Messages by Al Stoltzfus
Three Gifts Godly Parents give to their children in this season on uncertainty
There are three vital gifts godly parents give to their children. Each gift is crucially life-sustaining and is especially timely as families navigate the isolation and fear with the current spread of the Covid-19 virus. Text: Deuteronomy 6:1-9; Proverbs 22:6; 29:15, 17; and Proverbs 1:7
Four Expectations Jesus has for all who follow Him
In the second half of John’s gospel (Chapters 13-21) the narrative slows to focus on Jesus mission. Jesus is the Christ, but what does he expect from his followers? Here are four ways Jesus expects us as His followers to show our connection to Him and his mission. Text: John 13:31-14:14
Why do you look for a speck of sawdust? Healthy self awareness
Jesus knows that we will struggle at times in the way we relate to one another. With a pointed question and a graphic comparison of a speck and a plank Jesus shows us how, with gospel-treasuring awareness, we ought to rightly see ourselves, so that we are able to help and not judge one another. Text: Matthew 7:1-6; Pr 27:6; Pr 9:8 (also Romans 14:10-13 and James 4:11-12)
Why Are you so afraid? Facing our giants
The Sea of Galilee can be a beautiful, calm, peaceful place. It can also quickly become a tempest of life-threatening proportions, which is what it was for Jesus disciples on this night. The storm was real. They are afraid for their lives. Jesus understands those fears. With a probing question he invites them to go beyond their fears to trust in Him. In the storms of life faith grows stronger when we are captivated by the power and glory of Jesus. Text: Matthew 14:22-33
Of Saints & Sinners…Worship the King who Transforms
The events that occur after the birth of Jesus offer a graphic picture into the mission of Jesus. Magi from the east come bearing gifts. They seek the child-king. They also stir up the ire of king Herod. What follows is a horrible scene that presses us deep into the evil mess which Jesus has come to redeem. Text: Matthew 2:1-23
Of Saints and Sinners: The Names that Surprise Us
The often overlooked genealogy of Jesus at the beginning of Matthew’s gospel includes five women. Why does Matthew break with tradition to include these women? Could it be that these women, like the men, offer vital clues about Jesus mission and the kinds of people Jesus came to restore to life? I think it is this, and more. Text: Matthew 1:1-17 (esp. v. 3, 5, 6b and 16)
The Secret to Thanksgiving
In five compact verses and with a host of words and posture, this mighty psalm urges us to praise God with gladness. It is a Psalm of Thanksgiving which prompts us to be clear-eyed and fully aware of the enduring love of God which overflows in our joyful response of praise. Text: Psalm 100; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Titus 2:14
How to be blessed this Thanksgiving
Psalm 1 sets forth two ways to live. One way is shiftless and unrooted. The other is deeply rooted in commands of God. Only one leads to wholeness and blessing.The person who is blessed finds delight in Jesus and runs firmly in the way of God’s commandments. Text: Psalm 1; Luke 24:44; Romans 10:4