http://blessedhope-vinton.org en © http://blessedhope-vinton.org Pastor Matt Hantz Pastor Matt Hantz matt@blessedhope-vinton.org matt@blessedhope-vinton.org Listen to current or archived sermons here at Blessed Hope. Listen to current or archived sermons here at Blessed Hope. Listen to current or archived sermons here at Blessed Hope. http://clovermedia.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/store/27/27295ac5-5448-4fe7-bb1a-980f412e7323/thumbnails/mobile/3359a6d0-9a18-4f71-bc36-ea0374d92c9c.jpg http://blessedhope-vinton.org no Blessed Hope,Blessed Hope Vinton,Pastor Matt Hantz Pastor Matt and Pastor David The reality is that there is nothing normal or mundane about the God who stoops, washes feet, and takes the punishment for our sins onto himself - all so that we can be forgiven and be adopted as sons and daughters of the God of the Universe. It's kind of a big deal and our attitude should reflect it! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1842397 Sun, 21 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:59:39 Pastor Matt Hantz As you connect and plug in you should naturally Grow. And if you are growing, you will desire to Live with Purpose! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1834210 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:19 Pastor David Condry When we follow Jesus and connect to the Church the way that God expects the natural outcome is we grow. This is the expectation of all who are disciples of Christ. We are expected to grow which is the life long process of becoming more like Christ. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1825130 Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:37:09 BHCC Staff In this episode we discuss the difference between Christian and Christian-ish teaching. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1817129 Tue, 02 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:40:46 Pastor Matt Hantz Even a cursory read through the New Testament will show us that God expects Christians to plug into the life of the church. A Christian that isn't plugged into the local church is like an athlete without a team to belong to - it just doesn't work! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1816159 Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:54 Pastor David Condry We process through what it really means to be a follower of Jesus. Why this is the most important daily decision we will make and why it is the catalyst for discipleship. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1802517 Sun, 24 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:46 BHCC Staff In this episode, BHCC staff discusses more on the DNA of our church and why membership matters. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1788536 Tue, 19 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:31:45 Pastor Matt Hantz & Pastor David Condry At the heart of any church is its DNA. Our DNA shows us, at our core, not only what and who we are…but why we are. If you’re going to be a part of the church, it’s important to know and understand the DNA of the church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1788200 Sun, 17 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:56:28 Pastor Matt Hantz With the affirmation of our merger with Revolution Church - we are set to close one chapter of successful ministry while launching into another. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1780778 Sun, 10 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 01:19:14 Pastor Matt Hantz and Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys talk about moving forward as a new church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1772168 Tue, 05 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:28:45 Pastor Matt Hantz David wasn't perfect but he was a great picture of what we could be and achieve when we commit to doing what's right...and follow through with courage. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1771869 Sun, 03 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:56 Pastor Matt Hantz If Eve is the one who took the fruit...why does Adam get the blame? Rather than taking an active role in loving, leading and protecting his bride - he got passive and lazy. As men of God - we are called to fight and reject passivity and instead live lives of courage. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1763363 Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:46:09 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode, we discuss BHC elders and why we are an elder led church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1754962 Tue, 19 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:23 Pastor Matt Hantz It is impossible to live a life of world-changing faith without a consistent, bold prayer life that recognizes who God is and trusts him for the impossible. Remember this truth - prayer that changes things must change us first! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1742194 Sun, 10 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:16 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vince Derr In this episode, the guys breakdown evangelism. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1734073 Tue, 05 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:38:40 Pastor Matt Hantz Time and time again - we have seen Daniel choose "Ridiculous Faith" in God over everything. And this week, towards the end of his life, he faces his biggest challenge. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1733394 Sun, 03 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:25 Pastor David Condry It's Pastor Swap day! Pastor David opens God's Word for us and continues with our Ridiculous Faith sermon series - looking at how Ridiculous Faith stands up to evil! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1723327 Sun, 27 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 01:04:54 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode, the BHC staff discusses prayer. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1712455 Tue, 22 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:40 Pastor Matt Hantz As Christians who strive to live with Ridiculous Faith - we ought to willing put ourselves in positions where we would die for it. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1710686 Sun, 20 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:55:05 Pastor Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1697780 Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:33 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode the guys talk about service in the church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1687532 Tue, 08 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:34:59 Pastor Matt Hantz As we begin our new sermon series - we meet Daniel and his friends. They are taken from Israel and forced to move to Babylon and they wake up in a "new normal." And the question for these godly men is simply this, "will they be faithful in this new normal?" http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1689271 Sun, 06 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:07 Mark Johnson Elder, Mark Johnson teaches about doubt. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1675560 Sun, 30 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:04 Pastor Matt & Vince In this episode, the guys discuss Satan and the connection to Christmas. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1660207 Tue, 18 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:39 Pastor Matt Hantz God designed us to be conduits...not containers What does that look like? Here's a hint. It starts with irrational generosity. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1659802 Sun, 16 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:13 Pastor Matt Hantz We take a deeper step into making sure that our heart beats with God's this Christmas season by taking a look at what our heart longs for more than anything else. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1646404 Sun, 09 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:14:18 Pastor Matt & Vincent Derr In this episode, the staff shares their favorite books of 2018. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1639005 Tue, 04 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:37:59 Pastor Matt Hantz We tackle the subject of money and generosity in our new advent series. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1638278 Sun, 02 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -1000 01:00:17 Pastor Matt Hantz Jonah hardened his heart and refused God's attempts to expose the root of his heart and change him. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1627397 Sun, 25 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:56 Pastor Matt Hantz Jonah goes to Nineveh. He preaches God's Word. The people repent. And now is where we get to see the full depths of Jonah's heart. And unfortunately, his heart is deceitful and wicked. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1618930 Sun, 18 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:47 Vincent Derr The book of Jonah begs the question, is Jonah’s heart in tune with God’s? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1602413 Sun, 11 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:24 Vincent Derr in this episode, Vince chats with Maria Davis and Kim Johnson from I Am Enough about their Be You Bravely conference. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1596868 Wed, 07 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:21:23 Pastor Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1591707 Sun, 04 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:19 Pastor Matt Hantz Jonah should have known that he couldn't run away from what God was calling him to do. But he tries it anyway...and it doesn't go well! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1580373 Sun, 28 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:51 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode the guys talk with the Internal Church Needs Team. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1571296 Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:31:21 Pastor Matt Hantz As Christians, we will all have to face a moment where God is clearly calling us to do something that we just don't want to do. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1571007 Sun, 21 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:23 Pastor Matt Hantz And as we close our series, we get to take a closer look at the Prodigal Son's homecoming. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1562403 Sun, 14 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:16 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode, the guys answer more merger questions. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1555837 Thu, 11 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:15 Pastor Matt Hantz Unless awakening and honesty are followed by action - you won't really have AHA. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1550230 Sun, 07 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:37:45 Pastor Matt Hantz Brutal Honesty happens when we are able to assess where we are honestly without making any more excuses or passing the responsibility to someone or something else...a necessary moment in every AHA story! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1540671 Sun, 30 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:34 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode, the guys unpack The Holy Spirit. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1533270 Tue, 25 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:43:03 Pastor Matt Hantz The moment where we go from spiraling and sleep-walking through life to an acute understanding that things have got to change. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1532119 Sun, 23 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:22 Pastor Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1519908 Sun, 16 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:28 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode Pastor Matt, Vince, & Malea chat with Pastor David Condry of Revolution Church about why they are so excited about our possible merger. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1513092 Tue, 11 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:34:11 Pastor Matt Hantz All of us have left the father's home at some point. But the question for us isn't how or why we left...it's whether or not we'll return home. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1512840 Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:21 Pastor Matt Hantz What does it mean to show love to one another? How are we supposed to live that out in the church? And what exactly does it mean? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1500347 Sun, 02 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:47 Pastor Matt & Vince Derr In this episode, staff member Malea Lee joins the guys to discuss the topic of worship. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1490467 Tue, 28 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:40 Pastor David Condry Guest Pastor David Condry of Revolution church joins us, preaching from Titus 2 where we are encouraged to live this life looking forward to the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1489032 Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:06 Vincent Derr This week we wrap up our Approved series in 2 Timothy. Facing execution and writing his last words we see the mindset of a disciple willing to pay the price. How did Paul do it… when it wasn’t awkward, but life threatening? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1479202 Sun, 19 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:41:47 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys explore why we can trust the Bible. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1471144 Tue, 14 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:37 Pastor Matt Hantz As we get into the last chapter of Paul's letter to Timothy - he reminds us that he is at the end of his life...that he is about to be poured out like a drink offering...and since he has fought the good fight and finished the race, he will be receiving a crown of righteousness which Jesus will award him. And in all of that - he encourages Timothy to carry on in his absence. Paul intentionally passes the torch and puts his trust in Timothy to carry on his legacy. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1468975 Sun, 12 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:41 Pastor Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1456480 Sun, 05 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:55:01 Pastor Matt Hantz Paul warns the church that the last days will be hard...and filled with evil. He says that in those times - people will leave orthodoxy and will turn to whatever sounds good to them in the moment...and that they will consider nothing sacred. Paul's encouragement in this climate is for us to HOLD FAST to truth. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1450255 Sun, 29 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:29 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys learn more about Celebrate Recovery from guest, Pastor David Condry of Revolution Church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1437655 Tue, 24 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:34:07 Pastor Matt Hantz This week, Paul encourages Timothy to flee from evil desires and foolish arguments so that he can be an instrument set aside for honorable use.  He also instructs Timothy, that as a leader, it is his role to gently instruct those that go astray. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1436832 Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:25 Pastor Matt Hantz Approved workers will have to recognize falsehood and call it out. Because false teaching will ruin the church and it's witness. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1428074 Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:22 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr On this episode, the guys talk mission with guest Matt. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1412823 Tue, 10 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:36:08 Pastor Matt Cline This week we take a short break from our summer sermon series to hear from Pastor Matt Cline. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1411914 Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:36:13 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys unpack the what, how, & why of spiritual disciplines. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1403260 Tue, 03 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:30:56 Pastor Matt Hantz As we get into chapter 2 of 2nd Timothy - Paul shifts his focus to showing Timothy how he can ENDURE for the sake of the gospel...even when it costs him...even to the point that he can outlive himself! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1401081 Sun, 01 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:56:57 Pastor Matt Hantz As we continue in 2nd Timothy this week, we'll see how Paul shows us that approved works are UNASHAMED when it comes to our Lord and the gospel...even when it costs us. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1392980 Sun, 24 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:20 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys discuss church disagreement. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1380616 Tue, 19 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:34:29 Pastor Matt Hantz We begin to walk through 2nd Timothy and learn how to hold fast and present ourselves to God as “APPROVED.” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1380588 Sun, 17 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:29 Pastor Matt Hantz As we celebrate the success of our third Faith in Action, we look at how Jesus sums it up our mission as followers succinctly in the gospels - "Love God...and Love People." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1366416 Sun, 10 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:22:40 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys discuss 21st Century Attitudes that could have killed the 1st Century Church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1357349 Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:37:12 Pastor Matt Hantz Salt and Light. According to Jesus...that's what we're supposed to be - as Christians...and as the Church. We are called to be the difference between life and death. It's not a small call...and if we're serious about our faith...it's not optional. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1355353 Sun, 03 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:28 Vince Derr We look at John 8:1-11, to see how Jesus created a culture of community. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1340505 Sun, 27 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:24 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, Pastor Matt & Vince recap voting results from our children's addition proposal. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1331934 Wed, 23 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:25:14 Pastor Matt Hantz We look at the providence of God, exploring how God is preparing us in our lives for just "such a time as this." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1329392 Sun, 20 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:40:14 Pastor Matt Hantz As we celebrate Mother's Day, we also take a look at how we navigate and make sense of things in the midst of tragedy. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1313109 Mon, 14 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:53:00 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys talk church leadership. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1302753 Wed, 09 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:33:12 Pastor Matt Hantz What does God, the creator of men and women, have to say about manhood…and what does that mean for today? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1298352 Sun, 06 May 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:41 Pastor Matt Hantz For a lot of us - work can be stressful. Because our work plays such a big part in our lives - work stress can be overwhelming and debilitating. But it doesn't have to be...especially when we understand what God says about our work and it's value. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1283728 Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:27 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, the guys dig deeper into the building vision. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1268067 Tue, 24 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:27:11 Pastor Matt Hantz In our consumer driven world - very few things cause more stress in our lives than money. But...it's important to know that money isn't bad - it's amoral. It's a tool. And how you use it will directly impact how you feel about it and what control it has in your life! And God has laid it out perfectly for us! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1253350 Sun, 22 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:26 Pastor Matt Hantz There is no end to the potential stress and anxiety that we have to deal with when it comes to our families. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1238608 Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:43:34 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr In this episode, Pastor Matt & Vince recap Easter, talk about the importance of church family, and break down the "one anothers." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1214978 Tue, 10 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:26 Pastor Matt Hantz God is a good father – and he desires your marriage to make you holy and to represent his relationship with the church. And he always desires your marriage to bring you ridiculous JOY. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1213399 Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:03 Pastor Matt Hantz God offers, through Jesus, the free gift of salvation. But he will only give it to you if you are prepared to cherish the gift...to make it the centerpiece of your life - he wants you to have it. The choice is ours. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1195394 Sun, 01 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:43:22 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr This week the guys talk about Easter and why hospitality is so important! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1175939 Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:54 Pastor Matt Hantz God has specifically equipped the local church with every type of ability necessary to be on mission. And those abilities come through the members of local churches. And YOU are an ESSENTIAL part of his provision! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1172001 Sun, 25 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:57 Vincent Derr Hymns or Contemporary Christian music? This has been the question many churches over the years have faced. But, regardless of our launching points worship is deeply meaningful to all Christians. Over time, we have engaged in what has been described as worship wars. In these “wars” we have truly lost sight of what is of utmost importance. Our preferences have clouded our understanding of worshipping in truth and spirit. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1145796 Sun, 18 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:00 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr Pastor Matt & Vince discuss what it means to be a covenant member here at BHC. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1115518 Tue, 13 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:08 Pastor Matt Hantz One of the great questions in churches around the world - since the reformation really - is "who leads the church?" God has instituted two "offices" in the church to help lead and shepherd it - and those are the offices of elder and deacon(ness). How does that play out here at Blessed Hope? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1100388 Sun, 11 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:50 Pastor Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1050878 Sun, 04 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:11 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr Pastor Matt & Vince answer questions about the mission of the church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1022470 Tue, 27 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:33:07 Pastor Matt Hantz The mission of the church - given by Jesus - is to go and make disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them, and then going again - over and over and over. But - even though Christ has dictated the mission of the church - far too many churches have seemingly turned their mission into one of comfort and ease rather than one of boldly reaching out beyond ourselves. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=1013520 Sun, 25 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:22 Pastor Matt Hantz With prayer and fasting, there is a lot to understand and a lot that can be confusing. But that doesn't mean we should shy away from it because we are called to be a prayerful people in a prayerful church. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=995897 Sun, 18 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:59:26 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr Pastor Matt & Vince wrap up questions about Heaven and look forward to the season of Lent. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=982743 Tue, 13 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:57 Pastor Matt Hantz As we close our series on Heaven, we've seen just a glimpse of the wonder and truth surrounding what our eternal home will be like. It's better than we've been led to believe...greater than we could possibly imagine. And with that perspective - we can hopefully reorient ourselves to what it means to live this life as citizens of heaven - with an eternal perspective. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=981216 Sun, 11 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:12 Pastor Matt Hantz Eternity is a long time - won't we get bored? How will we occupy our time? What kind of things will we do for fun? Will there be sports and recreation? And what does it mean that we will "rule" on the New Earth? Will we really judge angels? And what about the rewards that we've earned while on earth - how will those work? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=963678 Sun, 04 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:33 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr Pastor Matt and Vince answer your questions about heaven http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=947114 Tue, 30 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:29:04 Pastor Matt Hantz When we think about what heaven will be like - one of the biggest wonders that we have is what our relationships will be like when we're there. What does it mean that we'll "see" God? And what will our relationship with him be like? Will we even want to have relationships with anyone else? Will we recognize one another? Will our marriages, families, and friendships make it to heaven? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=943503 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:40 Pastor Matt Hantz As we think about living eternally on the new earth - one of the main things that we want to know is what will we be like? What does it mean that we will live in resurrected bodies? What will they be like? Will we still be ourselves? Will people recognize us? Do we still eat and drink? Do we still know things from our lives and will we continue to learn new things? Will we be able to sin? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=929590 Sun, 21 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:54:52 Pastor Matt Hantz & Vincent Derr Pastor Matt and Vince answer your questions about heaven http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=915129 Wed, 17 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:29:03 Pastor Matt Hantz In Revelation 21 we read about a "new heaven and a new earth for the old heaven and the old earth had passed away." This is something that will happen in the future and this new heaven and new earth is where Christians will spend eternity (that's forever!). But what can be known about the new earth? Will it be familiar? Will it be similar to this earth? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=909259 Sun, 14 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:53:32 Pastor Matt Hantz The Bible tells us A LOT about what Heaven will be like. We just need to search the Scriptures and believe what they tell us. This week we take a look at what the current Heaven is like, what our departed loved ones are doing there (and what they aren't doing), and how to make sense of things like ghosts and "paranormal activity." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=894113 Sun, 07 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:02 Mark Johnson Identity. Psychology Today said that the question "Who am I" is not one that is answered in adolescence. It is a fundamental question that many people struggle with throughout their lives. Does the Christian faith help us in addressing our identity? What about other systems of religion or philosophy? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=873584 Sun, 31 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:36:06 Matt Hantz And as we wrap up our advent series, we'll tackle the question - why did it all have to happen like this? We know by now that the timing was perfect, and that Jesus needed to be born of a virgin - and that without Christmas there could be no cross. By why did it have to be that way? Why so hard? What was the point? And how will it all play out in the future? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=862763 Sun, 24 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:01 Matt Hantz "Why does it even matter?" We know that "when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law..." (Galatians 4:4). But what was the end goal? What did it accomplish for us? Why was it necessary? Most people probably know the textbook answer to these questions - but something wonderful happens when we take the time to dig deep into the truths of the incarnation. We begin to experience those truths in a new, fresh way - a way that impacts our lives and changes the way we see and understand Christmas. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=844902 Sun, 17 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:38:14 Matt Hantz One of the hallmarks of the Christmas story is that God chose Mary to be Jesus' mother - and he made it happen in quite an unusual way. Mary's pregnancy and her conversation with the angel Gabriel is well known. In fact, anyone that knows the Christmas story knows how it unfolds. But why? Why did God do it that way? Why was it necessary that Jesus be born of a virgin? What was the point of all that? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=815284 Sun, 10 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:13:46 Matt Hantz It's finally here! Christmas-time! This week marks the beginning of our advent season...where we begin taking a serious look at the why's of Christmas. Why did it happen? Why did Jesus need to come? Why when he did? Why the way that he did? Why does it even matter to us some 2000 years later? These are important questions for us to tackle because in his coming - JESUS CHANGED EVERYTHING! The whole of human history pointed towards his arrival and his coming altered the course of the history forever. It really is a big deal! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=763079 Sun, 03 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:48 Matt Hantz One of the hardest things for churches to talk about is money and giving. Pastors often tend to shy away from the topic because it seems self-serving to suggest that people need to give generously to the church. But...uncomfortable or not - sacrificial giving is something that God calls us to...and the proper handling of finances is something that Jesus talks about more than any other topic in the gospels. Why? Because he knows the truth about money: "where your treasure is, your heart will be there also" (Matthew 6:21). http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=726783 Sun, 26 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:02 Matt Hantz One of the biggest questions or confusions that people have about faith is whether or not God will honor the sincere beliefs of those outside of Christianity. We know that Jesus is real and we know that God ultimately will judge, but what about someone who sincerely believes and lives a life of faith...but their sincerity, belief and trust are in the wrong thing. Will God honor their sincerity even though they're wrong? Aren't we all ultimately worshiping the same God anyway? This week, as we wrap up our series on the character of God, we will explore his supremacy and we'll see how Jesus Christ stands alone as being sufficient for salvation. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=713289 Sun, 19 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:54:48 Matt Hantz As we near the end of our "I AM" series - we are come to the attribute of God's faithfulness. God is faithful. Simply put - God is true to his word. God will show up, he will lift us up, and he will hold us close. Why? Because he promised to. And in this life - that's no small matter! We all depend on someone (or something) and no one or no thing can always come through for us. Except for God - he comes through 100% of the time. That's the truth. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty - God will deliver...we will be satisfied...100% of the time...guaranteed! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=698452 Sun, 12 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:58:56 Matt Hantz When it comes to the topic of God's justice - there are endless questions. Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do good things happen to bad people? We all know that life isn't fair - but is God? And if he is fair - then how do we make sense of some of the things that happen in our world today? And what about Hell? Is that place real? And will God really condemn people to Hell? And if he does...is he still good? These are important questions for any faith. And the message of our Christian faith is easily the best and most honest explanation about how to deal with the injustice that we perceive and see in the world. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=678091 Sun, 05 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:53:59 Matt Hantz I don't think that anybody would ever argue that the world needs more love. Jackie DeShannon wrote a song about it in 1965 - "What the world needs now, is love, sweet love." Nobody would argue that need. But the weird thing is that even though we recognize the need - we (Christians and non-Christians alike) aren't any better at figuring it out. The world needs more love...but what we have is so much hate! But what would it be like if we really understood (not just intellectually...but in our hearts) that the God of the Universe loves us like crazy - not because of who we are, but because of who he is? It might just change everything! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=665236 Sun, 29 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:35 Matt Hantz God is wise. We get it...but what exactly does it mean? And how does it impact us? Does it mean that he is smart? Does it mean that he knows the answers to lots of questions? Well of course - it's more than that! Charles Ryrie describes the wisdom of God this way: "It is the attribute of God by which he brings about the best possible ends, by the best possible means, for the most possible people, for the longest possible time." Think about that. We have already established that God is sovereign and powerful enough to do what he will. And the wisdom of God means that he will do what it takes to bring about the best possible good. If I really believed that - I would be able to trust him in even the hardest circumstances. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=646299 Sun, 22 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:21 Matt Hantz When I was in school - my favorite classes were those where the professors graded on a curve. Rather than being judged against an absolute standard - I could be judged in comparison to my peers...and that was always easier! And far too many of us Christians treat our relationship with God that same way. Rather than acknowledging an absolute standard - we tend to compare ourselves with other Christians. Instead of asking how we stack up against God's absolute, standard - we look at how we stack up against other flawed people. And guess what - it's easier! But God's standard is immovable...and he doesn't grade on the curve - that's why the gospel is so critical! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=633182 Sun, 15 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:56:45 Vincent Derr Every teenager is deeply concerned with sovereignty. Ok, they won’t use that language. Their concern usually comes in outbursts that sound more like “You’re always telling me what to do” or “When I turn 18 I can do whatever I want”. Teenagers are concerned about being able to control their own lives and environments. A lot of us approach God’s sovereignty more like teenagers than followers of Christ. When we act like teenagers to our God three things happen. First, we believe that we don’t need God but, God needs us. Second, nothing is ever our responsibility, God is the one who is ruining our lives. Lastly, we treat God like he is stupid. If you’re a parent I’m sure you have some great stories of this teenager mindset. This week we’ll dive into God’s sovereignty and how our own thinking can have more in common with kids at youth group than we think. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=618129 Sun, 08 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:37 Matt Hantz It seems like such a simple statement. God is good. It's something that any Christian would just readily agree to. But do we actually believe it? There are too many Christians who live with crippling fear and anxiety. And there are plenty of Christians who habitually hold back parts of their life from God because they are afraid of missing out. But if we really believed that God was good...and that he was for us - it might free us to do it differently and receive all of his goodness. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=593461 Sun, 01 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:34 Matt Hantz Some of the biggest questions that we have about who God is center around the idea of creation. Has God really been around forever? Was there really a time when nothing else existed besides God? Did he really make everything? What about the Big Bang and evolution - don't those kind of put God out of a job? And if God has always existed...and he did create everything - how does that matter for us? http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=574794 Sun, 24 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:55:21 Matt Hantz It shows up all over the place in our culture. We’ve created a god in our minds who only faintly resembles the God of the Bible. These cheap versions of God might be able to give us some comfort or make us feel a little bit better…but they are powerless to transform our lives. As a culture, we’re not even sure that we need God anymore…and if we think we do…we like to come up with our own version of him. But the reality is, God is unchanging and “what comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us” (A.W. Tozer). If that is true – then we can’t afford to think wrongly about Him. So…join us at Blessed Hope for our new sermon series, “I AM” – where we explore the attributes of God and debunk the cultural challenges about Him. This Sunday's cultural challenge we tackle is that what you believe about God doesn't really affect your everyday life. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=551807 Sun, 17 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:51 Matt Hantz http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=543957 Sun, 10 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:59:37 Matt Hantz Following Jesus can be a struggle. Sometimes it’s hard to know what, when and why to do things. And even when we know what we’re supposed to do as Christians, it can be really hard to live it out. The struggle is real! That’s why we don’t think that anybody should be going through this journey alone – and that’s why we believe that small groups are so critical to our Christian Discipleship. It’s in small groups where we grow closer to one another and learn to live out our Christian call in community. But, we get it. Small groups can be intimidating and there are lots of reasons for saying no. But, no matter how good your excuses are, they are still just excuses. So, this fall, Blessed Hope is launching our new small group semester with the goal of 100% participation. It’s a tall order, but with your help we can do it. And if the legal defense team in your head is already working overdrive to figure out a way out – then join us as we debunk your best reasons for saying no to small group in our new sermon series, “just say yes.” Being a relational Christian isn’t girly. We are taught that emotion and fighting for right and loving good is manly (look at Jesus). http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=532579 Sun, 03 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:19 Matt Hantz Following Jesus can be a struggle. Sometimes it’s hard to know what, when and why to do things. And even when we know what we’re supposed to do as Christians, it can be really hard to live it out. The struggle is real! That’s why we don’t think that anybody should be going through this journey alone – and that’s why we believe that small groups are so critical to our Christian Discipleship. It’s in small groups where we grow closer to one another and learn to live out our Christian call in community. But, we get it. Small groups can be intimidating and there are lots of reasons for saying no. But, no matter how good your excuses are, they are still just excuses. So, this fall, Blessed Hope is launching our new small group semester with the goal of 100% participation. It’s a tall order, but with your help we can do it. And if the legal defense team in your head is already working overdrive to figure out a way out – then join us as we debunk your best reasons for saying no to small group in our new sermon series, “just say yes.” We all need people to support us. Life was never intended to be lived alone. It's hard and it takes community. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=525633 Sun, 27 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:54:28 Matt Hantz Following Jesus can be a struggle. Sometimes it’s hard to know what, when and why to do things. And even when we know what we’re supposed to do as Christians, it can be really hard to live it out. The struggle is real! That’s why we don’t think that anybody should be going through this journey alone – and that’s why we believe that small groups are so critical to our Christian Discipleship. It’s in small groups where we grow closer to one another and learn to live out our Christian call in community. But, we get it. Small groups can be intimidating and there are lots of reasons for saying no. But, no matter how good your excuses are, they are still just excuses. So, this fall, Blessed Hope is launching our new small group semester with the goal of 100% participation. It’s a tall order, but with your help we can do it. And if the legal defense team in your head is already working overdrive to figure out a way out – then join us as we debunk your best reasons for saying no to small group in our new sermon series, “just say yes.” We are only given an allotted time. Don't waste it on the "lesser" things...or things that won't last. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=516989 Sun, 20 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:59 Matt Hantz What’s true? Who do I follow? Which way do I go? What do I believe? With so many “truths” out there, how do can we ever really know what is right for sure? How can we know who to trust? Those are important questions - but there is one absolute source of truth that we can trust completely - Jesus Christ. In the Bible, Jesus tells us that he is truth (John 14:6) – which means that he is the absolute definition of truth. So when we aren't sure what to think about something (especially something spiritual)...it would do well for us to go to the source of truth. This week we look at joy. Real joy is found in a relationship with God through Jesus. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=508317 Sun, 13 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:35 Matt Hantz What’s true? Who do I follow? Which way do I go? What do I believe? With so many “truths” out there, how do can we ever really know what is right for sure? How can we know who to trust? Those are important questions - but there is one absolute source of truth that we can trust completely - Jesus Christ. In the Bible, Jesus tells us that he is truth (John 14:6) – which means that he is the absolute definition of truth. So when we aren't sure what to think about something (especially something spiritual)...it would do well for us to go to the source of truth. This week we look at worship and tradition. Tradition that adds to worship is good. Tradition that clouds the focus of worship is problematic. Jesus is always the key. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=500073 Sun, 06 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:35 Matt Hantz What’s true? Who do I follow? Which way do I go? What do I believe? With so many “truths” out there, how do can we ever really know what is right for sure? How can we know who to trust? Those are important questions - but there is one absolute source of truth that we can trust completely - Jesus Christ. In the Bible, Jesus tells us that he is truth (John 14:6) – which means that he is the absolute definition of truth. So when we aren't sure what to think about something (especially something spiritual)...it would do well for us to go to the source of truth. This week we take a look at bold faith. Faith is the backbone of a relationship with Jesus. Faith should free and empower us! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=500054 Sun, 30 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:54:26 Pastor Matt What’s true? Who do I follow? Which way do I go? What do I believe? With so many “truths” out there, how do can we ever really know what is right for sure? How can we know who to trust? Those are important questions - but there is one absolute source of truth that we can trust completely - Jesus Christ. In the Bible, Jesus tells us that he is truth (John 14:6) – which means that he is the absolute definition of truth. So when we aren't sure what to think about something (especially something spiritual)...it would do well for us to go to the source of truth. This week we take a look at questions regarding the true nature and meaning of baptism. Find out more this Sunday as we kick-off our short summer series, “Jesus says...” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=474015 Sun, 16 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -1000 01:01:04 Pastor Matt For Christians, there seems to be one question that drives them more than any other - and that is simply, "How do I know for sure?" How do I know that I'm really saved? How do I know that I haven't messed it up so bad that God could never accept me? How can I ever really be sure? Those are serious concerns for Christians because we know that this life is temporary...and like we talked about last week...this life is hard. And we want to be sure that even when we mess up, we can have confidence that God is holding on to us and that our future and salvation are secure. Find out more this week as we wrap-up our series, “Life in the Spirit.” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=466946 Sun, 09 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:39:36 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=462473 Sun, 02 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:55:14 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=456656 Sun, 25 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:03 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=450001 Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:05 Pastor Matt It's a question that burns inside all of us at some point. What exactly is it that God wants from me? What's my gift? My ministry? My purpose? We spend a lot of time as Christians trying to decipher what it is that God has for us. But...the reality is...it really isn't that complicated. In fact, God has already told us what he desires from us...both as a church...and as individuals. Be sure to join us this Sunday as we explore what God wants from us...and as we celebrate the successful finish of our 2017 Faith in Action in-town mission trip! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=444865 Sun, 11 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:41:10 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=440115 Sun, 04 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:48 Pastor David Condry - Revolution Church If the people close to you were asked what your priorities in life are, what would they say? What does your life reveal as the most important? We all have priorities that guide our lives but not all of them are beneficial for living out God's purpose for us. Lets discover together how getting that main priority in life established will empower us to live the life of abundance that Jesus offers. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=429346 Sun, 28 May 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:37:57 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=426270 Sun, 21 May 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:50 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=419632 Sun, 14 May 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:17 Pastor Matt It seems like rules can really be quite helpful. They can help us learn...they can help us perform up to our very best...they can even help us transform ourselves into people who do, look, and act better. So when you think about it...rules should be a good thing, right? Well not so fast...hold up for a second. There is a problem with rules. There were a group of people in the New Testament called the Pharisees...and the Pharisees lived and judged based on a set of religious and social rules. In their minds...the better you followed the rules...the better you were. The problem is, whenever he talked to or about the Pharisees, Jesus made it pretty clear that he was wildly unimpressed with their rules. In fact - he said that unless our "righteousness" surpasses that of the pharisees, we would never enter the Kingdom of Heaven. How can that be? The Pharisees were as religious as it gets! How in the world can our righteousness surpass theirs? And why is it that God isn't impressed with our rules? And if he isn't impressed with our rules - how do we impress him? Find out this Sunday as we continue with our new series, "Freedom from Religion." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=408858 Sun, 07 May 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:53:56 Pastor Matt Be honest. What would you rather - to live a life that is safe and comfortable...or to live a life that matters years after you're gone - one that echos throughout eternity? Which is it for you? For most Christians, we know that we're supposed to say that we want our life to have mattered for eternity...and there is part of us that probably does really want that. But if we're honest, there is a bigger part for most of us that is so concerned with the right here and right now that we can't really worry about eternity. We are more worried about our weekend plans...our vacation plans...our bank accounts and our earthly futures to worry too much about kingdom things. Why? Because when it comes to Kingdom things there is rarely an immediate payoff...and also because Kingdom things seem to cost. They cost time, comfort, safety, resources. BUT...and we need to "drill down on this," as expensive as they are...they are worth it. Being a game-changer is always worth the cost. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our new series, "Freedom from Religion." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=401784 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:54:26 Pastor Matt We talk about it all the time...and we know the answer to the question. "Is God mad at me?" "Can he forgive me?" "Does he really love me?" Those are questions that invade our subconscious and in the littlest ways - hammer away at us incessantly. But should they? As Christians, do we have need to doubt the love and forgiveness of God? And is there something extra that we should be doing to make it really stick? The answer of course is "no". As Christians, we have absolute security in God's promises - they are unbreakable...and there is nothing we can do to "cement" them in other than trust him. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our new series, "Freedom from Religion." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=386697 Sun, 23 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:46:20 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=381252 Sun, 16 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:32 Pastor Matt It seems like every week during this series we've said something like, "this is a big one for most people." And it hasn't been hyperbole. To a large degree, most of us struggle with these "respectable sins" on a regular basis. But as we end our series - we are dealing with the one that is the absolute most common for Christians - selfishness and idolatry. Sure - maybe we don't have idols set up in our home and we don't visit pagan shrines (although...some of us probably do!) - but when we truly understand that idolatry is putting something else in the place of the God of the Universe - we must quickly come to terms with the fact that it's something we do most days. Find out more about identifying and cutting this sin out of your life this Sunday as we wrap up our series, "Respectable Sins." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=373309 Sun, 09 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:05 Pastor Matt The American Association for Christian Counselors estimate that at least 50% of their clients can trace their issues back to some form of unresolved anger and bitterness. That's a lot of issues that have their roots in anger. Where does anger come from? Why is it so difficult to deal with? Why is it that anger in one area or towards one person can't just stay directed at that one person? And how is it God considers it sin when we are the ones that have been wronged? God has a lot to say about unresolved anger in our lives and he gives us the reason and the ability to battle it in Scripture. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our series, "Respectable Sins." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=366687 Sun, 02 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:58 Pastor Matt It's probably the most misunderstood and most swept under the rug sin in our culture today...fear and anxiety. We pretty it up a little bit by calling it worry. We tend to worry about everything...and it has become so normal that we don't think twice about holding onto our worry. In fact, sometimes we pretty it up even more by taking our worry...and calling it wisdom. But the truth is fear and anxiety aren't wisdom - they are sin. And not only that, but it shows a deep rooted mistrust in the character of God. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our series, "Respectable Sins." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=358888 Sun, 26 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:03 Pastor Matt It's gotten a little bit out of hand, hasn't it? I mean...the way sex is portrayed in our culture is so intense that you would think that somehow sex is the answer to the meaning of life! And sex is good - it was designed to be good. It is a good gift from a perfect God...but like so many things in our world...it has been exploited and perverted into something that it was never intended to be. And unfortunately...the church hasn't always stood apart from the culture in this regard...but we've been drug along with them. In fact, in many churches - sexual sins have become so respectable that they aren't even seen as sins anymore. But as the church - we are called to stand against the misuse of a good gift from our good God. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our series, "Respectable Sins." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=353573 Sun, 19 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:36 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=340600 Sun, 12 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:24 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=332350 Sun, 05 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:14 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=318236 Sun, 26 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:28:16 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=310070 Sun, 19 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:30 Pastor Matt You know...it's interesting. There tends to be this view of the church from those on the outside looking in that the church is really only interested in controlling people and telling them what to do. The assumption is that somehow, by preaching our list of dos and don'ts and teaching about right vs. wrong - we will gain some kind of authority and control over people. Those outside the church tend to view those who follow as blind sheep who won't or can't think for themselves. They believe that by avoiding the dos and don'ts of the church - they will experience more freedom. And honestly, for people that aren't Christians - that reasoning makes sense. It makes sense because as non-Christians, they don't have the Holy Spirit. And without the Holy Spirit, they are not equipped to live up to biblical standards. But...for those of us that are Christians - we do have the Holy Spirit living in us...and we are uniquely equipped to live a life that is pleasing to God. And it is the church's job to help you grow in that! So yes - if you are a Christian - the church will teach and preach truth that leads to growth. They won't try to control you and there shouldn't ever be judgment or condemnation...but there will be tons of conviction...and that's a good thing! That's the whole point of Proverbs 27:17- "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." The experience might not always be the most pleasant...but it is an important step in growth. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our series – “why church?” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=294093 Sun, 12 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:38:05 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=282397 Sun, 05 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:46:28 Pastor Matt "I'm not good enough...they'll never pick me...once they know the things I've done they won't want anything to do with me...what if they find out my big secrets? Besides, with how messed up I am, why would they even want me there?" As we encourage and invite people to church - these are some of the common questions that come up. But what they show is a real lack of understanding about what the church really is...and who it is for. Think of the church less like a country club and more like a hospital. That's the point Jesus was making when he says, "It's not those who think they are healthy that need a doctor...but those who are sick." Staying away from church because you've got some baggage and your life is messy is like staying away from the doctor's office because you're sick. It doesn't make any sense at all. Grace is for the person with a messy life...church is for you! Be sure to join us this Sunday as we continue with our new series – “why church?” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=259935 Sun, 29 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:36:57 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=210584 Sun, 22 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:40:04 Pastor Matt Last week - we explored the idea of what it takes to grow spiritually - and what it takes is being intentional. We won't grow by accident - it happens when we intentionally put ourselves in positions to follow after Jesus. This week, we continue to look at the idea of intentional living as we see what God has to say about Christian service. If our intention is to grow to be more and more like Jesus - then we're going to have to be intentional about putting ourselves in positions that Jesus put himself in. Messy, awkward, uncomfortable situations - where he purposely humbled himself to serve and love others. Be sure to join us this Sunday as we take a look at what it means to be intentional about our spiritual service...and how it benefits our lives. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=207786 Sun, 15 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:38:11 Pastor Matt Intentional. It means to do something deliberately...with purpose. And it makes sense, doesn't it...that intentional is a great way to live? I mean, if you're going to go to all the trouble of doing things...you might as well do them with purpose! And our spiritual life is no different! We don't want to just go through the motions...showing up on Sunday and hoping to grow. Instead, we want to be intentionally committed to our spiritual growth. Be sure to join us this Sunday as we take a look at what it means to be intentional about our spiritual growth. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=205328 Sun, 08 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:26 Pastor Vince http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=200985 Fri, 06 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -1000 00:35:30 Pastor Matt As another season of advent draws closer to a conclusion...it becomes important for us to remember that while we look backwards to celebrate the birth of Jesus - remembering the moment when the God of the Universe stepped into human history...that we aren't just celebrating something that happened 2,000 years ago. We celebrate the incarnation...but we are also looking ahead to something that has been promised...but hasn't yet come...and that is the 2nd coming of our Savior, Lord and King! Find out more this Christmas Eve and Christmas morning as we wrap up "Kingdom Collision," our advent series through the book of Revelation. http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=198955 Sun, 25 Dec 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:34:22 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=198950 Sat, 24 Dec 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:23:06 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=197138 Sun, 18 Dec 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:38:55 pastor matt You've felt it. It would be impossible for you not to. The tension in the world...the seemingly endless battle...the cosmic struggle of good versus evil. And you know...the truth is...we're obsessed with it! That's why at any given time you can find some version of CSI, NCIS, or Law and Order on some TV channel. And don't even get me started about super hero movies! We love to watch those things because we love the struggle between good and evil...and we love it when justice prevails. When good guys win and bad guys are defeated...everything just feels right in the world. And (as I'm sure you've figured out) we're obsessed with it in our media because it reflects a reality that we face in our world. There is a very real struggle between good and evil. It started in the garden...it continues today...and it sometimes feels hopeless. But, just like in every Star Wars or Star Trek movie you've ever seen - good ultimately defeats evil and justice will ultimately be served. Find out more this Sunday as we continue with our advent series, "kingdom collision." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=190001 Sun, 04 Dec 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:46:33 pastor matt Have you ever been tempted to skip to the last chapter...to look ahead and find out how the story ends? For some of you...that's the only way you'll read a book...because you hate surprises and knowing the outcome ahead of time can lessen your anxiety. For others...you hate knowing the ending before it's time because it seems to lessen your enjoyment of the ride. Well...however you land on that...you'll be in good shape as we look towards the future of the church and this world. There are some things we know (like the outcome of this grand struggle between good vs. evil)...but there is plenty that we don't (like what the journey will look like). But...whether we like to know the end or not - there is one thing that Scripture and world history have already taught us...and that is that Jesus is the central figure and culmination of God's redemptive story. He is the only one that is worthy and able to abolish evil once and for all. Find out more this Sunday as we launch our new advent series, "kingdom collision." http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=188167 Sun, 27 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:48:11 pastor matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=185867 Sun, 20 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:41:41 Pastor Matt So...the election is over. And depending on who you backed...you are either feeling really good or terribly frustrated...or maybe you've got a serious case of buyers remorse. Either way - it's over...and we are where we are. So what do we do now? How do we move forward? Remember, if our person lost, our sovereign Lord is no less in control. And if our person won, our split nation is no less need of revival and prayers. Honestly...for anyone who thought things would go "back to normal" after the election was over...let me ask you a serious question. "Why in the world do you you want things to go back to normal?" Here's a newsflash for you...normal isn't working. Normal is broken. It's time for something better than normal. It's time for REVIVAL! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=183369 Sun, 13 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:57 pastor matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=180449 Sun, 06 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:11 Pastor Matt Since there is no official parenting handbook...no playbook for us to use. How in the world are we supposed to know when to say, do and allow different things? When do we expose our kids to death and tragedy? What do we tell them about God's goodness in the face of those things? What do we teach them about self-image and self-worth? At what age do you start that? When do we teach our kids about sex? What do we teach them about sex? How about making tough choices...or choosing friends? There is so much that our kids need to know. We need to teach them to be as "shrewd as snakes...and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16)...but how? Join us this Sunday as we continue with our sermon series “#thestruggleisreal” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=177670 Sun, 30 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:52:16 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=172205 Sun, 23 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:51 Mark Johnson Be sure to join us this week as we take a break from our current teaching series (#thestruggleisreal) for a guest sermon presented by one of our elders, Mark Johnson. Mark will be sharing a message called, God of Love... God of Judgement. Be sure not to miss it! http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=168781 Sun, 16 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:32:28 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=164222 Sun, 09 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:47:19 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=161159 Sun, 02 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:50:42 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=158225 Sun, 25 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:43:12 Pastor Matt OK…let’s be honest. Parenting is hard! By and large, kids have plenty of energy, are always on the move, are involved in tons of extracurricular activities that keep us moving in different directions and they are either constantly craving our attention…or they don’t want anything to do with us. And oh…don’t forget, they are really expensive too! And it doesn’t really matter how old your kids are – whether they are little ones, elementary aged, teenagers, out of the house…or even if they have kids of their own – each stage comes with its own unique challenges! Now…that doesn’t mean we don’t love them...and doesn’t mean that we’d change anything about them – it’s just that we admit…it’s sometimes a struggle. And when you throw on top of everything that parents have the added responsibility of showing their children who God is, how he operates and what he desires from their life…and it can be real overwhelming real quick. But we aren’t alone – God has given us a road-map for parenting (and for supporting parents). Find out more as we begin our new sermon series “#thestruggleisreal” http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=154802 Sun, 18 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:45:36 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=150800 Sun, 11 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:44:32 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=147550 Sun, 04 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:25 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=144508 Sun, 28 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:42:59 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=141367 Sun, 21 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:43:08 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=139287 Sun, 14 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:51:29 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=134432 Sun, 07 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:53:46 Pastor Matt http://blessedhope-vinton.org/sermons?id=131436 Sun, 31 Jul 2016 00:00:00 -1000 00:49:57