http://www.stonesthrowchurch.org Sun, 03 Feb 2019 10:30:00 EST The Town exists to reach unchurched and dechurched people, tell them about Jesus, and mobilize them to change the world for Christ. We distribute audio/video content including sermons and other teaching events. You can find out more about us at our website www.stonesthrowchurch.org. 2019 The Town The Town info@stonesthrowchurch.org The Town en-us no http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/04_christ-above-all/04_christ-above-all.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Feb 2019 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/04_christ-above-all/04_christ-above-all.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/03_the-invitation/03_the-invitation.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Jan 2019 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/03_the-invitation/03_the-invitation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/02_recover-the-sacred/02_recover-the-sacred.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Jan 2019 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/02_recover-the-sacred/02_recover-the-sacred.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/01_get-people/01_get-people.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Dec 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-dechurched-church/01_get-people/01_get-people.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/03_look-up/03_look-up.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Dec 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/03_look-up/03_look-up.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/02_hannah-did-you-know/02_hannah-did-you-know.mp3 In the days of the Judges, God visited a godly woman and gave her the son she'd been waiting for in her years of barrenness. Hannah serves as a picture of a weary rejoicer who worshiped before, during, and after her trial. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 09 Dec 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/02_hannah-did-you-know/02_hannah-did-you-know.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/01_come-thou-long-expected-jesus/01_come-thou-long-expected-jesus.mp3 God's people have always been called to endure the trials of this life while simultaneously holding on to the promise of a future and ultimate restoration. God does not reckon time as we do, and so these future promises often seem so far removed from us that we wonder what difference they make at all. The Christian must remember that Jesus has brought his kingdom as the fulfillment of one of those promises. This kingdom is advancing and we are to not only be productive citizens in it, but we should be praying with eagerness for Jesus to consummate it. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 02 Dec 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-weary-world-rejoices/01_come-thou-long-expected-jesus/01_come-thou-long-expected-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/32_forward-progress/32_forward-progress.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Nov 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/32_forward-progress/32_forward-progress.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/31_a-divine-diversion/31_a-divine-diversion.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Nov 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/31_a-divine-diversion/31_a-divine-diversion.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/30_the-bloody-night-of-redemption/30_the-bloody-night-of-redemption.mp3 The long-awaited redemption for Israel has finally come, but it has come at a cost. The blood of lambs has been spilled in their homes and they are now ushered out of the land in the night by their former masters. Israel must make the trek to Succoth with little provisions, accompanied by a soundtrack of despair as the Egyptians horror in the loss of their firstborn. But the redeeming God is a present God. He watches over his people as they move toward the fulfillment of the promise to bring them into a better place. He is the same God who watches and preserves his Church, as they too move from a foreign land toward home. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 11 Nov 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/30_the-bloody-night-of-redemption/30_the-bloody-night-of-redemption.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/29_happy-in-holiness/29_happy-in-holiness.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Nov 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/29_happy-in-holiness/29_happy-in-holiness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/love-of-god-and-of-neighbor/love-of-god-and-of-neighbor.mp3 Jesus summarizes the entire Old Testament in these two commands: love God and love neighbor. This is an incredibly practical word that helps us understand the Law of God and our need of the Gospel. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 28 Oct 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/love-of-god-and-of-neighbor/love-of-god-and-of-neighbor.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/28_blood-on-the-door-part-2/28_blood-on-the-door-part-2.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Oct 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/28_blood-on-the-door-part-2/28_blood-on-the-door-part-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/27_blood-on-the-door-part-1/27_blood-on-the-door-part-1.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Oct 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/27_blood-on-the-door-part-1/27_blood-on-the-door-part-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/gospel-gainz/gospel-gainz.mp3 The gospel change is the heart of the Christian. That heart change will overflow with external signs of health and vitality. It will produce singing, sustenance, and sending in believers and local churches. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 07 Oct 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/gospel-gainz/gospel-gainz.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/26_an-infinite-distinction/26_an-infinite-distinction.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Sep 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/26_an-infinite-distinction/26_an-infinite-distinction.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/25_not-in-part-but-the-whole/25_not-in-part-but-the-whole.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Sep 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/25_not-in-part-but-the-whole/25_not-in-part-but-the-whole.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/24_the-whole-story/24_the-whole-story.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Sep 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/24_the-whole-story/24_the-whole-story.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/23_turn-from-your-idols/23_turn-from-your-idols.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Sep 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/23_turn-from-your-idols/23_turn-from-your-idols.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/22_what-water-you-drinkin/22_what-water-you-drinkin.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Sep 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/22_what-water-you-drinkin/22_what-water-you-drinkin.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/21_his-name-is-jealous/21_his-name-is-jealous.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Aug 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/21_his-name-is-jealous/21_his-name-is-jealous.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/20_comfortable-crucifixion/20_comfortable-crucifixion.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Aug 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/20_comfortable-crucifixion/20_comfortable-crucifixion.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/19_frogs/19_frogs.mp3 Repentance requires more than a true zeal to be delivered from your circumstances, or even a passing knowledge about God and his power...it requires a steadfast heart that is faithful to God's covenant. This can only come by being given a new heart (Ezek. 36:26-27). This new heart is able to receive God and all his benefits without contempt. Only then will we understand everything that God has done (and will do) for us; that he is sovereign and able, that we can quickly run to him in our time of need, that there are ongoing consequences to our sin that he wants us to learn from, and that our salvation is secured. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 12 Aug 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/19_frogs/19_frogs.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/18_ultimate-things/18_ultimate-things.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Aug 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/18_ultimate-things/18_ultimate-things.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/17_the-gods-of-war/17_the-gods-of-war.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Jul 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/17_the-gods-of-war/17_the-gods-of-war.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/16_evangelical-mythos/16_evangelical-mythos.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Jul 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/16_evangelical-mythos/16_evangelical-mythos.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/15_the-prophet-to-end-all-prophets/15_the-prophet-to-end-all-prophets.mp3 In this passage, God teaches us about the office of a prophet. A prophet must proclaim the word of God. Aaron plays the part of a prophet in front of Pharaoh and prepares us for the prophetic ministry of Jesus. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 15 Jul 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/15_the-prophet-to-end-all-prophets/15_the-prophet-to-end-all-prophets.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/14_a-needle-and-thread/14_a-needle-and-thread.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Jul 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/14_a-needle-and-thread/14_a-needle-and-thread.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/13_faith-meet-circumstance/13_faith-meet-circumstance.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Jul 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/13_faith-meet-circumstance/13_faith-meet-circumstance.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/12_an-even-better-promise/12_an-even-better-promise.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Jun 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/12_an-even-better-promise/12_an-even-better-promise.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/11_redemption-on-gods-terms/11_redemption-on-gods-terms.mp3 What do you do when redemption doesn't go the way you expected? Are you tempted to throw up your hands and say "This just isn't what I signed up for?" For Israel, and often for our own redemption, things got harder before they got easier. Redemption wasn't going like they thought it would. But in this trying time, we must remember that Jesus is enough; his redemption will come, albeit in his way, according to his Word, at his time, and for his own glory! Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 17 Jun 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/11_redemption-on-gods-terms/11_redemption-on-gods-terms.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/10_eve-of-redemption/10_eve-of-redemption.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Jun 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/10_eve-of-redemption/10_eve-of-redemption.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/09_staging-grounds/09_staging-grounds.mp3 God had called Moses to be the deliverer of his people and he had promised that his Holy presence would go with him. But God doesn't stop there. Along the way, he prepares Moses, his brother Aaron, and the Israelites themselves for the work at hand. God is gracious in equipping the called. And he continues to do this in the church today through sanctification, corporate ordinances, Christian partnership, and opportunities to exercise our faith. The kingdom of God is advanced when his church embraces its role to move forward faithfully in all the means that God has appointed. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 03 Jun 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/09_staging-grounds/09_staging-grounds.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/08_the-hand-of-god/08_the-hand-of-god.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 May 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/08_the-hand-of-god/08_the-hand-of-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/07_the-sons-of-god/07_the-sons-of-god.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 May 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/07_the-sons-of-god/07_the-sons-of-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/06_when-god-calls/06_when-god-calls.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 May 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/06_when-god-calls/06_when-god-calls.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/05_who-i-am/05_who-i-am.mp3 God's love for Israel is a covenantal love, which means that he will not only rescue them from their Egyptian bondage, but he will uphold his promise to bring them into "a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey." God works the same way today; he not alone declares us innocent through the work of Christ, but he adopts us as his own by that same work, by which we will ultimately enter into our promised rest. This means that we bear God's name and enjoy his presence, and it is through this relationship that Christians move in the world with confidence. There is one God, one covenant, and one people. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 06 May 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/05_who-i-am/05_who-i-am.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/04_suffering-servants/04_suffering-servants.mp3 The Word of God speaks frequently to those who suffer. In the Exodus, God responds to his suffering people with a word of comfort as they cry out in lament. But the Scriptures also speak to those who are not suffering. It offers them a call to surround the hurting with the comfort that is made possible through Jesus. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 29 Apr 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/04_suffering-servants/04_suffering-servants.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/03_one-like-us/03_one-like-us.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Apr 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/03_one-like-us/03_one-like-us.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/02_faith-not-fear/02_faith-not-fear.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Apr 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/02_faith-not-fear/02_faith-not-fear.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/01_when-the-empire-strikes-back/01_when-the-empire-strikes-back.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Apr 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/exodus/01_when-the-empire-strikes-back/01_when-the-empire-strikes-back.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/this-is-why-he-rose/this-is-why-he-rose.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Apr 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/this-is-why-he-rose/this-is-why-he-rose.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/06_a-good-neighbor/06_a-good-neighbor.mp3 Jesus sums up the Ten Commandments by giving us two Great Commandments, which is to love the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. The parable of the Good Samaritan gives us Jesus' vision (indeed, his assumption) on what true neighborly love looks like. It is a full and complete service to those who are oppressed and downtrodden, and it is driven by our genuine compassion and concern for them. This, in turn, is made possible because of God's great mercy toward us. Thus, a serious church will extend mercy to its members and its community because it has received mercy. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 25 Mar 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/06_a-good-neighbor/06_a-good-neighbor.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/05_non-downloadable-church/05_non-downloadable-church.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Mar 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/05_non-downloadable-church/05_non-downloadable-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/04_when-we-repent/04_when-we-repent.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Mar 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/04_when-we-repent/04_when-we-repent.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/03_penitent-people/03_penitent-people.mp3 A church that is serious about grace will be serious about Jesus. A church that is serious about Jesus will get serious about repentance for repentance is the reason Jesus came into this world. But what does true repentance look like. A church serious about repentance will get serious about salvation, sin and their Savior. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Mar 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/03_penitent-people/03_penitent-people.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/02_turning-point/02_turning-point.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Feb 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/02_turning-point/02_turning-point.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/01_reformation-and-revival/01_reformation-and-revival.mp3 Reformation is the recovery of Biblical Truth. Revival is what happens to the church when God pours His Spirit out and renews and reinvigorates the hearts of His people. Reformation and Revival go hand in hand. There is never one without the other. The truth of the Gospel is what ignites the renewal in our hearts. Reformation and Revival have always come in dark hours. Our world is experiencing a dark hour in these recent years. The church is the only hope for our communities because we possess the Gospel of Jesus Christ - the only news that can bring real reconciliation and hope to our broken mess. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Feb 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-serious/01_reformation-and-revival/01_reformation-and-revival.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/an-opportunity-for-greatness/an-opportunity-for-greatness.mp3 Like the nation of Israel, we stand at a "Jordan River." An opportunity for greatness! We have the chance to make Jesus look supremely valuable to a watching world. And in order to walk in the fullness of what the Lord has for us, we must forsake all other competing values for this sole purpose. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 11 Feb 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/an-opportunity-for-greatness/an-opportunity-for-greatness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/23_i-am-coming-soon/23_i-am-coming-soon.mp3 We all look forward to big days. But will the biggest day of days be like? When Jesus returns as he has promised what will happen and what can we expect? The big question is whether or not we are preparing for the Day of the Lord. Pastor Dan Betters Pastor Dan Betters Sun, 04 Feb 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/23_i-am-coming-soon/23_i-am-coming-soon.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/22_a-new-heaven-and-earth/22_a-new-heaven-and-earth.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Jan 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/22_a-new-heaven-and-earth/22_a-new-heaven-and-earth.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/21_no-fear-in-death/21_no-fear-in-death.mp3 We sing the lyrics but we struggle with the truth - "no fear in death". The Bible tells us much about what will happen when we come close to the last moments we have on this Earth and in this lifetime. God has made certain and precious promises concerning our death that give us every reason to not fear those final moments. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Jan 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/21_no-fear-in-death/21_no-fear-in-death.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/20_to-die-is-gain/20_to-die-is-gain.mp3 We often use the Bible to learn how to live our lives. We want to know how to make better decisions and to honor God's plan for our life. In our journey of discipleship we must not lose the grand narrative of God's ultimate promise - to dwell with His people. What does that Bible tell us about the promise of heaven? Is it really possible to live a life that believes "to live is Christ and to die is gain"? If so, why? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Jan 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/20_to-die-is-gain/20_to-die-is-gain.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/19_the-long-road-home/19_the-long-road-home.mp3 We are on a collision course with the King and His Kingdom. We will either take our last breath in death before life everlasting or we will take one last breath on this earth before Jesus' sudden return. On that course, the path is treacherous with grief, hardship, and trials. Even the good things in life fade away, fall short and leave us feeling empty and longing for more. But Jesus has traveled the path, overcome it's treachery, and now prepares the Kingdom for his brothers and sisters. The Scriptures give us a clear picture of what we can expect when we finally enter into the place that Jesus is preparing for us. Studying what God has promised us will equip us and encourage us as we travel the long road home. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Jan 2018 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/19_the-long-road-home/19_the-long-road-home.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/04_all-is-calm/04_all-is-calm.mp3 The people of Israel endured many centuries of silence from God, as his prophetic word to them ceased. They also lost the blessing of their land, their temple, and their freedom. But God left his people with the promise of a future hope: that the Anointed One would come to bring salvation to Israel, and indeed to the whole world. In the meantime, the intermediate silence was deafening. The church also waits for the return of Christ, but the silence is different. God's voice is heard through his Word and Spirit, and we have been given the task of inviting sinners into his kingdom. We are to be a people oriented around the expectation of his imminent return, and that should change the way we live. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 31 Dec 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/04_all-is-calm/04_all-is-calm.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/03_the-thrill-of-hope/03_the-thrill-of-hope.mp3 The world was starved for hope before the first advent, but it has always had the gospel promise. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Dec 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/03_the-thrill-of-hope/03_the-thrill-of-hope.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/02_prepare-him-room/02_prepare-him-room.mp3 At his first advent, Jesus brought salvation. At his second advent, he will bring judgment. We can know that we will be received if we trust in the person and work of Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Dec 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/02_prepare-him-room/02_prepare-him-room.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/01_anticipate-the-table/01_anticipate-the-table.mp3 Anticipation means hope, eagerness, and expectation. Anticipate means to "beat someone to it", get ahead, or do in advance. Christmas reminds the Christian that we live in anticipation but that in living in hope we are called to actively anticipate. We are to live like children who anticipate the Christmas season by working hard at their school work. For instance, in my home, my kids work really hard in August on their home school work so that they can take off from Thanksgiving week until Christmas. They anticipate not just with feelings but with actions as they wait for their favorite time of the year. In the Bible, those who lived before Jesus taught us how to anticipate the 2nd advent in the way that they anticipated the 1st advent during very real earthly battles, struggles, successes and failures. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Dec 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/anticipation/01_anticipate-the-table/01_anticipate-the-table.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/18_kingdom-culture/18_kingdom-culture.mp3 There are two cultures described in Revelation. One is the culture of the Kingdom of God and one is the culture of this world. We're called to live in one while being citizens of the other. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Dec 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/18_kingdom-culture/18_kingdom-culture.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/17_worship-wars/17_worship-wars.mp3 There's a great spiritual battle going on over whom/what we will worship. Revelation depicts two types of people: those that worship the beast and those that worship the Lamb. Judgement is coming for those that worship the beast and the doctrine of hell helps Christians to endure in loving our neighbor and loving our Savior. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 26 Nov 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/17_worship-wars/17_worship-wars.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/16_what-war/16_what-war.mp3 The devil has been warring against the church since the very beginning. His tactics are broad; he uses force and craftiness, and he engages both the people of this world and its institutions to conquer the saints. Meanwhile, the world rejoices in the splendor of its accomplishments, not realizing the reality of its state; that it is subjugated to terrible (and defeated) forces. The church should know better. It's called to stand firm in both endurance and faith, trusting in the finished work of Jesus, their champion, to bring ultimate victory. Here's the problem: the church can only stand firm against the devil if it recognizes that it's in a war in the first place. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 19 Nov 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/16_what-war/16_what-war.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/15_the-dragon-and-the-king/15_the-dragon-and-the-king.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Nov 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/15_the-dragon-and-the-king/15_the-dragon-and-the-king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/14_a-worthy-message/14_a-worthy-message.mp3 Every one of Jesus' purposes for the church come from one main purpose - to receive His Word, hold fast to his Word, bear testimony in our lives to his Word and to proclaim his Word. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Nov 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/14_a-worthy-message/14_a-worthy-message.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/13_when-the-trumpet-sounds/13_when-the-trumpet-sounds.mp3 God has promised that part of his redemptive plan is not just to restore all that is good and make it perfect but to judge evil as well. We live in the times that God is judging the way in which we do things a part from evil. In Revelation, the 7 trumpets tell of God's righteous and victorious judgment over evil. As each of these first 6 trumpets sound off we await the final and 7th trumpet. That sound will sing one of two songs for every person who has ever lived - it will either be the sound of salvation or the sound of judgment. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Oct 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/13_when-the-trumpet-sounds/13_when-the-trumpet-sounds.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/12_heaven-hears/12_heaven-hears.mp3 Prayer is the gracious means God has given his people to invite them into his redemptive and sovereign purposes. God hears our prayers. God accepts our prayers because of the mediating work of Christ. God answers our ultimate prayer for his Kingdom to come and His will to be done. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Oct 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/12_heaven-hears/12_heaven-hears.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/11_the-ones-in-white/11_the-ones-in-white.mp3 Jesus has given us a future to look forward to. The anticipation of this future is on aspect of the Christian hope that drives us in life and mission. When we look at what the King offers and the vision of His Kingdom that He shared with John we are filled with hope and joy as we navigate the tribulations of this life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Oct 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/11_the-ones-in-white/11_the-ones-in-white.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/10_the-christ-in-charge/10_the-christ-in-charge.mp3 When Jesus died, rose, and ascended into heaven he was given all authority in heaven and on earth to rule, reign and defeat his and our enemies. He continues to reign until he returns and restores all of heaven and earth. But until then, it seems that evil often wins the day. It doesn't take long for us to see the evil in this world when we flip through our news feed. How then, can a Christian claim that Jesus Christ is in charge of history? When there is great evil, the Christian turns to the person, the promises and the purposes of God to find meaning and willingness to continue in faith. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Oct 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/10_the-christ-in-charge/10_the-christ-in-charge.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/09_the-throne-room/09_the-throne-room.mp3 John's vision of the throne room in heaven is a cause for worship as it is seen through the lens of Scripture. The throne room of heaven puts the worth, glory and welcoming goodness of Christ on display for all to see. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Oct 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/09_the-throne-room/09_the-throne-room.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/08_the-confident-ones/08_the-confident-ones.mp3 Jesus tells the church in Philadelphia that he is pleased with their holding fast to his person and work. He encourages them to remain confidence that He is holy, true and unstoppable. Their confidence is born from these facts. The confidence we have in Christ is the basis of fruitful mission, unwavering perseverance and our standing before a Holy God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Sep 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/08_the-confident-ones/08_the-confident-ones.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/07_the-same-great-thing/07_the-same-great-thing.mp3 God will do even greater works through his church when they continue to hold on to the same old thing. The same old thing is the greatest news the world has ever heard - the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Sep 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/07_the-same-great-thing/07_the-same-great-thing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/06_uncompromising-church/06_uncompromising-church.mp3 Jesus tells the church in Pergamum that he knows they are in the thick of a heated battle. The only way to conquer was to withstand the pressure to compromise. The church today is called to the same uncompromising faith that Jesus called the early church to in Revelation. What does an uncompromising but loving church look like? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Sep 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/06_uncompromising-church/06_uncompromising-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/05_what-are-we-doing/05_what-are-we-doing.mp3 In Revelation 3:14-22 Jesus rebukes the church at Laodicea for resting in their material wealth and neglecting to provide spiritual care for the community around them. He then counsels them to come to faith in him knowing that good works can only come from true faith. In this sermon we challenge the church in America today with one question. Are we doing all we can to reach the spiritually sick, dead, and weary with the healing, life-giving, and refreshing Gospel of Jesus Christ or are we standing-by self-satisfied with our lukewarm attempts at effective outreach? Steve Hart Steve Hart Sun, 03 Sep 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/05_what-are-we-doing/05_what-are-we-doing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/04_youre-dead-to-me/04_youre-dead-to-me.mp3 Jesus writes to a lively, active church. But he gives them some unexpected news: they're dead. Not closed. They're spiritually dead because they've severed themselves from their source of life: Christ and his Gospel of grace. We ought to learn from their negative example and guard the Gospel message which has been entrusted to us! Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 27 Aug 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/04_youre-dead-to-me/04_youre-dead-to-me.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/03_the-rich-ones/03_the-rich-ones.mp3 The calling to follow the Lord Jesus Christ requires all of our heart, soul, strength, and mind (Luke 10:27), and we see in the church at Smyrna saints who are willing to do this. The physical capacity of those crushed by the systems of the devil bear no weight on their spiritual capacity. God delights in using all faithful and courageous people as his mouthpieces of grace and truth, and his reward is everlasting life. The church needs to always consider the cost of our faith; to discern that suffering for Christ is viewed by our Heavenly Father as deposits into a precious treasury that will garner for us an imperishable crown of glory in the life to come. It is no less true for us today than it was for the Christians at Smyrna. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 20 Aug 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/03_the-rich-ones/03_the-rich-ones.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/02_love-lost/02_love-lost.mp3 Imagine a church full of hard-working Christians who battle against heresy and fight for doctrinal truth. They know what they believe and why they believe it. They have spent years making sure that what they teach is sound. But as the church fell under cultural attack, they began to retreat into the walls of their community. They began to keep what they knew to themselves. That is until the King arrived and found his church a loveless but doctrinally sound community. Jesus sends word to the church in Ephesus that it is time to wake up and to remember the love they had for others. Sound doctrine will propel a church into urgent mission for her King. Pastor Dan Betters Pastor Dan Betters Sun, 13 Aug 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/02_love-lost/02_love-lost.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/01_the-kings-manifesto/01_the-kings-manifesto.mp3 The Revelation of Jesus Christ can be one of the most confusing New Testament letters to understand in our current context. And yet, the blessing of the book comes to those who hear the words and understand them. Revelation is not meant to confuse us but rather encourage us in trials, engage is in urgent mission and enrapture us with the coming King. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Aug 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/revelation/01_the-kings-manifesto/01_the-kings-manifesto.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/06_the-greatest-expectation/06_the-greatest-expectation.mp3 The marriage union is a blessing given by God from the very beginning of creation, and it has also taken on important redemptive elements in light of the fall of humanity. It should not be missed that our marriages are meant to be mirrors reflecting something much more than simply living out our lives with another person. The Church is the Bride of Christ, and our marriages should make a declaration about our union with him. And in the marriage analogy, we also catch a glimpse of the ultimate marriage to come: when Christ's preparations are complete, his Bride is made perfect, and all the saints celebrate together at the wedding supper of the Lamb. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 30 Jul 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/06_the-greatest-expectation/06_the-greatest-expectation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/05_from-i-do-to-i-did/05_from-i-do-to-i-did.mp3 We spend so much time, money and effort on the first day of our marriage. But what about the last day? What will your marriage become and how will you impact one another. The last day is not a promise of a once and for all, one time victory. It is a race in which we must continually strive and pres on toward the goal. Our priority must be the priorities of God. Our Goal must be the goals God has for us. Our vision for the last day, with Jesus at the center will help us to press on toward that day. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Jul 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/05_from-i-do-to-i-did/05_from-i-do-to-i-did.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/04_how-to-make-love-not-a-war/04_how-to-make-love-not-a-war.mp3 God loves sex and wants you to enjoy sexual intimacy. Sex is something many Christians do not talk about in their churches. But it is a revelatory gift that God wants us to talk about. It is not something to be hidden away. Sex is either ruling us, repulsing us or reminding us of the greatness of a loving and gracious God who wants us to know and be known. When sex is ruling us or we are repulsed by the thought of it, it will become a war in our love life. But when we understand that God loves sex and wants us to enjoy sexual intimacy in the context of marriage we learn how to make love not a war. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Jul 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/04_how-to-make-love-not-a-war/04_how-to-make-love-not-a-war.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/03_your-ball-conflict-and-communication/03_your-ball-conflict-and-communication.mp3 God's preferred method of revelation has always been His Word. His Word is how we can know him intimately. The Apple has not fallen far from the tree. God has given his creatures the ability to speak to one another that we might know one another more intimately. The Bible gives us specific instruction on how to talk to one another in a Christ like way that can breathe life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Jul 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/03_your-ball-conflict-and-communication/03_your-ball-conflict-and-communication.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/02_until-death/02_until-death.mp3 Every marriage will end. Will your marriage end with a full heart or a hard heart. God's design for marriage guarantees that at the end of our marriage, until death, that we will come to the finish line with a full heart. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Jul 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/02_until-death/02_until-death.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/01_greater-expectations/01_greater-expectations.mp3 Expectations are a strong mental image which we often associate with hope, future joy or fulfillment. Yet our expectations fail us because we were made for so much more than the broken offerings of this world. Jesus has given us the greatest expectation by his word and backed up by the power of God. Our expectations are either grounded in God's Word or they will fall short and break our hearts. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Jun 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/greater-expectations/01_greater-expectations/01_greater-expectations.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-perseverance/spiritual-perseverance.mp3 We know that the Christian life is filled with times of both exhaustion and complacency, but we also know that Jesus has secured for us an ultimate victory that cannot be taken away. Thus, our journey becomes a victorious one. This isn't just about positive thinking; it's recognizing that God is guarding both our inheritance (heaven and perfect communion with him) and our souls. We will persevere to the end not because we become more disciplined people, but because God has promised that he will complete the work he has started in us (Phil. 1:6). That should make a difference in the way we sojourn through this world. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 18 Jun 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-perseverance/spiritual-perseverance.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-victory/spiritual-victory.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Jun 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-victory/spiritual-victory.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/overcoming-spiritual-complacency/overcoming-spiritual-complacency.mp3 As Christians we can often fall into spiritual routines that allow us to become complacent to the Christian life we are called to live. We think we have it all together and don't realize how desperately we daily need the Word of God until our lives have been put into a tailspin. In this sermon we look at some of the ways God has called us out of spiritual complacency in Romans 12:9-21. Steve Hart Steve Hart Sun, 28 May 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/overcoming-spiritual-complacency/overcoming-spiritual-complacency.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/28_no-condemnation/28_no-condemnation.mp3 Spiritual exhaustion happens to all of us. The reasons for it can vary but it is most likely that we have begun to look for joy in all the wrong places. Joseph's brothers were exhausted with guilt and shame. They were sorry for the evil they had caused Joseph but were under such guilt and shame that they believed Joseph would condemn them to slavery or worse. We often approach God in the same way. Our shame, guilt, or the evils done to us weigh us down and we try to please God on our own. But Jesus has offered us rest from this kind of religion. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 May 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/28_no-condemnation/28_no-condemnation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/27_funeral-fit-for-a-king/27_funeral-fit-for-a-king.mp3 Your legacy is not defined by the amount of people you know or the amount of years you live. Your legacy is defined by your character, your message, and your love. Our character, message, and love is defined by the gods that we serve. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 May 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/27_funeral-fit-for-a-king/27_funeral-fit-for-a-king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/26_remember-and-anticipate/26_remember-and-anticipate.mp3 God promised Jacob, "I will be with you in Egypt and I will bring you up again." In Jacob's last days we learn that By faith we remember what God has done and anticipate what he will do. He is always with us no matter what valley we are in or mountain top we are on. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 May 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/26_remember-and-anticipate/26_remember-and-anticipate.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/25_greatest-good-from-the-worst-intentions/25_greatest-good-from-the-worst-intentions.mp3 What hope do we have when evil seems to thwart the goodness of God? Can there be true light in darkness? The Bible teaches that God is sovereign and good even over the evil acts of men. But this is not just a lofty doctrine that we know is true. This doctrine affects the way in which we live and the way in which we go about our mission. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Apr 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/25_greatest-good-from-the-worst-intentions/25_greatest-good-from-the-worst-intentions.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/24_judahs-progress/24_judahs-progress.mp3 Not many of us will have a biography written about us. But we still should consider the question, what will I be remembered for? Judah's story is filled with moral failure and short comings, but by the grace of God, he made progress. His biography is about progress. We too, after we are declared righteous in His sight and by the power of the Holy Spirit in us, ought to strive for progress! Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 23 Apr 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/24_judahs-progress/24_judahs-progress.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/defiant-declaration/defiant-declaration.mp3 Easter cannot be toned down. It is a celebration of facts. These facts changed the future and hope of humanity. It is in these facts, in this defiant declaration of the resurrection that we have any hope at all. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Apr 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/defiant-declaration/defiant-declaration.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/23_whats-in-a-name/23_whats-in-a-name.mp3 Joseph was living in 2 Kingdoms but he never lost sight that he was a citizen of one. His name would be remembered not by his power in Egypt but by God's power working in him. What is in our name? Where is our identity? Like Joseph, our identity comes from where we hold our citizenship - of which Kingdom are you a citizen? The world or the Kingdom of God? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Apr 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/23_whats-in-a-name/23_whats-in-a-name.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/22_winning-the-raging-war/22_winning-the-raging-war.mp3 The temptation to sin is relentless. By default, the human condition is predisposed to protect, gratify and preserve self. But Jesus offers a better way to live in the Kingdom. In the story of Joseph we learn essential principles about how one can resist temptation. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Apr 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/22_winning-the-raging-war/22_winning-the-raging-war.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/21_hidden-god/21_hidden-god.mp3 There are times in our lives when we just don't understand what God is doing. We can only see a few things when God is really up to millions of things. He is always moving us toward redemption. God is always watching us, always working in us, and will ultimately win us for Himself. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Mar 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/21_hidden-god/21_hidden-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/20_divine-wrestling-match/20_divine-wrestling-match.mp3 There are so many things and so many reasons that call us to hold onto this world and to find our joy in the here and now. The message of the world is to find peace and joy in the finite and broken things that this world has to offer. But the message of the Bible is that God has something so much greater for us in mind. The only way to obtain what God is freely giving is to strive for the narrow door of the Kingdom. The striving is a letting go of the call of the world and holding on to the call of the Gospel. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Mar 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/20_divine-wrestling-match/20_divine-wrestling-match.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/19_a-recital-of-conflict/19_a-recital-of-conflict.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Mar 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/19_a-recital-of-conflict/19_a-recital-of-conflict.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/pray-like-jesus/pray-like-jesus.mp3 This sermon was preached by Jim Weaver formerly of Crossroads Presbyterian Church in Middletown, DE. Jim Weaver Jim Weaver Sun, 05 Mar 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/pray-like-jesus/pray-like-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/18_a-pilgrims-progress/18_a-pilgrims-progress.mp3 Jacob had plans. He would run for his life and wait out the fury of his brother Esau. He had stolen the blessing and received the covenant promise from his dad. But God had other plans. God met Jacob when he least expected it and the fugitive would become a pilgrim. God showed Jacob a new reality of what life would be like in the Kingdom he would bring to this earth. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Feb 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/18_a-pilgrims-progress/18_a-pilgrims-progress.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/17_family-drama/17_family-drama.mp3 In this scene, we see the epitome of a dysfunctional family. There is competition between brothers and spouses. Everyone is out for their own selfish good. It would seem God couldn't move in the midst of such sinners, but the Sovereign God's plan to save sinners from the curse of the law, cannot be thwarted: by your family drama or your selfish sinful tendencies. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 19 Feb 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/17_family-drama/17_family-drama.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/16_when-grace-takes-over/16_when-grace-takes-over.mp3 The story of Jacob and Esau is an illustration of God's great mercy and relentless love for his people. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Feb 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/16_when-grace-takes-over/16_when-grace-takes-over.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/15_gods-providence-and-love/15_gods-providence-and-love.mp3 Whatever happens in our life, in our land, or in our world is exactly the way that God had planned it to be. This is a hard teaching because many of the things that we see are hard to understand, if we can understand them at all. The story of Isaac and Rebekah's marriage demonstrates that God is always working and that he has plan. God's plan is born from his covenantal love for us. The Bible calls his love for us "hesed" which also means long-suffering love. God plans the details because he loves us. His detailed plan will bring about his glory, and his glory is our greatest good. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Feb 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/15_gods-providence-and-love/15_gods-providence-and-love.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/14_hope-for-homesick-hearts/14_hope-for-homesick-hearts.mp3 We are refugees in a foreign land. As much beauty as this world has to offer we are constantly reminded that this ain't it. God established a foothold on this earth in Canaan through his servant Abraham - but this was just the beginning. God had much more in mind than a land for Israel. God's intent has always been to dwell among us and to be our God. Jesus promises the homesick heart that he is preparing a place for us. But it all began when Abraham lived by faith and allowed God to use him to establish a foothold in the land. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Jan 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/14_hope-for-homesick-hearts/14_hope-for-homesick-hearts.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/13_resurrection-faith/13_resurrection-faith.mp3 No matter the trial, the test or the tribulation, those that belong to the Lord know that God has provided for every need in the person and work of Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Jan 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/13_resurrection-faith/13_resurrection-faith.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/12_joy-that-lasts/12_joy-that-lasts.mp3 Abraham and Sarah had every earthly reason to be joyful when their firstborn son was born. They were very old yet God performed a miracle and enabled these faithful saints to enjoy a newborn baby when it seemed impossible. But their joy was not founded upon earthly reasons. They laughed on this great day because their joy was found in their Lord. They were joyful in God's Word, God's work in them and a faithful obedience that brought great joy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Jan 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/12_joy-that-lasts/12_joy-that-lasts.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/11_day-of-the-lord/11_day-of-the-lord.mp3 The story of God's destruction of Sodom in Genesis has at it's core a central question, "Will God be just in his judgment?" This is a question that has been asked throughout the ages in various forms. Today we like to ask the question this way, "If God is just how could he not save innocent people who have never heard of him?" This story demonstrates that God is just in his destruction of the wicked and merciful in his saving the righteous. So the bigger question is how is one made just before God? There is a day coming that is prefigured in this story on which all people will be judged according to what their deeds deserve. This day should reinvigorate the church toward urgent mission. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Jan 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/11_day-of-the-lord/11_day-of-the-lord.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/our-plans-gods-providence/our-plans-gods-providence.mp3 It's the New Year, and this is the season for us to look ahead at all the things we wish to accomplish or change over the next twelve months. But have we slowed down to consider God's role in our plans? Or, more accurately, have we considered our role in his plans? We see very clearly in Scripture that as we go about our lives doing all manner of things, it is the purposes of the Lord that will ultimately stand. The Christian's chief end is to glorify and enjoy the Lord, and we do this by intentionally pursuing those things which God will use to transform us more into the image and pattern of his son, Jesus. He has given us, as his new creations, all the power we need to do this, so that no day, event, or plan is wasted. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 01 Jan 2017 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/our-plans-gods-providence/our-plans-gods-providence.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/one-small-detail/one-small-detail.mp3 Had God missed a detail in his plan when there was not one room available to Mary and Joseph. Certainly not. This was just the beginning of Jesus' road to Calvary. Dan Betters Dan Betters Fri, 23 Dec 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/one-small-detail/one-small-detail.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/10_a-sign-and-seal/10_a-sign-and-seal.mp3 God has not only made certain and precious promises but he has graciously given his church visible signs and seals to assure use, identify us, and remind us of who he is, and what he has done and will do for us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Dec 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/10_a-sign-and-seal/10_a-sign-and-seal.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/09_the-road-of-affliction/09_the-road-of-affliction.mp3 God meets us on the road of affliction. In fact it is there that we find out what we're made of. Affliction either hardens us, breaks us or changes us. The good news is that God sees us and he hears us on the road of affliction. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Dec 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/09_the-road-of-affliction/09_the-road-of-affliction.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/08_trusting-god/08_trusting-god.mp3 Is the God of the Bible one who can be trusted? Is there reason for us to trust Him? When Abram was sinking into a deep depression and wondering if he had fooled himself into thinking that God had spoken a good word to Him, God condescended and made a covenant with Abram. God promised that he could be trusted no matter what suffering might over take Abram or his people. God has made promises to his church that often seem far away when we suffer. But God has sealed his promises in his Son Jesus. Indeed, God can be trusted for He is trustworthy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Dec 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/08_trusting-god/08_trusting-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/07_honeymoon-in-egypt/07_honeymoon-in-egypt.mp3 There are moments in our lives, maybe even long stretches when God's promises seems far off. We are tempted in those moments to stray from our faith and trust in the Lord. But God even uses those moments to reveal Himself to us. When we stray we usually make a mess of things and we wonder if there is any chance of making it back home. There is no mess that God won't redeem. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Nov 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/07_honeymoon-in-egypt/07_honeymoon-in-egypt.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/06_all-nations/06_all-nations.mp3 The purpose of the church is to be used by God to save the world. This is an urgent call that the church must answer. God called Abram to go into a land that he would show him. This was the beginning of a journey that would ultimately lead the world to Jesus Christ. In the same way, the church has been called by Jesus to go into the lands that he will show us in order to bring the good news of the Gospel. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Nov 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/06_all-nations/06_all-nations.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/05_babel/05_babel.mp3 What does a civilization look like when it is built solely on the basis of the power and independence of man? It looks like a civilization that collapses under it's own weight of sin. History is on repeat - the world never does anything new. That is until God became one of us and turned the kingdoms of men on their collective heads. Our hope and joy can never be found in the institutions of man for they are consistent failures. Our hope must be found in a new address - the Kingdom of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Nov 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/05_babel/05_babel.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/04_the-covenant-with-noah/04_the-covenant-with-noah.mp3 The story of Noah is not a children's story. It's is a terrifying story of God's righteous judgment on sin. But God gave grace and favor to Noah, and He made a way of salvation by grace. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 06 Nov 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/04_the-covenant-with-noah/04_the-covenant-with-noah.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/03_broken-brothers/03_broken-brothers.mp3 Once sin entered the world it didn't take long for it to truly take root in mankind. As man sought to be a law unto themselves they would spiral deeper into their own depravity. What greater crime and heartache could come from one brother killing his own brother out of rage and jealousy. Yet God's plan for redemption would not be thwarted. Though the war between the line of Cain and the line of Seth would continue, ultimately Jesus, a better Abel, a better Adam, a better man would bring redemption for us all. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Oct 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/03_broken-brothers/03_broken-brothers.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/02_when-all-seems-lost/02_when-all-seems-lost.mp3 When all seemed lost, God promised a Redeemer in the curse. He did not leave an undeserving people in sin and misery but instead gave grace. His promise of a redeemer was realized in Jesus Christ. Because of Jesus, all is not lost - today or ever. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Oct 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/02_when-all-seems-lost/02_when-all-seems-lost.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/01_unbroken-kingdom/01_unbroken-kingdom.mp3 A King created an unbroken kingdom for an unbroken people to be in an unbroken relationship with Him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Oct 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/genesis/01_unbroken-kingdom/01_unbroken-kingdom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/hearing-from-god-in-a-sermon/hearing-from-god-in-a-sermon.mp3 The average faithful church attender will hear 3500 sermons in their lifetime. It is important that we have a game-plan for coming to church. We should come expecting to hear from God in the sermon and ready to be changed as His Word is proclaimed in the local body. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 09 Oct 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/hearing-from-god-in-a-sermon/hearing-from-god-in-a-sermon.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/05_two-kingdoms-one-hope/05_two-kingdoms-one-hope.mp3 Christians are a citizen of the Kingdom of Christ. We are foreigners in every other kingdom. This gives us every reason to have great joy even when the world has every reason to panic. The joy of citizens of this world rests in fellow citizens hands. But our joy is found in the sovereign rule of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Oct 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/05_two-kingdoms-one-hope/05_two-kingdoms-one-hope.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/04_failing-forward/04_failing-forward.mp3 Jesus has redefined the definition of success. The greatest moment in human history was when Jesus died on a Cross in our place to satisfy God's divine and righteous judgment against His people. When all others thought he had failed, Jesus had accomplished victory. It is in this victory that our own failures are redefined. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Sep 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/04_failing-forward/04_failing-forward.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/03_he-holds-the-future/03_he-holds-the-future.mp3 Who is in control of this world? When we look around it seems that a purposeful God has missed the mark. But the Bible teaches us that God has decreed all things that come to pass and that God's decree is good. Jesus tells us that this same God knows how many hairs we have on our head and that he will provide for all of our needs if we would just seek His kingdom first. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Sep 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/03_he-holds-the-future/03_he-holds-the-future.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/02_the-digital-age-of-tragedy/02_the-digital-age-of-tragedy.mp3 In the past 10-15 years we have been witnesses to an historic age of communication development. But along with instantaneous news and video the heart of the world has been laid bare and it's not a pretty picture. We live in an age of unending digital tragedy on an international, a national, and a local level. We have access to the tragic world in which we live. But how are we to live in such a time? Do we ignore the news? Do we try to come up with answers? Or perhaps there is something greater and more eternal that we can learn from the bad news. Jesus offers something better in a broken world of unending bad news. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Sep 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/02_the-digital-age-of-tragedy/02_the-digital-age-of-tragedy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/01_rise-and-have-no-fear/01_rise-and-have-no-fear.mp3 The pleasure that God the Father has in Christ the Son is reason enough for us to rise and have no fear. The King of kings has squelched any power that death might have over those who have put their faith in Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Sep 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/breathe-again/01_rise-and-have-no-fear/01_rise-and-have-no-fear.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/supremacy-of-christ/supremacy-of-christ.mp3 Who do you believe Jesus is? This is an unavoidable question that we all must answer. Do you believe he was a great moral teacher and nothing more? Does Jesus himself give us the option to believe he is anything other than the Son of God? In this sermon we discuss who Jesus is and how the power of his identity should inform our faith in our day to day lives. Steve Hart Steve Hart Sun, 28 Aug 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/supremacy-of-christ/supremacy-of-christ.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/31_in-closing/31_in-closing.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Aug 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/31_in-closing/31_in-closing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/30_honor-and-obey/30_honor-and-obey.mp3 Most parents at some point in their life wonder if they have what it takes to raise their children right. Most kids at some point in their life wonder why God gave them the parents that he did. We often seem so mismatched from one another. Paul has some simple instructions for the Christian home. Our families are to be distinctively Christian. Children who love Jesus will look for ways to honor and obey their parents even when it's hard. Parents who love Jesus will reflect Jesus to their children in the home. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Aug 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/30_honor-and-obey/30_honor-and-obey.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/29_godly-employees-and-bosses/29_godly-employees-and-bosses.mp3 Paul's message to the Ephesians has implications for all people in all stages of life. In this text, he turns his attention to slaves and masters, those in authority and under authority in the workplace. He gives us the commands us to obey and use our authority in a way that honors our God. He also gives us some future promises that motivate us to use our calling to bring God glory with our vocation. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 31 Jul 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/29_godly-employees-and-bosses/29_godly-employees-and-bosses.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/28_dignifying-your-husband/28_dignifying-your-husband.mp3 The idea of the biblical submission of a wife to her husband is not popular in our cultural, but it is often misunderstood. God has designed husbands and wives to complement one another. The Bible teaches the complete equality of men and women as God's image bearers, yet they each fulfill distinct roles in the context of marriage. As husbands are called to lead with a self-sacrificial love, women are called to trust in them to do so. This relationship, while marred by the curse, is of God's good design for humanity. We have to look no further than the relationship within the Godhead to see this beautiful communion of equality and subordinate distinction. And it is in Jesus, our teacher and example, that we see both of these realities lived out in our world. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 24 Jul 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/28_dignifying-your-husband/28_dignifying-your-husband.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/27_lead-love-glorify-your-wife/27_lead-love-glorify-your-wife.mp3 Husbands have a high calling. We aren't satisfied with a happy wife so that we can have a happy life. We want much more than the status quo. Husbands are called to lead, love and glorify their wives just as Jesus leads, loves and glorifies the church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Jul 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/27_lead-love-glorify-your-wife/27_lead-love-glorify-your-wife.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/26_suit-up/26_suit-up.mp3 There is a war. There is strength to fight the war. That strength is found in the power of the Lord and the armor Jesus has fashioned from his person and work. Christians are called to do battle with the spiritual forces of this world. Behind every human battle there is a cosmic battle. But where the Gospel is the Kingdom of God moves forward in this world. God has given us the and dressed us in an armor and strength that can only come from him so that we might not only survive these battles but become more like Jesus in them. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Jul 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/26_suit-up/26_suit-up.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/25_with-thankfulness/25_with-thankfulness.mp3 The Christian life is inherently hard, as we are called to continually put off our old nature and put on the new nature we have in Christ. But we shouldn't despair that we are consigned to a miserable existence. Christian people should be those filled with thankfulness for what God has done, is doing, and will do in the future. Paul understood this as a man who faced both blessing and hardship. If we truly believe that God has given us all things in Christ, it should leave no room for complaint. Thanksgiving is an antidote against the temptation to sin and the fatigue of sanctification, and it is a marker for those who claim to be "children of light." Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 03 Jul 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/25_with-thankfulness/25_with-thankfulness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/24_loving-well/24_loving-well.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Jun 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/24_loving-well/24_loving-well.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/23_encountering-jesus-in-his-church/23_encountering-jesus-in-his-church.mp3 God has given us ordinary means to encounter him and be changed in an extraordinary way. His Word, Our Prayer, and His Church are all gracious gifts given to the people of God by God Himself. God graciously speaks to us, listens to us, and relates to us through these means. The church, though imperfect, is one of the most important means God has given us to experience him and be changed. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Jun 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/23_encountering-jesus-in-his-church/23_encountering-jesus-in-his-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/22_encountering-jesus-in-prayer/22_encountering-jesus-in-prayer.mp3 God has given us ordinary means to have an extraordinary encounter with Him. He has given us His Word, Prayer, and His Church so that we might become more like Jesus every day. When we read the Scriptures, when we spend time in prayer, and when we spend time in fellowship with other believers we put ourselves in the pathway of God's grace and will experience spiritual growth as the God makes us more like Jesus in those encounters. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Jun 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/22_encountering-jesus-in-prayer/22_encountering-jesus-in-prayer.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/21_jesus-is-the-word/21_jesus-is-the-word.mp3 God has given us ordinary means to know his extraordinary grace more and more every day. The mains means God has given us to know Him is His Word. If we want to be more like Jesus we must encounter Jesus. If we want to encounter Jesus we must encounter his word. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Jun 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/21_jesus-is-the-word/21_jesus-is-the-word.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/20_a-new-identity/20_a-new-identity.mp3 One cannot encounter Jesus and remain the same. Jesus changes us and we have a new identity where we find our purpose and place in his person and work. Paul tells the church that they must not only pursue unity but that they must also pursue holiness. God's grace is not a cheap grace. The grace we have in Jesus leads to a pursuit of Jesus where we will not remain unchanged. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 May 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/20_a-new-identity/20_a-new-identity.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/19_transformative-church/19_transformative-church.mp3 God gifts the church so that they might transform the culture. It is good that w meet together to worship, but our worship must continue throughout the week. We are called to use the gifts that God has given us so that He might transform the community through us. As the church grows in depth and number the community of which they are a part will be transformed. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 May 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/19_transformative-church/19_transformative-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/18_jesus-gives-gifts/18_jesus-gives-gifts.mp3 The unity we have in Christ is multiplied by the diverse and gracious gifts Jesus has given to his Church. A healthy church is a church where every member of the body of Christ is looking to discover their gift, enjoy their gifts, and worship God by using their gifts to serve others and love Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 May 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/18_jesus-gives-gifts/18_jesus-gives-gifts.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/17_all-for-one/17_all-for-one.mp3 Jesus prayed that the church might be one as He and the Father are one. Unity is a big deal for Jesus and it is a big deal for the Apostles. Why? Because a church that is united under the Gospel puts the manifold wisdom of God on display for the world to see. We are united under one Savior and our pursuit of the one Savior testifies to his power and glory. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 May 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/17_all-for-one/17_all-for-one.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/16_answer-the-name/16_answer-the-name.mp3 Our calling to follow after Christ is a gift and a privilege. But it is also a life that demands the pursuit of holiness. Jesus, who is our hope, has not called us to follow him and remain the same; his love for us continues as he prunes and sanctifies. The Christian is to take seriously this work, as the unity of the church is greatly affected by our sin. This involves identifying sin patterns, walking in community, and wrestling in prayer with the Holy Spirit as we each seek to put off sin and put on righteousness. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 01 May 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/16_answer-the-name/16_answer-the-name.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/15_paradox-of-prayer/15_paradox-of-prayer.mp3 When the Spirit throws down the spiritual gauntlet, he invites us to response with the paradox of prayer. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 24 Apr 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/15_paradox-of-prayer/15_paradox-of-prayer.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/14_most-unlikely-means/14_most-unlikely-means.mp3 The world has no hope if Christians devalue the means God has ordained to draw the world to Himself. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Apr 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/14_most-unlikely-means/14_most-unlikely-means.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/13_called-by-grace/13_called-by-grace.mp3 When we are captured and compelled by God's purpose for our lives we become living sacrifices where we at once die to self and live for others. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Apr 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/13_called-by-grace/13_called-by-grace.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/12_under-one-roof/12_under-one-roof.mp3 Jesus has destroyed the wall of hostility - we are a people under one roof and with one family name. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Apr 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/12_under-one-roof/12_under-one-roof.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/look-what-god-has-done-2016/look-what-god-has-done-2016.mp3 The Resurrection has changed the reality of the world where death once reigned. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Mar 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/look-what-god-has-done-2016/look-what-god-has-done-2016.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/good-friday-2016/good-friday-2016.mp3 You cannot have the glory of Sunday, without the crucifixion on Friday. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Fri, 25 Mar 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/good-friday-2016/good-friday-2016.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/11_his-workmanship/11_his-workmanship.mp3 A person captured by the good news of the Gospel is a beacon of good news to others – you are God's workmanship. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Mar 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/11_his-workmanship/11_his-workmanship.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/10_the-way-we-are/10_the-way-we-are.mp3 Is is by grace that God saw us as we were, loved us, and saved us to make us what we are. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Mar 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/10_the-way-we-are/10_the-way-we-are.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/09_the-way-we-were/09_the-way-we-were.mp3 The Gospel doesn't erase our past, it transforms our past. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Mar 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/09_the-way-we-were/09_the-way-we-were.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/08_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-2/08_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-2.mp3 Why does it matter that the church meet together? We exist to tell one another of the past, present, and future spiritual blessing we have in Christ as we take part in the grand plan God has for us. There are so many benefits that come with a body that is united in Christ. We support one another, we give thanks for one another and we pray for one another. But all of this happens as we take part in a bigger plan, part of a bigger narrative, that is bigger than any one person. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Feb 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/08_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-2/08_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/07_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-1/07_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-1.mp3 Why does it matter that the church meet together? We exist to tell one another of the past, present, and future spiritual blessing we have in Christ as we take part in the grand plan God has for us. There are so many benefits that come with a body that is united in Christ. We support one another, we give thanks for one another and we pray for one another. But all of this happens as we take part in a bigger plan, part of a bigger narrative, that is bigger than any one person. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Feb 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/07_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-1/07_gods-purpose-in-us-pt-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/06_the-heart-of-god/06_the-heart-of-god.mp3 The heart of God is clearly seen in his past faithfulness to His people, the work of Christ on this earth, and the promise of Jesus' return. God has given us the Holy Spirit to remind us that His heart towards us has not changed - He will be our God and we will be His people and this will be accomplished because of his long suffering love for us. Be confident in the fact that God's feeling toward you is not based on anything in you, but rather everything that is in him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Feb 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/06_the-heart-of-god/06_the-heart-of-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/05_the-blessing-of-divine-revelation/05_the-blessing-of-divine-revelation.mp3 God has shown his love for us by sharing his mind with us. What was previously veiled through shadows and signs has been fully revealed to those whom God has chosen and adopted. Christians have received full access to the plan of the gospel: that God sent his Son to secure redemption and forgive transgressions, and that he will one day unite all things in heaven and earth under the headship of Christ. This should incite the church to worship, persevere thorough trials, and proclaim this good news to everyone God has placed in our paths. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 07 Feb 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/05_the-blessing-of-divine-revelation/05_the-blessing-of-divine-revelation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/04_a-new-family/04_a-new-family.mp3 In Ephesians 1, Paul gives us one reason after another to worship God. And yet, these are God's words to his children. He is like a father shouting from the sidelines to his kids, "o I've had you in mind since before time. I chose you just because I love you. It is my desire to give you all that you could ever need – every blessing imaginable. My love for you has no beginning and it has no end. My goal for you is so much more than the vapor of this life. My aim is to be your Father and you my son. I have saved you from something, but I have also given you all that you need to be something – without blemish! The price for which I have bought you back from slavery, the way in which I have forgiven you is according to an bottomless, eternal grace without end. I have met the conditions for your salvation." God's purpose in salvation is to create a new family where He is Father and we are His children. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 31 Jan 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/04_a-new-family/04_a-new-family.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/03_look-what-god-has-done/03_look-what-god-has-done.mp3 God has chosen a people for Himself, and this is reason enough for a life of worship. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Jan 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/03_look-what-god-has-done/03_look-what-god-has-done.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/02_all-good/02_all-good.mp3 What does it mean to be "all good"? It is something we all want. It is the desire of the human heart – we want to be in a good place. There are many examples and areas of life that we want to be able to say – "Everything is in order. It's all good." Relationships. Family. Marriage. Job. Children. Retirement. Even when all of these things are "all good" there is always something nagging at us. Because even those who have charmed lives, where everything is all good, there is a deeper need that must be met – because the grave is all bad. This is why, when Paul says, "Blessed be our God and Father in our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ," that there is no other response but doxology. Your greatest need this, no matter how good you think things are, is to know that Eternal God has made you all good in Christ – a greater good than any good that could ever be felt or accomplished on this earth in and of ourselves. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Jan 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/02_all-good/02_all-good.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/01_in-christ/01_in-christ.mp3 There is a spiritual haze in evangelicalism today. Christians in America are living in a post-Christian culture and we don't always have good answers to the cultural narrative. Our response to change and claims to truth is often a fearful one because we don't know how to respond to the new cultural narrative. How can we not only exist but thrive in a post-Christian culture when the narrative seems so hostile? The answer is found in Ephesians when Paul says that God has given us every spiritual blessing - in Christ. Our identity in Christ will shape the way we live, breathe and interact with new culture in which we are living. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Jan 2016 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ephesians/01_in-christ/01_in-christ.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/04_at-the-manger-part-4/04_at-the-manger-part-4.mp3 Every year Christmas comes around like a steam engine and we make preparations for it to be a special time of the year. But what if we left the ordinary means of the way our culture celebrates Christmas behind and traded them in for the extraordinary? When we contemplate the manger and spend our time in service of the Lord, Christmas becomes something extraordinary. Steve Hart Steve Hart Sun, 27 Dec 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/04_at-the-manger-part-4/04_at-the-manger-part-4.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/03_at-the-manger-part-3/03_at-the-manger-part-3.mp3 Every year Christmas comes around like a steam engine and we make preparations for it to be a special time of the year. But what if we left the ordinary means of the way our culture celebrates Christmas behind and traded them in for the extraordinary? When we contemplate the manger and spend our time in service of the Lord, Christmas becomes something extraordinary. Dan Betters Dan Betters Wed, 23 Dec 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/03_at-the-manger-part-3/03_at-the-manger-part-3.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/02_at-the-manger-part-2/02_at-the-manger-part-2.mp3 Every year Christmas comes around like a steam engine and we make preparations for it to be a special time of the year. But what if we left the ordinary means of the way our culture celebrates Christmas behind and traded them in for the extraordinary? When we contemplate the manger and spend our time in service of the Lord, Christmas becomes something extraordinary. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Dec 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/02_at-the-manger-part-2/02_at-the-manger-part-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/01_at-the-manger-part-1/01_at-the-manger-part-1.mp3 Every year Christmas comes around like a steam engine and we make preparations for it to be a special time of the year. But what if we left the ordinary means of the way our culture celebrates Christmas behind and traded them in for the extraordinary? When we contemplate the manger and spend our time in service of the Lord, Christmas becomes something extraordinary. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Dec 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/heaven-and-nature-sing/01_at-the-manger-part-1/01_at-the-manger-part-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/05_future-history/05_future-history.mp3 Joshua was a great military leader who followed the commands of the Lord. God had promised to be with him as he led Israel into the Promised Land. Under Joshua, the nation of Israel experienced the presence of God from one victory to the next. As a result of Joshua's leadership, and at the end of his life, Israel was a nation after God. They were His people and He was their God. Joshua built up a future history for the nation of Israel. As he neared his death he called the nation together one last time. In this gathering, found in Joshua 24, the gracious leader calls the work of God to remembrance. In this moment, Joshua could have taken credit for his victories. Joshua could have installed a government to establish his legacy. Instead, he gave the glory to God. Joshua reiterates the redemptive history of the past in order to inform the future of Israel. Stone's Throw is a church that has a future history. We desire that this history would be about Jesus. The Gospel informs our future and it is our hope and prayer that our children, and our children's children and generations to come are founded upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Nov 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/05_future-history/05_future-history.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/04_missional-church/04_missional-church.mp3 Jesus is our example of what missionary should be like. But first, he changes our lives with his own mission. Jesus crosses cultural boundaries, satisfies our deepest needs and invited us to join him on mission. We, the church, belong to Jesus, and we get to participate with him as he works in the world. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 22 Nov 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/04_missional-church/04_missional-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/03_lasting-community/03_lasting-community.mp3 Christianity is not meant to be experienced alone. God has called us forth as his chosen people to regularly assemble together in community. This community is called the church! Here, Christians find a place to rest, talk about Jesus, be comforted, and urge each other forward toward godliness. As good as this sounds, it can't happen apart from the consistent presence of one another. From the beautiful picture of the early church in Acts, to Peter's reminder that Christians are strangers in this world, the Bible clearly holds up the design of coming together, with the goal of being of one heart and soul. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 15 Nov 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/03_lasting-community/03_lasting-community.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/02_loving-leaders/02_loving-leaders.mp3 Everyone is a leader. Anytime we have influence we are leading. The question is whether or not we leading others for ourselves or in a selfless way. The world is in desperate need of leadership - leaders that are servants. In the New Testament, the word "servant" is used over 900 times to describe those who lead the way that Jesus leads. Each of us have people in our lives that we can and will influence. Will we lead them toward Jesus or toward our own end? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Nov 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/02_loving-leaders/02_loving-leaders.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/01_be-more/01_be-more.mp3 This church exists to be a big presence in a big community to make a big impact for Jesus. Our call is for all people to come as they are, to meet Jesus, so that they might participate fully in God's plan for their mission and life. The work here has only just begun. What happens to a church when they are fueled by the Gospel and empowered by the Holy Spirit as they live in obedience? They are participating in God's plan for their life and are never satisfied with the past but always asking how they might be used of God in the present. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Nov 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/difference-maker/01_be-more/01_be-more.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/19_the-final-word/19_the-final-word.mp3 What is your deepest need? What do you need to be true? We live in a culture that wants to believe sincerity is the test of truth. If we sincerely believe something, than it must be considered truth. The Christian faith makes assertions that do not allow for alternate truth. Jesus is the heart of Christianity and he meets our deepest needs - to know God and to have a Savior. The Christian faith makes assertions that only Jesus allows us to know God and that only Jesus is the Savior of the world. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Oct 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/19_the-final-word/19_the-final-word.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/18_prayerful-people/18_prayerful-people.mp3 The greatest need we have is to know God. God has given us the means of grace that we need in order to know him and know him deeply. These means of grace are the disciplines of grace - spending time in God's Word. Spending time in worship and community with other Christians. Prayer. Prayer is most neglected because we don't understand it. Yet John tells us that prayer is the key to knowing God and His will for us more deeply. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Oct 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/18_prayerful-people/18_prayerful-people.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/17_its-all-true/17_its-all-true.mp3 What is of utmost importance in the church? Jesus. Everything the church is about revolves around Jesus. For John, the testimony of Jesus Christ was his life, his death, and his resurrection. These testimonies concerning Jesus were the most important concerns for the church in his day and they are of the most important concern for us today. In fact, believing the testimony of Jesus' life and death is paramount to knowing eternal life. The most important Christian teachings surrounding the person of Jesus are a matter of eternal life and eternal death. If we know Jesus we have eternal life. And if we have eternal life, everything we do and everything we are is affected by that relationship. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Oct 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/17_its-all-true/17_its-all-true.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/16_victorious-faith/16_victorious-faith.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Oct 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/16_victorious-faith/16_victorious-faith.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/15_jesus-ends-fear/15_jesus-ends-fear.mp3 Fear is something we all struggle with. There are things that keep us up at night. Fear can range from anxiety to all terror. How can we live a life without fear? How does the God who created us with the ability to fear also tell us that we have no reason to fear? The Gospel gives us every reason to live in real peace as Jesus ends our fear. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Sep 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/15_jesus-ends-fear/15_jesus-ends-fear.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/14_love-defined/14_love-defined.mp3 We have all asked the question at some point in our life. "What is love?" How do we know when we have found love or have been loved? Is love a feeling? An experience? Can we define what love is and what it isn't. John says that God is love. God has defined love for us in his Word and by His actions. Jesus is the love of God manifesting itself so that we can know what it means to be loved perfectly. When we let God define love for us we will know what it means to be loved and to love others. True doctrine will define true love. When we know true love we will love others in the way that we have been loved by God Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Sep 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/14_love-defined/14_love-defined.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/13_reason-for-love/13_reason-for-love.mp3 God is love. If God is love, it makes sense that Christians would love God and love others. This is the second time that John wants to address this issue. John is facing a church that is divided by conflict and tension. In this passage, we can see the true heart of a pastor as he exhorts and encourages the fractured congregation to reflect on God's love for them. John teaches that the motivation and inspiration of Christians' love for one another is the healing work God has done in their lives. The work of God in our lives leads to a natural outpouring of love within the church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Sep 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/13_reason-for-love/13_reason-for-love.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/12_all-that-glitters/12_all-that-glitters.mp3 "I've received a word from the Lord." I can't tell you how many times I have heard this phrase. It also comes in other forms: "I have prayed about this," "I heard the next best thing to an audible voice," or "[insert mega-church pastor name here] has said." Many times this phrase is used by excited Christians to qualify some life decision, a reason to leave the church, an excuse to sin, or some other direction the person wants to take and has already set their mind on taking. It is hard to argue with someone when they believe that God has clearly spoken to them with a new revelation. There are two dangers that present themselves when responding to someone who believes they have been moved by God in a certain direction. The first danger is to accept what the person has said without testing what they have said against the Scriptures. The second danger is to reject what the person has said without testing what they have said against the Scriptures. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Sep 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/12_all-that-glitters/12_all-that-glitters.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/11_love-one-another/11_love-one-another.mp3 We define ourselves in all kinds of different ways. Christians tend to focus on what makes them distinct - distinct from the world and even distinct from one another. But Jesus says that the church will be defined by their love for one another. That is why John says that true Christians will have a love for one another like no other - it will be so revolutionary that those outside the church will literally define Christians by their love for one another. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Aug 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/11_love-one-another/11_love-one-another.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/10_sure-to-fail-never-failing-to-be-sure/10_sure-to-fail-never-failing-to-be-sure.mp3 The Christian is sure to sin. We are sure to fail because God is not done working with us until the day that we meet Jesus. Even though we fail, we have been promised that Jesus is up to something - he is making all things new - and it is precisely because of this that though the Christian might falter they can always be sure that nothing can separate them from the love of God. The return of Jesus will be the event that brings the brokenness and sinfulness of the world to an end. John promises that on the day that we meet Jesus, we will be with Jesus and made like Jesus. The promised return of Jesus builds up our assurance in three ways: it demonstrates that God loves us with a revolutionary love; that God's will is for us to be part of his forever family; and that God has a bigger vision for us than we could ever have for ourselves. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Aug 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/10_sure-to-fail-never-failing-to-be-sure/10_sure-to-fail-never-failing-to-be-sure.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/09_experiencing-christ/09_experiencing-christ.mp3 John describes the spirit of antichrist as being present whenever we deny that Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God. These titles not only tell us about who Jesus is, but they also point to his Lordship over all things. That means we also deny him when we struggle to lay claim on the things which chiefly belong to him. God calls us to abide in him through the work of his Son and the indwelling of his Holy Spirit, and it is only when the church worships him in spirit and in truth that we find our fullest satisfaction. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 16 Aug 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/09_experiencing-christ/09_experiencing-christ.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/08_take-the-world-but-give-me-jesus/08_take-the-world-but-give-me-jesus.mp3 The world offers much but can never deliver. We are promised happiness, peace, and joy if we buy into the pursuits of our culture. But since sin came into the world it has only been able to offer brokenness and discontentment. Jesus was set against the ways of the world in order to bring us something new - a Kingdom that would last forever. John exhorts the church to turn their affection away from the promises of the world and instead turn their affection toward Jesus who is making all things new. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Aug 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/08_take-the-world-but-give-me-jesus/08_take-the-world-but-give-me-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/07_our-turn/07_our-turn.mp3 Every generation in the church is called to carry the Gospel to all generations. Each person has a purpose and mission in which they are called to participate. Children are called to a simple faith as an encouragement to the aged and experienced. Young men and women are called to lead and exert influence for the Gospel. Older and wiser generations are called to share, teach, and preach of the goodness of God. This is how a functioning family works well together for the cause of Christ. We never pass the mantle until we take our last breath. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Aug 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/07_our-turn/07_our-turn.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/06_love-like-jesus-loved/06_love-like-jesus-loved.mp3 What is love? Today it can mean so many things. Bono of U2 sings "in the name of love", Haddaway pleads that his baby won't hurt him with it, romantic novelist Jojo Moyes says that "love drives all great stories, and sister Catherine Wybourne says, "Love is free yet binds us." So many opinions and so many songs. John, an Apostle of Jesus tells us that love is absolutely without question a fruit of the Spirit exhibited by true followers of Jesus. In fact, he says, without love for one another, we are walking in darkness and an obstacle to the Gospel. Jesus gave his disciples a new commandment when he said that they were to love one another in the way that he had loved them. This changed everything. To love like Jesus loved will mean a new depth, scope, and purpose in love. A church that loves like Jesus loved will have a contagious culture, clarity of purpose and will thrive on mission. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Jul 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/06_love-like-jesus-loved/06_love-like-jesus-loved.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/05_liars-sons/05_liars-sons.mp3 Humans are heartfelt hypocrites - plain and simple. We claim to know truth but do not practice the truth. But Jesus changes all of that. Jesus transforms heartfelt hypocrites into righteous sons of God. But what is the proof that we have sonship? How do we know that we have been called into the family of God? John provides several tests throughout his letter to the church - and these tests are designed to call the unbeliever to faith while assuring the true believer that they are indeed an adopted son of God. The first test John asks is whether or not we are liars or sons. We can know that we are a son if we desire to live the way that Jesus lived. Many claim to know God - but what is their proof? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Jul 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/05_liars-sons/05_liars-sons.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/04_our-defender/04_our-defender.mp3 Has God spoiled the ending? Does God's promise to forgive us for all our sins give us a reason to sin? Won't a person who know's they can get away with something take advantage of the one who allows them to get away with it? Not for the person who's heart has been won over by grace! God has not allowed us to get away with our sin, but instead poured out all of his wrath upon Jesus who became our sin, so that we might have the forgiveness of sins. This forgiveness, this immeasurable grace doesn't spoil us and encourage us to sin, but rather compels us to do war with sin out of our love for the God who has been gracious to forgive us of our sins. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Jul 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/04_our-defender/04_our-defender.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/03_theological-math/03_theological-math.mp3 Am I a Christian if I am struggling with sin? What if I want victory but can't seem to make it happen? What does the Gospel have to say about me if I am struggling in sin? John is very clear that those who are bearing fruit are truly Christians. However, those who claim to be a Christian but do not desire the things that God desires make God and themselves out to be a liar - and only one of these is true. The good news is that imperfect people can be in perfect relationship with God because of the perfect work of Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Jul 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/03_theological-math/03_theological-math.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/02_what-we-have-in-common/02_what-we-have-in-common.mp3 In a fast-changing culture, the church must be united under one truth - that Jesus Christ is Lord. The church must speak the truth with clarity, in love, in humility, and with loving kindness to a world that is broken and hurting. Too often we have ignored the truth, run from the truth, devised a new truth or keep the truth silent. But the Gospel demands that every human being reckon and respond to the Truth that is the Gospel. Our response to the changing culture cannot be one of shock or hatred, but rather understanding and love. We can hold fast to the truth of Scripture and love those who disagree with the Gospel - in fact it is our calling. Our mission, and purpose and reaction to the changing culture depend on our unity under the Gospel. We must make much about Jesus and speak the truth with clarity. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Jun 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/02_what-we-have-in-common/02_what-we-have-in-common.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/01_how-he-loves/01_how-he-loves.mp3 John wrote his letter to a fractured church. And to deal with the fracture John taught about the quality and proof of God's love for his people. God's love is our model for how we ought to love one another. God's love is the reason we have salvation. God's love is everlasting and has secured eternal life for the believer. If we have been loved by God and if we have loved God, we will love others in the way that God has loved us. Pastor Dan Pastor Dan Sun, 21 Jun 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/love-letter/01_how-he-loves/01_how-he-loves.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/05_romans-51-11-part-2/05_romans-51-11-part-2.mp3 Christian's often talk about having a joy that surpasses all understanding. This is a joy that Christian's possess no matter what life might bring their way. But how is this kind of joy possible? It is in the blessings of justification that we can discover the means of joy. Justification is the foundation of our joy in that no matter what happens we know that we have peace with God, stand in grace and can rejoice even in suffering. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Jun 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/05_romans-51-11-part-2/05_romans-51-11-part-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/04_romans-51-11-part-1/04_romans-51-11-part-1.mp3 Christian's often talk about having a joy that surpasses all understanding. This is a joy that Christian's possess no matter what life might bring their way. But how is this kind of joy possible? It is in the blessings of justification that we can discover the means of joy. Justification is the foundation of our joy in that no matter what happens we know that we have peace with God, stand in grace and can rejoice even in suffering. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Jun 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/04_romans-51-11-part-1/04_romans-51-11-part-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/03_2-corinthians-521/03_2-corinthians-521.mp3 Pastor Dan Betters shares his life verse, 2 Corinthians 5:21. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 31 May 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/03_2-corinthians-521/03_2-corinthians-521.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/02_acts-18/02_acts-18.mp3 Pastoral Intern Steve Hart shares his life verse, Acts 1:8. Steve Hart Steve Hart Sun, 24 May 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/02_acts-18/02_acts-18.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/01_ephesians-28-10/01_ephesians-28-10.mp3 Pastor Tom Harr from Faith Presbyterian shares his life verse, Ephesians 2:8-10. Tom Harr Tom Harr Sun, 17 May 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/life-verses/01_ephesians-28-10/01_ephesians-28-10.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/05_honor-and-obedience/05_honor-and-obedience.mp3 Parents dream of a home where children obey them. But obedience is more than adherence to the rules. Obedience is born from the desire to honor authority. Parents that wish to cultivate a culture of honor and obedience will make it their goal to honor others in their relationships. The Scriptures give us very clear instruction on how we are to honor everyone and their position in relationship to us whether they are equals, superior or inferior to us in relation. Parents will cultivate a gospel-centered spirit of honor and obedience in their home by honoring the relationships they have. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 May 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/05_honor-and-obedience/05_honor-and-obedience.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/04_opportunity-knocks/04_opportunity-knocks.mp3 There is no question that parenting is incredibly difficult and incredibly rewarding. As parents, we can freely admit that much of the time we are making things up as we go along. We need grace and we need to give our children grace. When God matters most to us parents will look for moments to inject the Gospel story into redemptive moments. In Ephesians, Paul has a few but very specific instructions for parents that can change the course of their lives and the course of their children's lives. Our goal as Christian parents is to give our children grace by giving them the full story of the Gospel. It is our goal to teach our children to view all of life through the triumph of Jesus Christ as Lord. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 May 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/04_opportunity-knocks/04_opportunity-knocks.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/03_good-or-great/03_good-or-great.mp3 What is the secret to a great marriage? It is a constant pursuit of something greater than ourselves? Husbands and wives that pursue Jesus in their marriage will always be pursuing greatness. In Ephesians, Paul says that the relationship that Jesus has with the church is an illustration of a great marriage. Husbands and wives are to treat each other with the same self-sacrificing love that Jesus loved the church with. No matter if we are looking to get married, already married, fighting for our marriage or ready to quit, the Gospel applied will transform our relationships from good to great. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Apr 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/03_good-or-great/03_good-or-great.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/02_12-memorial-stones-of-legacy/02_12-memorial-stones-of-legacy.mp3 When all is said and done what will you have left the ones that you love on this earth? How will their lives be different because of the investment that you made in them? The older we get the more we think about what our legacy might be. The history books will not remember most of our names but the mark we leave will be felt for generations even by those who have long forgotten we ever existed. How we raise our families now and what we teach our families about God will reverberate for generations. What kind of legacy are you leaving your family? In this sermon, guest preacher, Dr. Chuck F. Betters preaches from the story of Joshua and the Israelites crossing the Jordan River to begin their conquest of the Promised Land. Upon crossing the river they build a memorial consisting of 12 stones. It would be a memorial that would be noticed for generations to come and the story of that historic day would be retold to remind the generations of God's great covenantal love for His people. Each of us are building a legacy, a memorial built not with stones but with values and doctrine. What is your memorial constructed out of? Chuck Betters Chuck Betters Sun, 19 Apr 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/02_12-memorial-stones-of-legacy/02_12-memorial-stones-of-legacy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/01_what-matters-most/01_what-matters-most.mp3 In Ephesians Paul has some detailed instruction for how families ought to function. But these instructions are found deep into his letter to the church and only come after Paul has revealed the mystery of the Gospel. How we live our lives in the context of family is heavily dependent upon what we believe about God and the implications the Gospel have on our lives and relationships. We matter to God and when God matters most to is the Gospel will inform us about ourselves and the people we live with, it will reform us as we seek to remove sin and prioritize Jesus above all things and it will transform is into humble servants who serve others out of a reverence for Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Apr 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/family-matters/01_what-matters-most/01_what-matters-most.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/the-day-god-won-2015/the-day-god-won-2015.mp3 There is a tension in which we all live. With each passing minute we know that we are closer to the end of this life. With each battle in life we wonder if there will be a positive outcome. Even when we experience a positive outcome we wonder where the next hammer might fall. We can either succumb to the tension of being a part of the human race or we can trust that God has not only relieved the tension but broken it completely. We can either live in the agony of defeat or the spoils of victory. Jesus has won the victory and his resurrection is the very basis for why the Christian can proclaim, "Jesus changes everything." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Apr 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/the-day-god-won-2015/the-day-god-won-2015.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/when-the-king-arrives/when-the-king-arrives.mp3 When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem he did not come as a conquering king but rather as a suffering servant. He came to die for the very race that put him to death. But before Jesus would die on a cross the crowd had to decide what they believed about Jesus. Some ignored him. Some rejected him. Some sought to kill him. Others wanted to wait and see. And others believed he was the King. Each of us must reckon with Jesus. There is no doubt that he changed the world. No matter where we stand we must make a decision - we must come to a verdict. For those who believe that Jesus is the King a real life change will happen. For those who worship the king possess an unwavering confidence, an unbreakable hope, a perfect peace, and life eternal. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Mar 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/when-the-king-arrives/when-the-king-arrives.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/10_a-new-strength/10_a-new-strength.mp3 God's work in our life does not stop when He saves us by giving us faith in Jesus. His work in us continues until we take our last breath as He makes us more like Jesus. The disciple who is maturing in their faith will desire to participate fully in the plan and mission of God. They will grow in humility and worship. They will be prepared for the moments when life takes a turn. In Habakkuk we see the picture of maturity as the prophet begins the book in complaint against God but ends rejoicing in the God who lives him not matter what the circumstance. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Mar 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/10_a-new-strength/10_a-new-strength.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/09_the-gods-we-love-part-5/09_the-gods-we-love-part-5.mp3 Change is something every human being desires. We want to be better. We want to make a difference. We want to stop being ruled by that which brings us down. Idols are the good things that we have made ultimate things that when put in the place of God they bring us down and rule us. In order to bring about real change we must be able to discern what our idols are, uproot and replace our idols and ultimately silence our idols rule in our lives. Jesus is the only God who can replace the gods we love and bringing about real change. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Mar 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/09_the-gods-we-love-part-5/09_the-gods-we-love-part-5.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/08_the-gods-we-love-part-4/08_the-gods-we-love-part-4.mp3 It feels really good to be the king—to rule and reign over everything in your life. To have people serve you, and love you. But we have some problems with living like this. First, we are no kings at all. Jesus is the true King. Secondly, Jesus is passionate about ridding our life of the sin where we insert ourselves onto the throne of our own lives. When we live for the glory of our own kingdom, we devalue things around us, turning people into objects and objects into enemies. However, the Spirit at work in us can teach us to live for the glory of the true King and teach us to truly love those around us. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 08 Mar 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/08_the-gods-we-love-part-4/08_the-gods-we-love-part-4.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/07_the-gods-we-love-part-3/07_the-gods-we-love-part-3.mp3 We all want to know if we matter. We want to matter to the world, in the workplace, in our community, to our family and to our friends. We often judge a person based on how valuable they are to us or to our objectives. Many of us find all of our value in all of the wrong places. We base our value on our job, our skills or our success. We make the good things and opportunities God has given us into main things and we fall into idolatry. Our worth is not found in what we accomplish but rather what Jesus accomplished for us and has given to us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Mar 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/07_the-gods-we-love-part-3/07_the-gods-we-love-part-3.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/06_the-gods-we-love-part-2/06_the-gods-we-love-part-2.mp3 There is an idol from which all other idols come. This idol is responsible for bringing sin into the world. The idol of self has caused every problem in the world that we face today and yet we continually try to build up the self into the Savior it is can never be. Self-Esteem cannot help us to a better life. Self-esteem can only judge us on what we have done lately. A life built on self-esteem is empty, painful, fragile and restless. But Jesus offers us something different - he offers us a life that is not build on our accomplishments or failures, but on his righteousness and grace. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Feb 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/06_the-gods-we-love-part-2/06_the-gods-we-love-part-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/05_the-gods-we-love-part-1/05_the-gods-we-love-part-1.mp3 Jesus transforms greedy people into generous people. We are born with greedy hearts. Human nature is constantly moving to make good things the main things. When good things become the main things they become coveted things. Coveted things become idols and idols destroy us. They steal our time and money and ultimately our materialism will impede the flow of the Gospel. But Jesus has changed the heart of the believer from one that is overrun with idols to one that is rooting out and burning down idols. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Feb 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/05_the-gods-we-love-part-1/05_the-gods-we-love-part-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/04_righteous-man/04_righteous-man.mp3 There are many ways that humanity has tried to use to get right with God. Religion. Tradition. Morality. But it isn't until we have come to the end of our effort and ideas that we can see were it not for Gods grace there would be no way to get right with God. God has declared the a righteous person is the person who walks and lives by faith in Him. We have to come to the end of ourselves and become lost in God's live for us and be made righteous. There is no other avenue but faith in Jesus to get right with God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/04_righteous-man/04_righteous-man.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/03_when-god-and-sin-collide/03_when-god-and-sin-collide.mp3 Have you ever asked God to resolve a situation for you and He answered in such a way that you did not expect or even want? That is what happened to Habakkuk. He had asked God to change the ways of Judah and once he heard God's response he only had more questions. The wrath, love and action of God can often leave us wondering and confused. When this happens there are steps that we can take to understand God better, to walk in faith, and to worship God for who He is. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/03_when-god-and-sin-collide/03_when-god-and-sin-collide.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/02_god-hears/02_god-hears.mp3 Habakkuk prayed with expectancy. He was honest with God and God responded. God still works the same way today. God listens to us and He responds to us. Many Christians do not pray with expectancy and live in a practical atheism. But if God really is who the Bible says He is than prayer is a powerful way to be intimate with the Creator of the Universe. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/02_god-hears/02_god-hears.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/01_get-real-with-god/01_get-real-with-god.mp3 There are times in our lives when we decide it is time to get right with God. It might be a new year, a new job, a new trial or a new direction. But it is during those times when we realize our need to be right with God. If we want to get right with God we have to get real with God first. We have to get real about our struggles, our questions, our sin, our worship and our view of who God is if we are ever to get right with Him. Getting real with God means being honest with ourselves and with God and it is not an easy journey. Being honest about ourselves can be full of shame - but there is no shame when we are honest before the cross of Jesus. God was honest about how He feels about sin when He allowed His Son Jesus to die for our sins. God was honest so that we can be honest - so that we can be right with God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/get-right/01_get-real-with-god/01_get-real-with-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/11_joy-in-all-things/11_joy-in-all-things.mp3 Paul was a man who had experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. He claimed that he had times of owning much and times of having nothing. Paul had been through the best and the worst of what life had to offer. When he wrote to the Philippians he was in prison which most sane people would consider a pretty big low point in a person's life. And yet Paul says that he is content. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 28 Dec 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/11_joy-in-all-things/11_joy-in-all-things.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-son-is-given-2014/a-son-is-given-2014.mp3 It is a well established fact that Jesus of Nazareth was born around 2000 years ago. History attests to the fact that this little child would have a grand impact on the world. But Christmas has us asking another question. 700 years before Jesus was born, a little known prophet said, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given." It is not enough to believe that that Jesus was born. When we look into the manger we must ask if the words of the Isaiah were meant for us. Was Jesus born unto me? Was the Son given to me? These questions have eternal implications for each of us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Tue, 23 Dec 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-son-is-given-2014/a-son-is-given-2014.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/10_joy-in-peace/10_joy-in-peace.mp3 How do we live a peaceable life? Paul says that we must rejoice in the Lord in all things and at all times. But what is the basis of that joy? Paul says, "The Lord is at hand." The basis of our joy is that Jesus is on his way back to make all things new. In the meantime, we are to do all that we can to be living in peace with others by prayer and thanksgiving. We are to think on things that are godly and pure. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Dec 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/10_joy-in-peace/10_joy-in-peace.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/09_joy-in-one-thing/09_joy-in-one-thing.mp3 Paul was in a big mess. His life was on the line. His ministry was on the line. He had enemies. He had every reason to look back on his accomplishments and faithfulness and become angry with God as he sat in prison for no good reason. But he doesn't wallow in self-pity. Instead he writes life-changing words, "But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Dec 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/09_joy-in-one-thing/09_joy-in-one-thing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/08_joy-in-bragging/08_joy-in-bragging.mp3 We like to brag about things that make us look good. Paul had every right to brag about his religious upbringing and accomplishments. As a Jew he had done everything that a Jew was required to do and then some. And yet he says that all of his accomplishments and reasons to brag and rejoice in himself as loss rather than gain. The only gain that Paul would rejoice in was the life, death, resurrection and reign of Jesus Christ. We have great reason to rejoice in the work of Jesus because his accomplishment has been credited to our account and we have been given all that is necessary to have a right relationship with the God of the Universe. As a result, we can echo Paul's words, "Rejoice in the Lord." Chris Patton Chris Patton Sun, 30 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/08_joy-in-bragging/08_joy-in-bragging.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/07_joy-in-selflessness/07_joy-in-selflessness.mp3 Selflessness is inconvenient. It is hard. It means we will lose a lot, maybe even our life. Jesus' life and ministry were not convenient for him. From his birth to his death Jesus was inconvenienced and was willing to give up all that he had in heaven in order to bring us great joy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/07_joy-in-selflessness/07_joy-in-selflessness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/06_joy-in-assurance/06_joy-in-assurance.mp3 There is great joy in assurance. Paul tells the church in Philippi to live in obedience by working out their salvation with fear and trembling. If they are assured in their faith, they, like Paul in his time of suffering, will be able to rejoice in their time of suffering. Our assurance of salvation comes from the word of God. God promises that if we have trusted Jesus as our Savior than we have all that we need to be in perfect relationship with Him. There is nothing on earth or in heaven that will separate us from the love of God. This kind of assurance produces great joy in all circumstances of life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/06_joy-in-assurance/06_joy-in-assurance.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/05_joy-like-jesus/05_joy-like-jesus.mp3 Jesus left all that he had in order to give us all that he is. We call this the humiliation of Christ. His humiliation was voluntary. He desired to do the Father's will and in fact covenanted with God the Father before time began to become a man in order to save the Father's people from their sin. While on earth, Jesus found great joy in doing the Father's will – even when it was hard and even when it led to his own death. As painful as Jesus' last prayer in the garden was, we still sense a deep-seeded joy in Jesus. He was going to accomplish all that the Father had willed. Jesus was able to remain steadfast in joy because the Father's will was also his will. In order to have the kind of joy that Jesus had we too must humble ourselves willingly to the Father's will. We must constantly be willing to go to the places that Father has in store for us. It is in those places, whether of pain or happiness, that we can experience great joy because we are submitted to the Father's desire and plan for our life. The maximum amount of joy is found in the heart of God's will for us regardless of where that will lead us in life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/05_joy-like-jesus/05_joy-like-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/04_joy-in-citizenship/04_joy-in-citizenship.mp3 Suffering and salvation are both graced by God to the citizens of heaven. This idea of suffering as being graced to the believer is a far cry from what many preachers and churches proclaim today. Many churchgoers are told that belief in Christ leads to earthly prosperity and success. When trouble comes their way they bail on their faith because they don't understand that suffering and salvation are two different sides of the same coin. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/04_joy-in-citizenship/04_joy-in-citizenship.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/03_joy-in-confidence/03_joy-in-confidence.mp3 How can a mother who has lost a child sing "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!" just minutes after receiving the news that she won't see her child on this old earth again? How can a husband draw close to the Lord when his young wife is dying of cancer? How can a man sing the praises of a sovereign God when he doesn't know where the next meal for his family will come from? Paul says that his joy in prison comes from a confidence that Jesus will be honored in Paul's life or in Paul's death. We have proof that Paul was right! We are still studying his letters to this day and billions of people are changed because of his perseverance to continue in the faith. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Oct 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/03_joy-in-confidence/03_joy-in-confidence.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/02_first-things-first/02_first-things-first.mp3 What is first in your life? If you have been part of a church for any amount of time than you already know the difference between what the answer should be and what it actually is. You might know that the Gospel should be first and foremost in your life – but is that reality? The reality of whether or not the Gospel is first in your life is directly linked to the depth of joy you can experience in all situations. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Oct 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/02_first-things-first/02_first-things-first.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/01_joy-in-relationships/01_joy-in-relationships.mp3 Real relationships bring real joy which is only found in Jesus. Real relationships that bring real joy are built and sustained by the Gospel. This means that we see one another as co-laborers in Christ and that we have something bigger than ourselves in common with one another. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Oct 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/impossible-joy/01_joy-in-relationships/01_joy-in-relationships.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/big-tent-celebration-2014/big-tent-celebration-2014.mp3 Our first worship service on our new property in the heart of west Middletown. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Oct 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/big-tent-celebration-2014/big-tent-celebration-2014.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/weak-servants-and-glorious-victory/weak-servants-and-glorious-victory.mp3 God's tactics for winning battles is very different than ours. He chose Gideon a very weak man to win a great victory for Israel. Today, God works through Christ in a very similar way: he chooses the weak things of this world to shame the strong. Christians will find the source of great spiritual victory when they realize their weakness and embrace dependency on the living God in Christ. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 28 Sep 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/weak-servants-and-glorious-victory/weak-servants-and-glorious-victory.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/15_gods-restoration/15_gods-restoration.mp3 Heaven is the ultimate realization of God's promises to mankind. It is a place, a destination and beyond our imagination. And yet, the Bible tells us much about what God has in store for His people and their eternal life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Sep 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/15_gods-restoration/15_gods-restoration.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/14_gods-judgment/14_gods-judgment.mp3 Jesus' teachings about hell are some of the most divisive and controversial words of the Savior. It is hard for is to understand how a loving God could punish sin for eternity. This is mostly due to us thinking of our sin as less deserving of punishment than it actually is. Sin against and eternal God is deserving of eternal punishment. Jesus' teaching on hell should compel the Christian to find assurance in the work and love of Christ, compel them to share Jesus with the world and give thanks for God's eternal grace and offer of eternal life through faith in Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Sep 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/14_gods-judgment/14_gods-judgment.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/13_gods-people-ii/13_gods-people-ii.mp3 The defining characteristics of the church are what theologians call the marks of the church and they identify the true church of Jesus. Jesus has instructed the church to disciple members through discipline, to preach the Gospel to believers and nonbelievers and to celebrate the sacraments of baptism and Communion. Each of these marks play a vital role in the individual and collective life of believers. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Sep 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/13_gods-people-ii/13_gods-people-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/12_gods-people-i/12_gods-people-i.mp3 The church is not an organized religion or simply a non-profit volunteer organization. It is the only institution that Jesus died for. The church is an assembly all over the world of those who have come to faith in Jesus Christ - they are the people that belong to God has his children. The Scriptures paint a picture of how God's people are the church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 31 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/12_gods-people-i/12_gods-people-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/11_gods-gifts-iv/11_gods-gifts-iv.mp3 God has predestined his children, called them with the Gospel, implanted to new life by His Holy Spirit and has given them the gifts of saving faith and repentance unto life - but what happens next? A whole new standing before God. God in his loving kindness changes treasonous and treacherous people into dearly loved sons and daughters. By faith we are united to the work of Christ and declared righteous by God and before God. We are adopted into his family receiving all the benefits and privileges of the children of God. And we are changed as the Holy Spirit empowers us to become more like Jesus every single day. We are no longer enemies but dearly loved children of the God of the universe. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/11_gods-gifts-iv/11_gods-gifts-iv.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/10_gods-gifts-iii/10_gods-gifts-iii.mp3 The only possible of outcome of really hearing the Gospel and believing the Gospel is repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ. In this sermon Pastor Dan takes a look at what the Scriptures say about saving faith and repentance unto life. Both faith and repentance are gifts of God's grace. Though salvation belongs to the Lord from beginning to end, it is at this point in the process of salvation that those God saves react to the Gospel, turning from sin, turning from our own work, and turning toward Jesus in faith and repentance. The Christian hates their rebellion and sin and looks to kill it every day. But at the same time, the Christian has real joy in knowing that Jesus has done all that needs to be done to save us from our sin. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/10_gods-gifts-iii/10_gods-gifts-iii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/09_gods-gifts-ii/09_gods-gifts-ii.mp3 Few Christians terms are well-known to the world more than "born again". And yet so many misunderstand what it actually means to be born again. There is a point where we hear the Gospel and God implants new life into us so that we can and will believe on Jesus Christ as Savior. To be born again means to have new life implanted in us. It is something that God does to us because of love, mercy and grace. The big question we all have to answer is whether or not we have been born again. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/09_gods-gifts-ii/09_gods-gifts-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/08_gods-gifts-i/08_gods-gifts-i.mp3 God has accomplished redemption, but how does He apply it to mankind? The act of redemption applied is miraculous. The Bible gives us a lot of information about how God actually saves us. Even the act of calling a person to believe the Gospel is a miraculous work. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/08_gods-gifts-i/08_gods-gifts-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/07_gods-grace/07_gods-grace.mp3 The doctrines of grace teach that salvation belongs to the Lord. Every person ever born into this world is incapable of doing what is right or pleasing God. This is a central teaching of the Bible. But God, rich and mercy, has graciously chosen to save His people from their sin and radical danger. Even though we are radically corrupt, God has not only provided a way for salvation but has provided all that is necessary to save His people. In grace, God chose His people. In grace, God died for His people. In grace, God has revealed the truth of the Gospel to His people. In grace, God will keep his people until the day He returns. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/07_gods-grace/07_gods-grace.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/06_gods-son/06_gods-son.mp3 In the church there are certain teachings that are debatable and there are others that are absolutely crucial to the Christian faith. We differentiate between these teachings as "open handed" and "close handed" doctrines. In this sermon, Pastor Dan outlines one of the close handed doctrines - that concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully man. His extraordinary person and work make mean an extraordinary lordship over every human life. Jesus' claims about himself set him in a category different from all other religions in the world. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer you must consider the claims of Jesus - after all no other man or woman has been able to change the course of history in the way that Jesus has. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/06_gods-son/06_gods-son.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/ambassadors-on-mission/ambassadors-on-mission.mp3 This sermon was preached by Randy Manley of Molokai Baptist (www.molokaibaptist.com) in Molokai, Hawaii. Randy Manley Randy Manley Sun, 13 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/ambassadors-on-mission/ambassadors-on-mission.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/05_gods-promises/05_gods-promises.mp3 The Bible is the story of how God relentlessly pursued his people and saved them from their sins. That story is told through the covenants God has made with mankind. God from eternity past made a covenant to elect his people and provide redemption through the Son, Jesus Christ. In that story God made promises through covenanting with his people. Jesus Christ is the ultimate realization of those promises. The Bible tells of two classes of people in the history of the world - those who are under the covenant of grace and those who are not. Jesus is either our Savior or we are trying to save ourselves. One of these classes of people have a glorious outcome and the other does not. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/05_gods-promises/05_gods-promises.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/04_gods-image/04_gods-image.mp3 Man was created in the image of God with true righteousness, holiness and knowledge. Even though the world has fallen and sin has entered the world we still bear the image of God. In this sermon, Pastor Dan takes us through a journey in the Scriptures as we see the original state of man in perfection, the beginning of our war with God, the result of our war with God, the winner God has given us in Jesus Christ and finally what we will become through faith in Jesus. The world is broken and the image of God in man has been marred but we are not beyond repair because of the matchless grace of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Jun 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/04_gods-image/04_gods-image.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/03_gods-decree/03_gods-decree.mp3 God has ordained everything that had and will come to pass. He is sovereign over every molecule and very person and their actions. This is a foundational belief to every person that claims that God exists. It is also a basic teaching of Christian doctrine. It is also a doctrine that should lead us to comfort and a greater understanding of God's love for us and all His creatures. Pastor Dan preaches from Ephesians 1 and Romans 9 as he encourages us to lean into this doctrine as we make our own calling and election sure. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Jun 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/03_gods-decree/03_gods-decree.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/02_gods-person/02_gods-person.mp3 There are many ideas today about what God is like. All of these ideas except those found in God's Word are descriptions false gods even when they are well intended. Even in Christain circles we tend to make God fit into or box rather than trust the words of God Himself. In this sermon, Pastor Dan takes a brief look at several doctrines concerning God's person and attributes. The sermon gives the listener a good foundation to explore the person and character of God not fully on their own. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Jun 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/02_gods-person/02_gods-person.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/01_gods-words/01_gods-words.mp3 What do you believe about the Bible? Is it God's Word? Are there errors? Are there parts of scripture that are now obsolete? Christians believe some very important doctrines about the Bible that affect the way they see the world. We believe that God graciously gave the writers of the Scriptures His Word so that we could know Him, ourselves and the world around us. We believe that the Scriptures are perfect because God is perfect. These days we live in a post-Christian culture that questions just about every claim Christians make concerning the Scriptures. That is why it is more important now than ever that Christians know what they believe about the Bible, why they believe it and how it matters in real life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Jun 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/grounded-a-basic-doctrine/01_gods-words/01_gods-words.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/05_a-maturing-church-is-ready/05_a-maturing-church-is-ready.mp3 Has there ever been a time in your life where you just didn't feel ready? Maybe something or someone caught you off guard or you just didn't prepare well. Christians are to be prepared for every good work that God has in store for them. Preparation comes through understanding the Gospel. As Paul is wrapping up his letter to Titus he begins to insist that Titus pay attention to the conduct, service and obedience of the people in the church. He exhorts the church to be ready for every good work. A church that is maturing will grow in it's readiness to do good work as a natural response to the good work that God has done in them. When the church is maturing there will be a willingness to obey God and His commands, community will flourish, the testimony of the church will be bright and people will be changed. But this change is not the result of trying harder or humanistic effort. Maturity to readiness happens when a church is gripped by the Gospel and the extravagant love of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Jun 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/05_a-maturing-church-is-ready/05_a-maturing-church-is-ready.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/04_a-maturing-church-waits-well/04_a-maturing-church-waits-well.mp3 The Church is book-ended by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus on one hand, and the anticipation of his glorious return on the other. As Christians living in the middle of these two events, we are called to wait for this "blessed hope" to come. But we don't wait passively. In the reality of living in this "present evil age," the same grace that provided redemption is the same grace that trains us to renounce sin in our lives and turn toward righteousness. And the promised return of Christ spurs us on with confidence, knowing that he will finish the work he started. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 25 May 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/04_a-maturing-church-waits-well/04_a-maturing-church-waits-well.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/sabbath-healing/sabbath-healing.mp3 Do you ever feel as if you're going through life carrying more than you can bear? Only Jesus – completely, perfectly, and permanently – can remove the burdens of our lives and provide the freedom and rest for which we long. Tom Harr Tom Harr Sun, 18 May 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/sabbath-healing/sabbath-healing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/03_members-that-grow/03_members-that-grow.mp3 Now that Paul has addressed the leaders in the church, he turns his attention to the members of the church. He paints a picture of what a godly member looks like in various stages of life, from the older men to the younger women. Paul encourages their doctrine to be sound in contrast to those he previously described in Crete. He goes on to encourage a healthy spiritual life in Christ that flows out of that healthy doctrine. But he does not only describe the character traits he desires to see in us; he also gives us the motivation of transformation of grace. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 11 May 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/03_members-that-grow/03_members-that-grow.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/02_leaders-that-grow/02_leaders-that-grow.mp3 In Crete a crisis had been brewing for a long time. A church was growing but there were those inside the church who sought to make much about themselves rather than Jesus. They were teaching things that weren't lining up with the teaching of Jesus or his Apostles. To combat the false teachers and their insubordination, Paul instructed Timothy to identify, train and equip leaders who would be more committed to Jesus than anything else. In this sermon, Pastor Dan takes a look at a passage that gives instruction to churches on how to choose leaders and grow leaders from within the congregation. A church that is growing will need leaders that are willing to grow along with the church, protect the church, and look out for the purity of the Gospel that goes out from the church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 May 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/02_leaders-that-grow/02_leaders-that-grow.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/01_mature-church/01_mature-church.mp3 Titus is a letter written by Paul to a maturing church on ancient Crete. In it, Paul identifies what a maturing church looks like. A maturing church possesses the Gospel and is possessed by the gospel which leads to godly living. Churches that want to grow must have sound doctrine pursue sound living. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Apr 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/titus-growing-up/01_mature-church/01_mature-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/resurrection-reverb/resurrection-reverb.mp3 No matter what you believe or what religious or non-religious background you have, each person must account for how Jesus, a nobody, became the world and life changing historical figure that he is. The Christian believes that he is the most important person to ever walk the earth. Unlike any other religious leader, Jesus made good on all of his promises and beat death. As a result the resurrection continues to reverberate throughout all of history. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Apr 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/resurrection-reverb/resurrection-reverb.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/15_end-of-the-matter/15_end-of-the-matter.mp3 As Solomon ends his journey to find the meaning if life he sums up the whole meaning of life - we are to worship God and live in obedience. Only Jesus gives us the power to live in obedience and the reconciliation we need to live a life that is glorifying to God. Jesus is our Lord who gives us all we need to have purpose in this life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Apr 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/15_end-of-the-matter/15_end-of-the-matter.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/14_remember-your-creator/14_remember-your-creator.mp3 In Ecclesiastes 11, Solomon is beginning to close his journey as he reflects on the strength of youth and the joys of old age. Through a beautiful poem, Solomon expresses how the human life begins to reach it's twilight. But even in those years, years that our culture tries to ignore, we can rejoice because this life is preparation for the life to come. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Apr 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/14_remember-your-creator/14_remember-your-creator.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/13_good-intentions/13_good-intentions.mp3 Even the best of intentions can lead us to a life lived in foolishness, derailing our good intentions, relationships, and our goals. Solomon defines what foolishness looks like and how the wise not only identify foolishness when they see it but strive after wisdom so that they can be all that God desires for them to be. Ultimately, every person born into this world will act foolish on a daily basis. That is why Jesus teaches us that wise men do not build their life around their own desires, works, and goals, but rather around the work of Jesus and God's goals for their life. The difference between wisdom and foolishness is the object of our faith. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Mar 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/13_good-intentions/13_good-intentions.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/12_live-like-youre-dying/12_live-like-youre-dying.mp3 Though God is sovereign life sometimes seems random and confusing. Additionally, it doesn't always seem fair. In the end, like a bunch of chess pieces after a game, everyone, no matter what their rank and role in life will end up in a box, or in an urn if you want to go that way. If our lives are going to bring glory to God we must live like we're dying. Solomon gives us incredibly practical advice on how we can enjoy life even in light of death. We have to live like we're dying to the glory of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Mar 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/12_live-like-youre-dying/12_live-like-youre-dying.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/11_walk-by-grace/11_walk-by-grace.mp3 There are times in our life when we can't make much sense of what is going on around us. Solomon demonstrates how we can live in light of things we don't understand by growing in grace. When we grow in grace we will grow in our trust of God's sovereignty and love for us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Mar 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/11_walk-by-grace/11_walk-by-grace.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/10_grace-makes-us-wise-ii/10_grace-makes-us-wise-ii.mp3 Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 is a series of wisdom sayings from King Solomon as he reflects on all that he has done and his all encompassing search for meaning under the sun. It's as if an old wise man is sitting down with the reader to share with them in a few sentences everything they know. What we learn is that grace makes us wiser. The human life is a journey either under the sun or with Jesus as Savior. With Jesus as Savior we walk with wisdom personified and Solomon tells us what life will look like when we are growing in grace. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Mar 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/10_grace-makes-us-wise-ii/10_grace-makes-us-wise-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/09_grace-makes-us-wise-i/09_grace-makes-us-wise-i.mp3 Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 is a series of wisdom sayings from King Solomon as he reflects on all that he has done and his all encompassing search for meaning under the sun. It's as if an old wise man is sitting down with the reader to share with them in a few sentences everything they know. What we learn is that grace makes us wiser. The human life is a journey either under the sun or with Jesus as Savior. With Jesus as Savior we walk with wisdom personified and Solomon tells us what life will look like when we are growing in grace. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Mar 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/09_grace-makes-us-wise-i/09_grace-makes-us-wise-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/08_your-best-life-never/08_your-best-life-never.mp3 Life without God is like a person on a treadmill. When we exercise on a treadmill we will often try to distract the monotony and meaninglessness of the treadmill by watching a movie, listening to music or turning on the TV. We try to distract ourselves so that we forget that we are on a treadmill that leads to nowhere. Solomon turns the TV off and removes the distractions of life to show us that the treadmill is actually in a room painted white and has no meaning - that is, when life is viewed under the sun alone. There is no amount of success, stuff, or pleasure that can bring meaning unless God's glory is our meaning in life. But Jesus tells us that when our idols are laid bare and we trust Him as Savior that everything matters. Only Jesus can rescue us from the meaninglessness of life without God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Feb 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/08_your-best-life-never/08_your-best-life-never.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/07_money-god/07_money-god.mp3 In this message, Pastor Dan preaches from Ecclesiastes 5:8-20 as Solomon considers the issue of power and wealth. Once again, Solomon demonstrates how loving something such as money or power is meaningless in that money can never satisfy us, save us, or have a meaning beyond death. However, when money is used to the glory of God, and Jesus is the source of our love rather than the acquisition of more stuff and money to maintain the stuff, everything changes. Solomon challenges the idol of money and wins. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Feb 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/07_money-god/07_money-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/06_desert-worship/06_desert-worship.mp3 There are times in our lives where we think we know the Scriptural answer to our issue, we know we need to trust God, we know that God has promised to never forsake us, and yet we feel like God is silent, the only voice we hear is our own, we don't trust God and we feel forsaken. How do we worship God when we disagree with God? Solomon has some answers for us in Ecclesiastes 5:1-7. In this sermon Pastor Dan preaches from Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 where we learn that while in a spiritual desert we must tread carefully, listen loudly, quiet down, and trust in the finished work of Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Feb 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/06_desert-worship/06_desert-worship.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/05_community/05_community.mp3 The world is broken. People are broken. Our motives are impure. We desperately need one another, we need community, as we navigate through trials, temptations and moments of faithlessness. Solomon knew the value of friendship and community and he expresses it here in the context of pain and suffering. Pastor Dan preaches on why community is necessary and how to go about building community within the church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Feb 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/05_community/05_community.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/04_what-happens-when-life-ends/04_what-happens-when-life-ends.mp3 What happens when we die? That is a big question that every human being longs to understand. No matter what your religious belief or lack of religious belief the answer to the question is one of faith because no one but Jesus has ever died and live to tell about it. In this sermon, Pastor Dan takes us on a journey through the Scriptures to show us how God has answered the question is even now calling you to have faith in Jesus so that you will know what happens when life ends. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Jan 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/04_what-happens-when-life-ends/04_what-happens-when-life-ends.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/03_a-time-for-everything/03_a-time-for-everything.mp3 We often take credit for the good things in life and blame God for the bad. But the Bible teaches that God is to be credited for joy and sorrow, laughter and tears, birth and death. He is sovereign over every aspect of life. God plays the notes of life both on the black keys and the white keys, making a divine symphony of sound for He makes all things beautiful in His time. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Jan 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/03_a-time-for-everything/03_a-time-for-everything.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/02_the-meaning-of-life/02_the-meaning-of-life.mp3 One of the biggest questions we ask is why we are here. In our most profound moments of thought we realize that there has to be meaning bigger than us. Solomon takes several journeys to find meaning and comes up empty on this side of the sun. In the end he realizes and the Bible teaches that Jesus gives new meaning to everything we do. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Jan 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/02_the-meaning-of-life/02_the-meaning-of-life.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/01_mad-motives/01_mad-motives.mp3 Every human being has been haunted by the question, "Why?" Why do bad things happen? Why do good people die? Why is there sadness? Why do people do stupid things? Why don't I feel like I have any purpose? Why is happiness so fleeting? Solomon, a man who had at it all asked the same question and did not come up short in his memoir, "Ecclesiastes." Pastor Dan begins our journey through this book as we take a look at the futility and frustration of the human existence when it is devoid of God's meaning, love, and salvation. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Jan 2014 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/ecclesiastes/01_mad-motives/01_mad-motives.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/03_god-promised/03_god-promised.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Dec 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/03_god-promised/03_god-promised.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/02_god-paid/02_god-paid.mp3 God paid for the miracle of Christmas. In fact, God paid with His life. The reason God paid for Christmas was so that we could have a relationship with Him by faith in Jesus Christ. Galatians tells us that when the time was right, God sent His Son Jesus to redeem us and to adopt us as sons. God paid the costly price of our sin so that we could in turn be given his righteousness. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Dec 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/02_god-paid/02_god-paid.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/01_god-planned/01_god-planned.mp3 Throughout the The Old Testament, God shows his plan for the miracle of Christmas. The miracle that God, who is perfectly righteous, would save those who cannot save themselves. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Dec 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/miracle/01_god-planned/01_god-planned.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/03_we-are-family/03_we-are-family.mp3 The church is the only organization that Jesus paid for with his life. There is no other institution like the Christian church. The Scriptures often liken the church to a family and uses familial names to describe one another. We are brothers and sisters in Christ. In this sermon Pastor Dan preaches from I Thessalonians 3 and Acts 16-17 in order to demonstrate how the church is a family that has been adopted by God the Father, paid for by Jesus Christ the Son, and is bound together in love by the power of the Holy Spirit. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Dec 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/03_we-are-family/03_we-are-family.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/02_give-like-god-gave/02_give-like-god-gave.mp3 God has given sacrificially, joyfully and generously to us. As a disciple of Jesus, we as God's children, give the way our Father gives - sacrificially, joyfully and generously. In 2 Corinthians, the Apostle Paul lays out a situation where the churches were called to give. From this situation, the modern day church learns what it means to give the way God has given. Many churches try to steer clear from talking about money but giving is one of the biggest blessings a church can take part in. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Dec 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/02_give-like-god-gave/02_give-like-god-gave.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/09_stepping-out/09_stepping-out.mp3 Jesus tells us to expect persecution as Christians. But he also promises great blessings for suffering in his name. As with all the Beatitudes, our ability to properly understand this is directly tied to our identity with Jesus. As his church, we can take hope in knowing that we are on a journey toward our great reward in heaven. Ultimate peace will one day be ours. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 24 Nov 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/09_stepping-out/09_stepping-out.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/08_radical-call-in-a-hostile-world/08_radical-call-in-a-hostile-world.mp3 Christians are called to be "chips off the ol' block." We are to emulate and imitate our Father. The fuel and drive to that makes Christians peacemakers is grounded in the Gospel of peace given to us by our peace-loving Father. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 17 Nov 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/08_radical-call-in-a-hostile-world/08_radical-call-in-a-hostile-world.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/01_built-on-mercy/01_built-on-mercy.mp3 In Romans 12, Paul says to the disciple of Jesus, "Therefore, in view of God's mercy, life a life of sacrifice." The word "Therefore" is a big word for the disciple. Paul does not begin this part of his letter without any connection to the previous 11 chapters that display the mercies of God in Christ. The word "therefore" connect living to learning, duty to doctrine, belief to behavior, and orthopraxy to orthodoxy. The disciple's life is built upon the objective truth that Jesus saves sinners by living a perfect life for them, dying the death they deserved, his resurrection from the grave, and his rule as King. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Nov 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/disciple/01_built-on-mercy/01_built-on-mercy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/07_clear-eyes/07_clear-eyes.mp3 In the Bible, the heart is the seat of the human identity. We are what our heart is. The heart is who we are and makes us do the things that we do. Who can see God? Only those with a pure heart. The problem is that the human heart is duplicitous and hypocritical. The solution is that Jesus did not come to clean up society, he came to change hearts. A changed heart will be undivided in it's loyalty to God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Nov 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/07_clear-eyes/07_clear-eyes.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/06_art-of-forgiveness/06_art-of-forgiveness.mp3 We are really big charity cases. Yet God, seeing us in our misery has given us what we do not deserve - mercy. God is extravagant in mercy. Jesus says that those who practice mercy will be given mercy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Oct 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/06_art-of-forgiveness/06_art-of-forgiveness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/05_appetite-for-righteousness/05_appetite-for-righteousness.mp3 What is it about our existence that brings us great satisfaction? Purpose. Whatever we believe is our purpose will be our source of righteousness. But self-righteousness will never be satisfied. We are born starving for purpose and righteousness. Jesus says that those who know they are starving for righteousness will be satisfied in him. Pursue Jesus and we will pursue a righteousness that satisfies. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Oct 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/05_appetite-for-righteousness/05_appetite-for-righteousness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/04_men-of-steel/04_men-of-steel.mp3 Meek is not weak. The meek inherit the earth. In the third beatitude Jesus describes a Christian as someone who has nothing to lose and nothing to defend and everything to gain in Him. The meek do not fear others because they have nothing to defend. The meek do not fear that they have done enough to bring God's pleasure because they know they have nothing to give. The meek have a deep strength that is only possible under grace. They know who they could have been without grace and paradoxically know who they are because of God's grace. The meek will inherit the earth. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Oct 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/04_men-of-steel/04_men-of-steel.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/03_all-your-tears/03_all-your-tears.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Oct 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/03_all-your-tears/03_all-your-tears.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/02_happy-rich-people/02_happy-rich-people.mp3 There are two kingdoms that compete for the heart of human beings - the Kingdom of Man and the Kingdom of God. These kingdoms are incompatible and yet religion tells us that to enter the Kingdom of God you must enter by man's way. We pursue happiness, wealth, success, and other things that make us happy. But Jesus tells us in just a few short words that we don't have what it takes in our kingdom. We need a new Kingdom. Those who know that they are spiritually bankrupt and helpless to be in a relationship with God without Jesus are the poor in spirit. Jesus calls the poor in spirit blessed because theirs is the Kingdom of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Sep 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/02_happy-rich-people/02_happy-rich-people.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/01_fortunate-sons/01_fortunate-sons.mp3 The Beatitudes are the greatest introduction to the greatest sermon ever preached by the greatest person to ever walk the earth. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus introduces us to his teaching by beginning with the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes are declarations of what the Christian is and what has been given to them. In just a few words, Jesus crucifies our effort to achieve real happiness on our own and shows us that it is only when we pursue him that we can have real happiness. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Sep 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-pursuit-of-happiness/01_fortunate-sons/01_fortunate-sons.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/03_the-blameless/03_the-blameless.mp3 Jude reminds the church that heresy and those who have fallen away should not come as a shock. The times we live in should not come as a shock. Where there is faithlessness there will be persecution and there will be those who do evil. This should not thwart us in our mission to preach the Gospel, in our love for others, our love for Christ or in our own salvation. Jesus has sealed our redemption. So we can go to war, dive into the lives of others without ever fearing that we will lose what Jesus has secured. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Sep 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/03_the-blameless/03_the-blameless.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/02_invisible-war/02_invisible-war.mp3 Jude tells the church that people in and out of the church are condemned. Even some who claim faith in Jesus are not really saved – their lives have no connection with what they say that they believe. This is motivation enough for the church to know what they believe, to be able to identify. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Sep 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/02_invisible-war/02_invisible-war.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/01_contending-for-jesus/01_contending-for-jesus.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Sep 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jude/01_contending-for-jesus/01_contending-for-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/the-power-to-say-no/the-power-to-say-no.mp3 Are you comfortable with your sin? If so, why? The Scriptures call us to holiness, but this call requires hard work. As Christians, we must understand that we've been given access to the full riches of the grace of God; riches that give us the power to say "no" to ungodliness. This process of turning from our sin toward God is called repentance, and it is something that should engage our mind, our heart, and our will. It is a full-orbed commitment to change that should be seen as a necessary part of our Christian life. In fact, it is the very fruit of genuine conversion. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 25 Aug 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/the-power-to-say-no/the-power-to-say-no.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/holiness-and-hope/holiness-and-hope.mp3 Peter calls the church to be holy: to live in a way that is distinctly Christian. However, before we can make progress in our practical holiness, we need to fully understand our positional holiness. Peter calls the church to start with setting their hope fully on future grace, and then to pursue radical holiness with vigor and passion. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 18 Aug 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/holiness-and-hope/holiness-and-hope.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/06_king/06_king.mp3 We need a prophet. We need a priest. We need a king. We need a prophet so that we can know what God wills and wants for us. We need a priest because we cannot approach God on our own due to our sinful nature. We need a king who has the authority and power to crush our enemies and protect us from evil. Jesus is the only prophet, priest and king that we will ever need. He has fulfilled and is fulfilling all of these roles perfectly in our place. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Aug 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/06_king/06_king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/05_revolution/05_revolution.mp3 The Psalm's are so beautiful because they contain the breath of God in the words of man. They are simple and Psalm 24 continues the simplicity so that our hearts can sing with the Psalmist these songs that are over a three millennia in age. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Aug 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/05_revolution/05_revolution.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/04_undefeated/04_undefeated.mp3 Where do you turn in times of trouble? We have been trained to call our counselors, our spouses, our kids, our parents or our teachers when we are up the creek. We have been taught to read the latest self‐help book rather than the Word of God. Others of us turn to drugs, alcohol, food, spending money, buying junk, or self-medicating with some other addiction. Our nature is to turn from trouble and steer into more trouble. But Jesus shows us what it means to turn to the Father when we are in trouble and to trust in Him through dangerous or grievous situations. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/04_undefeated/04_undefeated.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/03_deaths-shadow/03_deaths-shadow.mp3 The statement from which all of the other words flow in Psalm 23 can be found in the opening verse. These are earth‐shattering, life changing words. These words establish a relationship so grand, so holy, so incredible that the claims of the Psalmist must be true. He writes, "The Lord is my shepherd." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/03_deaths-shadow/03_deaths-shadow.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/02_man-on-a-cross/02_man-on-a-cross.mp3 The big question you must ask when reading Psalm 22 is simple – Did Jesus die for me? We can talk about his suffering and be moved by it. We can talk about his love and be encouraged by it. We can talk about his teaching, his healings, his sense of humor, and his wisdom and be wowed by it. But did Jesus die for you? That is a big question. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/02_man-on-a-cross/02_man-on-a-cross.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/01_the-plan/01_the-plan.mp3 Humanity continues to rage against God. The Church often looks past themselves and to the rebellion of the culture around them and gleefully looks for the day when the laughing God of heaven will destroy all the great sinners. We can't wait for God to rage against the machine of debauchery, rock n' roll, druggies, whores, opposing political parties, our next door neighbor's barking dog, and liberal theologians. We miss the point, the conviction of Scripture, and the words of the Holy Spirit. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Jul 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/psalms-greatest-hits-vol-1/01_the-plan/01_the-plan.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/16_free-to-make-much-about-jesus/16_free-to-make-much-about-jesus.mp3 Paul uses an illustration from nature to show us how the Christian life works. Whatever we sow, we will reap. This is as true in the Christian life as it is in nature. A farmer must sow in season in order to have a harvest season. If he plants corn, he will reap corn. If he plants wheat, he will reap wheat. If the farmer does not plant anything, he will not reap anything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Jun 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/16_free-to-make-much-about-jesus/16_free-to-make-much-about-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-amnesia/spiritual-amnesia.mp3 This sermon was preached by Jim Brown of Faith Presbyterian (http://www.faithwilmington.com) in Wilmington, DE. Jim Brown Jim Brown Sun, 23 Jun 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/spiritual-amnesia/spiritual-amnesia.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/15_freedom-in-friendship/15_freedom-in-friendship.mp3 Paul is dealing with two types of behavior: those who provoke and those who are envious. Those who provoke are those who look down on others. Those who are envious are those who feel inferior and look up toward others. Both provocative and envious people have one thing in common - they both want the glory for themselves. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/15_freedom-in-friendship/15_freedom-in-friendship.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/14_free-to-live-by-the-spirit/14_free-to-live-by-the-spirit.mp3 If you have been justified by faith and are free under the Gospel, then you will desire to keep in step with where the Holy Spirit leads you and desires to change you. We are to always be asking God what He wants from us and how we can become more like Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Jun 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/14_free-to-live-by-the-spirit/14_free-to-live-by-the-spirit.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/13_free-from-the-rules/13_free-from-the-rules.mp3 Since we have been set free in Jesus Christ, we can now live a life that reflects and enjoys that freedom. We are free from the rules as a way of salvation, but are also now free to obey out of our gratitude. And this is not a yoke of slavery. Obedience is the mark of a free man. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Jun 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/13_free-from-the-rules/13_free-from-the-rules.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/12_free-from-idols-ii/12_free-from-idols-ii.mp3 We often hear about the great religions of the world. Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism are often included together. In our pluralistic and idealistic culture we attempt to reconcile all the great religions together. They, according to the masses, are of equal significance and equal truth. Jesus didn't think so and neither did the Apostles. Remember, Paul began Galatians by cursing any and all other religions - even those that claim the name of Jesus, but do not preach the true Gospel of Jesus (e.g., Mormon, Jehovah Witness, Christian Scientist, etc). Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 26 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/12_free-from-idols-ii/12_free-from-idols-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/11_free-from-idols-i/11_free-from-idols-i.mp3 We often hear about the great religions of the world. Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism are often included together. In our pluralistic and idealistic culture we attempt to reconcile all the great religions together. They, according to the masses, are of equal significance and equal truth. Jesus didn't think so and neither did the Apostles. Remember, Paul began Galatians by cursing any and all other religions - even those that claim the name of Jesus, but do not preach the true Gospel of Jesus (e.g., Mormon, Jehovah Witness, Christian Scientist, etc). Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/11_free-from-idols-i/11_free-from-idols-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/10_sons-not-slaves/10_sons-not-slaves.mp3 It doesn't matter if you are male or female, Jew or Gentile, slave or free--you are a son of the Living God by faith in Jesus Christ alone. We have different names. We have 46 different backgrounds. We look different. We have different cultures and traditions. We have different theology. But under the one Gospel, we are one people, under one Father God, because of one Messiah. In the Christian faith we call this "sonship." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/10_sons-not-slaves/10_sons-not-slaves.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/09_free-to-listen-to-the-law/09_free-to-listen-to-the-law.mp3 Paul makes it clear that salvation does not depend on our performance. But the Law must play some role in the Christian's life. Some Christians view Law and Grace as two equal tracks that must be tread upon carefully. We must have one foot on the Law and one foot on grace. But Paul does not teach this. He says that we are justified by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/09_free-to-listen-to-the-law/09_free-to-listen-to-the-law.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/08_free-by-faith/08_free-by-faith.mp3 Paul is working against the tide of a works-faith based hybrid of Christianity. The Galatians had begun with faith in Jesus and were now depending on adherence and obedience to the Law for their salvation. This teaching had come from Judaizing Christians who did not believe that Jesus on the Cross was enough. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/08_free-by-faith/08_free-by-faith.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/07_free-to-remember/07_free-to-remember.mp3 There is a huge contrast between the Law and the Gospel. The Galatians had forgotten Jesus crucified and were now returning to that which damned them as a means of salvation. Christians must know the difference between the Law and the Gospel. They are not enemies, but they have different functions. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/07_free-to-remember/07_free-to-remember.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/06_free-to-live-free/06_free-to-live-free.mp3 In Galatians 2:15-21 Paul is speaking to those who had also been raised in the faith. He says, "we ourselves are Jews by birth." Paul is beginning to make the case that birth into a religious family does not save you, for he goes on to say that we have been justified by faith and not by works of the law. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/06_free-to-live-free/06_free-to-live-free.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/05_free-to-be-missional/05_free-to-be-missional.mp3 The Apostles probably did not fully understand the real world implications when they decided that circumcision and food laws were not to be added to the Gospel. It didn't take long to arrive at the truth, but it would take time to iron out the details in the real world. It didn't take long for Peter to flip flop. It's what Peter did well. He also repented well. Although Peter knew that nothing was to be added to the Gospel, he still did not live out his theological convictions. Peter agreed with the decision to not force Jewish tradition on Gentiles and yet he continually followed the rules which became a problem for the church in Galatia. Consequently, Paul and Peter were in a battle. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/05_free-to-be-missional/05_free-to-be-missional.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2013/easter-2013.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 31 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2013/easter-2013.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/04_free-to-add-nothing/04_free-to-add-nothing.mp3 Imagine the setting. All of the greatest players are in the room. They have all the authority to make things happens. It is do or die time. A conflict has arisen and this group of people has been asked to bring a resolution. Whatever they decide will set the tone for billions of people until the end of time. What could cause such a commotion? What could bring so much intensity to one room? Circumcision. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/04_free-to-add-nothing/04_free-to-add-nothing.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/03_free-from-my-former-life/03_free-from-my-former-life.mp3 We don't often see what God is doing through someone until the whole plan unfolds. Paul was one of those guys. Before he met Jesus on the road to Damascus, Paul, then called Saul, was on his way to destroying the church and crushing the Gospel--or so he thought. The church must have wondered what God was up to every time Saul showed up in their town to wreak havoc. This man was relentless. And yet, in the end, God used Paul to change the world. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/03_free-from-my-former-life/03_free-from-my-former-life.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/02_free-only-under-the-gospel/02_free-only-under-the-gospel.mp3 When we add even a small addition to the Gospel we have no Gospel at all. This is what Paul is saying in the first verses of Galatians. We are free to follow Jesus and Jesus alone. We can't add good works, self-righteousness, traditions, churchianity, Christianese, or even our brand of doctrine to the Gospel. The Gospel is the Gospel all by itself. It doesn't need our help to improve upon it. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/02_free-only-under-the-gospel/02_free-only-under-the-gospel.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/01_free-to-follow-jesus/01_free-to-follow-jesus.mp3 Have you ever heard of a person who made a complete turnaround in their life? Maybe you were shocked by the turnaround because this person seemed like a lost cause? Paul was that man. He was once called Saul and he made it his mission in life to kill Christians and crush the advancing Gospel of Jesus. That is, until Jesus met him on a road and told him otherwise. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/live-free-or-die-trying/01_free-to-follow-jesus/01_free-to-follow-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/04_doubt-about-tomorrow/04_doubt-about-tomorrow.mp3 What are your worries about tomorrow? What is on the agenda? What is bothering you? W hat gives you great concern? Is it your job? Your kids? Your lack of a spouse? The spouse that you have? Money? Success? What gives you great consternation? What seeds of doubt have been planted concerning the future. God makes promises about the future in the Bible. He tells us that there will be good times, bad times, and that ultimately, He will win, Jesus will rule, and we will be made like Jesus. It is a pretty great future when you think about it for a minute. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/04_doubt-about-tomorrow/04_doubt-about-tomorrow.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/03_doubt-in-assurance/03_doubt-in-assurance.mp3 The doctrine of assurance is so important to the lives of Christians because it gets at the heart of the nature of salvation and of God's character. Our war with sin has been won already, but in the battles left to fight until we're glorified, Christians often get discouraged. One of the most unfortunate and darkest ends of this discouragement is when one believes that they are no longer under the grace that saved them in the first place. This is a horrible predicament, because they are left in a position where they still believe in the existence of God and his justice, but now feel they are under his judgment. This obviously can be completely debilitating in every area of life. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/03_doubt-in-assurance/03_doubt-in-assurance.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/02_doubt-in-suffering/02_doubt-in-suffering.mp3 There is perhaps no more fertile soil for seeds of doubt than suffering. Suffering can produce feelings of animosity toward God, feelings of isolation, or perhaps a full-out denial of God. Psalm 46:1 says that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." This is true, and should bring us assurance. But the working out of this truth is hard, because we are temporal people who live our lives one day at a time. God's purposes in suffering usually take time (sometimes a very long time) to be revealed, and sometimes it never is fully. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/02_doubt-in-suffering/02_doubt-in-suffering.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/01_doubt-defined/01_doubt-defined.mp3 Is doubt the enemy of faith? Is it a sin to doubt? Can doubt be a good thing? Is it okay for a Christian to doubt? Doubt can destroy us or it can lead us to deeper knowledge of God. Doubt can be the cause of anxiety or reliance on Jesus. To be sure, every human being that has ever walked the face of the earth has struggled through doubt, but Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith gives us good reason to lean into Him when we doubt. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/seeds-of-doubt/01_doubt-defined/01_doubt-defined.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/04_getting-to-know-god/04_getting-to-know-god.mp3 If we want to do something well in life we have to discipline ourselves in order to become accomplished. Many in the church today have steered clear of devotions, prayer, and the spiritual disciplines. The reasons are many and varied. Yet the Scriptures make it very clear that in order to know God more we have to draw near to Him in prayer, worship, the Scriptures—we need to be disciplined. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/04_getting-to-know-god/04_getting-to-know-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/03_god-is-part-2/03_god-is-part-2.mp3 Many of us have questions about the character and nature of God. Questions like "why does God allow evil to happen?", "does God know everything?", and "does God hear me?" all point to a deeper question of "what is God, what is he like, and how can I really know him?" The Bible addresses these questions and confronts us with Jesus' claims about how we can know God and be in relationship with him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/03_god-is-part-2/03_god-is-part-2.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/02_god-is-part-1/02_god-is-part-1.mp3 Many of us have questions about the character and nature of God. Questions like "why does God allow evil to happen?", "does God know everything?", and "does God hear me?" all point to a deeper question of "what is God, what is he like, and how can I really know him?" The Bible addresses these questions and confronts us with Jesus' claims about how we can know God and be in relationship with him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/02_god-is-part-1/02_god-is-part-1.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/01_god-vs-science/01_god-vs-science.mp3 We live in a terrific and fascinating age of science. We make new discoveries every day that effect our lives and how we look at the world. It is no secret that the Church has often clashed with science, especially when a scientific discovery seemed to conflict with the church's agenda, power over government, or influence over people. Even the brightest theologians have often made fools of themselves when confronted with scientific discovery. We will take a look at how God is the God of science and how all truth allows us to understand God more deeply and intimately. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/sermons-from-the-congregation/01_god-vs-science/01_god-vs-science.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/04_when-suffering-leads-to-joy/04_when-suffering-leads-to-joy.mp3 This sermon was preached by Tom Harr from Faith Presbyterian Church (http://www.faithwilmington.com) about how our sufferings as Christians lead to joy because of the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. Tom Harr Tom Harr Sun, 30 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/04_when-suffering-leads-to-joy/04_when-suffering-leads-to-joy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/03_prepared-for-jesus/03_prepared-for-jesus.mp3 We spend so much time, money and resources on getting ready for Christmas. Most of us, by December 25th are ready for the big show. You are ready for Christmas but are you prepared for Christ? Christmas is a time of year when we can remember the birth of Christ but also look forward to his return. It's great to spend time with family and preparing for a special day of presents, family time and memories. But is your life spent preparing for the return of the Savior? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/03_prepared-for-jesus/03_prepared-for-jesus.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/02_reason-for-joy/02_reason-for-joy.mp3 We were in a bad situation and Jesus was born to change the situation. We were in debt, lost, dead, orphaned and condemned and yet Jesus came to earth to become our Lord and change the situation. There were reasons why Jesus came and reasons why calling him Lord changes everything. Joy has dawned! Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/02_reason-for-joy/02_reason-for-joy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/01_meaning-of-joy/01_meaning-of-joy.mp3 Our culture says that fear and anxiety are as much an inevitable part of the human experience as birth and death and are to be accepted. Yet when the angels appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of a Savior they commanded the men to "fear not". Why? Because Jesus brings the world great joy which crushes fear and anxiety. When we know who is in the manger and we look upon the face of Christ all of our fear must turn to joy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/joy-has-dawned/01_meaning-of-joy/01_meaning-of-joy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/46_the-exaltation/46_the-exaltation.mp3 Jesus defeated the grave and rose again. We hear the story every Easter. We gather to remember it every Sunday. The women in the text had forgotten the promise of Jesus that he would rise on the third day. That is the reason that they are afraid when they find the stone rolled away. We also forget. Despite the holiday and the church gatherings and the reminders we have in our lives, we forget that Jesus is alive. That is why we need to be reminded. In the New Testament, Paul often writes to churches to "remind" them of things they have already heard (1 Cor 15:1). As disciples, we are forgetful. Therefore, we must be reminded of the gospel frequently. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/46_the-exaltation/46_the-exaltation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/45_the-kings-humiliation/45_the-kings-humiliation.mp3 Oh, the irony. Puny men are trying to pass judgment on the God who judges the world. Men are flocking to bear false witness against the God who commanded not to bear false witness. The chief priest is accusing the God in whose Temple he serves of blasphemy. This is a picture of how blind we can become. Do we get so caught up in religiosity that we can't see God standing right in front of us? It seems to be getting darker and darker as we read these verses. If it weren't for Jesus' predictions about his own death, these events would come as a complete shock. Mark has spent the majority of the book persuading us of Jesus' identity. Mark has shown us Jesus' kingship, Lordship, and leadership. But now the King must die in order to give his life as a ransom for many. Jesus' humiliation gets worse and worse. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/45_the-kings-humiliation/45_the-kings-humiliation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/44_the-sword-and-the-cross/44_the-sword-and-the-cross.mp3 The murder of Jesus was not a just event. His accusers show up in the middle of the night to arrest him. Jesus proposes a wise question: "Have you come out as against a robber with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me" (vv. 48-49). These men did not have the courage to arrest Jesus in the day; they waited until no one else was around so that the darkness might hide their deeds. They also brought excessive weapons to arrest Jesus; maybe they remember him overturning the tables in the Temple and don't think their manpower would be enough to restrain him. Either way, their actions are cowardly. These events feel more like a city mugging or a schoolyard brawl than an arrest. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/44_the-sword-and-the-cross/44_the-sword-and-the-cross.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/43_the-kings-cup/43_the-kings-cup.mp3 The road to the cross is a difficult one. Sometimes, we can get so caught up with Jesus' divinity that we forget his humanity. In this passage, all the events that have been predicted numerous times are now starting to take place. Jesus knows that his friends are not going to be steadfast in his time of trial. Jesus knows that his friends are going to make bold promises about their loyalty to him and pathetically under-deliver. Jesus knows that he will have to endure hell in the next hours at the hands of Gentile dogs, religious hypocrites and his own disciple. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/43_the-kings-cup/43_the-kings-cup.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/42_of-the-lords-supper/42_of-the-lords-supper.mp3 Every week at Stone's Throw, we break off a piece of bread (trying not to pick the spot that results in you taking half of the loaf for yourself) and dunk it in some grape juice (trying to make sure you aren't the guy whose finger touches the juice, disrupting the holiness of the event for everyone in line). In this passage, we see the introduction of that practice. In the parallel account in Luke 22, we see Jesus command us to do this when we gather in remembrance of him. When we take communion each Sunday, the truths of this passage should enter our minds as we remember Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/42_of-the-lords-supper/42_of-the-lords-supper.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/41_the-legacy-of-the-cross/41_the-legacy-of-the-cross.mp3 In this scene, a woman interrupts a dinner party. She breaks an expensive bottle of ointment open and anoints Jesus. A denarii was the average daily wage during Jesus' time period, so 300 denarii is in the neighborhood of the average yearly wage for a Palestinian. We can understand why some disciples are upset that this bottle is being "wasted" on Jesus. Their argument makes sense; imagine how much good you could do for the poor if you had a year's worth of salary to spare. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/41_the-legacy-of-the-cross/41_the-legacy-of-the-cross.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/40_the-end-is-not-yet/40_the-end-is-not-yet.mp3 In theological circles, eschatology is known as "the study of last things." One thing I think we can all agree on is that eschatology can get very, very weird. The study of the end times can get very muddy between some terrifying biblical imagery, some whack-job pastors making gloom and doom predictions, hilariously bad Christian movies and books that are written for entertainment. This next section of Scripture is called the Olivet Discourse; that is because Jesus and his disciples are sitting on top of a mountain overlooking the temple. There are hundreds of interpretations of these upcoming verses, but the central truth is that Jesus is the omniscient, omnipotent God who knows and controls all the events of history. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/40_the-end-is-not-yet/40_the-end-is-not-yet.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/big-tent-celebration-2012/big-tent-celebration-2012.mp3 God is faithful and He has made His church fruitful. He is changing people and saving people. We celebrate what God is doing in our midst and what better way than under a Big Tent! Complete with outdoor worship, a baptismal tank, BBQ, and moon bounces! Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/big-tent-celebration-2012/big-tent-celebration-2012.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/39_deadly-marks-of-the-church/39_deadly-marks-of-the-church.mp3 Who is the most spiritual person you know? If you asked that question to a Jew in Jesus' day, they probably would have pointed to a scribe or a Pharisee. The most religious people memorized large chunks of the Bible, could pray for an hour out loud and sat in the front of the church. We do the same thing today; our religious hero can school any atheist in apologetics, give tons of money to orphans, wear a face microphone and carry a heavy study Bible. But our hero can perform all these tasks and still be spiritually dead. Jesus breaks down these misconceptions. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/39_deadly-marks-of-the-church/39_deadly-marks-of-the-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/38_jesus-fulfilled-the-law/38_jesus-fulfilled-the-law.mp3 Jesus is a master at knowing how to respond to questions based on who he is talking to. He is a good listener. Sometimes, he chooses to not answer (11:33); elsewhere, he blatantly corrects (12:27). In this situation, he answers directly and encourages a teachable scribe. The question asked in this passage concerns the heart of the Laws of God. The answer is known as the Shema (meaning "listen" from Deuteronomy 6). It boils down to "love God with everything and love others." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/38_jesus-fulfilled-the-law/38_jesus-fulfilled-the-law.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/37_greater-expectations/37_greater-expectations.mp3 Through his three year ministry, Jesus had made a lot of enemies. In this passage, yet another group is revealed to have quarrels with Jesus' teaching: the Sadducees. They rejected the teaching of resurrection and believed that the soul and body perish at death. However, Jesus has taught multiple times about the resurrection at the final day, and about his own resurrection following his brutal death. The Sadducees try to use the Tanakh (The Law, the prophets and Writings) to disprove the resurrection. Jesus' response is quite simple: "you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God" (v. 24). What a crazy claim! Jesus just told the guys that had memorized more scripture than most of our local congregations put together that they don't know the Bible! Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/37_greater-expectations/37_greater-expectations.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/36_hypocrisy/36_hypocrisy.mp3 Jesus' enemies are swarming around him just as he had predicted on three previous occasions. The shadow of the cross is looming large over his ministry. Over the next few sections of Mark, we see the Pharisees, the Herodians, the Sadducees, and the scribes all aligning together to oppose Jesus. These groups are not friends with one another, but they are embracing the saying that, "your enemy's enemy is your friend." They have a common interest in the death of Jesus. By killing him, they believe their institution, religion and way of doing things will be left alone. For his enemies, Jesus is simply a nuisance rather than the Son of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/36_hypocrisy/36_hypocrisy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/35_the-kings-authority/35_the-kings-authority.mp3 "The characteristic of Jesus that left the most lasting impression on his followers and caused the greatest offense to his opponents was his exousia, his sovereign freedom and magisterial authority." Jesus has walked into the religious institution of the day and challenged the leaders and people directly. He has disrupted hundreds of years of tradition and has claimed to do so by God's authority. The leader of the religious wants to know where Jesus gets off telling them what to do. They respond to his disruption quickly and eventually decisively -- at least for the time being. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/35_the-kings-authority/35_the-kings-authority.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/34_the-cross-is-no-religion/34_the-cross-is-no-religion.mp3 Most of us think of teaching as verbally explaining truths. Sometimes that is the case, but Jesus takes two different tactics to convey truths to those around him. First, in this passage he uses the metaphor of the fig tree. The people of God are called to bear fruit; Jesus rebukes a tree for not bearing fruit and curses it. This is a metaphor for Israel and the temple-- it isn't bearing fruit as it is called, and therefore, Jesus rebukes it. This will culminate in the destruction of the temple and fall of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/34_the-cross-is-no-religion/34_the-cross-is-no-religion.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/33_the-king-embraces-the-cross/33_the-king-embraces-the-cross.mp3 It is finally here. Jesus has been traveling towards Jerusalem since chapter eight, and now he makes his entrance. The rest of the book (approximately 38% of it) will be dedicated to the final week of the mission. Mark wants us to know where the focus of Jesus' ministry lies. In this section, Jesus rides into town proclaiming his kingship. Riding on a humble donkey is fulfillment of prophecy concerning the coming king in Zechariah 9:9. "Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/33_the-king-embraces-the-cross/33_the-king-embraces-the-cross.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/32_the-new-journey/32_the-new-journey.mp3 In this passage, Jesus is in Jericho, which is about 15-20 miles from Jerusalem. This healing is the last one recorded in this gospel and the final event in Mark before Jesus enters the city; that means in just over a week, Jesus will change the world by his death and resurrection. Additionally, this timing means that that the Jewish holiday of Passover is right around the corner. You can imagine that the roads are probably packed with people making their way to Jerusalem to worship. In addition to the pilgrims, there is a man named Bartimaeus who will stop at nothing to be healed. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/32_the-new-journey/32_the-new-journey.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/31_the-ransom/31_the-ransom.mp3 Repetition is a way of showing importance. Most likely, the things that you say over and over to your kids are the things you are most zealous about. For the third time, Jesus declares his purpose: to go to Jerusalem and be killed. And this time, he goes into further detail than before; he will be mocked, spit upon, flogged and killed. But he never forgets to leave out the fact that after three days, he will rise. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 12 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/31_the-ransom/31_the-ransom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/30_the-cross-of-wealth/30_the-cross-of-wealth.mp3 We all at some point ask what we must do to inherit eternal life. The big idea is this: we can't. It is only what Jesus has done that grants eternal life. Jesus calls us to place our faith in him and in him alone. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Aug 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/30_the-cross-of-wealth/30_the-cross-of-wealth.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/29_give-them-grace-ii/29_give-them-grace-ii.mp3 Children are gifts from our Father above and they are also pictures of how we approach him. Jesus loved children. We are likewise called to love children, and not just our own. At Stone's Throw, we value kids because Jesus values them. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/29_give-them-grace-ii/29_give-them-grace-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/28_give-them-grace-i/28_give-them-grace-i.mp3 Children are gifts from our Father above and they are also pictures of how we approach him. Jesus loved children. We are likewise called to love children, and not just our own. At Stone's Throw, we value kids because Jesus values them. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/28_give-them-grace-i/28_give-them-grace-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/27_the-cross-rescues/27_the-cross-rescues.mp3 Our dreams, pursuits, goals, actions, objectives, thoughts, plans, indeed our whole lives, are spent centered on seeking happiness. Jesus tells us that unless we are willing to cut off all things that cause sin, we will not experience true happiness with him forever. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/27_the-cross-rescues/27_the-cross-rescues.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/26_humility-in-the-coming-darkness/26_humility-in-the-coming-darkness.mp3 Our natural inclination in all things is to be the best, but the Kingdom of God has no room for those seeking their own glory. Those who would follow Jesus must come humbly, like a little child, because Jesus was the epitome of humility. He became last and was a servant to all. Likewise, we must take up our cross in a similar way and follow him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/26_humility-in-the-coming-darkness/26_humility-in-the-coming-darkness.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/25_the-cross-forgives-the-faithless/25_the-cross-forgives-the-faithless.mp3 "I believe; help my unbelief!" Have you ever felt this way? The answer should be "yes." Fortunately, we can place our weak faith in the one who loves the weak. Jesus' love isn't dependent on our current level of faith, and we err when we make faith itself the object of our faith. It's all about what Jesus has done for us. Tyler Brown Tyler Brown Sun, 01 Jul 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/25_the-cross-forgives-the-faithless/25_the-cross-forgives-the-faithless.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/24_glory-of-the-king/24_glory-of-the-king.mp3 Peter, James, and John experience the incredible transfiguration of Jesus, seeing him in a way they had not seen before. This presentation of Christ terrifies them and moves them deeply. What is our response? Without Jesus, God's glory would destroy us because of our sin. But Jesus stands in the gap for us. So this should lead us to worship him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/24_glory-of-the-king/24_glory-of-the-king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/23_the-tide-turns/23_the-tide-turns.mp3 Jesus has now been recognized as the long-awaited Messiah, the Savior, by his disciples. From this point forward Jesus begins pronouncing the suffering he must endure on the cross. He also teaches that any who would call themselves his disciple will also suffer for the sake of the Gospel. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/23_the-tide-turns/23_the-tide-turns.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/22_a-warning/22_a-warning.mp3 Jesus defines Jesus. The Pharisees tried to manipulate Jesus and we still do today. We attempt to shape who he was, what he came to do, why it mattered, etc. But we must be careful, because adding to or changing the Gospel will ruin our faith. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/22_a-warning/22_a-warning.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/21_the-kings-table/21_the-kings-table.mp3 The Gospel of Jesus is for all men everywhere to hear and to respond. Works of the Law will merit us nothing; salvation is through the grace of God alone. This means that everyone is welcome at the King's table, regardless of their past and in spite of their efforts to earn God's favor. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/21_the-kings-table/21_the-kings-table.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/20_the-king-came-to-clean-the-stain/20_the-king-came-to-clean-the-stain.mp3 The stain of our depravity cannot be removed by anything other than the blood of Jesus. When we come to Jesus he takes our sin-stained rags and gives us his righteous robes. This happens at the Cross. The Gospel cleanses. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 May 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/20_the-king-came-to-clean-the-stain/20_the-king-came-to-clean-the-stain.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/19_two-different-kings/19_two-different-kings.mp3 Jesus Christ is not like other kings. He doesn't simply pursue the creation of monuments to himself, built on the backs of his people. Rather, he shepherds them and gives them rest that cannot be experienced outside of him. He is a servant king. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 May 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/19_two-different-kings/19_two-different-kings.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2012/easter-2012.mp3 Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2012/easter-2012.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/he-died-your-death-2012/he-died-your-death-2012.mp3 Jesus Christ paid the penalty for our sins and died our death so that we could be acceptable to God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/he-died-your-death-2012/he-died-your-death-2012.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/18_the-kings-heralds/18_the-kings-heralds.mp3 Following Jesus will require much of you. But you also get to live out a life of purpose, on mission for the King! We too often look at Christianity as a miserable path that must be taken to avoid hell. On the contrary, we have been called to an urgent, God-glorifying existence. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 26 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/18_the-kings-heralds/18_the-kings-heralds.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/17_little-girl-rise/17_little-girl-rise.mp3 Not even death could conquer Jesus, and he ensures that death will not have victory over his children either. While the timing of God will often not make sense to us, we can trust him, knowing that he has all the facts. He will always be faithful, even in the midst of tragedy. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/17_little-girl-rise/17_little-girl-rise.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/16_the-king-over-demons/16_the-king-over-demons.mp3 Demons and spiritual battles are a reality, but so is the fact that Jesus is the King who rules over them. We err by not understanding Christ's power, but we also err by placing the responsibility for our sin on the devil. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/16_the-king-over-demons/16_the-king-over-demons.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/15_the-kings-command/15_the-kings-command.mp3 Jesus is not a chump or a pansy. He is the Lord of all the earth and there is nothing beyond him. Storms are vicious, huge, intense, and scary, and Jesus can dismantle them with a word. We don't serve a king with a bigger bark than bite. Jesus is the real deal. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/15_the-kings-command/15_the-kings-command.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/14_hidden-growing-explosive-kingdom/14_hidden-growing-explosive-kingdom.mp3 Jesus gives us a lot of insight on the nature of the kingdom of God. We are part of the kingdom, responsible to be ambassadors of the King. This means we must understand the context in which God is operating. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/14_hidden-growing-explosive-kingdom/14_hidden-growing-explosive-kingdom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/13_the-king-tells-stories/13_the-king-tells-stories.mp3 Jesus spoke in parables often. These stories are literary devices using hyperbole, metaphor, simile, and the like to impart various truths. The particular parable in this passage helps us understand how God works in the hearts of men, and our role in proclaiming the Gospel message. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/13_the-king-tells-stories/13_the-king-tells-stories.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/12_the-king-liar-lunatic-or-lord/12_the-king-liar-lunatic-or-lord.mp3 No one has made a mark (no pun intended) on history like Jesus Christ. He is the most polarizing figure who has ever lived. Of all the things we think about him, know about him, or say about him, it comes down to three options: He is either a deceiver, a crazy-man, or the God of all creation. What say you?? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/12_the-king-liar-lunatic-or-lord/12_the-king-liar-lunatic-or-lord.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/11_close-to-the-king/11_close-to-the-king.mp3 Jesus was being heavily pursued by the masses of many regions because his fame had spread, but he only called some. There was no intrinsic reason why the apostles deserved to be so near to him. It was by grace alone that Jesus sought them and sent them. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/11_close-to-the-king/11_close-to-the-king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/ambassadors/ambassadors.mp3 This sermon was preached by Michael Shannon on 2 Corinthians 5. Michael Shannon Michael Shannon Sun, 01 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/ambassadors/ambassadors.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-christmas-guarantee-2011/a-christmas-guarantee-2011.mp3 Christmas makes certain promises certain (Christmas Eve service). Dan Betters Dan Betters Sat, 24 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-christmas-guarantee-2011/a-christmas-guarantee-2011.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-new-and-better-wine/a-new-and-better-wine.mp3 This sermon was preached by Jim Weaver from Crossroads Presbyterian Church (http://www.crossroadsfamily.com) on John 2. Jim Weaver Jim Weaver Sun, 18 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/a-new-and-better-wine/a-new-and-better-wine.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/03_god-brings-peace/03_god-brings-peace.mp3 God appears to shepherds in Luke 2 and tells them to "fear not". The peace that Jesus brings is the antonym of fear allowing us to experience true joy in the face of a world that identifies so readily with fear. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/03_god-brings-peace/03_god-brings-peace.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/02_god-with-us/02_god-with-us.mp3 In Matthew 1, Joseph, the adoptive father of Jesus has just heard the news that his future wife, Mary, is pregnant. Joseph is deciding how he can exit the scene quietly when an angel appears to him with a message. In this passage we find out exactly why the love of God casts out all fear--he is with us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/02_god-with-us/02_god-with-us.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/01_god-listens/01_god-listens.mp3 Sometimes we fear that God is not listening, involved, or cares. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/fear-not/01_god-listens/01_god-listens.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/10_rest-in-the-king/10_rest-in-the-king.mp3 God has graciously given us a time to rest, based on the pattern of his own work in creation. We are to seek full enjoyment of God and His people on the Sabbath, not use it as a rod to beat people with restrictions. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/10_rest-in-the-king/10_rest-in-the-king.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/09_the-kings-new-era/09_the-kings-new-era.mp3 The Gospel is good news! Right?? Jesus has come to bring us freedom and new life, and he is working for us right now. We no longer have to keep the Law to earn the favor of God. He has sent the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom, comfort, and understanding. This is new stuff, and it's good stuff! Isn't it?? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/09_the-kings-new-era/09_the-kings-new-era.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/08_the-kings-court/08_the-kings-court.mp3 We cannot make the mistake of thinking the church is a collection of people who have been cleaned up and all think alike. The church is to be a place where grateful people come for healing and accept those who seek similar healing. We aren't as good as we think we are. That's where Jesus comes in. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/08_the-kings-court/08_the-kings-court.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/07_the-king-heals/07_the-king-heals.mp3 The Gospel brings healing big time. Our sick souls are mended and our broken relationship with God is restored. The Gospel also promises to bring physical renewal to the world and our bodies when Christ returns. In a similar way, the church is to go forth and bring the healing of Jesus in both word and deed. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/07_the-king-heals/07_the-king-heals.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/06_the-king-causes-commotion/06_the-king-causes-commotion.mp3 Jesus was making big waves by challenging the burden of the Law. His compassion and mercy trumped the traditions of the day, which failed to fulfill the heart of the Law. Jesus demonstrated a great truth about the character of God even as he created commotion. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/06_the-king-causes-commotion/06_the-king-causes-commotion.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/suffering-stewardship-and-strength/suffering-stewardship-and-strength.mp3 This sermon was preached by Steve Hartland from Trinity Church (http://www.trinitymd.org) on Colossians 1. Steve Hartland Steve Hartland Sun, 16 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/suffering-stewardship-and-strength/suffering-stewardship-and-strength.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/05_the-famous-one/05_the-famous-one.mp3 Jesus was becoming well known in the region. The demons knew him and those who needed healing knew him. As Christians, we are attached to the most famous person who ever lived, who was also God incarnate. We should make much about him. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 09 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/05_the-famous-one/05_the-famous-one.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/04_the-kings-invitation/04_the-kings-invitation.mp3 The calling of a Christian is one of invitation, not force. Jesus calls us to follow him toward work here on earth and eternal life to come. But He doesn't leave us to our own devices. He is the source of our strength and the perfect model for a life of holiness. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Oct 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/04_the-kings-invitation/04_the-kings-invitation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/03_the-king-brings-the-kingdom/03_the-king-brings-the-kingdom.mp3 The kingdom of God is a kingdom of repentance from our sins towards an allegiance with the King. Jesus inaugurated it and it continues to advance this very day. The church is an agent in this kingdom, and we are charged with bringing forth the Gospel to all people. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/03_the-king-brings-the-kingdom/03_the-king-brings-the-kingdom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/02_the-king-battles/02_the-king-battles.mp3 Our God is not detached from the pain and struggles of the world. In being fully man, he endured real trials and temptation. He is also a warrior-king who fought for his people, continues to intercede for them, and will one day return to finally put away all of His foes. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/02_the-king-battles/02_the-king-battles.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/01_the-gospel-appears-in-person/01_the-gospel-appears-in-person.mp3 Jesus was the promised remedy for the curse laid on mankind from Genesis 3. After generations upon generations, Mark announces that the Messiah has come. The "good news" is here, dwelling among us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/mark/01_the-gospel-appears-in-person/01_the-gospel-appears-in-person.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/05_the-great-love-story/05_the-great-love-story.mp3 The main character in the book of Ruth is God. This story is included in the canon to show us how theline of David would be preserved and ultimately lead to the birth of Jesus. The mundane details are never mundane in the life of a believer. Ruth was simply looking to make a living for herself and Naomi when she met Boaz. They would be the great grandparents of the greatest king to rule over Israel. The lives of believers are never mundane. Our story is part of God's greater redemptive story. We all have a part. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/05_the-great-love-story/05_the-great-love-story.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/04_ruths-gamble/04_ruths-gamble.mp3 Naomi sees what is going on. She sees that there is an opportunity for Ruth's situation and her own situation to change. She also sees the budding romance between Boaz and Ruth. In essence, she instructs Ruth to go for it and offer herself to Boaz. She wants Ruth to make a move. Ruth risks her relationship with Boaz and sneaks in to his room while he is sleeping. She lays out her intentions for marriage in a daring move. Boaz could have taken advantage of Ruth but instead answers her graciously and lovingly. He reflects the character of God as his broken people come to him for a relationship. Jesus calls the weary and broken and sinful to himself. He offers to carry the burden and to be the remedy. Jesus asks us to risk everything and trust him. He asks us to take a gamble. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/04_ruths-gamble/04_ruths-gamble.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/03_generous-god-generous-children/03_generous-god-generous-children.mp3 As the story moves along we see the generosity of Boaz. He has great compassion on Ruth and Naomi. He is a godly man who reflects the character of God in his life and mission. Because God has been generous to Boaz, Boaz is generous to Ruth and Naomi. God uses his people to meet the needs of his people. Worshippers of a generous God will be generous to others. God has been generous to us in giving us his only son Jesus to cover over a multitude of sin. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/03_generous-god-generous-children/03_generous-god-generous-children.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/02_hope-rising/02_hope-rising.mp3 When all seems lost along comes Boaz. Boaz is the perfect man for Ruth and yet somehow, in her suffering, Naomi had not realized there was still hope in Bethlehem. In this sermon we will meet Boaz and begin to see the love story unfold. God is sovereign over the details of our lives. Naomi and Ruth have resigned themselves to live out their lives in hopelessness when along comes Boaz. Our lives were hopeless until along came Jesus our Redeemer. Each of the details of our lives brought us to realize our need for a Savior and that Jesus is our only Redeemer. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/02_hope-rising/02_hope-rising.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/01_the-crucible-of-sanctification/01_the-crucible-of-sanctification.mp3 Ruth opens with great suffering in the midst of great national suffering. Bethlehem is starving, the people of Israel are doing whatever is right in their own eyes. Naomi and Ruth lose everyone that is close to them and there seems to be no hope at all. It is so bad that Naomi changes her name to "bitter." When we are suffering we, like so many before us, will wonder about the sovereignty and goodness of God. The story of Ruth demonstrates to us that God is both good and sovereign even in our affliction. God uses the suffering of his people to sanctify them and make them more like Jesus while working out his good and perfect will in the world. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 31 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/redemption-rising/01_the-crucible-of-sanctification/01_the-crucible-of-sanctification.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/04_qa/04_qa.mp3 A Q&A session of questions submitted by the congregation during The Steward series. Pastor Dan Betters & Scott Winchester Pastor Dan Betters & Scott Winchester Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/04_qa/04_qa.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/03_talent/03_talent.mp3 Time. Treasure. Talent. These are resources that God has given to us to be stewards. We either worship our resources or we worship God with resources. Jesus says that there is no in between ground to stand on. Money is either God or gift. Time is either a slave master or a tool. Talents are either a prison or emancipation to serve and glorify Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/03_talent/03_talent.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/02_treasure/02_treasure.mp3 Time. Treasure. Talent. These are resources that God has given to us to be stewards. We either worship our resources or we worship God with resources. Jesus says that there is no in between ground to stand on. Money is either God or gift. Time is either a slave master or a tool. Talents are either a prison or emancipation to serve and glorify Jesus. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 17 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/02_treasure/02_treasure.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/01_time/01_time.mp3 Time. Treasure. Talent. These are resources that God has given to us to be stewards. We either worship our resources or we worship God with resources. Jesus says that there is no in between ground to stand on. Money is either God or gift. Time is either a slave master or a tool. Talents are either a prison or emancipation to serve and glorify Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-steward/01_time/01_time.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/daughter/daughter.mp3 This sermon was preached by Chuck L. Betters from Glasgow Church (http://www.glasgowchurch.org) on Luke 8 about the story of Jairus and his daughter. Chuck L. Betters Chuck L. Betters Sun, 03 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/daughter/daughter.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/full-hearts/full-hearts.mp3 Paul writes to the Church in Ephesus telling them "for this reason", that is Jesus Christ, he gave thanks for all the saints there. The church must be made up of saints who believe that all that we do is for the reason for which Christ came and died -- the glory of God. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/full-hearts/full-hearts.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/07_the-recreational-disciple-ii/07_the-recreational-disciple-ii.mp3 Being a Christian is the most serious of things. Churches everywhere are filled with those who consider their Christianity an extracurricular activity. But Christ paid an eternal price for the souls of his people. We should delight in him, which moves us past just knowing him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/07_the-recreational-disciple-ii/07_the-recreational-disciple-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/06_the-recreational-disciple-i/06_the-recreational-disciple-i.mp3 Being a Christian is the most serious of things. Churches everywhere are filled with those who consider their Christianity an extracurricular activity. But Christ paid an eternal price for the souls of his people. We should delight in him, which moves us past just knowing him. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/06_the-recreational-disciple-i/06_the-recreational-disciple-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/05_the-fearful-anxious/05_the-fearful-anxious.mp3 We are all plagued with fears of varying types, but Jesus tells us not to worry or be anxious. Learning to trust in his work and his promises is the key to shacking off the bonds of debilitating fear, allowing us to enjoy a rich life with Christ. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Jun 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/05_the-fearful-anxious/05_the-fearful-anxious.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/suffering-for-christ/suffering-for-christ.mp3 This sermon was preached by Isaac Shaw of Delhi Bible Institute (http://www.delhibible.org). Isaac Shaw Isaac Shaw Sun, 29 May 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/suffering-for-christ/suffering-for-christ.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/04_the-addicted-abused/04_the-addicted-abused.mp3 Every single human being is an image-bearer of God and was designed to find their identity in him. As broken people, we find our identity in the things we've done to ourselves and the things done to us. Jesus gives us a new identify if we come to him in faith. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 May 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/04_the-addicted-abused/04_the-addicted-abused.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/03_the-depressed/03_the-depressed.mp3 There are a variety of circumstances that contribute to depression and loneliness. Some are a result of our sin; others are a result of the effects of sin in the world. Both hurt. Jesus knows what it means to mourn and experience loneliness. But he is a king who will make all things new and we can find hope in that. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 May 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/03_the-depressed/03_the-depressed.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/02_the-broken-relationship/02_the-broken-relationship.mp3 Forgiveness is what allows broken relationships to be mended. In order to understand how to forgive others, we must first understand the nature of God's forgiveness through Jesus. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 May 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/02_the-broken-relationship/02_the-broken-relationship.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/01_the-prodigal/01_the-prodigal.mp3 The Gospel is about God restoring his broken children so that they can enjoy a right relationship with him. Parenting is an earthly demonstration of this truth, and we need to look to Jesus not only for the grace to love our children well, but to also trust that he is ultimately responsible for their souls. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 May 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/king-of-the-broken/01_the-prodigal/01_the-prodigal.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2011/easter-2011.mp3 Our first Easter service as a church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/easter-2011/easter-2011.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/20_stones-throw-20/20_stones-throw-20.mp3 When church is on Sundays we will ruin everything. James closes his letter with a look into how the Christian should understand the church. We are to be truthful with each other. We are to be praying for each other. We are to be confessing our sins to one another. We are to restore one another. In summary, we are to be the church. If we are to evolve as a church we will have to grasp the concept that Church is not on Sundays Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/20_stones-throw-20/20_stones-throw-20.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/19_perseverance-and-preservation/19_perseverance-and-preservation.mp3 When Jesus' return is irrelevant to our mission and community we will ruin everything. James encourages us to live like Job. That takes perseverance. James' reminds us that the story of Job promises that the Lord would be compassionate and merciful as he preserves those he has saved. A church must do everything with the coming of Christ in view. Jesus' second coming must be relevant as we work with urgency. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/19_perseverance-and-preservation/19_perseverance-and-preservation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/18_big-screen-or-big-impact/18_big-screen-or-big-impact.mp3 If we are going to plant a church that is making a big impact, we will have to make hard decisions in each of our personal lives. It doesn't seem like your one personal choice will affect the bigger plan—but when a church is full of people who are making bad stewardship choices the collective effort is ruined. When we are not intentional with our time, money and resources we will ruin everything Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/18_big-screen-or-big-impact/18_big-screen-or-big-impact.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/17_flexible-church/17_flexible-church.mp3 It takes about 3 minutes from the birth of a church program for church people to be willing to die for a program, idea or tradition. Some of the same church people who are willing to die for a sacred cow were at one point willing to kill if the sacred cow was erected. Sacred cows become sacred because we seek our own ends and not the Lord's will. Sacred cows graze when we are not flexible to the desire of God. Sacred cows starve when a church's mission is to glorify Jesus alone. When we allow sacred cows to graze we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/17_flexible-church/17_flexible-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/16_everyone-but-you/16_everyone-but-you.mp3 The lead pastor of Mars Hill Church, Mark Driscoll, makes it a point of saying, "I am just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, about a somebody." This just about sums up what James is saying in these verses. We often find ourselves slandering other people rather than taking inventory in our own lives. It is very difficult to pass judgment and slander others if we have in view that we are nobody trying to tell everybody about Jesus. When we are honest with everyone but ourselves we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/16_everyone-but-you/16_everyone-but-you.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/15_its-about-me-iii/15_its-about-me-iii.mp3 When it is all about us we will ruin everything. For three weeks we will examine this one area in which we could ruin everything. Our mission and community cannot be about us. We must make much about Jesus. The third area we will deal with is what we are drawn too. When we stop drawing near to Jesus and drawing others to Jesus we will ruin everything Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/15_its-about-me-iii/15_its-about-me-iii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/14_its-about-me-ii/14_its-about-me-ii.mp3 When it is all about us we will ruin everything. For three weeks we will examine this one area in which we could ruin everything. Our mission and community cannot be about us. We must make much about Jesus. The second area we will deal with is our influence. We know that our mission is about us when we stop transforming the culture and are instead transformed by the culture. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/14_its-about-me-ii/14_its-about-me-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/13_its-about-me-i/13_its-about-me-i.mp3 When it is all about us we will ruin everything. For three weeks we will examine this one area in which we could ruin everything. Our mission and community cannot be about us. We must make much about Jesus. The first area we will deal with is our personal desire. When our personal desire drives us we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 27 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/13_its-about-me-i/13_its-about-me-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/12_demonic-wisdom/12_demonic-wisdom.mp3 Satan and his demons have a real handle on Scripture. Many of them could probably surpass our best theologians with their knowledge and understanding of who God is. If it were possible, they could pass ordination exams, seminary classes, and even disguise themselves as good Christians. They have knowledge that appears to be wisdom. But this wisdom is from below. It is a pseudo-wisdom. When our wisdom is from below we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/12_demonic-wisdom/12_demonic-wisdom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/11_kill-me-softly/11_kill-me-softly.mp3 Words kill people every day. A father can crush his children with his words. A marriage can fall apart when words are too many or too absent. Rumors can bring a person to ruin regardless of the truth. Words can also bring healing. They can build up. They can be constructive. When gossip rages on and the image of God means nothing we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/11_kill-me-softly/11_kill-me-softly.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/10_delusions-of-grandeur/10_delusions-of-grandeur.mp3 Fame is a god that has no place in the church. Many of us desire to have a place of fame. We want to be noticed. Technology has given us all kinds of ways to be famous among our friends. A clever Facebook status makes us popular for a day. Our good deeds make us look good. Perhaps we are a good teacher and can really conduct a great Bible Study or Community Group. And yet James gives us a somber warning. Fame seekers cannot glorify Jesus for they glorify themselves. When ambition and power drive the church it will ruin everything. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 06 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/10_delusions-of-grandeur/10_delusions-of-grandeur.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/09_when-authentic-faith-is-elusive/09_when-authentic-faith-is-elusive.mp3 If what we believe does not impact the world, we will ruin everything. When we return to authentic faith, we will know it. Our community will know it. Our friends and family will know it. We are not just speaking about an individual faith but a church full of people who have an authentic faith that works. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/09_when-authentic-faith-is-elusive/09_when-authentic-faith-is-elusive.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/08_when-we-shake-like-demons/08_when-we-shake-like-demons.mp3 When our Christian walk is defined by our knowledge alone, and/or we lack a life of gratitude, we will ruin everything. James gets right to the point when he says that a faith that has no works is not able to save. The reason being is that a faith without a life of gratitude is not faith at all. James really brings it home when he says that a faith without works is very much like the faith of demons. They believe. It isn't enough to believe. Jesus changes people. Plain and simple. Are we changed? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/08_when-we-shake-like-demons/08_when-we-shake-like-demons.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/07_when-the-image-of-god-isnt-enough/07_when-the-image-of-god-isnt-enough.mp3 When we fail to realize that every single human being has been created in the image of God, we will ruin everything. James confronts the church regarding favoritism. He uses the example of the rich receiving preference over the poor. This example has many applications. A theme we will take a look at is the theology of Imago Dei. We are all created in the image of God. Every human being ought to be treated as such. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/07_when-the-image-of-god-isnt-enough/07_when-the-image-of-god-isnt-enough.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/06_when-sunday-has-no-impact-on-monday/06_when-sunday-has-no-impact-on-monday.mp3 We have all been there. We are moved by the preaching, the music, and the fellowship. But when Monday comes, we can barely remember why we went to church outside of the fact that we are creatures of habit. When worship and our daily lives are not connected, we will ruin everything. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/06_when-sunday-has-no-impact-on-monday/06_when-sunday-has-no-impact-on-monday.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/05_when-we-cant-listen-only-speak-and-seethe-in-anger/05_when-we-cant-listen-only-speak-and-seethe-in-anger.mp3 If men and women cannot be quick to listen, slow to speak and instead continually seethe in anger, they will ruin everything. Every Sunday, there is an epidemic across the world—hundreds of thousands of people are falling asleep in pews. But what is even worse is that there are millions whose eyes have been opened who have also fallen asleep in their faith. Many Christians are not inclined to hear God's Word on a Sunday morning. How will they then give a rip throughout the week? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/05_when-we-cant-listen-only-speak-and-seethe-in-anger/05_when-we-cant-listen-only-speak-and-seethe-in-anger.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/03_come-awake-iii/03_come-awake-iii.mp3 Part 3 of the Christmas series, Come Awake. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/03_come-awake-iii/03_come-awake-iii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/christmas-eve-2010/christmas-eve-2010.mp3 Our first ever Christmas Eve service as a church. Dan Betters Dan Betters Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/standalone-sermons/christmas-eve-2010/christmas-eve-2010.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/02_come-awake-ii/02_come-awake-ii.mp3 Part 2 of the Christmas series, Come Awake. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/02_come-awake-ii/02_come-awake-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/01_come-awake-i/01_come-awake-i.mp3 Part 1 of the Christmas series, Come Awake. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/come-awake/01_come-awake-i/01_come-awake-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/04_when-god-is-not-so-good/04_when-god-is-not-so-good.mp3 If men and women cannot be broken before God and each other, they will ruin everything. There are times in our lives when God doesn't seem so good. James admits as much. But he tells us not to be deceived about God's character. You can sense James' pastoral nature when he encourages the church to not fall into the deception of believing that God is not good. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/04_when-god-is-not-so-good/04_when-god-is-not-so-good.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/03_when-the-devil-didnt-make-you-do-it/03_when-the-devil-didnt-make-you-do-it.mp3 The devil certainly did not make you do it. If men and women are unwilling to own up to their sin, they will ruin everything. Whatever it is that you see in this combat zone you can be certain that the Devil probably doesn't even know your name. When you sin, it is because you made you do it. In this passage, you will be challenged to examine the various temptations in your life that you are continually playing with rather than putting to death. We will also see that we are not powerless; rather, we have been made powerful through Jesus Christ to walk away from temptation. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 28 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/03_when-the-devil-didnt-make-you-do-it/03_when-the-devil-didnt-make-you-do-it.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/02_when-you-live-with-mom/02_when-you-live-with-mom.mp3 If the men and women aren't maturing in their faith, they will ruin everything. We are unwise. The generation that walks the earth today is lacking in wisdom and maturity. Statistics show that men are no longer the spiritual heads of their households but can school their buddies in a mean game of Modern Warfare. They know incredible button combinations on their Xbox controllers and computer keyboards. They are the leader of their online guild. For these men, the word, "halo" refers to a game to be played, not something you earn on a cloud in heaven. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 21 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/02_when-you-live-with-mom/02_when-you-live-with-mom.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/01_when-you-have-no-joy/01_when-you-have-no-joy.mp3 James doesn't make it easy on us. If the church is unwilling to "count it all joy" it will fail. The first confrontation is to see how deep our joy goes. Church people love to talk about joy--until their lives are wrecked. Joy becomes an elusive concept when the wrecking ball smashes into the side of our American dreams. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 14 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/the-book-of-james/01_when-you-have-no-joy/01_when-you-have-no-joy.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/09_jesus-is-coming/09_jesus-is-coming.mp3 Can you imagine what it must have been like for those 40 days in between the time Jesus rose from the grave and his ascension? We only have a few snippets of the euphoria that surrounded the followers of Jesus. Acts 1 gives us some insight as to their mindset. The Disciples believed that Jesus was going to usher in the fully realized Kingdom of God. There would be no more death, no more pain, and no more oppression. But in the middle of the euphoria and joy, Jesus says a couple of final words and begins to rise up into heaven. The disciples were very confused. They just stood there staring into heaven. It took two angels dressed in white to get everyone moving again! The writings of the New Testament demonstrate to us that the earliest Christians lived in expectancy. They really believed that Jesus would return at any moment. Christians are called to live as if Jesus will return at any moment. If we lived like this we could change the world! We must be living in expectancy because when Jesus returns he will make all things new, punish the wicked, reward the righteous, and bring the final resurrection. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 07 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/09_jesus-is-coming/09_jesus-is-coming.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/08_jesus-is-reigning/08_jesus-is-reigning.mp3 Almost every single Jesus movie ever made will cause you to doubt how a man like the one portrayed on the screen could rule the universe. It is true that Jesus was poor, a peasant, and from a backwater part of the Roman Empire. However, he probably didn't have long hair and never wore blush on his cheeks. He left the halo in heaven and worked like a blue collar man. Even so, Jesus is no longer the peasant man. He is seated at the right hand of God, ruling the universe. Have you ever wondered what Jesus is doing right now? He gives us some ideas throughout the Bible. Jesus reigns from heaven, over all, by making intercession, while preparing a place for God's people, and while he is with us as we tell the world about him. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 31 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/08_jesus-is-reigning/08_jesus-is-reigning.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/07_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-ii/07_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-ii.mp3 David was an adulterous murderer. Moses was a coward at one point. Solomon had no self control. Adam brought the whole ship down. Eli couldn't keep control of his sons. Aaron built idols. Balaam talked to donkeys. Elijah played hide and seek. It doesn't take long to see that all of the prophets, priests and kings of the Old Testament were not Messiah-ready. That is because they were only a type of the one who was to come. Jesus was the perfect prophet, priest, and king. He fulfilled all of these roles as the fulfillment of the Covenant promises that God had made throughout the Old Testament. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 24 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/07_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-ii/07_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-ii.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/06_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-i/06_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-i.mp3 David was an adulterous murderer. Moses was a coward at one point. Solomon had no self control. Adam brought the whole ship down. Eli couldn't keep control of his sons. Aaron built idols. Balaam talked to donkeys. Elijah played hide and seek. It doesn't take long to see that all of the prophets, priests and kings of the Old Testament were not Messiah-ready. That is because they were only a type of the one who was to come. Jesus was the perfect prophet, priest, and king. He fulfilled all of these roles as the fulfillment of the Covenant promises that God had made throughout the Old Testament. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 17 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/06_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-i/06_jesus-is-the-fulfillment-i.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/05_jesus-is-resurrected/05_jesus-is-resurrected.mp3 Jesus is not dead. He has risen from the grave by his own power. He crushed sin and death. The resurrection proved that Jesus was indeed who he claimed to be. In the resurrection we see the dual nature of Christ very clearly. His body, like any other body, was buried in a tomb and was laid there without life. Jesus was fully dead. But God did not stay in the grave. He brought life back to his body with as much ease as when he created all things. Paul says that we are to be pitied above all others if Jesus did not defeat the grave. There is no Christianity if there is no resurrection. Jesus rose to prove he was God, to rule all heaven and earth, to foreshadow our resurrection, and to cause us to live in the power of the resurrection. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 10 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/05_jesus-is-resurrected/05_jesus-is-resurrected.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/04_jesus-is-crucified/04_jesus-is-crucified.mp3 Jesus did not lord his omnipotence over us. As we drove nails into his hands he forgave us. As our sin was placed on his back he paid the ransom. He was made a sin-offering for his enemies and we were his enemies. Without the cross there is no Christianity. Isn't it interesting that the word "crux" comes from crucifixion? The Cross really is the centerpiece of what we believe and who Jesus is. Jesus died to reveal God's justice and absorb His wrath, as the final sacrifice, for our justification, to redeem us from the curse of the law, to remove sin, to bring reconciliation, and to defeat Satan. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/04_jesus-is-crucified/04_jesus-is-crucified.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/03_jesus-is-born-of-a-virgin/03_jesus-is-born-of-a-virgin.mp3 The virgin birth is crucial to the early church confessional statements. It is a centerpiece of the Gospel story. It was foretold by a prophet some 700 years before the incarnation. It's vital to who Jesus is. It was necessary, it is central to the Christian faith, it was expected, and it means God came to earth. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 26 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/03_jesus-is-born-of-a-virgin/03_jesus-is-born-of-a-virgin.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/02_jesus-is-man/02_jesus-is-man.mp3 God did not leave mankind in sin and misery even after they directly disobeyed him in the Garden of Eden. He immediately stepped into history and promised us a Redeemer who would crush Satan's head. In order for this to happen, a man, a second Adam, would have to do what the first Adam was unable to do. No man could keep God's law once sin entered the world. So God became man. Jesus did not cease to be God. He wasn't a man who became god-like. He wasn't an apparition. He was a real man, born of a real woman with a real genealogy. Jesus had two natures, God and man, in one person without any confusion, composition, or conversion. He laid aside some of his divine attributes only to be used at the direction of the Holy Spirit. He took on flesh, experienced all that we experience, and became one of us—only perfect. By becoming man, the Son of God became the perfect atoning sacrifice for our sins. As the God-man, he satisfied divine justice on the cross. Jesus was God dwelling among humans as a human. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 19 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/02_jesus-is-man/02_jesus-is-man.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/01_jesus-is-god/01_jesus-is-god.mp3 There is no other person like Jesus Christ. A man who was God. A man who claimed to be God. A God-man who backed up his claims by defeating death and rising from the grave on his own authority and power. No other man has changed the world like Jesus. He really is the God who became man.This is the extraordinary claim of Christianity. This is the beginning of our journey as we examine the claims of Jesus. The crux of Christianity is the claims and actions of Jesus Christ. The entire church ought to shut its doors if any one of Jesus' claims can be proved false. We worship Jesus as God. We call him God. We trust in him as God. He is the crux of Christianity. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 12 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/jesus-is/01_jesus-is-god/01_jesus-is-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/10_why-is-there-evil-and-suffering-in-the-world/10_why-is-there-evil-and-suffering-in-the-world.mp3 The argument goes something like this: if God is all powerful and good and loving, how come he allows people to suffer, evil dictators to rule, tragic deaths, disease, orphans, and other horrible catastrophes? Couldn't he just stop the evil? How can there be an all powerful God and evil existing in the same universe. It is easy to theologize. Indeed, good theology will be like a healing balm in the midst of intense grief. But we cannot assume to have all of the answers. The bottom line is that God is sovereign and we are not sovereign. Because only one of us is sovereign only one of us will have all of the answers. Since no man is sovereign, no man can answer some of these divine mysteries. We have to look to the Scriptures to see what answers God has given us and then decide whether or not we want to believe and trust those answers. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 05 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/10_why-is-there-evil-and-suffering-in-the-world/10_why-is-there-evil-and-suffering-in-the-world.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/09_does-god-really-choose-who-he-will-save/09_does-god-really-choose-who-he-will-save.mp3 So why do we need to understand what election and predestination is? Does it really matter? The simple answer is that the Bible refers to predestination and so it matters. In the English Standard Version of the Bible, the word predestined appears in Romans chapter 8. In both verses 28 and 29, the Apostle Paul talks about how God has predestined us to be conformed to His Son. Paul also talks about predestination in Ephesians chapter 1. In both verses 5 and 11, Paul uses the word predestined to talk about God's choosing of his people to be adopted sons. Since it is discussed by the words of the Bible, we should likewise discuss the topic. This then puts the responsibility on us to understand what it is and how it applies to our lives and theology (our understanding of God). Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 29 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/09_does-god-really-choose-who-he-will-save/09_does-god-really-choose-who-he-will-save.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/08_are-denominations-biblical/08_are-denominations-biblical.mp3 One of the greatest prayers offered to us in the gospels is Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17. Here, we read that Christ asks that his disciples, and all those who would come to believe in him, would be one! The appeal for Christian unity is a large theme of this great prayer offered to the Father from His Son. Christ goes on to ask that we might be one, even as He and the Father are one—that is, that the church might display the same type of unity that the Son and Father display in the Trinity. We know that the prayers of Jesus Christ are efficacious (producing the desired effect) and that they are powerful! Yet as we look across the landscape of Christianity, we see, at least in its visible form, more division, fragmentation and more separation than at any other time in its history. Some recent statistics claim that the number of distinct Protestant denominations in America alone well over 2,000. This immediately raises a host of questions, including: "If Christ is the only way, why so many denominations?" or "What exactly is the church anyway"? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 22 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/08_are-denominations-biblical/08_are-denominations-biblical.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/07_how-can-the-bible-be-trusted/07_how-can-the-bible-be-trusted.mp3 How is it possible to know that the Bible is true and that it has any authority in our lives? What makes the Bible so different or more important than the Quran, ancient Hindi writings, the Jewish Scriptures alone, or the latest book in the Twilight series? In essence, the question that many asked in our Religious Questions survey was why any of us should trust the Bible? I want to set out to demonstrate several things about the Bible. We will take a look at how the Bible came together throughout history. We will look at the claims of the Bible about itself. And finally we will seek to understand what we are called to believe concerning the Scriptures. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 15 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/07_how-can-the-bible-be-trusted/07_how-can-the-bible-be-trusted.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/06_where-did-sin-come-from/06_where-did-sin-come-from.mp3 During the 2008 presidential election, Rick Warren hosted an interview with Barack Obama and John McCain in which he asked, "Does evil exist, and if it does, do we ignore it, do we negotiate with it, do we contain it, or do we defeat it?" This question is more complicated in our current generation where evil is not a common term and its existence is often questioned. The aim of Christians should be to come to a biblical understanding of evil and its origins, in order to decipher the proper ways to respond to it. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 08 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/06_where-did-sin-come-from/06_where-did-sin-come-from.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/05_how-can-i-know-i-am-saved/05_how-can-i-know-i-am-saved.mp3 What is going on in churches and in the Christian faith today? What exactly do we believe and why? Can Christians articulate their beliefs and does it really matter? So what if a person prays a prescribed prayer? Anyone can do that! What are the fundamentals of the faith? To be a right-wing Republican? To be a theological conservative? To be a "Reformed Christian"? Does it really matter what we specifically believe if we already have the "basics"? Why bother with the minutia of theology if all we really need is simple faith? Is it true that a person who simply "prays the prayer" and "lives the life" is saved? Saved from what? Saved from hell? A conscious hell? Really? Do Christians truly believe that all people who don't "believe the way we do" are going to suffer eternal and conscious punishment? If we believe that, why are we not out pleading with our friends and relatives to "come to know the Lord"? What are the fundamentals of the Christian faith? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 01 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/05_how-can-i-know-i-am-saved/05_how-can-i-know-i-am-saved.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/04_what-is-sexual-immorality/04_what-is-sexual-immorality.mp3 God has given us parameters for sex. We shouldn't be afraid to talk about them. We should embrace them and celebrate them. Our culture, family, teachers and friends all attempt to dictate what we think and act concerning sex. Rather than allowing these people to dictate our view on sex we should turn to the Bible—God is the author of sex and therefore He knows best. We will all have a choice when we discuss biblical sexuality: We can either obey God or we can ignore Him. In this case, I'm going to go with God, and I hope you will too. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/04_what-is-sexual-immorality/04_what-is-sexual-immorality.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/03_am-i-allowed-to/03_am-i-allowed-to.mp3 Christianity used to be so easy. All you had to do to be a Christian was to hold on to the fundamentals of the faith. Over time more rules were added as the culture shifted and produced new problems that the church needed to address. For many, Christianity became a list of rules rather than the story of redemption found in Scripture. God was no longer pursuing his people; instead, his people were pursuing their own brand of righteousness. In response to what became known as "legalism," many Christians turned to a newfound freedom in Christ, and abandoned the strict rules the church had created. Unfortunately, many of these freedom-infatuated Christians also abused the gospel message. In their so-called freedom, they gave license to take part in many sinful acts. They too had their own faulty version of the Gospel. Where can we draw the line when we are asking questions about what is permissible and what is sinful? What questions should we be asking when we are making seemingly harmless decisions? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/03_am-i-allowed-to/03_am-i-allowed-to.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/02_how-does-god-define-marriage/02_how-does-god-define-marriage.mp3 There is no doubt that God designed marriage. Genesis 2 shows God creating a helper and completer for Adam because it was "not good" for man to be alone. In all of his creation, this was the first thing that God declared was not good. So he created Eve, and the Bible states in Genesis 2:24, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." God designed marriage from the beginning, and God does not design anything without purpose. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/02_how-does-god-define-marriage/02_how-does-god-define-marriage.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/01_how-can-i-know-gods-will/01_how-can-i-know-gods-will.mp3 It's probably a safe bet to say that every Christian, at some point in their life, has asked what God's will for them was. Since we look to him as the Creator and master over all things, it makes sense to consider what he would have us do, where he would have us go, and how he would have us live. Recognizing this aspect of God's lordship is not a stretch for most Christians. But there are two big aspects to God's will that become a concern for us. The first concern orbits around how we go about determining God's will for us. Is it by reading the Bible? Praying? Talking to godly friends? Elders? Going to the pastor? Reading extra-biblical material? Looking for certain circumstances to align? The second concern is closely related to the first, and that is what God's will actually is. Basically, how do we truly know that whatever conclusion we've arrived at is indeed his will for us? Is there ever a way to reconcile these things? Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 04 Jul 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/my-religious-questions/01_how-can-i-know-gods-will/01_how-can-i-know-gods-will.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/06_second-chance/06_second-chance.mp3 In chapter four we see the fullness of a stubborn and hateful man. Jonah seems to be filled with so much bile that he despises his own existence. At one point his responses to God are almost indignant. After a mighty miracle of repentance, seeing grace poured out in a flood over an entire city, this man is bitter. His hatred of the people of Nineveh kept him from enjoying his own God. We are on a mission of reconciliation as Christ's ambassadors. But in order to fulfill this mission, we have to love those who God loves, forgive our enemies, swallow pride, and in humility, consider others better than ourselves. Scott Winchester Scott Winchester Sun, 27 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/06_second-chance/06_second-chance.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/05_where-no-one-wants-to-go/05_where-no-one-wants-to-go.mp3 What sometimes gets lost in this story, as we focus on how bad Jonah was, is how evil Nineveh was. They weren't the poor, innocent neighbors who just needed to hear about Jesus. Assyrians hated Israel. They eventually would help undo the entire nation. Eventually, the northern ten tribes of Israel, because of the actions of the Assyrians, would never be heard from again. Jonah had good reason to hate Nineveh. At least he had good human reasons to hate Nineveh. When Jonah was finally obedient, he would only offer an eight word sermon. It is almost as if he thought about it five minutes before he began. Even after the great storm, the great waves, the great fish, Jonah still didn't put much effort into his sermon when he saw the great walls of Nineveh. Who knows? Maybe he just whispered it gently and tried to walk away before anyone started asking questions. Jonah was obedient and only did what was required. Jonah 3 demonstrates what happens when God's people are obedient and love their enemies. It's easy to pick apart other people's belief systems and to shove doctrine down their throats. But are we willing to love those who do harm to us? Are we willing to go where others don't want to go? Is our mission an incarnational mission? The Church must be willing to do what no one else will do. Jonah once again demonstrates how great Jesus is. Jonah was obedient—but begrudgingly so. Philippians tells us that Jesus did all that was required and more. He humbled himself to the worst possible death. He went where no one else could go in order to save his enemies. That's right. We were the enemies of God and yet he loves us so much to send Jesus to die in our place. Jesus didn't preach eight word sermons. He healed, he loved, he wept, he taught, he died and he rose again. Jesus was no Pinto. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 20 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/05_where-no-one-wants-to-go/05_where-no-one-wants-to-go.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/04_swallowed-by-salvation/04_swallowed-by-salvation.mp3 Jonah 1:17 through all of chapter 2 tell us the story about Jonah's spiritual and physical death. So far, the entire book of Jonah has taken us on a downward journey to Hell itself. There has been no little debate about whether or not Jonah was actually in the belly of a fish for three days. It would be hard to remain dogmatic about certain interpretations. The focus of these verses is that Jonah, the disobedient prophet, from the time Yahweh spoke to him up unto this point, continued to spiral downward until the point of death. The message here is that Jonah was a dead man in need of rescue. God, in his patience and love, appoints a great fish to rescue his disobedient servant. Jonah, suffering a horrible ordeal, is transformed. Many teachers have taught that the great fish was God's way of punishing Jonah. We focus on the smell, or the pain and suffering. But the fish is meant to show us salvation through the death of ourselves. When we come to the end of ourselves, there is either darkness or there is light. There is either eternal hell, or there is everlasting salvation. In the belly of the fish, Jonah was confronted with his sin and misery, and he responded with repentance. We have to come to the end of ourselves and rest in the work of Christ alone for salvation. Jonah suffered for his sin, but Jesus suffered for our sin. Jonah was in the belly of a sea beast for a time. Jesus died and was buried in the earth for a time. Jonah repented, but Jesus bestows repentance as a gift to us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 13 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/04_swallowed-by-salvation/04_swallowed-by-salvation.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/03_how-to-thwart-god/03_how-to-thwart-god.mp3 In Jonah 1:4-16, we continue to learn a lot about the man Jonah, about ourselves, and about Jesus. We'll get to the Jesus part in just a moment. But first let's talk about us. Just like Jonah, we try to thwart God. We have gone astray. Psalm 51 tells us we were sinful from the time we were conceived. We didn't have a shot at being perfect. For some reason, we continually try to thwart God. Paul explains this best when he talks about our flesh (sin loving part of us) continuing to win some battles in this life (see Romans 7). Even though the Christian has been saved from sin and desires to do what is right, we often still do what we know is wrong. In these sinful episodes, we find ourselves trying to thwart God. For some reason, whether out of ignorance, defiance, or plain stupidity, we think we can outrun, out-maneuver, and out think God. We do this by trying to make God's commandments friendly so that we can be comfortable with our hypocrisy and disobedience. Jonah, like us, was a sinner who needs to be saved. Thankfully, Jesus, the sinless Savior, became sin and rescued us out of our misery. This week, let's take a look at how Jonah tried to thwart God and how God saved him anyway. We cannot thwart God, because he pursues His people in His infinite grace. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 06 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/03_how-to-thwart-god/03_how-to-thwart-god.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/02_just-like-jonah/02_just-like-jonah.mp3 Like Jonah, we are prone to disobey, despite the clarity of God's call on our lives. Our rebellion is often based in fear, self-righteousness, a wrong understanding of God's character, or some combination of the three. Whatever the case, we can see in Jonah that God's plans will be accomplished despite our disobedience. God's sovereignty, patience, and desire to save all people will not be swayed by our desire to flee, our resistance to being on mission, or our selfishness in thinking that God's blessings are somehow reserved only for us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 30 May 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/02_just-like-jonah/02_just-like-jonah.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/01_cast-of-characters/01_cast-of-characters.mp3 The main message of Jonah is often missed because of much debate around whether or not the story is historical or a fable. We have already devoted much time to discussing the nature of Jonah. Let's look into the message. Jonah reveals much to us about God's character. We learn through this amazing story that God is a universal God, He desires to bless us rather than blow us sky high, and that He is patient with us even though we are selfish and imperfect. Before we begin to take a look at ourselves, we should begin with who God is and how He loves His people. As we begin to understand this overarching message, the rest of Jonah will make more sense to us. Ask yourself what you believe about God's character. Compare your understanding of God's nature and character with what the book of Jonah reveals. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 23 May 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/pinto-jesus/01_cast-of-characters/01_cast-of-characters.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/06_unleashed-church/06_unleashed-church.mp3 The Gospel of Luke has often been likened to a manual on true discipleship. Luke 9-19 explores the journey to Jerusalem that Jesus took with His disciples. Jesus knew He was heading to the cross. It would be a burden of unspeakable pain and misery. And yet, Jesus was to fulfill the will of the Father. On the road, Jesus teaches His disciples what it means to be a disciple of the Savior. Luke records several instances when people express initial interest in Jesus, but, upon learning about what it takes to follow Him, decide to head back to their homes or their ordinary lives. In this passage we find that Jesus wants His disciples to leave possessions for experience. Jesus wants a trader to "live dangerously" so they can see God work in and through them. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 16 May 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/06_unleashed-church/06_unleashed-church.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/05_gather-glorify/05_gather-glorify.mp3 Every church has a mission statement. Well, at least they are told they are supposed to have a mission statement. You will notice that the mission statements of Bible-believing churches look very similar to each other. That is because Jesus gave the church its mission statement in Matthew 28. It is Christ's desire that His church should proclaim his name, baptize His people, and teach them all that Jesus taught. The Church's purpose is to "get, gather and glorify." Our mission statement at Stone's Throw is to participate fully in God's mission and purpose as we introduce people to Jesus and mobilize them to change the world. This involves introducing new people into situations where they can hear about the Good News of Jesus, being purposeful in gathering the whole church together for kingdom building and discipleship, and glorifying God through worship that is of the Spirit and in truth. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 09 May 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/05_gather-glorify/05_gather-glorify.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/04_becoming-valuable/04_becoming-valuable.mp3 There are many churches popping up all over Middletown. One question we will have to ask ourselves is whether or not we are valuable to the community. What makes a church valuable? Our value is in how much of Jesus people see when they see us. Are we leading people to the Savior? Our motto says that we want people to "come as they are." When people come, they will want to know if we really mean what we say. Are we willing to demonstrate to people that we practice what we preach? Will we come as we are? Our value will be measured by how transparent we are. Because when we are transparent, open, and honest about what we have been saved from, people will see Jesus rather than us. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 02 May 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/04_becoming-valuable/04_becoming-valuable.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/03_grow-to-go/03_grow-to-go.mp3 Luke records for us in Acts 2 that the church met together with four main purposes. They devoted themselves to apostolic teaching, fellowship, eating together, and prayer. What was the result? It went beyond just being a close-knit group of believers or even having felt needs met. It was much more! These first community groups rocked their community. No church member went without having his/her needs met. The church was glad and sincere; it was worshipful—and it influenced the community. People were added daily to the number. The book of Acts is all about the growth of the church and the resulting "going" of the church. Through the growth of Community Groups, our church will learn to "go" into the community. This is where we understand our motto best, "Come as you are. Go as Jesus says." Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 25 Apr 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/03_grow-to-go/03_grow-to-go.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/02_saved-to-something/02_saved-to-something.mp3 The resurrection screams out that God cares about this world and His people. We know that God wants to save His people from sin, but we also must realize that God is saving us TO something. We have to live in the reality and power of the resurrection. Many Christians only focus on avoiding sin but miss the whole picture of how God is moving. Our God desires us to trade our old life for resurrection life. He desires to use us to affect the world. The best way we can affect the world is to be "agents of reconciliation". Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 18 Apr 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/02_saved-to-something/02_saved-to-something.mp3 http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/01_beyond-comfort/01_beyond-comfort.mp3 Peter's audience were suffering for the cause of their mission. This isn't the case for most American churches. When we do suffer, many Christians view the trial as a punishment or inconvenience. Yet Peter tells us to neither be surprised nor hurt by suffering, but rather joyful. The early church members were no strangers to suffering, and neither should our local congregation be strangers. They were told that their suffering was a cause for rejoicing because they were actually sharing in the suffering of Jesus. Are we willing to be involved with the mission of the church, to find our calling, answer the call, and get beyond our own comfort? A trader is someone who is willing to get beyond comfort and into the fray. A trader is willing to trade comfort for trial. Dan Betters Dan Betters Sun, 11 Apr 2010 10:30:00 EST http://media.stonesthrowchurch.org/becoming-traders/01_beyond-comfort/01_beyond-comfort.mp3