Shows
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWhere's My Place“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:7
Having been around the hospital to visit parishioners, I’ve seen the highs and lows. I’ve also grown aware and appreciative of the intertwined complexities of the human body. People truly are beautifully and wonderfully made!
As Paul writes to the Corinthians, he describes the body of believers in terms of a human body to show how everyone depends on one another. Each of us receives salvation from Christ as the Holy Spirit dr...2025-01-2740 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchDoes God Exist?I’m not the smartest person I know, and I’m OK with that. I’m also not the wisest, though I would like to be. God also knows I’m not the smartest or wisest person, but I am deeply grateful that his love for me is not based on how wise or foolish I am (Romans 1:14). Yet God does draw some lines that I need to understand.
According to the Bible, God does reveal himself to all people through his creation, by which we become aware of his presence and clearly see “his eterna...2024-08-1241 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Praying Lifestyle“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” - Matthew 7:7
Have you ever been at a store and needed help finding something, but there was no one around to ask? It’s a frustrating experience, right? Or have you ever needed help finding something and there was an employee 5 feet away; but you’re too stubborn to ask; and so you search in vain? Why do we do that?!
If we do that for the small things in life...2024-07-0836 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchChainbreaker: WEPC Easter 2024On the first Easter Sunday morning, a couple of women were in for the surprise of their lives. Instead of finding a closed tomb, they found an open grave, and an angel greeting them with the words, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” For them and for every follower of the Lord Jesus, life would never be the same. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead changed the course of history.
The resurrection is God...2024-04-0133 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchIt Takes A Church To Make A PastorI hope you had a blessed Christmas celebration and are enjoying these final days of 2023. We pause at the threshold of a new year, knowing that 2024 will usher in new chapters for WEPC. Although there will be some obvious changes, much will remain unchanged. No matter what the coming months may bring, WEPC's mission to display the majesty of Christ, proclaim the hope of the gospel, and bring the joy of Jesus to our city and world will remain the same. Even more so, Our Lord's faithfulness and commitment to His people will remain firm and unshaken. I believe t...2024-01-0243 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchGoing In LoveThis week, we reach the conclusion of our sermon series on “The Abundant Life” of discipleship. Each week, we have seen what it means to be people who “Gather,” who “Grow,” who “Give,” and who “Go.” This past week, we talked about how we can give thanks for the time, talents, and treasure that God has given to each of us. We also spoke about how we are to use those gifts to bless others.
It seems appropriate, then, that we would talk this week about “Going” into our community and world to share those gifts. I give thanks that WEPC...2023-11-2758 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchJoy StealersThere’s an old joke that perhaps you have heard: “Church would be great if you could just do without the people.” How many of us sometimes feel that way? Church can be an incredible place filled with uplifting people and numerous blessings, yet it can also be a place of hurtful words and painful rejection. But that’s not all! The Christian life can often be filled with heartache, suffering, health issues, financial woes, emotional trauma, and tears. Christians sometimes lose their grip and fall into worrying and complaining (even I can do this too).
So how in t...2022-10-1743 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What Does The Law Of God Require?This episode will explore question 6 of the New City Catechism with our panel: Bethany Couture and Dan Ayers
The seventh question in the New City Catechism is: What Does The Law Of God Require?
The answer is: Personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience; that we love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love our neighbor as ourselves. What God forbids should never be done and what God commands should always be done.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based on is Matthew 22:37-40, which says,
“And [Je...2022-10-1342 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchJust Follow Your Heart“Just follow your heart.” “Pray about it and do what feels right.” “Let your conscience be your guide.”
How many of you have ever had this kind of advice given to you? This is based on an underlying assumption that inclinations and impressions we get in our hearts are a trustworthy source of direction in our lives. In Christian circles, this advice to follow your heart is often prefaced with a call to “pray about it,” but in the end, you do or believe what feels right. We can even wrap this in a language like, “I feel called,” or “...2022-10-111h 21
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: How Can We Glorify God?This episode will explore question 6 of the New City Catechism with our panel: Angela Ayers, Andrew Morton, and Kathy Davis.
The sixth question in the New City Catechism is: How Can We Glorify God?
The answer is: We glorify God by enjoying him, loving him, trusting him, and by obeying his will, commands, and law.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based on is Deuteronomy 11:1, which says,
“You shall therefore love the Lord your God and keep his charge, his statutes, his rules, an...2022-10-0639 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchGod Is Love“We are all God’s children.” It sounds good, doesn’t it? And my guess is that you’ve heard it numerous times. Or perhaps it sounds like, “We’re all united as one family in God.” “We’re all brothers and sisters.” “All roads lead to God.” Why? Because “God is love.”
These are common ideas that surface in our culture, and they all carry a similar theme. The basic assumption in the ‘we are all God’s children’ theology is that God created all of us in love, so we must be His children. It sounds good and tolerant, and the Bi...2022-10-0338 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchNo One Can Judge MeFew things draw the ire and judgment of our culture as much as the appearance of judging or looking down upon someone else. To accuse someone of sin, it seems, has become an unpardonable sin in today's world.
How should we, as Christians, respond to this? On the one hand, the Bible warns us against the dangers of pride and judgmentalism. Because the church hasn't always done well in those areas, we need to ask the Lord to show us where we need to repent and do better. On the other hand, obedience to Christ means that, a...2022-09-2636 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church"God Helps Those Who Help Themselves"“God helps those who help themselves.”
That phrase sounds like something that makes a lot of sense when you first hear it, doesn’t it? After all, we see examples throughout Scripture of men and women who seem commended by God for their ingenuity. We read Scriptures like, “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Doesn’t that imply that God helps us if we help ourselves? And then when you think about how getting ahead in our society takes hard work, it all seems to make sense, right?
Not quite. God does expect us to help o...2022-09-1935 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church"God Never Gives You More Than You Can Handle"Bumper Sticker Theology
“God never gives you more than you can handle.” How many of us have ever heard a phrase like that? It sounds comforting, right? After all, life can be tough; and when we experience devastation or difficult blows, well-meaning loved ones often try to comfort us with sympathetic eyes, a warm hug, and a familiar phrase.
But what does, “God won't give you more than you can handle” mean? It seems like what people are trying to communicate is, “You are strong. You’ve got this!” And it feels good to hear, doesn’t it? If...2022-09-1234 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Pursuit Of HappinessThe Pursuit Of Happiness
With a flurry of voices and messaging flocking to us from all quarters at all times, how can we be sure what is worth listening to? How do we size up the credibility of these divergent appeals and counsel that seek to guide and direct us? After all, they all contain an element of truth, right?
As followers of Christ, we regard the Scriptures as our reference point for all matters of life and godliness. When facing uncertainty or doubt, we turn to our spiritual roadmap and compass to avoid losing...2022-09-0729 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Return Of The KingOne of the touching moments in a marriage ceremony is when the bride and groom face one another to speak their vows. When I officiate a wedding ceremony, I ask the couple to repeat words of fidelity, trust, and commitment. It’s an incredibly powerful moment and is often met with tears.
In Nehemiah 9, we see the people of Israel renewing their vows to the Lord with tears and celebration after their work. They recommitted to God, who was already committed to them. They made many promises about how they would govern their lives. Above all, they pr...2022-09-0136 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Return Of The PeopleAre you a detail-oriented person? Are you wired for accuracy? Some of us are gifted in areas of numbers; others of us are grateful our last math class was years ago. Some of us love organization; others of us cringe at the thought of putting everything in a certain place for all time.
As we turn to Nehemiah 7, we see Nehemiah’s continued gifts for accuracy and organization, and his heart for the people of God. Nehemiah 7:5 says, “God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles, the officials, and the common people for registration by fami...2022-09-0143 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchDealing With DistractionsThe path of following Jesus is often riddled with distractions, hardships, and opposition. When we place our faith in Jesus and align our lives with His heart and mission, we can expect to face challenges from the world around us and the brokenness within us.
This is nothing new. Nehemiah, amid his successful efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, had to deal with a constant barrage of distractions. Yet, he refused to act in a way that would derail his mission or compromise his character. This Sunday, as we look at the ways that Nehemiah responded to potential...2022-08-1846 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What is God? Part IIThis episode will explore question 2 of the New City Catechism, with our panel: Aaron Klein, Andrew Morton, and Kathy Davis.
The second question in the New City Catechism is: What is God?
The answer is: God is the creator and sustainer of everyone and everything. He is eternal, infinite, and unchangeable in his power and perfection, goodness and glory, wisdom, justice, and truth. Nothing happens except through him and by his will.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Psalm 86:8-10 and 15, which says,
“There is no...2022-08-1120 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchTaking The Finger Off The Self-Destruct ButtonThe story is told of a man who heard his daughter and some of her friends arguing loudly in the backyard. After a few moments, he couldn’t stand the sound of it, so he went out and reprimanded her. “But Daddy,” she protested, “we were just playing church.”
Ouch! It’s a sad (but true) statement that the church of Jesus Christ has often been marked more by factions than by fellowship. We can sometimes face more trouble from inside the ranks than we do from outside. Equally sad, we’re not alone in that observation.
As w...2022-08-1044 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWhen Discouragement & Disappointment Set In“When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews…” - Nehemiah 4:1
As the people began the work of reconstructing the wall, Israel’s opponents mounted a fierce campaign against them. Sanballat and his friends tried to bully God’s people to stop the work of rebuilding by ridiculing the people and threatening violence. As you can imagine, the people reacted in a very normal way: their emotional strength began to falter because of fear. Tension began to rise. Exhaustion set in.
How did Nehemiah handle this...2022-08-0838 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Importance Of Working TogetherThe Importance of Working Together
If you ever watch in nature, many animals and insects innately work together. Geese fly in a “V” formation. Bees have specific roles within the hive. Even ants have highly organized societies called colonies.
It’s not unlike what we see taking place in Nehemiah 3. For many of us, we might be tempted to skip over chapter 3 because it’s filled with hard to pronounce names like Eliashib, Hassenaah, Meremoth. Each of these people had work, families and stories of their own, yet they were able to work, pray, worship, laugh an...2022-07-2543 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Risks Of FaithThe Risks of Faith
If you’ve been around WEPC this week, you know that there has been a flurry of activity. There have been worker bees buzzing and making things happen, and it really has been like a well-honeyed machine with every person doing their part. In the process, we’ve been able to minister to over 60 kids from our church and community. A huge “thank you” goes out to Angela Ayers and her incredible team of volunteers. Every day this week, they consistently showed the love and joy of Jesus!
When God placed this on...2022-07-2138 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchA Broken SpiritLast week we learned that Nehemiah had a discontented heart. He heard about something that he wanted to see change. So after he wept and mourned and fasted, did he get right to work? No! Before praying for God's guidance and protection, he asked for God's forgiveness for him and his people!
What!? Why? Because Nehemiah understood why God's people had been sent into captivity. He understood why things were not going right after they had returned from captivity. He knew there was unconfessed sin that had created a barrier between God and the people, and that...2022-07-1141 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchA Discontented Heart“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” -Proverbs 25:28
How many of you have ever heard news about a troubling situation? When you did, what was your first reaction? Anger? Fear? Sadness? In Nehemiah, when he first learned of the condition of Jerusalem’s walls, he wept. Even though he had a good job as a cupbearer to the King of Susa, when the word reached him about the walls of Jerusalem, it says that he mourned and fasted and prayed for days.
Nehemiah was devastated because a city without...2022-07-0542 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchStay In The RingOn his second missionary journey, Paul and his colleagues planted several churches in modern-day Greece, namely, in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth. It is fascinating to trace the themes of his letters to these various places as we glean insight into what these diverse bodies of believers needed to hear in their specific contexts.
In the five chapters comprising the first Thessalonian letter, Paul alludes to the Lord’s return at least five times—once to end each of the five chapters. Have you ever wondered why this particular church—newly formed, mostly Gentile, severely persecuted—would need so many...2022-06-2735 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchInterwoven Across Racial Lines“But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility…” Ephesians 2:13
The world we live in has far too many divisions among cultures, races, traditions, and even families. While some divisions are natural, many of them are painful and negative. We can easily create barriers in the name of religion, gender, churches, communities, families, friend groups, and more. While these differences can help us think about...2022-06-2340 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchInterwoven Into The Body“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:26-27
Have you ever stubbed or broken a toe, especially your little toe? It seems so small, but when it is not functioning well with the rest of the foot, it is very noticeable. I have broken that little phalange no less than three times, and each time I am surprised at how something so small can affect the rest of t...2022-06-2335 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchInterwoven Across Socio-Economic Structures“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Today’s weekly update is something of a departure from the normal routine. Normally, I write a short devotion with an eye toward the weekend’s Scripture text(s) and theme. However, in light of all that has taken place in our community and world, this departure seems warranted.
In Psalm 13, David sums up the cry of our hearts in a simple, yet moving, lament. How long...2022-06-2341 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchInterwoven For Singleness & MarriageIt could be argued that Christianity is the first religion to affirm the goodness of singleness. In the ancient world, one was often defined by your family of origin, your children, or your spouse. Instead, we are reminded that God defines us by our relationship to Him as children of God and heirs in Christ. Being married is a gift, but it comes with certain anxieties like caring for your spouse and children. Paul argues that Christian singleness offers the benefit of being “undivided and devoted to the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:35).
In the passage we’re going to be stu...2022-06-2337 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWoven Together As Male“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” -1 Corinthians 16:13
The Four Chaplains documentary tells the story of four WWII chaplains (one of whom was a pastor in my former denomination, the RCA) who were aboard the transport ship, the SS Dorchester, when it was torpedoed off the coast of Greenland in February of 1943. With the ship sinking and injured men jumping for overcrowded lifeboats, the four chaplains calmed the pandemonium by “preaching courage”, according to one survivor.
When life jackets ran out, each took his off, giv...2022-06-2343 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWoven Together As FemaleToday we will continue our sermon series, "Interwoven." These messages celebrate the way that God has brought us all, with our different gifts and experiences, together into one vibrant family in Christ. This week, in recognition of Mother's Day, we will consider how women (and not just moms) marvelously bear God's image. We'll take a look at Luke 10:38-42, which describes Jesus' friendship with two women who both wanted to honor and serve Him with the very best of their gifts.
I invite you to read through Luke 10:38-42. In what ways do you long to sit an...2022-06-2340 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWoven Together By Divine DesignPsalm 139:14 says, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” There isn’t a part of us that is unknown by God. No matter where we find ourselves, we are reminded that God is there. No matter what our thoughts are, God knows our words before we speak them. God is even familiar with our offensive ways inside us which need to be dealt with.
This week we are starting a new sermon series together called Interwoven, and the whole premise behind this series is to see ho...2022-06-2239 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchInterwoven Across The AgesIt is easy for us to forget how jaw-dropping the church of Jesus Christ truly is.
As our daily experiences in this broken world remind us, our fallen human tendency is toward division and disintegration. The more we follow our sinful hearts and the warped ways of the world, the more we will drift off into splintered groups of people who look like us, think like us, speak like us, vote like us, and behave like us.
However, Jesus loves us too much to let us languish in our comfort zones and echo chambers. Jesus...2022-06-2243 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What else did God Create? Part IIThe fifth question in the New City Catechism is: What else did God create?
The answer is: God created all things by his powerful Word, and all his creation was very good; everything flourished under his loving rule.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Genesis 1:31, which says, “And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.”2022-06-1616 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What else did God create? Part IThe fifth question in the New City Catechism is: What else did God create?
The answer is: God created all things by his powerful Word, and all his creation was very good; everything flourished under his loving rule.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Genesis 1:31, which says, “And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.”2022-06-0921 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: OfferingOffering isn't a sacrament in the traditional sense of the term, but it is something that is important to the life of the church and it's something that parents may struggle to explain to their children. On today's episode, the panel discusses what offering is, how Christ is represented in offering, and who is allowed to participate in offering.2022-05-2652 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: How and why did God create us? Part IIThe third question in the New City Catechism is: How and why did God create us?
The answer is: God created us male and female in His own image to know Him, love Him, live
with Him, and glorify Him. And it is right that we who were created by God should live to His
glory.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Genesis 1:27, which says,
“So God created man in his own image. In the image of God He created him; male and fe...2022-05-1924 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: How and why did God create us? Part IThe third question in the New City Catechism is: How and why did God create us?
The answer is: God created us male and female in His own image to know Him, love Him, live
with Him, and glorify Him. And it is right that we who were created by God should live to His
glory.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Genesis 1:27, which says,
“So God created man in his own image. In the image of God He created hi...2022-05-1324 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: How many persons are there in God? Part IIToday our panel, Aaron Klein, Andrew Morton, and Kathy Davis discuss question and answer #3, which is:
How many persons are there in God?
There are three persons in the one true and living God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are the same in substance, equal in power and glory.
2 Corinthians 13:14
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.2022-04-2819 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchSafe in the Heart of GodOur family has always enjoyed putting together puzzles, especially Nicole. During the pandemic’s early days, we easily worked on finishing 4-5 of them, each one containing at least 2,000 pieces. As usual, my job would be to find all the edge pieces and separate them by colors while Nicole would work on more intricate portions of the middle. Together we made a great team.
However, what seemed unexplainable to us was the fact that not a single puzzle we put together contained all of the pieces! We would always be missing one or two pieces; and we wer...2022-04-2840 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchBecause He LivesThis Sunday morning we will greet one another with the words “Christ is risen!” and the response will be “He is risen indeed!” We will join together with centuries of Christians who mark this day as the day that changed everything. We will celebrate the amazing truth that although Jesus was dead, He’s now alive forevermore. Christ Jesus rose victorious over death. He is risen!
Yet throughout history, people respond to those words in different ways. When Mary stood outside Jesus’ tomb, she did so crying. It so blurred her mind when she saw the stone rolled away...2022-04-2844 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: How many persons are there in God? Part IToday our panel, Aaron Klein, Andrew Morton, and Kathy Davis discuss question and answer #3, which is:
How many persons are there in God?
There are three persons in the one true and living God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are the same in substance, equal in power and glory.
2 Corinthians 13:14
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.2022-04-2219 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechisms and Sacraments: CommunionOn today's podcast episode, our panel Aaron Klein, Andrew Morton and Kathy Davis will be providing some insights on the sacrament of communion. This is Holy Week 2022, and today is specifically Maundy Thursday--which is the day historically known as when Jesus had his last supper with the disciples. It is this historical event that we base our sacrament of communion off of.
If you have thoughts or questions, please leave them below in the comments or email us at the church office at ashley@warsawpresby.org.2022-04-1441 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchA Road Less TraveledWe are now just days away from Holy Week, when we remember and reflect on the final days of Jesus' life and ministry leading up to His death on the cross and victory over the grave. It often seems to me that Holy Week arrives more quickly and passes more abruptly each year! I urge you to take time in the days ahead to slow down, quiet your heart, and to observe Holy Week. You can do this publicly and privately: by joining us in gathering for worship as a church family, by setting aside time to celebrate Christ's s...2022-04-1238 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchSo...Why Catechisms?In this week's episode on Catechisms and Sacraments, Pastor Andrew will provide us some of the "why" behind catechism use. Why is it important? What is the role of the catechisms throughout history? What does it mean for us to use catechisms as a congregation? What do catechisms teach us about Jesus?
As always, if you'd like to reach out to us at the church, you can email ashley@warsawpresby.org.2022-04-0730 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Recovery of FaithLast year, we had a large oak tree in our backyard break in half during a storm. Sadly, this tree needed to be taken down as the damage was too severe. I couldn't do it on my own because of the size of the tree, so we had a company come and take the rest down and haul it away. It was far costlier than I initially imagined, but now I know why…It’s a hard job with lots of back-breaking labor.
I have a large amount of respect for Elisha’s school for prophets which had prosp...2022-04-0641 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Provision of FaithElisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” -2 Kings 4:2
Any time spent watching the Food Network Channel reveals quickly that “EVOO” (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) is a staple in kitchens, and is the starting point for cooking many meals. In Biblical days, it wasn’t so different. Olive oil was a “miracle ingredient” and a staple for everyday life. They used it for fuel, lotions, medicine, and cooking.
In the story we’re going to read on Sunday, a widow is at her wits' end. She has lost...2022-04-0637 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What is God? Part IThis episode will explore question 2 of the New City Catechism, with our panel: Aaron Klein, Andrew Morton, and Kathy Davis.
The second question in the New City Catechism is: What is God?
The answer is: God is the creator and sustainer of everyone and everything. He is eternal, infinite, and unchangeable in his power and perfection, goodness and glory, wisdom, justice, and truth. Nothing happens except through him and by his will.
The Bible passage this question and answer is based off of is Psalm 86:8-10 and 15, which says,
“There is no...2022-03-2431 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Dependence of FaithHave you ever been in the middle of a big undertaking and found out you didn’t have the resources to continue? Israel and Judah found themselves in such a situation in 2 Kings 3. They had marched out to take on the king of Moab, had taken the long way through the desert, and had ran out of water. To make matters worse, even though the war was his own idea, King Joram blamed God for what he thought was their impending defeat.
Have you ever done that? You didn’t ask God if you should do something, you st...2022-03-2344 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatechism and Sacraments: What is our only hope in life and death?In this new podcast series at WEPC, we will be exploring the New City Catechism, as well as some of the sacraments and traditions of the Christian faith. We are excited to welcome you on this journey with us as we bring in many different congregation members to have difficult conversations about our faith. 2022-03-1742 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchThe Asking of Faith“When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?’ ‘Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,’ Elisha replied.” -2 Kings 2:9
For a prophet in the Old Testament, a cloak was a symbol of authority - a symbol of the power of God resting on that person. In last week’s message, we saw that when Elijah first met Elisha, he threw his cloak around him. I wonder, did Elisha feel the weight and responsibility in that moment? Did he sense God’s anointing and cal...2022-03-1642 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchPreparing Future GenerationsLast year, my son Gabriel started running track. He’s been more accustomed to Cross Country in the fall and the longer distances, but he decided that he wanted to do something in the spring as well. This led him down the road to some middle-distance running - things like the 800m and the 4x800m.
When I went to the meets, I noticed that the 4x100 athletes practiced the baton hand-off prior to their heats over and over again. They barely lost a stride. But in the longer distance runs, the handoff didn’t seem as impor...2022-03-0143 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchHow Should We Order Our Family Life?Do you remember how Jesus responded when He was asked which command in the Bible was most important? He quoted the Old Testament and affirmed that the most important thing we can do is love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
This Sunday, we will continue our new sermon series on the topic of families by turning our attention to Deuteronomy 6:4-9, which is the passage that Jesus quoted. In these verses, we see that loving God with every fiber of our being is not just something we do in isolation, it...2022-02-2241 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchKeeping the I Do from Becoming the I Don't“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”- Mark 10:8-9
Over the course of the weekend, many of us will be celebrating the person we love. While it’s a man-made “holiday,” it’s never a bad thing to acknowledge the person who has a special place in your heart and life. In fact, hopefully they sense they are loved by you more than one day a year.
Here’s the reality: Marriage relationships have never been easy, but they seem to be getting tougher...2022-02-2244 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWhat Do You Do With Your Gifts?Have you ever had one of those moments where you were left in charge with an expectation? Your parent or your boss asks you to do something, or you ask your children or employees to follow up on a request. Do you get to work immediately? Do you wait to get a few other things done before you turn your attention to what is asked of you? Do you forget?
When your parent or boss returns and you’ve met or exceeded the expectations, what is the result? When you return after having been away and the pers...2022-02-0840 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWhere is Your Seat at the Table?Over the years, the show Law & Order has been something that I’ve enjoyed. In my opinion, the original show is still the best. Whenever you watch a program like this, or whenever you hear about law and politics, you sometimes hear the phrase quid pro quo. It basically means, “I will do something for you that equals the value of what you do for me.” It’s a way of trying to gain an advantage.
In Luke 14:7-14, Jesus tells a parable that seeks to undermine the quid pro quo mindset. In verses 12-14 He says, “When you give...2022-02-0443 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchWhat Kind Of Soil Are You?Good soil makes a huge difference in the harvest a farmer can expect.
In Luke 8:4-15, Jesus told a story that reflected the farming practices in his time. A farmer would sow by hand, scattering seed in the field as he walked along. Now we might be tempted to think that a lot of seed was wasted as the farmer spread it wide. After all, a portion of the seed fell in places too poor to produce a crop.
But Jesus was not trying to teach people good planting practices. He was asking everyone to...2022-01-2647 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchHow's Your Foundation?“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” -Luke 6:46
Have you ever seen a video of a house falling into the sea after the waters washed away its foundation? I can’t imagine what it would be like to watch the house I call home be ruined by the rushing waters. It must be devastating and make you feel so helpless.
This week we will begin a new sermon series called Parable, about how our lives can tell a better story. We are going to be reminded that when Jesus gives...2022-01-1939 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchLooking Ahead“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection…” Philippians 3:10
In one of his books, Max Lucado tells a story about the late champion boxer Muhammad Ali taking someone to his barn where he stored his trophies and awards. Standing in the doorway, he pointed to his many trophies and said, “It ain’t nothing.” He had come to the conclusion that when all is said and done, his accomplishments meant very little.
Many millenia earlier, the apostle Paul looked back on all of the things he had been proud of in his life, an...2022-01-1936 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchLooking BackIn some ways, a new year brings certain changes. We put the old calendar away and hang a new one on the wall. We spend the next ten days writing the wrong year on everything, crossing it off, and then writing the correct one. We often approach the new year as a time to start new habits or try to break old ones. The sensation of beginning a new year can evoke a hopeful sense of having a fresh start or a clean slate.
In other ways, a new year also picks up exactly where the last...2022-01-0449 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchHow the Grinch Tried to Steal ChristmasThat’s not a passage that many of us read often, nor is it a verse that we hear at Christmas. But maybe it should be! As we approach this weekend, gifts will be opened and received, others will be proclaimed the best Christmas gift ever, and still others will be returned for refunds.
However, Christmas reveals to us the life-altering richness of God’s greatest gift that He gave to us through Jesus Christ. This is why the words of Jude are fitting during this time of year. The closing words of his letter pulsate with hope, jo...2022-01-0438 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchAwaited LovinglyHave you ever had a song stuck in your head where the tune is playing over and over in your mind? Sometimes you can’t help singing or humming the tune all day long. If you look at the Gospel of Luke, there is much singing as we reach the story of Christ’s birth. Those songs are sung by elderly men like Zechariah and Simeon, and there’s even the song of the angels at Christ’s birth. In Luke 1:46-55 we find the words to a song Mary was singing. Why does Mary sing and what does she sing?2021-12-2143 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchAwaited Longingly“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” - Matthew 2:2
Stars? Magi? Lavishly expensive gifts? What does this strange story mean? The wise men (or Magi) come from the East (most likely Persia) in search of a king. They had studied the Scriptures and stars; and when they saw this particular star, they left their own kings and kingdoms to search for the “king of the Jews.” When they finally found the newborn king, the Magi worshiped Him and gave Him gifts...2021-12-1439 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchAwaiting Simply“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.” -Luke 2:25
Expecting parents wait nine months for the arrival of their newborn baby. When the child finally comes, there is a sense of relief and excitement. Nine months is a long time to wait.
Now imagine you are waiting for the birth of a baby that would bring salvation to people everywhere. Imagine waiting year after year for this baby to be born. Imagine the sense of joy...2021-12-0741 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchAwaited and ReadyGrumbling seems to be a favorite pastime of humanity, and Jesus-followers are not exempt. We see it in the way God rescued His people from slavery in Egypt and provided for them in the desert, yet they complained! We see it in the New Testament when God’s people grumbled regularly enough that the apostle Peter had to say, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). And James added, “Don’t grumble against one another...or you will be judged” (James 5:9).
That’s why Thanksgiving is a great time to put aside a grumbling attitude, to pause, and to t...2021-11-3038 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchGive Thanks in All Circumstances“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
When we think about the “big” questions in life, what are some that come to mind? “What does God want from me?” Or, “What does God want for me?” Those are some big-picture questions.
What about the ones that are a bit smaller? “What career should I pursue?” “Where should I go to school?” “Whom should I marry?” These are certainly big questions, but they might not be the ultimate issue questions.
And then of course you...2021-11-2337 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchSheep, Shepherds, and ShalomThis sermon wraps up our "Foundations" sermon series. Over the past several weeks, we have surveyed a variety of foundational beliefs, teachings, and practices of Christianity, including the Apostles' Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the importance of a relationship with Jesus. This week, we will turn our attention to another foundation of the Christian life, the task and calling of shepherding the family of God.
The Bible repeatedly uses the metaphor of a shepherd and the sheep to describe God's relationship with His people. In fact, Jesus described Himself as the "Good Shepherd" to highlight His role a...2021-11-1644 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchPraying the KingdomGrowing up in the south suburbs of the city of Chicago, we always talked about the congestion, the traffic jams, and the aggressive drivers. It was an inconvenience and a frustration. There is a certain level of attraction to the big city, but I never realized how much it bothered me until I lived in a place like Warsaw and have to go home to visit family. Throughout high school and college, I’d avoid driving downtown as often as I could. It felt like a hassle.
But as I’ve gotten older and have h...2021-11-0938 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchSin BoldlyAs we continue in our “Foundations” series this week, we’ll be looking at the difference between religion and relationship, between works of the law and grace in Jesus Christ. What I hope we discover is that we stand on the foundation of the finished work of Christ on the cross and His grace alone. If you know of anyone else who needs to be reminded of this good news, then make sure to reach out to your friends and neighbors and share the podcast with them. 2021-11-0238 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchFrom Party Crasher to Life of the Party“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.” (NLT)
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” (ESV)
I love the way both of those translations talk about Hebrews 10:23…Holding fast to what we affirm - to our confession - and to do it without wavering. In what we discovered together last week, the Apostles’ Creed is a beautiful and inspiring summary of what we affirm. Even John Calvin said in his Institutes of the Christian Re...2021-10-2630 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchFrom Designer Genes to Satan's SchemesWhat do you believe? This question can apply to any number of things:
What do you believe about the weather?
What do you believe about the Chicago Bears this year?
What do you believe about politics?
What do you believe about what so-and-so is doing?
What do you believe about __________________?
You get the picture.
Why is that important? It’s important because you and I constantly make choices and decisions based around what we believe. Whether we realize it or not, we each live by a personal credo statement. It’s the foundation on which we stand.2021-10-1944 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am Clothed in the Armor of GodThis week we come to the end of our series that has seen us journey through the letter to the Ephesians. In a way, we are bidding “farewell” to an old friend who we’ve come to love so well. Hopefully, we keep the truths of Ephesians deep within, and we wear them well like a coat of armor.
Speaking of armor, because so much of our time will be spent Sunday on The Armor of God from Ephesians 6:10-20 (something we could easily spend weeks on alone), we won’t have much time for Ephesians 6:21-24, Paul’s farewell ble...2021-10-1951 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am a Person With a Positive Work EthicWe all work for somebody. You may be a 9-5 hourly employee. You may be a CEO who reports to a board. You may be a board that is concerned about your investors. However, no matter what your state of employment is, Ephesians 6 reminds us that we are all working for God!
Yet there’s more. Many of us have people who are responsible to us: we may be district managers, business owners, stay-at-home parents, or teachers. Paul reminds us that how we use or abuse our power in the workplace says a great deal about how we grasp th...2021-10-0514 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am a Person with a Beautiful Family Portrait“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” Colossians 3:20-21
At some point along the way, nearly every family experiences a conversation that goes something like this: A student is having a chat with a parent about some disagreement, and the parent says, “So long as you are living in my house and under my roof, you need to follow my rules.” The child responds, “I don’t have to listen to you just because you are my parent...I’m old enough to make my own decisi...2021-09-2842 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am A Person Who SubmitsOne of the things I often say is that “what we believe needs to affect how we behave.” It’s the idea that the “vertical” relationship we have with Christ should affect the “horizontal.” Over the past few weeks, our series has taken us from beautiful theology to practical living. The theme tying it all together is found in Ephesians 5:21.
Submission. Love. Reverence.
John Calvin has stated, “Where love reigns, there is mutual servitude.” He added that this applies even to kings and rulers. They must serve their people, as must pastors and politicians. As we will see this week, so must hus...2021-09-2143 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am An Imitator of GodThe more we come to know Jesus, the more we become like Jesus. One of the marks of a person whose identity is rooted in Christ is that he or she will increasingly live in a way that displays the beauty of Christ to others. As we continue our sermon series on identity, we will look at the first half of Ephesians 5. Building on some of the themes that Robby unpacked for us last week, we will consider what the Apostle Paul says about imitating Christ's example in our own lives.
As you prepare, I invite you to read...2021-09-1443 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am a Child of LightYou were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. — Ephesians 4:22-24
Oftentimes when we come to a new year, many people resolve to live differently. We promise to lose weight, find a new job, quit smoking, care better for our husband or wife, or change in some other way. "It’s going to be great...2021-09-0738 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchContagious Joy To the CityIn many ways, the book of Philippians can be described as a long and amazing thank-you letter. The apostle Paul wanted to express his gratitude and joy to the believers in the city of Philippi for the gift they had sent after learning of his imprisonment. Led by the Spirit, Paul also sought to encourage them to stand firm in persecution and to rejoice, regardless of their circumstances. I’d say that’s a great way to say "thank you"...and it’s the kind of thing that’s contagious!2021-09-0226 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am MaturingPaul uses the image of a body to describe Jesus Christ as the head of the church. It is Jesus Christ who provides the direction and the coordination of His body. What is most beautiful about this imagery, though, is how it relates to Christ's authority over His church.
The image of the head and the body vividly shows that, just as our flesh and bone is joined together and supported by ligaments, we are joined together, growing and being built up in love under Jesus, who is the head of the body. It also means that we need...2021-08-2439 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am Walking With God“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Ephesians 4:1
How many of us have ever asked, “What should I do with my life?” We probably all have. Of course, behind this question is a bigger and deeper one: “What is the purpose of my life?”
Those questions are ones that we never stop asking because we’re always entering different seasons in our lives. As children and youth we ask it when we're trying to figure out a career path. We ask it again when we think about getting married, or becoming parents, o...2021-08-1840 min
WEPC Discipleship PodcastWEPC Discipleship Podcast - Barnabas and Saul Sent OffOn todays episode we're looking at Acts 12 through the end of chapter 14. The first missionary journey.Learn more about WEPC at www.wepc.org 2021-08-1350 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am RootedIn this prayer, we behold Paul's passion for the gospel, his desire to see people firmly rooted in the love of Christ, and his exuberant ambition for God’s glory.2021-08-1037 minWEPC Discipleship PodcastWEPC Discipleship Podcast - It's Not Over Till It's Over - Acts 11:19 - 12:24Learn more about West End Presbyterian Church https://www.wepc.org/Get The Study:https://www.amazon.com/Acts-Seeing-Spirit-Stott-Studies/dp/0830821708/ref=pd_lpo_14_img_0/145-5326850-5670102?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=0830821708&pd_rd_r=92e865b4-7a93-47f3-84e8-ede2a3a80e30&pd_rd_w=o2wSA&pd_rd_wg=dR13V&pf_rd_p=a0d6e967-6561-454c-84f8-2ce2c92b79a6&pf_rd_r=5H1WXRWZZP1K4JJ4HQD5&psc=1&refRID=5H1WXRWZZP1K4JJ4HQD52021-08-0646 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am A Part of God's PlanThankfully, God is a planner, as Paul tells us in Ephesians 3:1-13. Though His plan seemed like a mystery for generations, it has now been revealed in Christ. The division that existed between Jews and Gentiles, between the spiritual “haves” and “have nots,” has been torn down. Jesus demolished the walls of hostility and made the two groups one. And the purpose of the Church, then, is to make known the “manifold wisdom of God.” Our unity in Christ and His victory speaks to the heavenly realms and even makes the demon shudder! And that should remind us that we can have bol...2021-08-0339 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am A Citizen PeacemakerPaul says that we have peace with God because of Jesus Christ. He is the cornerstone, the capstone, and the keystone. In Him, all things hold together. This also means that we need to align ourselves with Jesus. It means that we are called to live in peace with one another.
As the apostle Peter describes it, all who believe in Christ are “like living stones...being built into a spiritual house.” (1 Peter 2:5). What is God building you into? What is God building our church into? How are we being called to be citizen peacemakers?2021-07-2747 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am an Original MasterpieceAs we continue in our new sermon series called Identity, what we hope to discover is how our identity in Christ becomes clearer and surer the more we “know Christ better.” The more He opens the eyes of our hearts and reveals to us our glorious inheritance, the power, and the promise we have in Christ; the more confident we become of our identity. That gives us hope in this life and in the life to come.
We look forward to worshipping with you this weekend, and we encourage you to keep inviting your friends, neighbors, and co-w...2021-07-2043 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am WiseAs we continue in our new sermon series called Identity, what we hope to discover is how our identity in Christ becomes clearer and surer the more we “know Christ better.” The more He opens the eyes of our hearts and reveals to us our glorious inheritance, the power, and the promise we have in Christ; the more confident we become of our identity. That gives us hope in this life and in the life to come.2021-07-1337 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchI Am A New Creation Identity is an important topic in our world, and we are constantly surrounded by all sorts of messages about who we are. Because what our culture has to say about our identity tends to be less than helpful, it is important to discover what God has to say about our identity.
Welcome to a new sermon series on the topic of our identity. This series will take us all the way through Paul's letter to the Ephesians, as we consider what God has to say about who we are. This week, we will explore Ephesians 1:1-14, which has a tre...2021-07-0630 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchSeek His FaceThis sermon comes from a guest speaker to our church, Lydia Harrison. Join with us as we discover more about Psalm 27 and what it means to seek His face.2021-06-2926 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchUnmasking Guilt and ShameThis sermon unpacks how we see ourselves vs. how God sees us. Remember that guilt and shame only hurts the way we see ourselves, and keeps us from seeing the new creation we have become in Jesus Christ. 2021-06-2229 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchUnmasking DepressionThis sermon spoke into the heart of depression. What does it look like for Christians? What can we do to help each other walk through these difficult seasons? 2021-06-1550 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchUnmasking SufferingThe second sermon in our unmasking series dives into suffering. Why is there suffering in our world? What is the hope we have in Jesus Christ in the midst of our suffering?2021-06-0941 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchUnmasking EmotionsThis new sermon series dives into the different emotions that we all experience and how we should handle them when Christ is at the center of our lives.2021-06-0943 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchHook, Line, and SinkerThis sermon is a continuation of our series on how to reach those who don't know the name of Jesus Christ.2021-06-0933 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchChumHow do we reach all non-believers in the name of Jesus Christ? This sermon dives into the different ways we can reach non-believers around us. 2021-06-0944 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchCatching and CleaningThis sermon is all about how we can reach every individual in Jesus' name. 2021-05-2646 min
Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian ChurchGo Fish!This is the beginning of our new sermon series together called “Go Fish.” It’s a series that focuses on sharing our faith. This sermon talks about being in “proximity” to Jesus, having a relationship with Him, and KNOWING Him rather than merely knowing ABOUT Him.2021-05-2637 minWEPC Discipleship PodcastThe WEPC Discipleship PodcastBecause the Gospel changes everything...Our mission is to make followers of Jesus who bring the Gospel to bear on every facet of life and culture.The WEPC Discipleship Podcast drops every Monday at 6 AM, beginning November 29, 2020. Our first season will discuss the Old Testament stories and how they intersect our quarantined life. The study will follow along with the Family Advent Tree Project, so it can be used by itself or in conjunction with the Family Project.Advent and Christmas at West End Presbyterian Church2020-11-2500 min
By Gamers, For GamersModding, Beating up Zombies with Fish and Fallout 4 - The WePC PodcastThis week on The WePC Podcast we chat with our Monday Mods creator Lewie and Video Editor Chris about all things mods.
Featuring talk about whacking people with fish, The Lord of the Rings in Skyrim and much more!2020-08-1246 min