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  • The Weekly Show: Episode 60 - John 17

    The Weekly Show: Episode 60 - John 17
    2025/07/31
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 17 Verses 1-26 Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 17:1–26 This is holy ground. John 17 gives us something no other Gospel does—a full, intimate look into the actual prayer Jesus prayed the night before the cross. Often called the High Priestly Prayer, this chapter isn’t just a closing moment—it’s the beating heart of Jesus' mission, voiced aloud. He prays for three things: For Himself—that the Father would glorify Him through the cross. For His disciples—that they would be protected, sanctified, and unified as they’re sent into the world. For us—those who would believe through their message. Let that sink in: You are in this prayer. Jesus looked ahead—beyond the cross, beyond the resurrection—and saw every person who would come to know Him. He prayed for your faith. Your unity. Your closeness to Him and to the Father. This isn’t just a moment of reflection; it’s a moment of revelation. We’re listening in on God the Son speaking to God the Father, with nothing hidden, nothing withheld. Every word is soaked in love, purpose, and the longing for us to share in the glory of God. As we enter John 17, pause and prepare your heart. This is more than theology—it’s worship. This is more than doctrine—it’s Jesus’ deepest desire for you. Key Theme One: “Glorify Your Son” (vv. 1–5) Jesus begins His prayer with eyes lifted to heaven—not downcast in defeat, but fixed on His Father in confidence. “The hour has come.” This is the moment everything has been leading to. The cross is not a detour in Jesus’ mission—it’s the destination. In it, the Son will be glorified, and through it, the Father will be glorified. Glory through Obedience. Jesus isn't asking for rescue; He’s asking for glory through sacrifice. The glory of Jesus isn’t only in His power to perform miracles—but in His humility to die for sinners. Eternal Life Defined. Jesus gives us a clear, simple definition of eternal life: “That they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” Eternal life isn’t just endless time—it’s a relationship. It starts now, with knowing the Father and the Son. Mission Accomplished. “I glorified You on earth… I have accomplished the work You gave Me to do.” Even before the cross, Jesus sees His obedience as complete. He’s lived in perfect unity with the Father—everything He did pointed back to God’s glory. A Return to Divine Glory. Jesus now asks to return to the glory He had before the world existed—a reminder of His divine nature. This prayer is not the cry of a mere prophet or teacher. It’s the Son of God preparing to return to His rightful place—having finished the work of redemption. Reflection: In these first five verses, we see Jesus’ heart: He longs for glory—not for fame or comfort—but that the Father would be known and loved through His obedience. That same heart should live in us: a desire to glorify God in every moment, even the painful ones. Key Theme Two: Jesus Prays for His Disciples 1. Identity and Origin of the Disciples (vv. 6–8) "I have revealed You to those You gave Me out of the world. They were Yours; You gave them to Me..." Chosen by the Father: Jesus frames the disciples not as His personal followers but as a gift entrusted to Him by the Father. This points to divine sovereignty in salvation—God chose and gave them to the Son. Revelation and Response: Jesus has “manifested” the Father’s name—meaning He revealed the true nature and character of God. The disciples received this revelation with faith (v. 8), albeit imperfectly. Implication for Today: Discipleship begins with divine initiative. Evangelism and Christian formation are not human projects but divine responses to God’s calling and revealing work. 2. Jesus’ Specific Intercession for His Own (vv. 9–10) "I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those You have given Me..." Focused Prayer: Jesus prays specifically for His disciples—not for the world at large in this moment, but for those who carry forward His mission. This doesn't mean the world is excluded from His love (cf. John 3:16), but that this moment is set apart for strengthening the Church. Unity of Glory: “All I have is Yours…” highlights the mutual indwelling between Father and Son, shared with the disciples. It’s an echo of divine unity extended toward believers. 3. Prayer for Protection and Unity (vv. 11–12) "Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name… so that they may be one..." Protection: Jesus does not ask for the disciples to be removed from danger but that they would be protected spiritually. He emphasizes God’s Name—that is, God’s authority, character, and power—as the means of preservation. Unity: This is not mere cooperation, but ...
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    1 時間 18 分
  • Sermon: Step Into The Water

    Sermon: Step Into The Water
    2025/07/27
    Sermon Date: 7/27/2025 Bible Verses: Joshua 3 Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new- Main Theme: God calls us to step forward in faith—even when the way ahead seems uncertain. Like Israel at the Jordan, we are called to trust that God will go before us and make a way where there is no way. Devotional Reflection: “Go and Trust” The people of Israel had come to the edge of the Promised Land. After 40 years of wandering, failing, and learning in the wilderness, the moment had finally arrived. They could see the promise. It was real. Tangible. Just beyond the horizon. But between them and that promise flowed a flooded Jordan River. This wasn’t a trickling stream or ankle-deep wade. As Joshua 3:15 tells us, it was harvest season—when the Jordan overflowed all its banks. It surged with fast-moving, dangerous water. There were no bridges. No boats. No natural crossing point. From a human standpoint, the way forward was impossible. And yet, in the face of that impossible barrier, Joshua issued a call not to panic, but to prepare: “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” (Joshua 3:5) Joshua didn’t know the mechanics of what God would do. He just knew that God would act. That’s faith: trusting in God's character before you see His plan. Then came the instruction—one that defies common sense and safety protocols: “When the soles of the feet of the priests bearing the ark… rest in the waters… the waters shall be cut off…” (Joshua 3:13) In other words: Step in first. Before the waters part. Before you see the miracle. Before the “safe way” appears. God wasn’t asking them to stand on dry ground and then follow. He was asking them to trust Him in motion. To take a risk on His Word. To get their feet wet. Spiritual Truth: God doesn’t always show us the whole path. Often, He waits for us to step out before He reveals what’s next. Just as the priests had to trust God with their first step into the river, we too must trust Him with our next step—even if it looks risky, even if we’re afraid. God’s presence, represented by the ark of the covenant, went ahead of them (v. 3). He wasn’t asking them to go alone. He was going before them—to lead, to part the waters, to prove He is faithful. This moment redefines faith for us. Faith isn’t just waiting for God to act—it’s moving in obedience even when the outcome is unclear. Too often we stand at the edge of our own “flooded Jordan,” saying: “Lord, show me the dry ground first.”“Open the door, then I’ll walk through.”“Make it safe, and then I’ll trust.” But God says: “Step in. Trust Me to meet you there.” The miracle didn’t happen until they moved. It wasn’t their strength or cleverness that brought the breakthrough—it was their obedience. God was already prepared to act; He was just waiting for their faith to activate the process. Application Questions: What river stands in your way today? A decision you’ve been putting off until you “feel more certain”?A step of faith—into ministry, forgiveness, generosity, or healing—that looks too risky?A calling from God that demands movement before clarity? Don’t wait for the river to part. Step in. God doesn’t ask for perfection—He asks for trust. He calls you to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), to lean not on your understanding (Proverbs 3:5), and to obey without full visibility. Encouragement: God is still the One who makes a way through impossible waters. Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.”Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall [a]direct your paths.”Hebrews 11:29 – 29 “By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.” The priests weren’t stepping into the river alone. They were carrying the Ark of the Covenant, the symbol of God’s presence and power. They weren’t moving forward on their own strength—they were following God’s leading. And so are you. If God has called you forward, He will go before you. If He has asked you to step in, He will hold the waters back. But first—you have to move. If He brought you this far, He will not leave you now.
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    18 分
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 59 - John 16:25-33

    The Weekly Show: Episode 59 - John 16:25-33
    2025/07/24
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 16 Verses 25-33 Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 16:25–33 As Jesus closes His Farewell Discourse in John 16, He offers His disciples a final word of clarity, reassurance, and courage. In verses 25–33, He moves from metaphor and parable to plain speech, helping them begin to understand more fully who He is and what is about to happen. Jesus knows the disciples are still struggling. They believe, but their understanding is fragile. He meets them where they are—offering both affirmation of their faith and honesty about their weakness. He tells them they will scatter. They will leave Him alone. And yet, He reminds them: He is not alone—the Father is with Him. This passage ends with one of the most powerful promises in all of Scripture: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Here, Jesus prepares them for reality—not just for that dark weekend ahead, but for their entire journey as His witnesses. They will face trouble. They will face fear. But they are not defeated people—they are anchored in the victory of Christ. Key Themes We’ll Explore Jesus moves from figurative to plain speech—clarity after confusion The disciples’ fragile faith and Jesus’ patient response The foretelling of their abandonment—and Jesus’ trust in the Father The tension between tribulation and peace in the life of a disciple The promise of victory: “Take heart; I have overcome the world” John 16 ends not with fear, but with courage. Jesus does not offer false hope or empty optimism. He offers something better: peace in Him, and the unshakable truth that He has already won. Key Theme One: Speaking Plainly and the Disciples’ Awakening (John 16:25–30) 1. From Metaphors to Clarity (v. 25) Up to this point, Jesus had often spoken in parables, metaphors, and symbolic language. But now, with the cross just hours away, He promises a shift: clarity is coming. When the resurrection occurs, when the Spirit is poured out—everything will begin to make sense. The disciples won’t just hear about the Father; they’ll begin to know Him personally and directly through Christ. Jesus isn’t just teaching truths—He is ushering in a new reality of relationship. 2. A New Kind of Prayer Life (v. 26–27) “In that day you will ask in my name… for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.” Jesus assures them: the Father loves you. Not reluctantly, not distantly—but personally. Because they love and trust Jesus, they are welcomed into intimate access with God the Father. This is a major shift. The disciples—simple fishermen, tax collectors, everyday men—are being told: “You don’t need a go-between. The Father Himself hears you, loves you, and welcomes your prayers in My name.” 3. The Disciples’ Confession of Faith (vv. 28–30) “Now you are speaking plainly… Now we know that you know all things… this is why we believe that you came from God.” Something is beginning to click. The disciples are awakening—their understanding is still limited, but their faith is growing. They declare that they now believe Jesus truly came from God. Even though they still don’t fully grasp the cross or resurrection, they’re reaching out with childlike trust: “Now we know. We believe.” And Jesus receives that confession, not with scorn, but with patience—because He knows what they will face. Key Takeaways Jesus promises a day of clarity—and that day comes through His resurrection and the Spirit’s work. The Father is not distant—He loves those who love Jesus, and welcomes their prayers with joy. The disciples’ faith, though imperfect, is real—and Jesus honors even small, growing trust. Knowing God isn't about mastering theology—it’s about loving Christ and being drawn into relationship with the Father. We, too, live in the “after” of resurrection—in the day of plain speech, bold prayer, and direct access to the Father. Key Theme Two: Scattered but Not Alone (John 16:31–33) 1. Jesus Challenges Their Confidence (v. 31) The disciples just made a bold declaration: “Now we believe!” But Jesus—lovingly and honestly—asks, “Do you now believe?” It’s not a rejection of their faith, but a sobering reminder: Faith will be tested. The real trial is just ahead. Their belief is sincere, but fragile. In moments, their confidence will falter. Jesus knows this—and still walks with them. 2. The Coming Scattering (v. 32) “The hour is coming… you will be scattered… and leave me alone.” This is prophetic and personal. The disciples will flee in fear when Jesus is arrested. Peter will deny Him. The rest will hide. They won’t be there for Him in His greatest earthly hour of need. But Jesus doesn’t condemn them. He ...
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    31 分
  • Sermon: Faith like Rahab

    Sermon: Faith like Rahab
    2025/07/20
    Sermon Date: 7/20/2025 Bible Verses: Joshua 2Joshua 6:22–25Matthew 1:5Hebrews 11:31 Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new- The Faith of Rahab – A Story of Courage, Grace, and Legacy Introduction: In the midst of a city destined for destruction, one woman—an outsider, a prostitute—chose to believe in the God of Israel. Rahab's story is one of radical faith, surprising grace, and eternal legacy. Her example challenges us to ask: what does real faith look like when everything is on the line? Rahab’s Courageous Faith (Joshua 2) While the rest of Jericho panicked at the rumors of Israel’s advance, Rahab responded with stunning courage. As a woman, and a known prostitute, she would not have been considered an influential or trusted voice in her city. Yet, she chose to defy fear, risk her life, and act on what she had heard about the God of Israel. When she hid the two Israelite spies on her rooftop and lied to the king’s men, it wasn’t just an act of cunning—it was an act of faith. She declared: “I know that the Lord has given you the land... For the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.” (Joshua 2:9, 11) This is the earliest recorded confession of faith by a Gentile in the Old Testament. It came not from a priest or prophet—but from a woman with a past, who believed that God's power was greater than the judgment coming on her city. Key Point: Faith is not merely intellectual belief—it is conviction that moves us to obedience and sacrifice. Rahab’s faith was costly. She risked her life, her reputation, and her future. She sided with God before the victory came. She believed not because she saw—but because she heard. Application Questions: Are you waiting to see evidence before you trust God, or are you walking by faith based on His Word?Are you hiding in fear—clinging to the security of your old life—or stepping into obedience, even when it's risky?Do your actions reflect faith that aligns with God, even if it means standing alone? Rahab’s Deliverance and Redemption (Joshua 6:22–25) When the walls of Jericho came crashing down, one house stood firm—the one marked by a scarlet cord hanging from a window. Rahab’s act of faith not only saved her life, but also spared her entire household. As the city was destroyed, Rahab and her family were brought out. At first, she lived “outside the camp of Israel”—a reflection of her status as a foreigner. But Joshua 6:25 tells us: “She has lived in Israel to this day.” This is more than geography—it’s a picture of grace. Rahab wasn’t just rescued from destruction. She was welcomed into the people of God. In time, she would marry into the tribe of Judah and become part of the royal line that led to King David—and ultimately, Jesus Christ. Key Point: God’s salvation isn’t just about escaping judgment—it’s about entering into a new identity and a new future. Redemption means we are not defined by our past, but by God's grace. Rahab went from: Prostitute to protectorOutsider to insiderCondemned to commendedForgotten to familyHidden in shame to honored in faith Application Questions: Do you believe God’s grace is strong enough to rewrite your story?Have you embraced the full redemption of being brought into God's family—or are you still living "outside the camp"?Who in your life have you disqualified from grace that God may want to redeem like Rahab? Rahab’s Legacy (Matthew 1:5) Rahab didn’t just escape destruction—she was woven into the very lineage of the Messiah. In Matthew 1:5, the genealogy of Jesus includes this powerful phrase: “Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab…” This is no small footnote. Genealogies in Scripture often skip over women, but Rahab is included by name. Not only was she welcomed into Israel, she married into the tribe of Judah. She became the mother of Boaz—the same Boaz who would show extraordinary kindness and redemption to Ruth. Her grandson would be Obed, great-grandson Jesse, and great-great-grandson David, Israel’s greatest king. That means Rahab, the former prostitute of Jericho, became the great-great-grandmother of King David and a direct ancestor of Jesus Christ. Key Point: Faith doesn’t just transform your present—it echoes into your future. Rahab’s story shows that God can take the most broken beginnings and turn them into a legacy of holiness and purpose. Her courageous faith created a ripple effect through generations—ultimately shaping the story of salvation for the whole world. Application Questions: What kind of legacy are you building through your faith right now?Are you allowing your past to define your identity—or trusting God to define your legacy?What could future generations inherit because of your obedience today? Rahab’s Commendation (Hebrews 11:31) Centuries after her life, Rahab is still remembered—not for her sin, but for her faith. In Hebrews 11, often ...
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    32 分
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:16-24

    The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:16-24
    2025/07/17
    Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study John Chapter 16 Verses 16-24 Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/ Introduction to John 16:16–24 As Jesus nears the end of His farewell conversation with the disciples, He turns to address their emotional turmoil directly. In John 16:16–24, He speaks to their confusion, sorrow, and fear—but also gives them a glimpse of the joy and clarity that will come after His resurrection. This passage begins with a phrase the disciples don’t fully understand: “A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” They are confused—and understandably so. Jesus is preparing them for His death, burial, and resurrection, but they can’t yet see the full picture. Even so, He promises that their sorrow will be temporary, and that it will give way to joy that no one can take away. Through this section, Jesus introduces a central truth of the Christian life: Sorrow and joy are not separate chapters—they are part of the same story. And the resurrection will be the turning point that changes everything. Key Themes We’ll Explore The disciples’ confusion and Jesus’ gentle response The reality of temporary sorrow and promised joy The resurrection as the turning point from despair to hope Joy that cannot be taken away—anchored in the living Christ A new kind of prayer—in Jesus’ name—flowing from relationship with the Father In this passage, Jesus prepares His followers for the cross, but with resurrection joy already in view. It’s a message we all need to hear: our sorrow may last for a season, but in Christ, joy always has the final word. Key Theme One: Temporary Sorrow, Everlasting Joy Study Breakdown Confusion Among the Disciples (vv. 16–18) Jesus speaks a cryptic phrase: “A little while, and you will not see me… and again a little while, and you will see me.” The disciples are confused. They don’t yet understand that Jesus is speaking of His death and resurrection. This moment captures their very human struggle—processing spiritual truths through limited understanding. They are still thinking in earthly terms, while Jesus is preparing them for a supernatural turning point. Jesus Addresses Their Unspoken Questions (vv. 19–20) Jesus, knowing their thoughts, gently responds to their confusion. He tells them plainly: sorrow is coming, but it will not last. The disciples will weep and lament—their world will be shaken by the crucifixion. Meanwhile, “the world will rejoice”—those opposed to Jesus will believe they have won. But Jesus promises: “Your sorrow will turn into joy.” Not joy instead of sorrow—but joy out of sorrow. Transformation, not replacement. The Analogy of Childbirth (v. 21) Jesus compares their coming sorrow to a woman in labor: There is real pain. Real anguish. But it serves a purpose—it leads to new life. Once the child is born, the joy is so overwhelming that the pain is no longer the focus. This is how the resurrection will affect them—grief transformed into unshakable joy. The Promise of Unshakable Joy (v. 22) “So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again.” This is a personal promise: “I will see you.” Not only will they see Him—the risen Christ—but He will see them. Relationship restored. Their hearts will rejoice—not in abstract hope, but in the presence of their living Savior. And that joy? “No one will take it from you.” It will be permanent, rooted in victory, untouched by circumstances. Key Takeaways Sorrow and confusion are part of the journey of faith—but Jesus meets us in both. The disciples’ grief was real, but it had a purpose—and so does ours. The resurrection turns despair into joy—not by erasing pain, but by redeeming it. Jesus compares sorrow to labor—it is painful, but it leads to new life. The joy that flows from seeing the risen Christ is permanent, unshakable, and deeply personal. In a world full of temporary emotions, Jesus offers a joy no one can take away. Key Theme Two: A New Way to Pray Study Breakdown “In That Day” — A New Chapter Begins (v. 23a) Jesus points forward to “that day”—referring to the time after His resurrection and the sending of the Holy Spirit. This signals a major shift in the disciples’ relationship with both Jesus and the Father. They will no longer be dependent on asking Jesus directly, as they did in person—they will go directly to the Father through Jesus’ name. Asking in Jesus’ Name (vv. 23b–24) Jesus gives a bold promise: “Whatever you ask of the Father in my name, He will give it to you.” This is not a magic formula—it’s about relationship and alignment with Christ’s will and character. Praying “in Jesus’ name” means: Approaching God based on Christ’s righteousness, not our own Asking according to His will and purpose Trusting in His authority ...
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    36 分
  • Sermon: From Jesus in Joshua

    Sermon: From Jesus in Joshua
    2025/07/13

    Sermon Date: 7/13/2025

    Bible Verses:

    • Luke 24:44–49
    • Joshua 1:1–18

    Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley

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

    1. Introduction: Picking Up Where We Left Off

    Last week, we looked at Deuteronomy 31, where Moses prepared the people for the next season and passed the mantle of leadership to Joshua. He told them, “Be strong and courageous. The Lord your God goes before you.”

    Now we turn the page to the Book of Joshua.

    But before we do, Jesus tells us something important:

    1. All Scripture Points to Him

    Luke 24:44–49

    “Everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.”

    Jesus says the entire Old Testament—from Moses to the Prophets to the Psalms—is about Him.

    Joshua is not just a military history or a moral example. It is prophetic, pointing forward to Jesus.

    • In the Hebrew Bible, Joshua is not grouped in the "Histories" but in the Prophets.
    • In the Greek Septuagint, the name "Joshua" is rendered Iēsous—the very same Greek word used in the New Testament for Jesus.
    • Joshua’s Hebrew name, Yehoshua, means “Yahweh saves.”

    In other words, when we read the Book of Joshua, we are reading a living shadow of Jesus Christ.

    III. Moses Could Not Finish the Work

    Joshua 1:1–9

    “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people…”

    Moses brought the people out of slavery but he could not bring them into rest. Moses represents the Law—and the Law can:

    • Show you your need for salvation
    • Reveal your sin
    • Guide your steps

    But the Law cannot bring you into the promise. It cannot give you rest. It cannot deliver salvation.

    That work falls to Joshua—and ultimately, to Jesus.

    Joshua is the one who leads God’s people into their inheritance and gives them rest.

    Typology in Action:

    • Moses dies in the wilderness; Joshua leads into the Promised Land.
    • The Law ends outside; Grace enters in.
    • Moses couldn’t cross—but in the New Testament, on the Mount of Transfiguration, Moses stands in the Promised Land—because of Jesus.
    1. Jesus Brings What the Law Could Never Finish

    This is what Hebrews 4 means when it says:

    “If Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on.”

    Joshua gave temporary rest. Jesus gives eternal rest.

    “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

    So now, just like Israel, we are standing on the edge of a new land. Not just land on a map—but a life of faith, obedience, and mission.

    1. Commissioned to Go Forward

    Joshua 1:10–18

    Joshua tells the people, “Prepare. Get ready. In three days we’re crossing over.”

    And their response?

    “All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go.” (v. 16)

    God had promised the land. Now it was time to believe, step forward, and obey.

    They had to:

    • Trust Joshua’s leadership
    • Walk into battle
    • Leave the wilderness mindset behind
    1. Application: Jesus Is Still Leading His People In
    • You can stay camped in fear, or you can cross in faith.
    • You can trust the Law to diagnose you, or you can trust Jesus to deliver you.
    • You can dwell in regret and failure, or you can follow the greater Joshua into your inheritance.

    Final Thoughts:

    Joshua begins with the death of Moses—because it marks the end of an era. But it’s also a foreshadowing of the resurrection era:

    The Law has done its work. Now the Savior leads us in.

    Call to Action:

    • Are you still trying to earn what only grace can give?
    • Are you camped in comfort, or crossing into calling?
    • Are you ready to follow Jesus—not just as a Teacher, but as the One who brings you in?
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    28 分
  • The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:1-15

    The Weekly Show: Episode 58 - John 16:1-15
    2025/07/10
    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 分
  • Sermon: Keep Going

    Sermon: Keep Going
    2025/07/07

    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 分