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The Life of the Church

The Life of the Church

In this Sunday morning message from December 1976, Pastor Jack teaches from the letter to the church in Sardis, exploring Jesus as the life of the church. He addresses the tension between God's call to righteousness and His mercy, urging believers to remain watchful and strengthen what remains rather than giving up. Pastor Jack emphasizes that walking closely with Jesus?staying "soft" and pliable to the Holy Spirit?is the key to avoiding spiritual death and maintaining purity, not legalistic rule-keeping.
The Ghost of Christmas Past

The Ghost of Christmas Past

Pastor Jack explores the theme of hope in the midst of trials, drawing from the Old Testament prophecies of the coming Messiah. He teaches that in seasons of difficulty, God speaks promises that seem impossible?like a virgin conceiving or a branch springing from a stump?to sustain His people through darkness. Pastor Jack emphasizes that just as the Holy Spirit gave Israel hope through prophecies of Emmanuel and the Branch, believers today can stand firm in trials by declaring the name of Jesus.
Unwrapping Christmas

Unwrapping Christmas

Pastor Jack delivers a heartfelt message about reclaiming the joy of Christmas and breaking free from cynicism, disappointment, and past hurts that can dampen the season. Drawing from the angel's announcement to the shepherds in Luke 2, he encourages the congregation to unwrap Christmas?removing the "grave clothes" of painful memories and embracing the good tidings of great joy God intends. Pastor Jack also teaches on communion, connecting its elements to the incarnation, Christ's sinless life, crucifixion, and resurrection, and inviting believers to receive Christ's nourishing life with thanksgiving and joy.
The Lord of the Church

The Lord of the Church

Pastor Jack begins a new series titled "Christ and His Church" by exploring the powerful vision John received of the risen Christ on the Isle of Patmos. Drawing from Revelation chapter 1, Pastor Jack emphasizes that Jesus is the Lord of the church, eternally present in all our tomorrows and yesterdays, holding the keys to every situation that binds us. He teaches that being "in the Spirit on the Lord's Day" means refusing to be dominated by circumstances and turning to hear the voice of Jesus, who reaches out with tenderness and power to make every day a victory.
How to Draw Near to God

How to Draw Near to God

Pastor Jack teaches on seven biblical principles for drawing near to God, using James 4:1-10 as his anchor passage. Against the backdrop of life's struggles?striving, unanswered prayer, and worldliness?he explores practical ways to experience intimacy with God. Pastor Jack emphasizes that these aren't sequential steps but different means of approach, including praise and thanksgiving, earnest request, cleansing through the blood of Christ, and quietness of soul, reminding listeners that when we draw near to God, He promises to draw near to us.