Providence Church | Morton, Illinois » Genesis http://www.providencecpc.org Sun, 05 Feb 2012 23:28:30 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Copyright © Providence Church | Morton, IL 2010 greyfriar46@gmail.com (Providence Church - Morton, Illinois) greyfriar46@gmail.com (Providence Church - Morton, Illinois) 1440 http://www.providencepeoria.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/podcast144.jpg Providence Church | Morton, Illinois http://www.providencecpc.org 144 144 http://www.providencepeoria.org/?feed=podcast The weekly sermons of Providence Church and the teaching ministry of Pastor James McDonald. Christian, sermons, reformed, family-integrated, family integrated, presbyterian Providence Church - Morton, Illinois Providence Church - Morton, Illinois greyfriar46@gmail.com no no Audio :: The Witness of the Coffin http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/24/audio-the-witness-of-the-coffin/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/24/audio-the-witness-of-the-coffin/#comments Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:24:11 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1436 We conclude our study in Genesis with a section of Scripture that in many ways summarizes a number of the main themes found in this first book of the Bible. We review the wonder of Creation, the horror of the Fall, and the promises of the Covenant. As we begin, we again see the faithlessness [...]
]]>

We conclude our study in Genesis with a section of Scripture that in many ways summarizes a number of the main themes found in this first book of the Bible. We review the wonder of Creation, the horror of the Fall, and the promises of the Covenant. As we begin, we again see the faithlessness of Joseph’s brothers. They cannot believe that Joseph will be faithful to his promises. But, looking at them, we see ourselves, and our propensity to disbelieve God when He confirms to us through His Word and through the ministry of the Holy Spirit that we are forgiven.

Learn how you can have assurance of God’s love for you through the final words of Genesis.

Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

The Witness of the Coffin
Genesis 50:15-26
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/24/audio-the-witness-of-the-coffin/feed/ 0 0:52:04 We conclude our study in Genesis with a section of Scripture that in many ways summarizes a number of the main themes found in this first book of the Bible. We review the wonder of Creation, the horror of the Fall, and the promises of the Covenant. [...] We conclude our study in Genesis with a section of Scripture that in many ways summarizes a number of the main themes found in this first book of the Bible. We review the wonder of Creation, the horror of the Fall, and the promises of the Covenant. As we begin, we again see the faithlessness of Joseph’s brothers. They cannot believe that Joseph will be faithful to his promises. But, looking at them, we see ourselves, and our propensity to disbelieve God when He confirms to us through His Word and through the ministry of the Holy Spirit that we are forgiven. Learn how you can have assurance of God’s love for you through the final words of Genesis. Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. The Witness of the Coffin Genesis 50:15-26 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: No Fear of the Grave http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/17/no-fear-of-the-grave/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/17/no-fear-of-the-grave/#comments Sun, 17 Apr 2011 19:42:07 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1422 At the end of Genesis 49 we find the last words of Jacob. And then, into chapter 50 to verse 14, we see how Jacob’s sons honored his dying command – to be buried in faith. We can learn much about death from this section of Scripture: how to prepare for death emotionally, materially, and [...]
]]>

At the end of Genesis 49 we find the last words of Jacob. And then, into chapter 50 to verse 14, we see how Jacob’s sons honored his dying command – to be buried in faith. We can learn much about death from this section of Scripture: how to prepare for death emotionally, materially, and spiritually. We see how we are to mourn. And we also see that, as Christians, we are to live by defying death. It is the last enemy that will be destroyed. And we have the certain hope of the resurrection!

Do you fear death? Consider listening to this message. And consider the promises of Jesus!

Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

No Fear of the Grave
Genesis 49:29-50:14
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/17/no-fear-of-the-grave/feed/ 0 0:49:39 At the end of Genesis 49 we find the last words of Jacob. And then, into chapter 50 to verse 14, we see how Jacob’s sons honored his dying command – to be buried in faith. We can learn much about death from this section of Scripture: how[...] At the end of Genesis 49 we find the last words of Jacob. And then, into chapter 50 to verse 14, we see how Jacob’s sons honored his dying command – to be buried in faith. We can learn much about death from this section of Scripture: how to prepare for death emotionally, materially, and spiritually. We see how we are to mourn. And we also see that, as Christians, we are to live by defying death. It is the last enemy that will be destroyed. And we have the certain hope of the resurrection! Do you fear death? Consider listening to this message. And consider the promises of Jesus! Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. No Fear of the Grave Genesis 49:29-50:14 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Jacob’s Last Will and Testament http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/10/audio-jacobs-last-will-and-testament/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/10/audio-jacobs-last-will-and-testament/#comments Mon, 11 Apr 2011 02:53:06 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1413 Genesis 49:1-28 gives us the last words of the patriarch Jacob, words of encouragement and words of challenge, to his twelve sons. There is much to learn here, we see the consequences of sin and also the blessings of faithfulness. Within the lives of Jacob’s sons, we see instability, anger, slothfulness, legalism, and discontent. And [...]
]]>

Genesis 49:1-28 gives us the last words of the patriarch Jacob, words of encouragement and words of challenge, to his twelve sons. There is much to learn here, we see the consequences of sin and also the blessings of faithfulness. Within the lives of Jacob’s sons, we see instability, anger, slothfulness, legalism, and discontent. And yer we also see the blessings of being a comfort to others, of being a giver, of being an overcomer, and of being a joyful worshiper.  We then focused on how we can find forgiveness for our shortcomings the same way Judah did, by abiding in Jesus. There is no hope for living a life of meaning and success apart from Jesus. And while Jacob’s last will and testament is a fascinating read, Jesus’ final world, “It is finished!” are the basis for our forgiveness and our sanctification.

Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Jacob’s Last Will and Testament
Genesis 49:1-28
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/10/audio-jacobs-last-will-and-testament/feed/ 0 0:50:24 Genesis 49:1-28 gives us the last words of the patriarch Jacob, words of encouragement and words of challenge, to his twelve sons. There is much to learn here, we see the consequences of sin and also the blessings of faithfulness. Within the lives o[...] Genesis 49:1-28 gives us the last words of the patriarch Jacob, words of encouragement and words of challenge, to his twelve sons. There is much to learn here, we see the consequences of sin and also the blessings of faithfulness. Within the lives of Jacob’s sons, we see instability, anger, slothfulness, legalism, and discontent. And yer we also see the blessings of being a comfort to others, of being a giver, of being an overcomer, and of being a joyful worshiper.  We then focused on how we can find forgiveness for our shortcomings the same way Judah did, by abiding in Jesus. There is no hope for living a life of meaning and success apart from Jesus. And while Jacob’s last will and testament is a fascinating read, Jesus’ final world, “It is finished!” are the basis for our forgiveness and our sanctification. Also, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Jacob’s Last Will and Testament Genesis 49:1-28 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Leaving a Living Legacy http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/03/leaving-a-living-legacy/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/03/leaving-a-living-legacy/#comments Sun, 03 Apr 2011 23:35:10 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1402 Genesis 48 finds Jacob at the close of his life, literally on his death bed. This text calls us to consider our own demise, for there is indeed a day appointed for each of us to leave this world. What will be on your mind as you prepare to die? And, more importantly, what is [...]
]]>

Genesis 48 finds Jacob at the close of his life, literally on his death bed. This text calls us to consider our own demise, for there is indeed a day appointed for each of us to leave this world. What will be on your mind as you prepare to die? And, more importantly, what is on your mind now as you dwell in the land of the living? Are you seeking, right now, to leave behind a legacy of faithfulness?

That is what we see in Jacob. He shows us three ways how, even in the closing moments of his life, he seeks to leave faith in those in his care. Do you want to do the same thing? Learn from Jacob and leave behind a godly heritage.

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Leaving a Living Legacy
Genesis 48:1-22
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/04/03/leaving-a-living-legacy/feed/ 0 0:47:01 Genesis 48 finds Jacob at the close of his life, literally on his death bed. This text calls us to consider our own demise, for there is indeed a day appointed for each of us to leave this world. What will be on your mind as you prepare to die? And,[...] Genesis 48 finds Jacob at the close of his life, literally on his death bed. This text calls us to consider our own demise, for there is indeed a day appointed for each of us to leave this world. What will be on your mind as you prepare to die? And, more importantly, what is on your mind now as you dwell in the land of the living? Are you seeking, right now, to leave behind a legacy of faithfulness? That is what we see in Jacob. He shows us three ways how, even in the closing moments of his life, he seeks to leave faith in those in his care. Do you want to do the same thing? Learn from Jacob and leave behind a godly heritage. And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Leaving a Living Legacy Genesis 48:1-22 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Addressing Disaster and Deliverance http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/20/addressing-disaster-and-deliverance/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/20/addressing-disaster-and-deliverance/#comments Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:11:11 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1356 In the closing potion of Genesis 47, we see the impact of disaster on the people of the land, both the ungodly and the godly, and we are challenged to consider our response to disaster as well. In this text we are reminded that the Lord is indeed sovereign, He superintends all the events we [...]
]]>

In the closing potion of Genesis 47, we see the impact of disaster on the people of the land, both the ungodly and the godly, and we are challenged to consider our response to disaster as well. In this text we are reminded that the Lord is indeed sovereign, He superintends all the events we witness for His glory. And while we see that prudent planning can help us in the midst of disaster, our true deliverance, our true source, is found in the Lord.

Are you prepared for disaster? Do you see Jesus as your only true protection? Consider the examples of the Egyptians, who looked to the government as their savior, in comparison to the people of God, who sought the Lord and His blessing.

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Addressing Disaster and Deliverance
Genesis 47:13-31
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/20/addressing-disaster-and-deliverance/feed/ 0 0:56:43 In the closing potion of Genesis 47, we see the impact of disaster on the people of the land, both the ungodly and the godly, and we are challenged to consider our response to disaster as well. In this text we are reminded that the Lord is indeed so[...] In the closing potion of Genesis 47, we see the impact of disaster on the people of the land, both the ungodly and the godly, and we are challenged to consider our response to disaster as well. In this text we are reminded that the Lord is indeed sovereign, He superintends all the events we witness for His glory. And while we see that prudent planning can help us in the midst of disaster, our true deliverance, our true source, is found in the Lord. Are you prepared for disaster? Do you see Jesus as your only true protection? Consider the examples of the Egyptians, who looked to the government as their savior, in comparison to the people of God, who sought the Lord and His blessing. And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Addressing Disaster and Deliverance Genesis 47:13-31 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Living for Jesus in a Pagan Land http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/13/audio-living-for-jesus-in-a-pagan-land/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/13/audio-living-for-jesus-in-a-pagan-land/#comments Sun, 13 Mar 2011 23:48:55 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1338 Genesis 46:1-47:12 presents the story of Jacob moving from Canaan to Egypt. Egypt was a very pagan land, one that may have brought great fear to the aged Patriarch. But here, we see God come and bring comfort to His servant, and also, we find principles to help us live for Jesus in a pagan [...]
]]>

Genesis 46:1-47:12 presents the story of Jacob moving from Canaan to Egypt. Egypt was a very pagan land, one that may have brought great fear to the aged Patriarch. But here, we see God come and bring comfort to His servant, and also, we find principles to help us live for Jesus in a pagan land.

It starts with worship and prayer. We need to be strengthened to withstand the challenges of society. Then, we see that we must remember that we are not in this by ourselves; we are a people, not just individuals. We also see the concept of separation, being in the world but not of the world. Lastly, there is the promise that as we live faithfully among the pagans, that God can use us to bless those around us, bringing the promise of new life in Jesus.

By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. Do you know the promises, the provision, the power, and the purpose given to us by God?

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Living for Jesus in a Pagan Land
Genesis 46:1-47:12
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below.

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/13/audio-living-for-jesus-in-a-pagan-land/feed/ 0 0:52:16 Genesis 46:1-47:12 presents the story of Jacob moving from Canaan to Egypt. Egypt was a very pagan land, one that may have brought great fear to the aged Patriarch. But here, we see God come and bring comfort to His servant, and also, we find princi[...] Genesis 46:1-47:12 presents the story of Jacob moving from Canaan to Egypt. Egypt was a very pagan land, one that may have brought great fear to the aged Patriarch. But here, we see God come and bring comfort to His servant, and also, we find principles to help us live for Jesus in a pagan land. It starts with worship and prayer. We need to be strengthened to withstand the challenges of society. Then, we see that we must remember that we are not in this by ourselves; we are a people, not just individuals. We also see the concept of separation, being in the world but not of the world. Lastly, there is the promise that as we live faithfully among the pagans, that God can use us to bless those around us, bringing the promise of new life in Jesus. By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. Do you know the promises, the provision, the power, and the purpose given to us by God? And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Living for Jesus in a Pagan Land Genesis 46:1-47:12 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald To download the worship guide, which includes the study guide for this message, click the icon below. Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Promises, Provision, Purpose, and Power http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/06/promises-provision-purpose-and-power/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/06/promises-provision-purpose-and-power/#comments Sun, 06 Mar 2011 23:41:34 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1310 Genesis 45:16-28 presents the amazing story of Pharaoh’s goodness to Joseph’s brothers. His goodness is seen in his promises and his provision. They are also given an important purpose. And they enter into it with the power they have received in their new relationship with Joseph. The application for us is to see the goodness [...]
]]>

Genesis 45:16-28 presents the amazing story of Pharaoh’s goodness to Joseph’s brothers. His goodness is seen in his promises and his provision. They are also given an important purpose. And they enter into it with the power they have received in their new relationship with Joseph. The application for us is to see the goodness of our God, how He gives to His own exceedingly great and precious promises. He gives us more than we could ask or think. Our God gives us a purpose for living. And He gives us power to live life victoriously! And the Father does this for us, not because of what we have done, but only because of the work of His Son.

There is absolutely no reason why a Christian should live a life of melancholy. For we have been blessed abundantly.

By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. Do you know the promises, the provision, the power, and the purpose given to us by God?

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Promises, Provision, Purpose, and Power
Genesis 45:16-28
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/03/06/promises-provision-purpose-and-power/feed/ 0 0:47:20 Genesis 45:16-28 presents the amazing story of Pharaoh’s goodness to Joseph’s brothers. His goodness is seen in his promises and his provision. They are also given an important purpose. And they enter into it with the power they have rec[...] Genesis 45:16-28 presents the amazing story of Pharaoh’s goodness to Joseph’s brothers. His goodness is seen in his promises and his provision. They are also given an important purpose. And they enter into it with the power they have received in their new relationship with Joseph. The application for us is to see the goodness of our God, how He gives to His own exceedingly great and precious promises. He gives us more than we could ask or think. Our God gives us a purpose for living. And He gives us power to live life victoriously! And the Father does this for us, not because of what we have done, but only because of the work of His Son. There is absolutely no reason why a Christian should live a life of melancholy. For we have been blessed abundantly. By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. Do you know the promises, the provision, the power, and the purpose given to us by God? And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Promises, Provision, Purpose, and Power Genesis 45:16-28 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Peace with Others, Ourselves, and Our God http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/20/audio-peace-with-others-ourselves-and-our-god/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/20/audio-peace-with-others-ourselves-and-our-god/#comments Sun, 20 Feb 2011 19:49:30 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1298 In Genesis 45:1-15, we find Joseph facing a group of men who had brought him much pain. They had hurt him both physically and emotionally. They had forced him to be separated from those he loved for over two decades. And they stand before him. Joseph has it within his power to punish them severely [...]
]]>

In Genesis 45:1-15, we find Joseph facing a group of men who had brought him much pain. They had hurt him both physically and emotionally. They had forced him to be separated from those he loved for over two decades. And they stand before him. Joseph has it within his power to punish them severely for all they have done.

But what does he do? Remarkably, Joseph reaches out to them with love, mercy and forgiveness. He is at peace with them, and he is at peace with himself, because he is at peace with God.

If you are struggling with anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness, if you feel in your heart the pain of anxiety as you think of one who has hurt you so deeply, you are missing out on so much of the peace Jesus promises to give us. Today, you can learn to release that anger as you reflect on what God can do through you, and what God has done for you. We see this in the life of Joseph today.

By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section.

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Peace with Others, Ourselves, and Our God
Genesis 45:1-15
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/20/audio-peace-with-others-ourselves-and-our-god/feed/ 1 0:51:25 In Genesis 45:1-15, we find Joseph facing a group of men who had brought him much pain. They had hurt him both physically and emotionally. They had forced him to be separated from those he loved for over two decades. And they stand before him. Josep[...] In Genesis 45:1-15, we find Joseph facing a group of men who had brought him much pain. They had hurt him both physically and emotionally. They had forced him to be separated from those he loved for over two decades. And they stand before him. Joseph has it within his power to punish them severely for all they have done. But what does he do? Remarkably, Joseph reaches out to them with love, mercy and forgiveness. He is at peace with them, and he is at peace with himself, because he is at peace with God. If you are struggling with anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness, if you feel in your heart the pain of anxiety as you think of one who has hurt you so deeply, you are missing out on so much of the peace Jesus promises to give us. Today, you can learn to release that anger as you reflect on what God can do through you, and what God has done for you. We see this in the life of Joseph today. By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Peace with Others, Ourselves, and Our God Genesis 45:1-15 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Judah on Christian Community http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/13/judah-on-christian-community/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/13/judah-on-christian-community/#comments Sun, 13 Feb 2011 23:25:50 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1292 Genesis 44:18-34 gives us a glimpse into what real Christian community is supposed to look like. As Judah pleads for the life of his brother Benjamin, a brother he probably doesn’t like very much, we find elements of how we, who are called to live in one accord, can really make it happen. It starts [...]
]]>

Genesis 44:18-34 gives us a glimpse into what real Christian community is supposed to look like. As Judah pleads for the life of his brother Benjamin, a brother he probably doesn’t like very much, we find elements of how we, who are called to live in one accord, can really make it happen. It starts with prayer. And then there is humility, unconditional love, a remembrance of our covenant vows, and a willingness to take on the burden of our brother or sister.

What Judah exemplifies is amazing given what we know about his past. He was a selfish and angry man, an impulsive and sensual man, bent on having his way, regardless of the cost. Sound familiar? Kind of like us?

But Jesus comes and calls Judah to be His, Jesus shows He indeed can save to the uttermost. And when Jesus brings salvation, He changes us as He helps us to see what He has done for us, how He loved us when we were so unlovable, and then, He helps us to live in harmony with those around us.

Interested in what real Christian community look like? Reflect upon the actions of Judah.

By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section.

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Brotherhood and Unity
Genesis 44:18-34
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/13/judah-on-christian-community/feed/ 0 0:57:53 Genesis 44:18-34 gives us a glimpse into what real Christian community is supposed to look like. As Judah pleads for the life of his brother Benjamin, a brother he probably doesn’t like very much, we find elements of how we, who are called to [...] Genesis 44:18-34 gives us a glimpse into what real Christian community is supposed to look like. As Judah pleads for the life of his brother Benjamin, a brother he probably doesn’t like very much, we find elements of how we, who are called to live in one accord, can really make it happen. It starts with prayer. And then there is humility, unconditional love, a remembrance of our covenant vows, and a willingness to take on the burden of our brother or sister. What Judah exemplifies is amazing given what we know about his past. He was a selfish and angry man, an impulsive and sensual man, bent on having his way, regardless of the cost. Sound familiar? Kind of like us? But Jesus comes and calls Judah to be His, Jesus shows He indeed can save to the uttermost. And when Jesus brings salvation, He changes us as He helps us to see what He has done for us, how He loved us when we were so unlovable, and then, He helps us to live in harmony with those around us. Interested in what real Christian community look like? Reflect upon the actions of Judah. By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Brotherhood and Unity Genesis 44:18-34 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no Audio :: Fears, Tears, and our Hidden Cups http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/06/audio-fears-tears-and-our-hidden-cups/ http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/06/audio-fears-tears-and-our-hidden-cups/#comments Sun, 06 Feb 2011 23:25:53 +0000 Admin http://www.providencepeoria.org/?p=1285 Genesis 43:15-44:17 documents the return of Jacob’s sons to Egypt to purchase grain. They are bringing Benjamin along on this return trip, as well as money for the purchase and a gift for the stern prime minister of Egypt. How will they be received? The prime minister had been so stern before. How will he [...]
]]>

Genesis 43:15-44:17 documents the return of Jacob’s sons to Egypt to purchase grain. They are bringing Benjamin along on this return trip, as well as money for the purchase and a gift for the stern prime minister of Egypt. How will they be received? The prime minister had been so stern before. How will he respond to these men this time? They are full of fear as they approach his throne. They know they are wicked men who do not deserve anything but punishment, but they must go. There lives depend on it.

Likewise, many are afraid to approach the throne of God. They are afraid of how they will be received. They fear the power of God, and they fear He will bring upon them judgment and condemnation.

But what we see in this chapter is that as Joseph gives mercy and love to his brothers, even before they repent, so God gives us his mercy and love, using this, in combination with His law, to bring us to a place of repentance.

We also learn from this chapter how God uses us in this blessed ministry of reconciliation. God gives us the ability to speak of His truth with winsomeness and grace, that draw the lost to see the wonder of His tenderness.

By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section.

And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550.

Fears, Tears, and our Hidden Cups
Genesis 43:15-44:17
Series: In the Beginning, Jesus
Pastor James McDonald

]]> http://www.providencecpc.org/2011/02/06/audio-fears-tears-and-our-hidden-cups/feed/ 0 0:59:00 Genesis 43:15-44:17 documents the return of Jacob’s sons to Egypt to purchase grain. They are bringing Benjamin along on this return trip, as well as money for the purchase and a gift for the stern prime minister of Egypt. How will they be rec[...] Genesis 43:15-44:17 documents the return of Jacob’s sons to Egypt to purchase grain. They are bringing Benjamin along on this return trip, as well as money for the purchase and a gift for the stern prime minister of Egypt. How will they be received? The prime minister had been so stern before. How will he respond to these men this time? They are full of fear as they approach his throne. They know they are wicked men who do not deserve anything but punishment, but they must go. There lives depend on it. Likewise, many are afraid to approach the throne of God. They are afraid of how they will be received. They fear the power of God, and they fear He will bring upon them judgment and condemnation. But what we see in this chapter is that as Joseph gives mercy and love to his brothers, even before they repent, so God gives us his mercy and love, using this, in combination with His law, to bring us to a place of repentance. We also learn from this chapter how God uses us in this blessed ministry of reconciliation. God gives us the ability to speak of His truth with winsomeness and grace, that draw the lost to see the wonder of His tenderness. By the way, if this sermon proves to be a blessing to you, feel free to leave a note in the comments section. And also remember, we provide these messages “free of charge” for the glory of God. However, if you would like to send a gift to support  the   ministry of Providence Church, our address is 401 S Carol Street, Morton, IL 61550. Fears, Tears, and our Hidden Cups Genesis 43:15-44:17 Series: In the Beginning, Jesus Pastor James McDonald Genesis, Media Providence Church - Morton, Illinois no no