.
Over the years, I have learned to temper my impulses b...2024-09-2213 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPower of SpeechPower of Speech
But no one can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God.
James 3:8–9
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.
This childhood saying comes so easily to me and yet we know it is definitely not true.
In many cases, we carry with us the unkind words spoken to us our whole lifetime, particularly when those words were shared by a loved one...2024-09-1514 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoWithout DistinctionWithout Distinction
My brothers and sisters, do you with your acts of favoritism really believe in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ?
For if a person with gold rings and in fine clothes comes into your assembly, and if a poor person in dirty clothes also comes in,
and if you take notice of the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Have a seat here, please,” while to the one who is poor you say, “Stand there,” or, “Sit at my feet,”
have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?
James 2:1–4
Over the...2024-09-0809 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoSibling RivalrySibling Rivalry
But Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid!
Am I in the place of God?
Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today.”
Genesis 50:19–20
This Sunday we conclude our sermon series on the book of Genesis, focusing on the story of Joseph.
Joseph was the 11th of Jacob’s sons and was the favorite of his father (hence the fancy coat).
His brothers were filled with jealousy and, by force, sold him as a slave fo...2024-09-0118 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFamily MalfunctionFamily Malfunction
When the boys grew up, Esau was a skillful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man, living in tents.
Isaac loved Esau, because he was fond of game; but Rebekah loved Jacob.
Genesis 25:27–28
Abraham and Sarah waited a long time for God’s promise of a son to come to fruition.
When Isaac was born, their lives were filled with joy, and through their son many nations would trace their roots.
Isaac and his wife Rebekah had two sons, Jacob and Esau.
Their family, while part of God’s plan...2024-08-2517 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoRighteous FaithRighteous Faith
He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.”
Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.”
And he believed the Lord;
and the Lord reckoned it to him as righteousness.
Genesis 15:5–6
The story of Abraham and Sarah, and the promise given by God, is foundational to the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faith.
It is through Abraham that all three traditions trace their roots.
God made a promise to Abraham and Sarah that they would have children, but they had to wait a...2024-08-1811 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoRighteous ArkRighteous Ark
“I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of a flood,
and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.”
Genesis 9:11
God speaks these words to Noah after the waters of the flood have subsided.
The story of Noah, the ark, and flood is one of the most well known in all of scripture.
I remember a mural in my childhood church that depicted all the animals entering the ark with Noah and always felt a warm feeling when I pass...2024-08-1111 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoBrother's KeeperBrother's Keeper
Message delivered by Pastor Nathan Winterhof.2024-08-0420 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFall From ParadiseFall From Paradise
But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not die; for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate;
and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate.
Genesis 3:4–6
Last week w...2024-07-2816 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoPersonal GodPersonal God
Then the LORD God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life;
and the man became a living being.
Genesis 2:7
Last week we began our sermon series focused on the creation narrative in Genesis 1.
In that depiction, God creates by speaking and all of creation comes into existence in an orderly and methodical way.
In Genesis 2, we see a different kind of creation story, one that is more organic and messy.
God creates Adam (Hebrew for dirt) out of the ground with God’s ow...2024-07-2116 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoAwesome CreatorAwesome Creator
In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void
and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters.
Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.
Genesis 1:1–3
In these opening verses of the Bible God begins creation.
By the power of God’s word light and life are brought into existence; from nothing comes something.
It is amazing how God created everything and how creation is so intricately made.
It is also fas...2024-07-1412 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoHometown RejectionHometown Rejection
He left that place and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him.
On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded.
They said, “Where did this man get all this?
What is this wisdom that has been given to him?
What deeds of power are being done by his hands!
Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?”
And they took offense at him.
Mark 6:1–3
...2024-07-0718 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoHealing TouchHealing Touch
Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet
and begged him repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death.
Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.”
Mark 5:22–23
There are many contentious interactions between religious leaders and Jesus.
In our gospel for Sunday, we see Jairus, a leader in the synagogue, repeatedly ask Jesus to heal his daughter.
This story shows us the power of Jesus to heal and his heart for th...2024-06-3014 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoStorm FrontStorm Front
He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!”
Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm.
He said to them, “Why are you afraid?
Have you still no faith?”
Mark 4:39–40
Jesus had the power to calm storms.
This did not prevent the disciples from being afraid.
In times of panic and struggle we often forget that Jesus is with us.
We never walk alone and there is power greater than we could ever understand working for us.
Message delivered by Pastor Ben Sandin.2024-06-2313 min
The Bible Study Podcast#872 - Sermon – "What About That Guy?"This episode is a sermon that I gave at my home church which is Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, CA about the calling of David. 1 Samuel 15:34 - 16:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2024-06-2018 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoShowing UpShowing Up
Message delivered by Chris Christensen.2024-06-1617 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoFamily of GodFamily of God
And looking at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers!
Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”
Mark 3:34–35
Jesus’ ministry and teaching reveals the Kingdom of God.
It was received as liberation by many, and often opposed by religious leaders.
Jesus is also rarely understood.
When Jesus is told that his mother and brothers were there to visit him, he redefines the nature of kinship.
It is those who do the will of God that are my brothers and sisters...2024-06-0912 minBethel Lutheran Church CupertinoSabbath BlessingsSabbath Blessings
Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.”
Mark 2:27
Mark 2:27
Jesus had a series of escalating, tension filled encounters with the religious leaders of his day.
In our gospel story for Sunday, Jesus knowingly breaks sabbath laws in order to do something good for others.
He becomes angered when the Pharisees become so fixated on following rules that they rule out helping others on the sabbath.
God created the sabbath as a time of rest and recovery.
It is built into the structure of crea...2024-06-0210 min
The Bible Study Podcast#849 - Epiphany - SermonThis episode is a sermon that I gave at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino about about the coming of the wise men and the story of Epiphany. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2024-01-1121 min
The Bible Study Podcast#824 - Sermon on Romans 8:1-11 – ZombiesThis episode is a sermon that I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, California. It is about Romans 8 and the struggle between the flesh and the spirit. It is also about zombies. First Reading Genesis 25:19-3419These are the descendants of Isaac, Abraham’s son: Abraham was the father of Isaac, 20and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah, daughter of Bethuel the Aramean of Paddan-aram, sister of Laban the Aramean. 21Isaac prayed to the LORD for his wife, because she was barren; and the LORD granted his prayer, and his wife Rebekah co...2023-07-2013 min
The Bible Study Podcast#822 - Sermon on Romans 6:12-23 – Instruments and SlavesThis episode is a sermon that I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino. It is about T which is about sin. Paul uses two analogies: instruments and slaves. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2023-07-0519 min
The Bible Study PodcastA Sermon on the Holy Name of JesusThis episode is a sermon given at Bethel Luerthan Church in Cupertino on the "Holy Name of Jesus". The text for the sermon was Luke 2:21-35 which is the encounter in the temple between Simeon and Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2023-01-0516 min
The Bible Study PodcastActs 13 - SermonThis is a sermon from my church, Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, California, about the 13th chapter of Acts from a sermon series on that book. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2022-07-2817 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon - Who and WhoseThis episode is sermon give at my home church, Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, CA about Deuteronomy and the temptation of Jesus. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2022-03-1019 min
The Bible Study PodcastJob and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad DayThis episode is a sermon I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino on the book of Job. Job has a series of 3 plagues visited on him in a series of Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Days. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2021-10-0715 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon "Liar, Lord or Lunatic"This episode is a sermon I gave for Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino titled "Liar, Lord or Lunatic". Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2021-06-1014 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon – Light and DarknessThis is a special episode which is a sermon I preached for Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino based on Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1 :3-14, and John 1:1-18. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2021-01-1425 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon - Feeding of the 5,000This episode is a sermon on the feeding of the 5,000 from Matthew 14:13-21 which I preached (online) at my church Bethel Luerthan in Cupertino, California. https://bethelcupertino.org http://thebiblestudypodcast.com/sermon-feeding-of-the-5000/ for the slides and video Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2020-08-0619 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon - The Great CommissionThis episode is a sermon recorded for my church Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino on the Great Commission Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2020-06-1126 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon - TemptationThis is a special episode which is a sermon I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino based on Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11. The topic of the sermon is temptation Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2020-03-0521 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon - New BeginningsThis is a special episode which is a sermon I preached at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino based on Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42. It focuses on beginnings and change and gives you 12 practical tips for keeping your New Year's Resolutions Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2020-01-2328 min
The Bible Study PodcastSermon on Isaiah 1:10-18 and Luke 19:1-10 - SinA sermon from Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino on sin. I preached on Isaiah 1:10-18 and Luke 19:1-10 which were, sort of, the lessons for the day. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2019-11-1420 min
The Bible Study PodcastA sermon on Luke 18:1-8 and 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5A sermon from my church Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, CA. I was asked to preach on the first Sunday after our pastor left. I preached on Luke 18:1-8 and 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 which were the lessons for the day. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2019-10-2418 min
The Bible Study Podcast#471 - Sermon - On Being Lost and FoundThis is a special episode of the podcast that comes from a sermon I gave recently at my home church of Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, California. It is based on Luke 15 and Exodus 32, which are the stories of the Lost Coin, the Lost Sheep and the Golden Calf. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2016-09-1616 min
The Bible Study Podcast#318 - A Sermon on AbramA special bible study podcast, this episode is a sermon that was given at my home church Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino, California - The subject of the sermon is the calling, or rather recalling of Abram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2013-08-1515 min
The Bible Study Podcast#284 - The Story of Two Widows – SermonThis is the episode is a sermon that I gave at Bethel Lutheran Church in Cupertino about two stories, one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament about windows. The first story is the story of Elijah and the widow of Zeraphath and the second Jesus's encounter with a widow in the Temple. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us. 2012-11-1513 min