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Providence Community ChurchGODLY HERITAGE – Genesis 48:15-49:2 – 10-22-23Genesis 33:19-20 records a modest land purchase secured by Jacob no doubt representing a down payment or planted flag heralding a return to the land in future generations. This is just one example of an easily forgotten detail in the text that finds its significance in light of passages like ours today. In this message we consider a patriarchal blessing given by Jacob in his last hours. Passages documenting revelation by way of prophecy and messianic anticipation (like those found in end-of-life benedictions of the forefathers of the covenant) appear like jewels strung upon the necklace of the Genesis narrative...2023-10-2359 minProvidence Community ChurchTESTIMONY IN DEATH – Genesis 48:1-16 – 10-15-23Jacob's eyes are dim with age as he approaches death's door at 147 years. However, the eyes of his faith clearly see far beyond the grave, growing sharper with age. Jacob leaves his family and the reader with this noble testimony in these latter chapters of Genesis. However sad the patriarch's death may seem, he has learned that it will certainly not nullify the promises of God. On the contrary, this testimony of abiding hope will not only outlive Jacob, but will itself prove immortal as every generation of believers cling to the revelation of hope through the seed of Abraham...2023-10-1552 min
Providence Community ChurchSURPASSING PEACE – Psalm 121 – 10-8-23Paul speaks of a peace that passes understanding in our worship text today (Phil 4:7). This promise of superior peace via the Gospel which inspired and encouraged the early church was not a concept novel to the New Testament however. Rest of soul secured in the covenant blessings of God is a theme explored long before in the Psalms, particularly our text today: Psalm 121. This, the second song of ascent, answers the anguished cry of the first (Ps 120) with the assurance of supernatural peace. A striking poetic structure in this song is one of progressive illumination. Each verse takes up and...2023-10-081h 03Providence Community ChurchTHE NATURE OF GOD – Jude 24-25 – 10-1-23Jude's letter provides a model for Godly worship in the form of confession, song, prayer, and proclamation in his final words. Verse 24-25 of his epistle contain one of the most beloved doxologies of the church. Though brief in its expression, this salutation of praise draws deeply from the wells of scriptural revelation for its inspiration. Jude is moved to magnify the Lord on account of 1.) The fullness of salvation (Last sermon from this text) 2.) The nature of God (our message today) and 3.) Attributions worthy of God (our final message and epistle overview to come). Today we seek to appreciate...2023-10-0154 minProvidence Community ChurchA PEOPLES CONTRAST – Genesis 47:27-31We've considered the 2nd half of Gen 47 in light of the contrasts of 2 nations: Egypt
at the time of this exile through the period of Exodus Vs. Israel as established under Moses and evident
in Jacob's family at this time. We have noted thus far a contrast of provision, a contrast of priesthood, a
contrast in politics, and today we note finally, a contrast of peoples. The national, cultural, historical and
religious identity of the covenant people of God as represented by the patriarch Jacob and his family
would remain intentionally distinct from Egypt and all other pagan nations for...2023-09-2456 minProvidence Community ChurchEGYPT vs. ISRAEL IICentral to my thesis on this text is the difference in fortunes between the citizens of Egypt and the covenant family under the administration of Joseph (v:20-21 & 27). The taxation policies and the slavery of the people under famine conditions is the experience of the native citizens, while the Hebrews enjoy liberty and favor at this time. The account of the political and cultural dynamics of Egypt in Genesis 47 serve as a contrast and backdrop for the new nation God will establish under Moses upon exodus from this land. Review from last sermon: (...The nation of Israel's experience, identity, calling...2023-09-1753 minProvidence Community ChurchCRY OF ASCENTPsalm 120 introduces the 'Psalms of Ascent' section of the Psalter. Chapters 120-134 share this title which can be translated 'degrees', 'steps', or an upward direction or trajectory. Many have taken this collection as a hymnal to accompany the pilgrimage of the faithful unto temple worship in Jerusalem. The structural layout of this set of songs appears to favor this view. The first 3 songs are set in proximity to the holy habitation of the Lord with His people and would well accompany a sojourner who was far from Jerusalem but has set his face toward the holy city. Our passage today...2023-09-1058 minProvidence Community ChurchLAST WORDSThere was a piece of paper clasped in the hands of Stanley Clark when he was buried several years ago. The piece of paper reads: “Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority before all time and now and forever, amen...” My uncle Stanley's decision to be buried with these verses precisely illustrates the intent of Jude's closing words to the church. The only abiding assurances in l...2023-09-0353 minProvidence Community ChurchEarly Church Emulation2023-08-2744 minProvidence Community ChurchEGYPT vs. ISRAEL (part 1)An explicit contrast is drawn in Genesis 47 between the inhabitants of Egypt and the sojourning Hebrews in verse 27. This is a surprising detail given the context and draws attention to the distinctions that God will sovereignly maintain and establish between His covenant people and their international counterparts. I submit that this verse provides a hermeneutical clue as Moses sets up contrasts in this passage foreshadowing events transpiring 100's of years later in linear time but soon to follow in the text. (Genesis is winding down to be followed by the sequel – Exodus). Not only would God's people gain possessions, be fr...2023-08-2047 minProvidence Community ChurchTAW – THE TRIAL OF WANDERINGToday concludes 22 months of preaching once a month through Ps 119. Each stanza of 8 verses corresponding to the Hebrew alphabet comprises the greatest of all acrostic psalms and perhaps the most extraordinary hymn in all of history. Even the most gifted of church fathers have found its scope and depth intimidating. Augustine said of this song: “As far as I have been able, as far as I have been aided by the Lord, I have treated throughout and expounded this great psalm. A task which more able and learned expositors have performed, or will perform better.” Certainly a worthy confession of any...2023-08-1355 minProvidence Community ChurchMERCY & FEAR – Jude 16-23Today completes our Jude mini series comparing & contrasting descriptions of the ungodly vs. admonitions to the holy in verses 16-23. In the interest of equipping the church to triumph over all her enemies, Jude and his fellow laborers wrote to the early believers exhorting and encouraging them to stand against anything or anyone who would seek to diminish or deny the glory, majesty, dominion, and authority of Jesus Christ our Lord. From our vantage point in church history, we are witnesses to 2,000 plus years of the sufficiency of these words with the rest of scripture to preserve and arm a...2023-08-0655 minProvidence Community ChurchBLESSINGS IN EGYPT – Genesis 47:1-17The time has come to approach the courts of Pharaoh. Naturally speaking, it is hard to imagine a more intimidating set of circumstances for Jacob and his sons save one detail. Facing immanent starvation, this tribe is desperate for provisions and has travelled great lengths to seek refuge in Egypt. “This strategy has not worked our so well in the past”, Jacob may well have thought, remembering his grandfather's woes in Egypt so long ago. With little to offer and little to loose, nevertheless, Jacob and five select sons are led to audience with Pharaoh; the greatest of earthly kings by f...2023-07-3053 minProvidence Community ChurchSIN & SHIN – THE TRIAL OF TYRANNY – Psalm 119:161-168The 2nd to last Hebrew letter in the alphabet opening each eight verses of our text in its original language signal the 21st and 2nd to last stanza in the great acrostic song of all literature. The Psalmist, according to the structure of a life journey motif, summarizes the priorities of the spiritually mature and well tempered heart. This is the true hero's epic poem. Who are our heroes of the faith? Our imaginations might jump to Moses commanding Pharaoh: “Let my people go!”, or David staring down the giant Goliath with nothing but his faith and the crude weapons of a...2023-07-2355 minProvidence Community ChurchA Verifiable Faith – Romans 4:1-122023-07-1744 minProvidence Community ChurchMERCY & FIRE Jude 16-23The context of Jude's admonitions summarized in key words taken for the title of this sermon are clarifying truths to reinforce the faith of the believer. There is amazing and eternal grace in Christ for the saints, albeit this mercy is weighty indeed. It is salvation from the fiery judgements stored up in the furnace of God's just wrath awaiting final judgement of the unrepentant. Because the stakes are so high, the apostles and their cohorts could not afford to tolerate corrupting influences within the confessing church of Jesus Christ. Therefore they instructed stewards of the church with epistles of...2023-07-0247 minProvidence Community ChurchA GREAT NATION? – Genesis 46:8-34 – Providence Community Church SermonMatthew 13:31-32 records a brief yet descriptive parable of the nature of the kingdom of God: “...the kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” Just like the tamarisk tree we imagine standing 200 years after Abraham planted it in Beersheba, what begins in the sovereignty of God's purposes as a small or s...2023-06-2651 minProvidence Community ChurchUNDER THE TAMARISK TREE – Genesis 46:1-7The first mention of Beersheba in the scriptures involves Abraham and a covenant established with a neighboring king. Abraham commemorates this event by planting a tamarisk tree as a memorial presumably for future generations, who will appreciate all the more its shade and thereby be reminded of God's faithfulness marked at this location. We might imagine Jacob approaching the region now some 200 years later pausing to offer sacrifices of remembrance and worship in the shadow of this now colossal tree. Review & overview: With the patriarchal blessing and calling of Jacob recorded in Gen 27 & 28, the record had focused on this patriarch...2023-06-1854 minProvidence Community Church‘RESH’ – THE TRIAL OF SLAVERY – Psalm 119:153-160Each of the original Hebrew verses of stanza 20 begin with the letter 'resh' as the testimony of the sufficiency of God's Word marks yet another chapter in the journey of the believing author even through the darkest of trials. While stanza 19's theme rested upon the great summary commandment: (Deut 6:5) “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”, stanza 20 acknowledges a world where most follow this commandment as applied to their idols. In our sin, it comes naturally to love our ideas of God, our assumptions about God...2023-06-1150 minProvidence Community ChurchLOVE & MERCY – Jude 16-23Jude's admonitions to the church continue toward his goal of equipping true believers to identify and oppose any who would seek to diminish or deny the glory, majesty, dominion, and authority of Jesus Christ our Lord. This equipping involves discernment sharpening, and faith building. Jude supplements his brief letter with references and allusions to greater scripture – both Old and New Testaments. In this context, the depth of his writing is better appreciated, thus we will seek to enhance our understanding of his words with several cross references. For the last couple sermons, our series in Jude has been organized according to...2023-06-051h 00Providence Community ChurchGenesis 44:18-34 – JUDAH’S INTERCESSIONMen who once sold their brother into slavery motivated by resentment, now offer one of their own as a servant to liberate their father's remaining favored son from bondage. A dramatic stress-tested example of repentance indeed. In the case of Joseph, he was abused by his brothers in spite of his innocence. In this case, Benjamin is accused of a crime he did not commit and his brothers defend him at the cost of their own wellbeing in exchange for their little brother's freedom. This chapter continues to document the redemptive arc in the story of the covenant family. God...2023-05-2852 minProvidence Community ChurchFATHER TO PHARAOH – Genesis 45:1-11Central themes of the Joseph narrative are prominently featured in this text. Now at age 39, Joseph is able to clearly see the precise & sovereign handiwork ordering his life circumstances for the higher good and the glory of God. Suspense has been building in the account toward this moment of resolution, redemption, and reconciliation. The messianic ascendency of Joseph is revealed to his brothers along with its purpose. The providence of God as the superintending engineer of all human action and reality is powerfully displayed in this narrative. The theology of Joseph's testimony reappears in chapter 50:19-21 at the passing of...2023-05-211h 01Providence Community ChurchQOPH – THE TRIAL OF MALICE – Psalm 119:145-152Each verse of the original Hebrew beginning with the letter 'qoph' serves to emphasize the sufficiency of God's Word as the compelling interest of our souls in the 19th stanza of the great acrostic hymn, Psalm 119. The theme of this stanza rests upon the vow of the author to uphold the summary commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might” (Deut 6:5). Note the connection between verse 145: “with my whole heart I cry, and 150: “they draw near who persecute me with evil purpose”. The psalmist reminds us through hi...2023-05-1447 minProvidence Community ChurchFAITH BUILDING – Jude 16-23These days discernment may be the least popular yet most needed of all spiritual disciplines to stay true to the faith once and for all delivered to us in the Holy Scriptures. Jude's exhortations to his believing readers anticipate the challenges we face in our day which require Biblical understanding, wisdom, and vigilance in contending for the faith. Verses 16-23 of Jude draw distinctions between the ungodly and the holy. The ungodly are identified with a list of sinful attributes which characterize their faithlessness, while the holy are exhorted to stand against them by applying their faith in key areas...2023-05-071h 00Providence Community ChurchRomans 3 19:31 – The Fallen State Of ManIn the second half of Romans 3, Paul transitions to the Gospel, and the
hope we have in Christ. He declares that justification is by faith alone in Jesus
Christ, to all who believe. We cannot be saved by our works, but solely by faith in
Jesus Christ, which is given to us freely by God's grace.2023-04-3042 min
Big Sound, Small TownKEN HOOPER GUITAR BUILDERKen and I talk about building guitars and how he has become of the best guitar builders is America.2023-04-251h 11Providence Community ChurchJUDAH’S INTERCESSION – Genesis 44:18-34Men who once sold their brother into slavery motivated by resentment, now offer one of their own as a servant to liberate their father's remaining favored son from bondage. A dramatic stress-tested example of repentance indeed. In the case of Joseph, he was abused by his brothers in spite of his innocence. In this case, Benjamin is accused of a crime he did not commit and his brothers defend him at the cost of their own wellbeing in exchange for their little brother's freedom. This chapter continues to document the redemptive arc in the story of the covenant family. God...2023-04-2455 minProvidence Community ChurchTSADHE, THE TRIAL OF TROUBLE – Psalm 119:137-144The righteousness of Yahweh is a six time repeated theme in the 18th stanza of Ps 119 – the great acrostic celebration of covenant revelation. Here each original verse beginning with the Hebrew letter 'tsadhe' extols the sufficiency of the Word of God in spite of the social standing of the author – 'small & despised', and the trials he faces fraught with trouble and anguish inflicted by his foes. Our author remains resolute. None of these woes compare to the superior zeal, love, and delight he enjoys meditating on and living according to the rules, testimonies, words, promises, precepts, law and commandments of his...2023-04-1654 minProvidence Community ChurchTHE 2ND RESURRECTION SERMON – Acts 3:11-26Verses 1-11 of Acts chapter 3 mark the occasion and context of Peter's 2nd sermon in the record of the early church. Elicott writes in his commentary regarding the setting: “The approaches of the temple, like those of modern mosques, were commonly thronged with the blind, lame, and other mendicants (beggars). The practice was common at Constantinople in the time of Chrysostom and has prevailed largely throughout Christendom.” Luke's account sets the stage for the 2nd resurrection sermon with the healing of a lame man who had been begging at the temple gate 'Beautiful'. This miracle performed by Peter and John sign...2023-04-0957 minProvidence Community ChurchYOU MUST REMEMBER – Jude 16-23In the interest of providing the church with means to discern and oppose anyone or any idea that would deny or diminish the glory, majesty, dominion, and authority of Jesus Christ, Jude's epistle highlights distinctions between the holy and the ungodly, the disruptive and the sincere... enemies and allies within the visible church's scope of operations. Jude understands it is in the enemy of the gospel's best interest to blur the lines of sound moral judgement with a goal to corrupting the Body of Christ. He therefore opposes this nefarious strategy with clarity and distinctions. In this way, Jude's letter...2023-04-0257 minProvidence Community ChurchTEST & TESTIMONY – Genesis 44:1-17The record of Joseph's rule and reign continues in chapter 44 as we read of the next step in Joseph's elaborate design to test his brother's heart and character. Joseph's rule is moving men to heart change, restoration of conscience, personal responsibility, sacrifice, honoring of parents, truth, honesty in covenants, sanctity of life, provision, family reconciliation, covenant hope, and succession. Not only is Joseph a great example of leadership ideals applied, he is being used by God to encourage others to godly roles in leadership as well. This is certainly evident in Judah's case in chapter 44. What Judah had pledged in 43:9...2023-03-1958 minProvidence Community ChurchPE – THE TRIAL OF DOMINION – Psalm 119:129-136Organized in the original language under the Hebrew letter 'pe', the 17th stanza of Ps 119 continues to extol the glory and sufficiency of the covenant revelation of the Lord. The Psalmist sings of the wonderful testimonies of the Lord, His unfolding words, His enviable commandments, His lovely name, His gracious promise, precepts, statutes, and law. Along with the enduring and sophisticated acrostic structure, major themes of the song resurface in this stanza as well. Our author entreats the Lord to steady his steps, reminding the singer of the journey theme echoed in other verses like 105 where he proclaims the word...2023-03-1254 minProvidence Community ChurchHOLY vs. UNGODLY – Jude 14-15In his painstaking though brief effort to provide thorough context for discernment – Jude introduces an anecdote from a well known Jewish extra-Biblical work from the 1st or 2nd century B.C.. In this ancient document, the shadowy Old Testament patriarch is quoted pronouncing final judgement on the unrepentant enemies of the Lord. Though the “Book of Enoch” is not, nor should it be, included in the canon of scripture, nevertheless, Jude confirms the validity of at least this quote and its origin cited in Jude 14b-15. In so doing, Jude has added yet another category of literary device to underscore his me...2023-03-0658 minProvidence Community ChurchJOSEPH’S RULE & REIGN – Genesis 43:26-34In Genesis 37:8 Moses records the incredulous reaction of Joseph's brothers when they hear of his dream of sheaves bowing before his own. “Are you indeed to reign over us? Or are you indeed to rule over us?” They exclaim. The record continues: “So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words.” Unbeknownst to his brothers, in our text today, the rule and reign of Joseph is firmly established and they acknowledge as much once again as they bow low before the 2nd in command of Egypt. All 11 of his brothers are present at Joseph's house and table. J...2023-02-2650 minProvidence Community ChurchJACOB’S FAMINE – Genesis 43: 1-25The testimony of Jacob recorded in our text today prompts the question: Is a life threatening hardship any less of a tool in the hands of the Lord than glorious angelic visitation via dream? While we would surely prefer the 2nd means, it is undoubtedly the case that God has worked just as sovereignly through trial in the life of Jacob as He has through triumph. The seven year famine has struck the promised land as hard as the rest of the world and the first shipment of emergency rations is now depleted. Facing starvation once again, a return trip...2023-02-191h 01Providence Community ChurchAYIN – THE TRIAL OF OPPRESSION – Psalm 119:121-128
In stanza 19 of literature's greatest acrostic song, our author continues crying out to God for salvation in spite of his enemies. He implores the Lord to rescue him from his oppressors. Each verse of his cry begins with the letter: 'Ayin' in the original Hebrew. As the Psalmist's journey continues to encounter trials and difficulties, we find that his spirit refuses to succumb to weariness or despair. In the face of still more hardship, he remains sustained and satisfied in the sufficient means supplied by His Lord and Savior. He makes good use of waiting or answered prayers by nurturing...2023-02-1258 minProvidence Community ChurchENEMY ILLUSTRATIONS – Jude 12-13Jude, in admonishing the church of all ages, writes to equip his sincere readers to contend for the once for all, immutable faith delivered to the saints of all ages. His brief letter nevertheless contains thorough training for the believer to discern and oppose enemies of the gospel. The scope of what we are to stand against as the Christian church includes anything and anyone that would deny or diminish the glory, majesty, dominion, and authority of Jesus Christ our Lord (25). To help us identify the enemy, our last passage featured 3 cautionary tales or warning stories that Jude references from...2023-02-0656 minProvidence Community ChurchGenesis 42:21-38 – THE GRACE OF GUILTJoseph's brothers confess: “In truth we are guilty concerning our brother...”. How is the divinely decreed path of life's circumstances leading Joseph and his brothers at this time? This text illustrates how the grace of guilt is moving the brothers to a confession of sin, while the grace of covenant promises is leading Joseph to compassionate forgiveness. A theme surfacing in this passage that might first occur to the reader is the far reaching consequences and multi-generational nature of sin. Disturbing similarities and patterns keep emerging in these snapshots of mankind's history, reminding us of the inescapable horror of a fall...2023-01-3053 minProvidence Community ChurchRomans 3:1-8 – A Just Judge2023-01-2331 minProvidence Community ChurchDown to Egypt – Genesis 42:1-20At least 20 years have passed since Joseph and his family parted ways under horrific circumstances involving human trafficking, slave1y, deception, and jealousy. During this time, Joseph, having thrived in spite of all this, has risen to rule as 2nd in command of Egypt. He has learned a new language, he has married an Egyptian, he has served in Pharaoh's court for more than 7 years, and he is responsible for stewardship policies that are the last hope for feeding the known world during a horrible famine. It is no surprise after all these years, that Joseph's siblings have no idea...2023-01-1557 minProvidence Community ChurchAMEKH – THE TRIAL OF FIRE – Psalm 119:113-120Each verse of stanza 15 in the great acrostic psalm begins with the Hebrew letter 'samekh' in the original language emphasizing the sufficiency of the Word of God even through trials involving the double minded, the wicked, and evil doers. The psalmist multiplies references to the Word of God again in this section having written his 121st synonym for the ultimate source of reassurance regardless of the difficulties of life's journey. While many in our day mark the occasion of a new year with resolutions to improve their life, the psalmist, upon the occasion of trials, reaffirms his faith and commitment...2023-01-0854 minProvidence Community ChurchWHAT HOLINESS DEMANDS – Jude 9-11For today's message, we review a summary theme of Jude's letter taking his final verse in conjunction with his reason for writing: Christians are called to contend for the faith by discerning and opposing anything that denies the glory, majesty, dominion, and authority of our Lord Jesus Christ. In addition, to appreciate the full impact of Jude's letter, it should be our goal to have his references to prior revelation as fresh in our mind as we read as the were in his 11 references 3 archetypes of wickedness which characterize the heart and intentions of the church's enemies – Cain, Balaam, and Ko...2023-01-011h 05Providence Community ChurchHEAVEN’S GATES & ADVENT – Genesis 28:10-17Tying in messages from last year and in keeping with our advent theme: “the significance of incarnation events magnified from scriptural cross references”, today's message picks up where we left off at Christmas last year exploring the fulfillment of Jacob's profound dream in Genesis 28. Here the patriarch beholds heaven's staircase touching ground as angels ascend and descend upon it. Jesus Himself announces to His disciple Nathaniel (Jn 1:51) “Truly, truly I say to you, you will see heaven open and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” Jesus proclaims His incarnation as the 'ladder' itself. Through Him, the...2022-12-2554 minProvidence Community ChurchMELCHIZEDEK ADVENT – Psalm 148Today we continue with our advent theme: “the significance of incarnation events magnified from scriptural cross references.” To illustrate the prophetic weight of Old Testament texts anticipating the unique nature of the Messiah to come – today's message borrows an outline from fragments of inter-testamental commentary found with the other :Dead Sea Scrolls” in the Quamran excavations of the last century. Presumably written some years before the birth of Jesus, these ancient scholars drew conclusions about the coming “Melchizedekian” Savior form passages like our text today, Scroll 11Q13 is identified with the title: “The Coming of Melchizedek” and provides a window into the insight...2022-12-1856 min
Providence Community ChurchCosmic Invocation – Psalm 148The poetic movement of Ps 148 is a descending invocation issued from the throne room of glory. As the decree travels through the realms of creation, the call to worship is echoed and heeded in each domain as the message condescends to earth. The call 1st reverberates through the upper registers of creation and then plummets to plumb the depths of the seas as it reaches earth. Then it arises again from the oceans to summon the weather systems to praise. From this vantage point, the decree falls again to the mountains, then hills, trees, beasts/livestock, and creeping things before...2022-12-1256 minProvidence Community ChurchSODOM vs. SHEPHERDS – Jude 8, Luke 2:8-20First century Jewish historian 'Philo' documents smoke still rising from the site of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction in his day. For centuries in its geographic situation and for all time in the Word of God, Sodom and Gomorrah smolder as a type and foreshadow of judgement by eternal fire prescribed for unrepentant sin. Jude cites the event oracle of Sodom in his warnings against and condemnation of enemies of Christ's church. To appreciate the full impact of his letter, it should be our goal to have Jude's references to prior revelation as fresh in our mind as we read. Consequently...2022-12-0459 minProvidence Community ChurchA SPIRIT-FILLED STATESMAN – Genesis 41:45-57Not since the 1st pages of Genesis have we heard reference to the 'Ruach of Elohim' (The Spirit of God), until now as the Pharaoh of Egypt testifies of the character of Joseph recognizing the Spirit of God abiding in this Hebrew slave. Significant moments in scripture record awakened understanding of unlikely converts from time to time. Millennia later, a Roman centurion would exclaim of Jesus: “Truly this was the Son of God” when the rocks cried out and the dead were raised at the crucifixion of Jesus (Mat 27:52-54). What was it about Joseph that caused a pagan king to r...2022-11-2853 minProvidence Community ChurchRISING SHEAF – Genesis 41:33-45The great theme of Joseph's life and calling is signaled by the turning point in his fortunes recorded in chapter 41 of Genesis. Here his 'messianic ascension' from the place of humiliation comes to pass suddenly & dramatically. Joseph's testimony sets the tone for more unfolding revelation to come with the appointment of Moses and ultimately, the incarnation of Jesus. In our text, Joseph receives his big break as he is summoned to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams. Joseph, however, does not limit his counsel to expounding the meaning of God's Word to the king. He goes further to address the question: “what shou...2022-11-2054 minProvidence Community ChurchNUN – THE TRIAL OF MORTAL – Psalm 119:105-112John 11:25 reads: “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” Verse 26 continues recording Jesus' words to Martha concerning her beloved brother Lazarus who has died: “& everyone who lives & believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” The occasion of Jesus question presented a profound test for Martha. Her brother has been dead for four days, right at this moment would have been the most difficult time to answer: “yes”. Nevertheless, Jesus asks her not after He raises Lazarus from the dead, but before. The situation prov...2022-11-1359 minProvidence Community ChurchA CALL TO ARMS – Jude 1-7The epistle of Jude contains striking parallels to the 2nd letter of Peter. So much so that most scholars assume these two books shared source material. II Peter chapter two conveys the same concerns as Jude's letter and cites identical references to emphasize the weighty situation facing the early church. The enemies of Christ were active in the 1st century and many yet remain today. The weapons sufficient to oppose them stand ready at hand in the apostolic warnings and instructions of the New Testament. Books like these no doubt inspired the vigilance of the early church witnessed by council...2022-11-071h 06Providence Community ChurchHEAVEN’S FIRE ALARM – Genesis 41:1-32We estimate Joseph is now around 30 years of age. He has been in Egypt for some 12 years and 2 years have passed in the pit of Poitiphar's prison since he interpreted the cupbearer and baker's dreams with a plea that they remember him. In the perfect timing of God's purposes, Pharaoh’s dreams jog the memory of the cupbearer and he remembers the man that God has never forgotten. There has been a warning issued from the throne room of glory and the Pharaoh is alarmed. Though he has cause for concern, he does not understand the word of God evident to...2022-10-3155 minProvidence Community ChurchA PROPHET & PROVIDENCE – Genesis 40One might wonder what sheaves, heavenly bodies, grapes, cake baskets, cattle, and grain have in common in the life of Joseph. The answer is that all of these were the subject of dreams he encountered either by revelation or interpretation. We learn in Genesis chapter 41:1 that Joseph’s troubles would continue for another 2 years, however, the events of chapter 40 would prove to be a turning point, hence their documentation in our text today. The Reformation Study Bible summarizes the significance of Joseph's life and ministry in its commentary on chapter 40 as follows: “God exalted faithful Joseph over all Egypt by givi...2022-10-2458 minProvidence Community ChurchJOSEPH’S TROUBLES – Genesis 39In John 16:33 Jesus is encouraging His disciples: “I have said these things to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but take heart; I have overcome the world.” Ps 105:16-23 summarizes the anointing of Joseph and the purposes of God in his trials and affliction. God had prescribed a testing period for His servant before His words of prophecy were fulfilled. While the Psalmist had the benefit of Joseph's full story arc to understand the plans of God for his servant, Joseph himself had no such advantage. What provided Joseph the reassurance of f...2022-10-1656 minProvidence Community ChurchMEM – THE TRIAL OF DECEIT – Psalm 119:97-104The 13th stanza in the great acrostic Psalm introduces the theme of the sufficiency of God's word for the trial of deception with the Hebrew letter 'mem'. This passage also introduces a rare word translated 'meditation' used only 3 times in the Bible, once in Job (15:4), & twice here (verses 97 & 99). The notion of meditation is promoted these days by false religions and therefore it may be helpful to highlight its Biblical context. 'Strongs' concordance associates the word with reflection, devotion, and prayer. While these spiritual disciplines certainly characterize the heart of Psalm 119's author, perhaps a fuller sense of Biblical meditation is...2022-10-0954 minProvidence Community ChurchDoers of the Law – Romans 2:12-292022-10-0235 minProvidence Community ChurchJUDAH’S TROUBLES – Genesis 38Jacob's household continues to be marked by covenant dysfunction and infidelity. Now in the second generation, his 4th son – Judah - through whom the genealogy of hope would continue, is caught up in a whirlwind of rebellion, debauchery, deception, trauma, sudden death, prostitution, and incest. Here again, Moses interrupts the narrative with a “parentheses” account that reminds us of the effects of the fall and the great demand of humanity for divine intervention and salvation. Once again the promises of God prove more powerful than the schemes of Satan as hope for a coming Messiah is preserved through an unlikely covena...2022-09-2655 minProvidence Community ChurchTrue Treasure – Matthew 6:19-242022-09-1849 minProvidence Community ChurchEthiopia Missions Update2022-09-1133 minProvidence Community ChurchLAMEDH – TRIAL OF SCHEMING ENEMIES – Psalm 119:89-96Each verse of the 12th stanza of Psalm 119 begins with the 12th letter in the Hebrew alphabet in the original text. In this collection of 8 verses the psalmist reassures his soul and thereby proclaims to his readers the sufficiency of the Word of God for the trial of conspiring forces motivated by wicked desires to destroy him. Verse 95 describes this threat in terms of a premeditated ambush. Examples of this type of peril appear in our recent studies of greater scripture. Joseph faced this kind of persecution from his scheming jealous brothers when they stopped short of killing him only...2022-09-1153 minProvidence Community ChurchRighteous Judgement – Romans 1:28-2:112022-09-0430 minProvidence Community ChurchGod’s Wrath on Sinful Man – Romans 1:18-322022-08-2833 minProvidence Community ChurchJOSEPH BETRAYED – Genesis 37:12-36f deliverance via messianic ascension summarizes Joseph's legacy, it makes sense that the opening chapters of his story would reference low points in his life. Joseph eventually arises to rule in Egypt but he does so leaving a pit, slavery, betrayal, incarceration, family estrangement, and false accusations behind him. Our passage today records some of these struggles in his early years. Traumatic events rendering him the victim of a human trafficking ring on their way to a pagan land shape the coming of age experience of Joseph. We learn over the course of his life, however, that the schemes of...2022-08-2156 minProvidence Community ChurchKAPH – THE TRIAL OF PERSECUTION – Psalm 119-81:88The 11th stanza of the greatest song in literature marks the half way point in the Hebrew alphabet and this acrostic poem. The presenting trial is persecution and the 91st reference to covenant revelation adds further weight to the great theme applied to the author's hardships. Stanza 11 proclaims: the Word of God is sufficient for the trial of persecution. Our title today was chosen in the interest of consistency, but several came to mind. “Smoke Damaged Wineskin” is an evocative and fitting metaphor for the psalmist's plight as he cries out to God in his depleted condition (v83). “Help Me!” – the desper...2022-08-1454 minProvidence Community ChurchKNOWLEDGE & GRACE – II Peter 1:1-4, 3:17-18The urgency of Peter's 2nd letter is compelled by two factors we learn in context. The first is Peter's sense of his own approaching death. The second is the presence of false teachers among the early church. Peter's primary reasons for writing are illuminated further when compared with his 1st epistle to churches gaining a foothold in the greater Asia Minor region. In I Peter the nature of the threat to the early church is that of persecution, while his 2nd epistle primarily addresses theological corruption spread by popular teachers of the day. We learn by comparing the two that...2022-08-0755 minProvidence Community ChurchJOSEPH’S CALLING – Genesis 37:1-11Where are we in the book of Genesis? The 10th and final appearance of the phrase: “These are the generations” provides opportunity to situate the account of Joseph in context. The book of Genesis is structured around scene changes, turning points, or “chapter divisions” which are signaled by this phrase. Genesis 2:4 introduces this heading with reference to the creation of the heavens and earth. Every other mention tracks a family line, highlighting Noah (6:9), his sons (10:1), Shem (11:10), Terah (11:27), Ishmael (25:12), Isaac (25:19), Esau (36:1), and finally Jacob's generations (37:2) in our text today. By analyzing patterns in these lineage references, scholars have consolidated 4 major movements or eras...2022-07-311h 00Providence Community ChurchLive by Faith – Romans 1:1-172022-07-2531 minProvidence Community ChurchBIRTHRIGHT EXILE – Genesis 36Chapter 36 in Genesis signals a transition to the final climactic section of the first book of Moses. The last we encountered the phrase: “these are the generations” was in chapter 25. The circumstances are remarkably similar. The patriarch Abraham breaths his last in a good old age and is gathered to his people (25:8) just as his son Isaac has died in (35:29). Abraham's sons, otherwise no strangers to conflict, reunite at their father's funeral. Isaac and Ishmael place him in the cave at Machpelah next to Sarah, his wife (25:9). A generation later, Jacob and Esau bury Isaac in the same location (35:29, 40:30-31). Each...2022-07-1755 minProvidence Community ChurchYODH – THE TRIAL OF SLANDER – Psalm 119:73-80Each verse of the 10th stanza of the great acrostic song begins, in the original language, with the 10th letter of the Hebrew alphabet – 'yodh'. As the Psalmist's trying journey continues, he finds himself facing slander ffrom his and the Lord's enemies (78). In spite of the hardships he continues to encounter, he remains encouraged. He has learned and confessed in stanza 9 that there is redemptive purpose in the afflictions of the elect (67, 71). Here again he acknowledges the faithfulness of the Lord even in the face of sundry trials (75). These stanza's anticipate teachings of Jesus emphasized in the beatitudes. (Mat 5:10-12) Th...2022-07-1152 minProvidence Community ChurchPROACTIVE WAITING – II Peter 3:10-18A central theme of Peter's admonitions to the early church facing the challenges of Christian faithfulness in their day is the necessity of a 'reckoning perspective'. His closing remarks reiterate and expand this concept and provide his readers an answer to the question: How do I keep the faith when I am surrounded by so many enemies? The context of Peter's words of exhortation and expectation parallel the structure of Isaiah's oracle and Jesus' teaching ministry. Peter references both the 'day of the Lord' and the 'new heavens and new earth' prophesies which frame the ministry of Isaiah, while the...2022-07-031h 01Providence Community ChurchJACOB’S TROUBLES – Genesis 35:16-29Jacob's life experience includes dramatic events of blessing and sorrow. Having welcomed the visitation of God Himself at Bethel for a 2nd time, Jacob leaves the 'gates of heaven' only to encounter great tragedy. Bitter providences soon visit the covenant son in the form of calamity, sin, and death. Jacob has attested with his pillars that the promises of God are stronger than exile, enemies, and horrific sin. Now he proclaims at Bethlehem, in spite of his most intense trials thus far, that the Word of God is stronger than death. The question Jacob faces at this chapter in his...2022-06-2650 minProvidence Community ChurchBaptism Testimonies2022-06-1910 minProvidence Community ChurchBAPTISM SIGNIFICANCE – Rom 6-2-14, 1 Cor 12-27-27, Acts 1-4-11Why should I be baptized? The new believer may sincerely ask. The Biblical answer to this question can be as simple as: “Jesus commanded we be baptized in His name. However, the full range of the significance, importance, and benefit of baptism extend this answer across the teachings of scripture drawing from multiple points of reference in the scope of God's plan for salvation unfolding in history and in the life of the believer. Today's message will draw from several passages beginning with the meaning of baptism personally and then zooming out to encompass a more panoramic view considering Christian ba...2022-06-1947 minProvidence Community ChurchTETH – THE TRIAL OF FALSE WITNESS – Psalm 119:65-72Each verse of the 9th stanza of the great acrostic psalm begins with the Hebrew letter: 'teth'. Our author has learned painstakingly through the discipline of affliction that the covenant revelation of God is sufficient for the trial of false witness. He has realized, furthermore, that various afflictions including the lies of the insolent have served to instruct him in the statues of His Lord and Savior. He proclaims that the Lord has delivered him from his trial and that the Lord has strengthened him by means of difficulty as well. In this way, the redeeming power of God is...2022-06-1246 minProvidence Community ChurchWHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?Peter's admonition to the New Testament church draws on perspectives in light of the 'Day of the Lord'. This concept, thoroughly expounded in the prophets, was key to arresting the attention of a self-centered and easily distracted people. Peter exhorts the church and rebukes scoffers in light of the coming and the 2nd coming of Christ. Just as the 'Day of the Lord' signaled salvation or judgement depending on the heart condition of the people in Noah's day for instance, so the second coming of Christ will bring final judgement upon all who failed to realize His coming unto salvation...2022-06-0559 minProvidence Community ChurchJACOB’S PILLARS – Genesis 35:13-20Jacob has set up 4 pillars as recorded in scripture. We have noted that these stones serve as “monolithic monuments of covenant remembrance and testimony”. The use of stones to signify the important and the permanent is not unique to Jacob. We are reminded that the Lord Himself wrote His law on a set of stones with His very finger. Additionally, entrance into the promised land under Joshua was accompanied by the setting of stones as well. Moses gives specific instructions for this monument and ceremony in Deut chapters 27 & 28. In this instance the children of Israel are commanded to “set up large...2022-05-3051 minProvidence Community ChurchBETHEL REVISITED – Genesis 35:6-15Today's text recounts another life changing moment for Jacob in 'Bethel' – a place he named: “The House of God”. It is here where he set up his first pillar (28:18) which had doubled for a pillow as he dreamed of the gates of heaven flung open to extend a stairway to earth with Yahweh at its head and the exiled son at its foot. 20 plus years later, Jacob is directed to return to this place of covenant revelation. True to form, God visits him again, this time to confirm His covenant to the limping patriarch. The experience is so moving, that Jacob...2022-05-2255 minProvidence Community ChurchFACING THE HIVITES – Genesis 34:1-35:5The frailty of Jacob continues to plague him in Canaan. In these tragic events at Shechem, Jacob faces challenges presented by pagan neighbors, wandering and lawless children, and his own moral weakness in the face of trial. Jacob, the unqualified patriarch, stumbles toward Bethel. These events also mark a recurring pattern among the people of God through covenant history. Having enjoyed a measure of circumstantial victory, their defenses prove weak in the heart. The Exodus golden calf incident, the fallout of Balaam's deception, and the intermingling with pagan peoples in Nehemiah's day are all examples of this phenomenon. Paul instructs...2022-05-1556 minProvidence Community Church‘HETH’ – THE TRIAL OF CAPTIVITY – Psalm 119:57-64The eighth stanza of the Bible' s great acrostic Psalm assures the singer that the Word/Covenant revelation of God is sufficient for the trial of captivity. Verse 61 describes conditions that try the soul of the believer as “the cords of the wicked” ensnaring him, nevertheless, he does not forget the Law of God. In the context of captivity or to a lesser degree but principally similar, a cultural context hostile to the Christian world-view – the convictions of one's soul are rigorously tested. In our society, as in the days of our author, no doubt, it costs something to be a foll...2022-05-0956 minProvidence Community ChurchBrotherly Love in the Church – 1 Corinthians 132022-05-0139 minProvidence Community ChurchTHE 1ST RESURRECTION SERMON – Acts 2:22-38Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter's Pentecost sermon proclaims Jesus incarnate, crucified, resurrected, and ascended. Peter's message was preceded by Jesus' own self disclosure and covenant revelation in Luke 24:13-35. On this occasion between His resurrection and ascension, Jesus explained, “beginning with Moses and all the prophets, the interpretation of all the scriptures concerning Himself”. Many have wondered and speculated what the content of Jesus' words on the road to Emmaus might have been. “Oh to have been a fellow traveler eavesdropping on the greatest Bible study of all time!” they might exclaim. I submit to you that we can virtuall...2022-04-1857 minProvidence Community ChurchZAYIN – THE TRIAL OF LAW BREAKERS – Psalm 119:49-56The 7th Hebrew letter and the 7th stanza of the great acrostic song in the psalter declares to the reader that the word of God is sufficient for the test of insolent and derisive law breakers. While the author of this text remains a mystery to us, it is easy to imagine these words inspired by the trials of David during flight from Saul. Psalms 59 and 60 were written under such circumstances and strike a similar tone. The righteous man must sometimes lament in faith, reminding himself that the afflictions he suffers are temporary while the Law of his God, and...2022-04-1159 minProvidence Community ChurchENEMIES BY NATURE – II Peter 2:14-22The apostle opens this warning section of his epistle with a brief profile of false teachers in chapter 2 verses 1-3. He follow this summary with a reckoning perspective to encourage the true church in spite of her enemies in verses 4-10. In this section Peter draws on 3 other incidents of God's decisive intervention to build the confidence of his hearers that God is ready and able to rescue the Godly and punish the unrighteous (9). The remaining portion of the chapter is then dedicated to a thorough analysis and condemnation of the enemies of the church of Jesus Christ. Peter descriptively...2022-04-0354 minProvidence Community ChurchFACING GOD – Genesis 32:13-32The setting, characters, and conflict in this account continue to provide a stage for the revelation of God to and through His covenant son Jacob (soon to be named Israel). Half way between the Sea of Galilee to the north and the Dead Sea to the south, the Jabbok river runs west seeking to join the Jordan. The river's name denotes a pouring out or wrestling/striving activity. This will prove fitting for the occasion. It is here that Jacob is toiling in anguish of soul fearing the prospect of encountering his estranged and slighted brother Esau. It is also...2022-03-2753 minProvidence Community ChurchTWO CAMPS – Genesis 32:1-12Jacob's exodus continues escorted by heavenly hosts. This chapter in the patriarch’s experience continues to feature redemptive patterns reinforcing the Gospel through the life and calling of the covenant son. The back story of conflict with his brother sets the stage for these moments in Jacob's life. Gen 25:22-23 records Jacob and Esau's first fights as twins still in the womb of Rebekah their mother. Gen 25:29-34 records the birthright negotiations where Jacob tricked his older brother to sell his first born privileges for a bowl of lentil stew. Later the fraternal strife escalates further still as Jacob steals th...2022-03-2054 minProvidence Community ChurchGene and Marissa Engisch Share Mexico Missionary TripGene and Marissa Engisch Share Mexico Missionary Trip2022-03-1328 minProvidence Community Church‘WAW’ – THE TRIAL OF SCOFFERS – Psalm 119:41-48The 6th stanza of the great acrostic psalm presents 8 verses beginning with the Hebrew letter 'Waw' in the original language. The great theme of the psalm namely: 'the sufficiency of the Word of God' is illustrated in this section with a 5th example. Our author adds to the list of trials, proclaiming not only that the scriptures are sufficient for the tests of youth, sojourning, sorrows, and worldly temptations, but also for the trials presented by scoffing unbelievers. The scriptures equip us to answer those who are hostile to our faith. Christians who still hold to the word of truth...2022-03-1351 minProvidence Community ChurchRECKONING PERPSPECTIVE – II Peter 2:4-14If the present remnant of God's covenant people are not deceived by their imminent enemies, they are nevertheless often discouraged at their apparent power. Peter writes to a small number called to stand against an anti-Christ horde. To encourage and equip his hearers, the apostle appeals to the testimony of God's accountability program for the wicked through the ages. Citing examples from pre-creation to corrupt city states, we are prepared to face our own battles with evidence of God's reckoning track record. In these instances, history records that the condemnation of the Lord is not idle, and destruction is not...2022-03-0659 minProvidence Community ChurchEBENEZER COVENANT – Genesis 31:36-55“Ebenezer” means 'stone of help'. Aspects of this covenant arrangement between Jacob and Laban including its memorial monument and location will prove significant in ways these two could never have imagined. Nevertheless, the redemptive purposes of God are revealed in the course of scripture foreshadowed by events in this chapter of Jacob's exodus from Paddan-Aram unto Canaan. Though Laban and Jacob come to terms of relative peace in our passage today, there remains great differences between them. Jacob has turned his face toward the promises and protection of the God of his fathers in willing repentance, while Laban has been brou...2022-02-2854 minProvidence Community ChurchPLANS OF GOD vs. MAN – Genesis 31:17-35As events of Jacob's departure from Paddan-Aram unto Canaan unfold, sinful and flawed patterns of behavior continue to mark the journey. Clearly Jacob's spiritual maturity is still a work in progress, while the actions of his wife and father in law remain quite reprehensible. Once again the only noble hero in our story is Yahweh, the unchanging Lord of the covenant – the long suffering One True God of Abraham, Isaac, and increasingly Jacob in spite of his faults. The power and plans of God shine brightly in our text today against the shady background of human sin and weakness. In ad...2022-02-2059 minProvidence Community Church‘HE’ – THE TRIAL OF WORLDLY TEMPTATIONS – Psalm 119:33-40As our Psalm has opened with dual themes of the sufficiency of the Word of God and the trying journey of life, it seems fitting that the author would add to the record the presenting trial of worldly temptations. Combining the challenges of verses 26, 37 and 39 we might summarize the enemies of his soul addressed in this section as the selfish gain of worthless things yielding dreadful reproach. Though young and old battle this foe, it is particularly tantalizing in the naivete of youth. Solomon, the presumptive author of Ecclesiastes, provides the classic example of these lessons learned the 'hard way...2022-02-1353 minProvidence Community ChurchFight the good FIGHT – 1 Kings 20no notes available.2022-02-0732 minProvidence Community ChurchJACOB’S REPENTANCE – Genesis 31:1-17As we have observed, one of the intriguing paradoxes of the life of Jacob is the prominence his legacy represents in spite of the troubled life he led. As such, the testimony of Jacob is one of remarkable grace. This is recognized not just by observers reading his biography, but by Jacob himself as he later testified to Pharaoh (47:7-9) He says: “...the days of my sojourning are 130 years. Few and evil have been the years of my life and they have not attained to the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of th...2022-01-3055 minProvidence Community ChurchJACOB’S RESOLVE – Genesis 31:1-16Jacob has been long suffering in service to his conniving father in law. Jacob's hesitancy to confront or leave the confines of his relationship to Laban proves less than noble however. Jacob appears to be a personality much more likely to appease others rather than to take a stand for what is right. Far more impressive in this account, is the long-suffering of the Lord with His servant and significant son. This patience is due to the remarkable grace, steadfast love, and atoning mercy of Yahweh – the Lord of heaven's stairway revealed in chapter 28. True to His word, though 20 long ye...2022-01-2455 minProvidence Community ChurchMARRRIAGE (& human sexuality) ACCORDING TO JESUS – Matthew 19:1-9Today, pastors in North America and beyond, have joined in unity of purpose to proclaim to courts, parliaments, legislatures, and magistrates, their obligation and accountability to Jesus Christ, on matters pertaining to marriage and human sexuality. We echo the summons of Holy Scripture which declares (Ps 2:10-12a) “Now therefore O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, for His wrath is quickly kindled...”. Today, January 16th 2022 according to bill C-4 recently unanimously passed in Cana...2022-01-1651 minProvidence Community ChurchDALETH – THE TRIAL OF SORROWS – Psalm 119:25-32The sufficiency of God's Word is featured in section four of this great acrostic psalm in light of the heavy burden of sorrow that often attends our way. The authors of scripture were blessed with a gift none of us today can boast – namely the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to record the very Word of God – they nevertheless were no less dependent on that same Word to provide necessary means to navigate their own weakness of soul. If the authors of scripture were dependent on the scriptures for their spiritual life... how much more ought we to pay heed to t...2022-01-1055 minProvidence Community ChurchFALSE TEACHER PROFILE – II Peter 2:1-10In the first chapter of Peter's epistle, he instructs his readers on how to strengthen their faith. It is clear that this is an urgent matter and a priority for the apostle, so much so, that he vows to dedicate his remaining years to stirring up the church by way of reminder to this end. He outlines 7 qualities in verses 5-7 which will serve to supplement the faith of the church under trial. If chapter one is primarily devoted to exhorting the church to fortify her faith... the second chapter details what to fortify ourselves against. Peter outlines the nature...2022-01-021h 05Providence Community ChurchA SON OF DAVID & DESCENDING ANGELS – Matthew 1:18-25, 2:13-15, 2:19-23Concluding this series with the record of descending angels unto Joseph, we have thus documented that the advent of incarnation was punctuated by the presence of divine revelation and by angelic activity heightened by the occasion (Jn 1:51). We have witnessed these agents of God's sovereign decree ascending and descending, not just to shepherds, but to the priest Zechariah, the virgin May, and now, to her betrothed... Joseph. Joseph would prove to be the earthly father of Jesus led by the same Spirit who miraculously conceived hos son, to adopt Him and to take Mary to be his wife just the...2021-12-271h 02
The MVM ShowShot Down in Vietnam with Ken CarltonIn this episode we had the privilege to talk to Ken Carlton on what it was like being a helicopter pilot in Vietnam during the war. He talks about his many experiences to include being shot down multiple times. Ken will be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross this Fall. Enjoy and write us a review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-05-071h 14Providence Community ChurchGlory and Thunder – Mark Carlton Testimony – Psalm 292013-10-141h 18Providence Community ChurchA Model of Christian Charity – Joel Carlton on John Winthrop2013-04-211h 00