The Life of David: Loving Your Enemies (1 Samuel 24)

November 29, 2021 Nate Holdridge

Jesus taught hard, radical things. During his sermon on the mount, he said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’” (Matthew 5:43). It seems that, by the time of Christ, the religious leaders had taken the Old Testament command to ‘love your neighbor’ to mean one should also hate their enemy. Their teaching was, of course, a perversion of God’s word. Jesus corrected, and then addended their teaching. “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). (15 Minutes, 4000 Words)

The Life of David - Transformed by the Secret King (1 Samuel 22:1–2)

October 4, 2021 Nate Holdridge

PXL_20210922_015028163.MP.jpg — The Life of David Transformed by the Secret King

(1 Samuel 22:1–2)

There are episodes in David's life that serve as an excellent picture of the God-hearted man. He went through human struggles, complete with human failures, and our hearts are often encouraged by the way God worked in his life. Our most recent episodes are examples of David's human weakness. (11 Minutes/3000 Words)

How God’s Love Is Perfected in You – Know the Trinitarian Love of God (1 John 4:13–16)

September 21, 2021 Nate Holdridge

PXL_20210906_172200585.MP.jpg — How God’s Love Is Perfected in You – Know the Trinitarian Love of God

(1 John 4:13–16)

When John wrote his gospel, he used a fascinating title when speaking of himself. He called himself, often, the disciple whom Jesus loved. (7 Minutes/1700 Words)

A Son Is Given (Isaiah 9:6)

December 1, 2020 Nate Holdridge

son+given.jpg — A Son Is Given

(Isaiah 9:6)

The night Jesus was born, a son was given. God so loved the world, he sent his only Son (John 3:16). Jesus' birth as a baby was God's gift to humanity. He gave His Son. (2 Minutes/500 Words)

Election Year Encouragements for Our Congregation

October 15, 2020 Nate Holdridge

election+encouragement.jpg — Election Year Encouragements for Our Congregation

As everyone is aware, we are in a divisive presidential election season. Though I love my country and consider myself blessed to be a citizen here, as a senior pastor, I grin and bear these seasons every four years. But this year, I thought it could be helpful to offer some pastoral counsel for this election. I want to point you afresh to Jesus and give you some biblical pillars during this disruptive time. (8 Minutes/2000 Words)

How To Lead Communion

February 25, 2019 Nate Holdridge

Communition to Remember Jesus.jpg — Suggestions for Leading Communion

When Christ ascended, he gave his church various means with which to remember him. Partaking of the Lord's Supper, or communion, is a significant way we are called to remember Christ and His gospel work. All over the world, ministry leaders often preside over the partaking of communion during their gatherings. (10 Minutes/1900 Words)