Episodios

  • The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:1-15

    The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:1-15
    Jul 10 2025
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 16 Verses 1-15 Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 16:1–15 As Jesus continues His Farewell Discourse, He shifts from warning about the world’s hatred to offering comfort and clarity about what lies ahead. In John 16:1–15, Jesus prepares His disciples for the hardship of persecution and the sorrow of His departure, while also revealing the powerful role of the Holy Spirit. This passage is both sobering and hopeful. Jesus doesn’t downplay the pain they will face—He tells them plainly that they will be cast out, hated, and even targeted by those who believe they are doing God a service. But in the same breath, He promises the coming of the Helper—the Holy Spirit—who will strengthen them and continue Jesus’ work through them. He explains that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, and that the Spirit will have a vital role: Convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment Guiding the disciples into all truth Glorifying Christ by declaring what belongs to Him This section is a turning point. Jesus is preparing the disciples not just for survival, but for mission. They will face sorrow—but that sorrow will make way for Spirit-empowered witness and joy. Key Themes We’ll Explore Why Jesus warned His disciples ahead of time The danger of religious persecution and spiritual blindness The promised coming of the Holy Spirit—the Helper The Spirit’s role in conviction, guidance, and glorifying Christ Why Jesus’ departure was part of God’s greater plan In John 16:1–15, we see that truth and comfort walk hand in hand. Jesus does not hide the cost of following Him, but He also gives us everything we need to endure it—including the Holy Spirit, who will lead us in truth and empower us to bear witness in a world that desperately needs to see Christ. Key Theme One: Warning Before the Storm Study Breakdown Jesus Warns to Keep Them from Falling Away (v. 1) Jesus speaks with urgency and care: “I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away.” The Greek word for “falling away” (skandalizō) means to stumble or lose faith under pressure. Jesus is preparing the disciples for coming persecution—not to scare them, but to anchor them. Knowing what’s coming ahead of time helps guard their faith when the suffering begins. Rejection by Religious Institutions (v. 2a) “They will put you out of the synagogues.” This was more than social embarrassment—it meant losing community, status, and access to worship. Jesus warns that faithfulness to Him may come at the cost of being rejected by religious systems that resist the truth. This kind of religious persecution can be especially painful because it comes from those claiming to represent God. Misguided Zeal Will Lead to Violence (v. 2b) “Whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.” This verse is both chilling and historically accurate. From the martyrdom of early disciples to modern-day persecution, many have been attacked by those convinced they are doing God's will. Paul (then Saul) is a clear example—he persecuted the church before his conversion, believing he was serving God (Acts 9). The Root: They Do Not Know the Father or the Son (v. 3) Jesus exposes the real issue: “They do these things because they have not known the Father, nor me.” Religious persecution stems not from too much truth, but from a lack of true knowledge of God. Without knowing the heart of the Father or the person of Jesus, people can twist religion into a weapon. He Tells Them in Advance (v. 4) “But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.” Jesus’ forewarning is an act of pastoral care and spiritual preparation. When the persecution arrives, they’ll remember His words—and that will steady them in the storm. Jesus never promised comfort—but He always promises clarity and presence. Key Takeaways Jesus warns His disciples not to discourage them, but to prepare and preserve them. Persecution may come from religious people or systems that do not truly know God. Faithfulness to Christ may cost social acceptance or religious standing—but Jesus is worth it. The world may believe it's doing right—even while committing violence against God’s people. Remembering Jesus’ words in times of hardship is vital for perseverance. Key Theme Two: The Coming of the Helper Study Breakdown Jesus Points to His Departure (v. 5) Jesus reminds the disciples that He is returning to the Father—“to him who sent me.” Their focus is understandably emotional—they are grieving the thought of losing Him. Jesus gently notes that they haven’t truly asked about where He is going—meaning they haven’t yet grasped the bigger purpose of His departure. Sorrow Has Filled Their Hearts (...
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    57 m
  • Sermon: Keep Going

    Sermon: Keep Going
    Jul 7 2025

    Sermon Date: 7/6/2025

    Bible Verses:

    • Deuteronomy 31:1–8
    • 1 Thessalonians 5:1–19

    Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley

    Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning

    Obedience to the Lord is not always easy, but it is always worth it. We are called to serve even when we’re discouraged, frustrated, or tired—because the Lord goes before us and is at work through us.

    1. Obedience in Transition

    Deuteronomy 31:1–3

    Moses is 120 years old. After years of leading the people of Israel, he’s now passing the mantle to Joshua. Moses himself won’t enter the Promised Land.

    Key Point: Even faithful servants don’t always get to finish the job. Sometimes obedience means preparing others to carry the work forward.

    Obedience doesn’t always come with immediate reward—but it always honors God.

    Application:

    • Are you willing to obey even when you don’t see the result?
    • Are you preparing the next generation to continue what you’ve started?
    1. God Goes Before You

    Deuteronomy 31:6, 8

    “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

    Moses reassures both the people and Joshua: don’t be afraid, because God is already ahead of you.

    This is not about your strength—it’s about God’s presence.

    Even when your strength is failing, God's promise still stands.

    Application:

    • God has not abandoned your calling.
    • Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s not holy.
    • Obedience is sustained by trust in God's nearness and faithfulness.
    1. Service in the Everyday

    1 Thessalonians 5:11–15

    “Encourage one another and build each other up…”

    Paul tells the church to support one another in the day-to-day life of faith—not just in the highs, but also in the grind.

    Faithfulness in the small, mundane acts of obedience builds a strong witness.

    Application:

    • Are you building others up, or simply getting by?
    • Are you mistaking God’s silence for absence? He is still present and working.
    1. Don’t Quench the Spirit

    1 Thessalonians 5:16–19

    “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances…”

    These verses can be difficult to live out when we’re worn down or discouraged. But Paul reminds us that the Spirit is always at work, and we must not smother that fire.

    Sometimes the greatest act of obedience is simply refusing to quit.

    “Do not quench the Spirit.” Even in a dry season, continued obedience keeps the fire alive.

    Application:

    • Stay in the fight even when you don’t feel like it.
    • Be intentional in joy, prayer, and gratitude—they are fuel for your calling.
    • Trust that the Holy Spirit is doing more than you can see.

    Closing Challenge

    To the weary servant: Don’t stop. Don’t give in to fear or frustration. The Lord goes before you, and He is not finished with your story.

    To the faithful worker: It may not feel fruitful now, but obedience always honors God—and He is the one who brings the harvest.

    Call to Action:

    • Recommit yourself to faithful obedience.
    • Ask God for fresh strength and courage.
    • Encourage someone else this week who may be struggling.
    • Remember: the work is not in vain. The Lord is with you.
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    24 m
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 56 - John 15:18-27

    The Weekly Show: Episode 56 - John 15:18-27
    Jul 3 2025
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 15 Verses 1-15. Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 15:18–27 — The Hatred of the World As Jesus continues His Farewell Discourse, He shifts the tone. After teaching about abiding in Him and loving one another, Jesus now warns the disciples about what they will face in the world.In John 15:18–27, Jesus prepares His followers for opposition and persecution. He makes it clear: the same world that rejected Him will also reject those who follow Him. This is not a possibility—it is a certainty for those who live in allegiance to Christ. Jesus does not say these things to discourage His disciples, but to prepare them.He reminds them that they are not of the world, that they have been chosen out of the world, and that their witness will bring conflict with a world that is in rebellion against God. At the same time, Jesus promises that the Helper—the Holy Spirit—will come and empower their witness, even in the face of hatred. Though the world may reject them, they are not alone. Key Themes We’ll Explore The world’s hatred of Christ and His followers — why opposition is inevitable.The identity of believers — chosen out of the world, no longer belonging to it.The reason for persecution — allegiance to Jesus’ name.The guilt of the world — rejecting Jesus and the Father despite clear revelation.The ministry of the Holy Spirit — bearing witness to Jesus through His disciples.The call to faithful witness — empowered by the Spirit, even in a hostile world. This passage is a sober but important reminder: To follow Jesus is to expect opposition from the world.But in the face of that opposition, we are called to stand firm, bear witness, and trust the Spirit who empowers us. Key Theme One: The World’s Hatred Is Expected (John 15:18–19) Study Breakdown Hatred of the World Is Inevitable Jesus begins with a clear statement: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”The word “if” here does not imply uncertainty—in the Greek, it carries the sense of “since” or “when.”Hatred and opposition from the world is not unusual—it is expected for those who follow Jesus. The Root of the World’s Hatred The world hated Jesus because His light exposed its darkness.The world continues to hate His followers for the same reason: they belong to Christ and reflect His truth.This hatred is ultimately not about personal offense—it is about rejection of Christ Himself. The Distinction: Not of the World Jesus reminds the disciples: “You are not of the world.”Through faith in Christ, believers have been spiritually separated from the world’s system of sin and rebellion.Their values, priorities, and allegiance have changed—they are now citizens of the Kingdom of God. Chosen Out of the World Jesus further says: “I chose you out of the world.”Our new identity is the result of Christ’s initiative—He has called us to Himself.This choice marks us as different, and the world resents that difference. The World Loves Its Own Jesus contrasts this by saying: “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own.”The world embraces those who conform to its values.But when believers live according to Christ’s truth, they can expect rejection and opposition. Key Takeaways Opposition from the world is normal for followers of Jesus—not a sign of failure or something to fear.The root of the world’s hatred is its rejection of Christ and the truth of His message.Believers are not of this world—they have been chosen out of it by Jesus. Living faithfully for Christ will inevitably cause conflict with a world that opposes Him We should not seek the world’s approval—we are called to live in allegiance to Jesus, regardless of opposition. Key Theme Two: Persecution for Jesus’ Name (John 15:20–21) Study Breakdown The Servant Is Not Greater Than His Master Jesus reminds the disciples of a truth He had taught earlier: “A servant is not greater than his master” (also see John 13:16).If Jesus, the perfect and sinless Son of God, was persecuted and rejected, His followers should expect the same treatment.Following Jesus means walking in His footsteps—which includes suffering for righteousness’ sake. Persecution Is Linked to Jesus Jesus says plainly: “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.”The hatred and hostility believers face is not ultimately personal—it is because of their connection to Jesus.Persecution is “on account of my name”—because we bear His name, live according to His truth, and proclaim His gospel. The World’s Response Is Divided Jesus acknowledges that not all responses will be negative: “If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.”While many will reject the message, some will believe—there will always be...
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    47 m
  • Sermon: Go to the Thirty

    Sermon: Go to the Thirty
    Jun 29 2025
    Sermon Date: 6/29/2025 Bible Verses: 1 Corinthians 3:1–17Matthew 9:35–38 Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Introduction: There comes a time in every believer’s life when we need to grow up—not just in knowledge but in purpose. Paul rebukes the Corinthians for still needing milk when they should be eating solid food (1 Cor. 3:2). Why? Because immature believers are still focused on themselves. Mature believers are focused on the harvest. And today, God is calling us not just to care for the one, but to get ready for thirty. From Milk to Mission (1 Corinthians 3:1–3) 📖 1 Corinthians 3:1–3 Paul opens this section of his letter with a sobering rebuke: “But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ.” (v. 1) He’s not saying they aren’t saved—he’s saying they haven’t grown. They’re still acting like spiritual babies, needing milk when they should be eating meat. Why? Because there’s jealousy, strife, and a me-centered faith at work in their hearts. They're more concerned with who’s better, who’s in charge, and how they feel, than they are with God’s mission. You can’t care about the harvest if you're still fighting in the nursery. You can't reach the lost when you're still nursing old offenses. You won’t step into God’s calling if you’re still stuck in petty comparison. Spiritual Maturity Means Missional Readiness Growth in Christ is not just about gaining knowledge or feeling more spiritual—it's about becoming usable for His mission. Spiritual infants ask: “Am I being fed?”“Did I like the worship?”“Did that sermon make me feel good?” Mature disciples ask: “Who can I feed?”“How can I worship with my life?”“Did that word equip me to go out and make disciples?” Application Questions: Are you still feeding only yourself, or are you feeding others? → Are you seeking out the Word just for comfort, or also for equipping? → Do you share what you learn, or hoard it for yourself?Are you content to be comforted, or are you ready to be commissioned? → Have you settled for being a cared-for church member, or are you stepping into your role as a sent one, a laborer in the field? Challenge: It’s not enough to attend church—we’re called to be the Church. It’s not enough to drink the milk of encouragement—we need the meat of responsibility. If you’ve been a Christian for a while, the next step isn’t “more comfort.” It’s more courage. It’s time to move from milk to mission. God Makes It Grow (1 Corinthians 3:6–9) 📖 1 Corinthians 3:4–9 Paul continues by addressing another issue in the Corinthian church: division over leadership. “For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not being merely human?” (v. 4) They were treating human leaders like saviors, and missing the fact that it is God who gives the growth. Paul says: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” (v. 6) “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (v. 7) The Mission Is Bigger Than the Messenger We all have a role to play—some plant seeds of truth, others water with care and discipleship. But we are not the Savior. We are not the source of power. We are not the reason anything grows. God alone gives the increase. That means: We don’t boast in our results.We don’t despair if we don’t see immediate results.We don’t compete—we cooperate. Faithfulness Over Fame Your job is not to make it grow—your job is to plant and water faithfully. God’s job is the fruit. This frees us from: Fear – “What if I fail?”Pride – “Look what I did.”Discouragement – “Nothing’s happening.” God is working, even when you don’t see it. Sometimes the seed is growing underground. Your job is to show up and sow. Application Questions: Are you trying to control the outcome, or are you being faithful in your role? → Are you trusting God with the results, or measuring your worth by visible success?Are you planting and watering, or just watching and waiting? → Are you engaged in God’s work, or sitting on the sidelines hoping someone else will do it? Challenge: Stop comparing. Stop competing. Start planting. Start watering. God is the Master Gardener. You just need to pick up the shovel and work the field He’s given you. The harvest will come—because God makes it grow. Building with Fireproof Faith 📖 1 Corinthians 3:10–17 Paul shifts the metaphor from planting to building. He says: “According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it.” (v. 10) The foundation is Christ—unchanging, unshakable. But how we build on that foundation matters. Paul warns: “If anyone builds on the ...
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    33 m
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 55 - John 15:1-15

    The Weekly Show: Episode 55 - John 15:1-15
    Jun 26 2025
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 15 Verses 1-15. Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 15:1–17 John 15:1–17 is part of Jesus’ Farewell Discourse—His final teaching to the disciples on the night before His crucifixion. These words were likely spoken as Jesus and the disciples were walking from the Upper Room toward the Garden of Gethsemane. In this passage, Jesus uses the powerful image of a vine and branches to describe the believer’s relationship to Him. He teaches that abiding in Him is the source of life, strength, and fruitfulness. Without Him, we can do nothing.But with Him, we bear fruit that glorifies the Father. This teaching also highlights the Father’s role as the gardener who lovingly prunes us, the call to abide in Jesus’ love, and the central command to love one another. At the heart of it all is the invitation to deep relationship with Christ—marked by obedience, love, joy, and lasting fruit. Key Themes We’ll Explore Abiding in Christ — remaining connected to Him through faith, His Word, prayer, and obedience. Fruitfulness — how spiritual fruit flows from a life rooted in Jesus Pruning — how the Father lovingly shapes us through discipline and growth. Abiding in Christ’s love — living in the reality of His love daily. Loving one another — the central command of Jesus for His followers.Friendship with Jesus — the privilege of being called His friends, not just servants. Joy and fruit — the result of a life that abides in Jesus and walks in His ways. John 15:1–17 reminds us that Christian life is not about striving, but about abiding.It is about living in daily dependence on Jesus—drawing life from Him, walking in His love, and bearing fruit for His glory. Key Theme One: I Am the True Vine (John 15:1–3) Study Breakdown Jesus Is the True Vine (v. 1) This is the seventh and final “I Am” statement in the Gospel of John.In the Old Testament, Israel was often pictured as a vine (Psalm 80, Isaiah 5), but it had failed to bear the fruit God desired. Now Jesus says, “I am the true vine”—He is the faithful and life-giving source His people need.Life, growth, and fruitfulness flow only from connection to Jesus. The Father Is the Vinedresser (v. 1) The Father is the gardener, or vinedresser, who tends the vine.He lovingly watches over the branches—cutting, pruning, shaping them for greater fruitfulness. The Father is not distant—He is actively involved in our spiritual growth. Fruitless Branches Are Removed (v. 2) Branches that remain fruitless are taken away.This is a warning: superficial attachment to Jesus without true life and fruit will not endure.Fruitlessness points to a lack of genuine connection. Fruitful Branches Are Pruned (v. 2) Branches that do bear fruit are pruned so that they will bear even more.Pruning involves cutting away what hinders growth—sin, distractions, worldly attachments.Though pruning is painful, it is an act of love and purpose, shaping us to reflect Christ more fully. You Are Already Clean (v. 3) Jesus reassures the disciples: “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.”Their connection to Him is real—they have believed His word and been cleansed.This is not about earning salvation—it is about living out the reality of their union with Christ. Key Takeaways Jesus alone is the source of true spiritual life and fruit.The Father is personally involved in shaping and refining us for greater fruitfulness.Fruitlessness is a warning sign of disconnection from Christ.Pruning is an essential and loving part of spiritual growth—welcomed, not resisted.Through faith in Jesus’ word, we are cleansed and connected to Him—ready to bear fruit for His glory. Key Theme Two: Abide in Me (John 15:4–8) Study Breakdown “Abide in Me” (v. 4) The word “abide” (Greek: meno) means to remain, stay, dwell, continue.It is a call to ongoing, daily relationship—not a one-time decision.Just as a branch cannot survive without the vine, we cannot bear spiritual fruit unless we stay deeply connected to Jesus.Abiding is about continual dependence and trust—not striving or self-effort. Mutual Indwelling (v. 4) This is a two-way relationship: “Abide in me, and I in you.”Christ lives in us by His Spirit, but we must also actively remain in Him—through prayer, His Word, obedience, worship, and dependence.The result of this abiding is spiritual fruit. Apart From Me You Can Do Nothing (v. 5) Jesus repeats the vine metaphor clearly: “I am the vine; you are the branches.”Our identity is not independent—we are meant to live from the life of Christ. Without Him, we can do “nothing” of spiritual value or eternal significance.Any effort to bear fruit apart from abiding in Christ will result in frustration and barrenness. The Consequences of Not Abiding (v...
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    1 h y 7 m
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 54 - John 14:15-31

    The Weekly Show: Episode 54 - John 14:15-31
    Jun 19 2025
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 14 Verses 15-31. Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to the Passage John 14:15–31 is part of Jesus’ final conversation with His disciples during the Last Supper. He has just told them He is going away (John 13), and now He comforts them by promising the Holy Spirit. This section is rich with truth about love, obedience, divine presence, and supernatural peace. John 14:15–31 is part of Jesus’ Farewell Discourse—His final words to the disciples during the Last Supper. This section follows His announcement that He is going away, and it’s filled with comfort, reassurance, and deep spiritual truth. Jesus begins by connecting love to obedience: “If you love me, keep my commandments.” He then promises another Helper—the Holy Spirit—who will come alongside the disciples and dwell within them. Jesus assures them that they are not being abandoned. Instead, the Father, Son, and Spirit will make their home with those who love Him. He offers peace, not like the world gives, but a divine peace that calms troubled hearts. He also makes it clear that His obedience to the Father will lead Him to the cross—not because the enemy has power, but because love obeys. These verses reveal: The relational nature of discipleship (love and obedience). The gift and role of the Holy Spirit. The presence of God in the life of the believer. And the peace that sustains us in the face of fear. This passage is both a comfort and a challenge—a call to live as people of the Spirit, marked by love, obedience, and peace. Key Theme One: Love Expressed Through Obedience (John 14:15–17) Verses 15–17: 15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper,[f] to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be[g] in you. Love and Obedience Are Connected Love and Obedience Are Connected Jesus isn’t asking for sentiment—He’s calling for loyalty. True love for Christ results in a desire to follow His ways. The Gift of the Holy Spirit (The Helper) “Another Helper” (Greek Parakletos) means one who comes alongside: comforter, advocate, counselor. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will live with and in believers—He is never leaving us orphaned. The Gift of the Holy Spirit (The Helper) “Another Helper” (Greek: Parakletos) The Greek word Parakletos means one called alongside to help. It can be translated as: Helper Advocate Counselor Comforter The idea is personal support and active presence—not just passive encouragement. “Another Helper” implies Jesus Himself was the first—this Helper will continue Jesus’ ministry, not replace it. 2. The Spirit Will Be With You and In You Old Testament saints experienced the Spirit coming upon them temporarily (e.g., prophets, kings). But Jesus promises a permanent, internal indwelling for every believer. The Holy Spirit is not just near you—He lives inside you. This is the birth of New Covenant life (see Ezekiel 36:26–27). 3. He Will Be with You Forever Jesus says this Helper will remain forever. This is security, not based on our feelings, but on His promise. Even when we feel alone or weak, the Spirit never departs. 4. The World Cannot Receive Him (v. 17) The Spirit is not understood or accepted by the world. Spiritual truth requires spiritual awakening. But believers “know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you”—a profound promise of intimacy. Key Theme Two: The Indwelling Presence of God (John 14:18–24) Verses 18–24: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” 22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father's who sent me. 1. Not Abandoned (v. 18–20) Jesus has just told the disciples He is going away—but now He clarifies: “I will not leave you as orphans.” In that culture, being orphaned meant being vulnerable, directionless, and unprotected—this statement is filled with compassion. Though His physical presence would soon depart (via the cross and ascension), Jesus assures them that He will ...
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Sermon: Time to Go

    Sermon: Time to Go
    Jun 15 2025
    Sermon Date: 6/15/2025 Bible Verses: Acts 1:8 — Power to witnessMatthew 28:18 — Authority to goMatthew 5:16 — Light to shineMatthew 7:9–11 — Provision to ask for Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Sermon Title: “Time To Go” Theme: God has given us the power, the authority, the light, and the provision we need to carry out His mission. Introduction: The Call Is Clear Jesus didn’t leave His followers confused about their purpose. He gave a mission, a promise, and a pattern for how His people are to live in the world. These four passages give us a complete picture: Acts 1:8 — Power to witnessMatthew 28:18 — Authority to goMatthew 5:16 — Light to shineMatthew 7:9–11 — Provision to ask for We Are Empowered to Witness (Acts 1:8) “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses...” Jesus doesn’t send us empty-handed—He sends us empowered. We don’t have to rely on charisma, intelligence, or strategy. The Holy Spirit gives us: Boldness when we’re afraidClarity when we’re unsureConviction when we’re tempted to stay silent Notice the word: witnesses. We’re not called to be salesmen, lawyers, or judges—just witnesses. Tell what you’ve seen. Tell what He’s done. Let the Spirit do the rest. Application: Have you asked the Spirit to fill you this week? Have you asked for opportunities to share your faith? We Are Authorized to Go (Matthew 28:18–19) “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations...” Jesus didn’t just give us a mission—He gave us authority to do it. In other words, you’re not acting in your own name. You’re representing the King. Every time you teach a class, serve your neighbor, disciple someone younger in the faith—you are moving under the authority of Jesus Christ. "Go therefore." The authority of Jesus is our launching point. We don't wait to feel ready. We move because He said go. III. We Are Lights Meant to Shine (Matthew 5:16) “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” God never intended the Christian life to be private or hidden. Your life is meant to be seen, not for your glory—but for God’s glory. You are a lamp in your school. A light in your office. A candle in your neighborhood. A beacon in your family. When you serve others with love, forgive enemies, help the poor, and stand for truth—you’re shining. Application: Where has God placed you right now to shine His light? Are you hiding or reflecting? We Are Provided for in Prayer (Matthew 7:9–11) “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father… give good things to those who ask Him!” God doesn’t call you to mission and then leave you to struggle alone. He invites you to ask. To come to Him for strength, wisdom, compassion, and resources. He’s not a reluctant Father. He’s a generous Father who loves to give what we need to do His will. When you feel like you can’t love that person… When you’re too tired to serve… When you’re unsure of what to say… Ask Him. He will give you exactly what you need—because He is good. Conclusion: Empowered. Sent. Shining. Supplied. You don’t have to wonder what your purpose is. You don’t have to fear that you’re not enough. Through the Spirit, Jesus gives you: Power to be His witness (Acts 1:8)Authority to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:18)Light to shine in darkness (Matthew 5:16)Provision through prayer (Matthew 7:9–11) So go. Shine. Speak. Serve. And trust your Father to give you everything you need. Father’s Day Word: “Fathers Who Shine, Fathers Who Serve” Connected to: Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:18, Matthew 5:16, Matthew 7:9–11 To the fathers in this house today: We honor you. We thank God for the good and faithful men—those who love, who lead, who labor in prayer, and who serve their families with strength and humility. But today is not just about gratitude—it’s also about accountability. We live in a time when spiritual passivity is killing homes. Fathers are meant to be the spiritual thermostat of the home, but too often we’re just the clock on the wall—quiet, present, but not leading. You Are Empowered—So Why Are You Silent? “You will receive power… and you will be my witnesses.” — Acts 1:8 God gave you the Holy Spirit not just so you could go to church, but so you could lead your family toward Jesus. But some of us have been empowered, and yet we are still quiet. Still passive. Still spiritually asleep. Fathers—your kids need to hear your voice in prayer, see your example in Scripture, and know your conviction in truth. If you won’t talk about God with your children, who will? You’ve Been Given Authority—So Why Aren’t You Leading? “All authority… has ...
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    24 m
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 53 - John 13:21-14:14

    The Weekly Show: Episode 53 - John 13:21-14:14
    Jun 12 2025
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 13 Verses 21- Chapter 14 Verse 14. Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 13:21–14:14 “Trouble, Betrayal, and the Promise of Hope” This section of John's Gospel marks a turning point in the Upper Room narrative. As the shadow of the cross grows darker, Jesus reveals deep truths to His disciples—not only about what is to come, but about who He truly is. The scene begins with painful revelation: Jesus predicts His betrayal by one of His own. The disciples are stunned, and confusion fills the room. As Judas leaves into the night, Jesus turns His attention to the rest—those who would carry on His mission. He gives them a new commandment: to love one another just as He has loved them. Then, as Peter boldly declares his loyalty, Jesus foretells his denial. The tension and sorrow rise—but Jesus responds not with despair, but with comforting words that are among the most quoted in all of Scripture: “Let not your heart be troubled…” In John 14, Jesus reminds them—and us—that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the only path to the Father. He offers hope, reassurance, and the promise of greater works to come through the power of prayer and the presence of the Spirit. Themes to Watch For: The tension between betrayal and faithfulness The call to love as Jesus loves The comforting promises in the face of fear and uncertainty The profound claim: Jesus is the exclusive way to the Father The invitation to believe, ask, and do greater things in His name This study calls us to examine our hearts, trust His words, and live in the power of His promises—even in troubled times. Point One: One of You Will Betray Me (John 13:21–30) Context & Setting The atmosphere in the Upper Room is already heavy. Jesus has just demonstrated the depth of His servant-hearted love by washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:1–20). But now, He drops a spiritual bombshell: “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” (v. 21) This is not a parable or cryptic warning—Jesus speaks plainly, and the room is stunned into confusion and sorrow. The betrayal is not from a stranger, but from someone close—a friend, a companion, a disciple. Emotional Tension Jesus is troubled in spirit (v. 21), showing the emotional weight of this moment. The disciples are uncertain—even Peter doesn’t know who Jesus means. John, the beloved disciple, reclines close to Jesus and asks the question directly. The Dipped Bread – A Sign of Intimacy & Tragedy Jesus says the betrayer is the one to whom He gives the dipped morsel—a gesture normally associated with honor and affection at a meal. "So when He had dipped the morsel, He gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot." (v. 26) This act is layered with symbolism: It’s a final act of kindness to Judas. It fulfills prophecy (Psalm 41:9): "Even my close friend in whom I trusted...has lifted his heel against me." Satan Enters Him Once Judas receives the morsel, Scripture says, “Satan entered into him.” (v. 27) Judas had opened his heart to greed (see John 12:6), and now he becomes an instrument for evil. Jesus says, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” Judas leaves into the night—a literal and spiritual darkness. Key Lessons & Reflections Jesus knew the heart of Judas and still loved him to the end (John 13:1). Sin doesn’t happen suddenly—Judas had been nurturing it secretly. Spiritual blindness can exist even among the religious and the close. The sovereignty of God is seen even in betrayal—nothing is outside His plan. Application for Us Guard your heart: Betrayal begins long before the final act. Check your motives: Are you following Jesus out of love or convenience? Recognize Christ’s mercy: Jesus still gave Judas a final invitation—a morsel of grace. Walk in the light: Don’t let secret sins drive you into the night. Point Two: A New Commandment (John 13:31–35) Setting the Stage As Judas exits into the night to carry out his betrayal, a shift occurs in Jesus’ words and tone. With the betrayer gone, Jesus turns His full attention to the remaining eleven—those who will carry His mission forward. He begins with what feels like a farewell speech, but it centers around glory and a new commandment. "Now is the Son of Man glorified..." (v. 31-32) Jesus speaks of His glorification in the face of impending suffering. The Cross, though horrific, is where Jesus will reveal the fullness of God’s love, justice, and redemptive plan. Glory is not delayed until resurrection—it begins now, in His obedience unto death. This glorification also glorifies the Father, and the Father, in turn, will glorify the Son “at once.” This mutual glorification speaks to the unity of the Trinity and the divine purpose being fulfilled. “Little children…” (v. 33) This tender term reveals Jesus’...
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    1 h y 10 m