The Word from Mountain View

The Heart of Thanksgiving - November 10, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. This episode is the first part of a two-part series that delves into the heart of thanksgiving, rejoicing, and prayer as we prepare for the upcoming Thanksgiving season.

Join us as we reflect on the highs and lows of life, from the excitement of sporting events to the weight of elections, and discover how these experiences relate to our spiritual walk. Through personal anecdotes and biblical insights, we explore the significance of rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances, as guided by 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17.

As we navigate through life's challenges, we'll learn the importance of finding joy in our relationship with Jesus and maintaining a lifestyle of persistent prayer. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, this sermon invites you to deepen your connection with God and embrace His will for your life.

Stay tuned for part two, where we will conclude this exploration of thanksgiving and its profound impact on our spiritual journey. Until then, let us rejoice, pray, and give thanks, for this is God's will for us in Christ Jesus.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

The Heart of Thanksgiving: Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Main Idea: A heart of gratitude is cultivated through rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving. How to Develop a Heart of Thanksgiving

I. Rejoice Always (1 Thessalonians 5:16)

• “Joy is a feeling of good pleasure and happiness that is dependent on who Jesus is

rather than on who we are or what is happening around us.”

- Kenneth Ortiz – Theologyfortherestofus.com

• Acts 16:25; Philippians 4:4

• Practical Ways to Rejoice:

o Develop a habit of gratitude by keeping a joy journal.

o Engage in worship and praise regularly with a supportive faith community.

II. Pray Continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

• Persistent prayer is important.

• Prayer is a lifestyle - John 16:24; Ephesians 6:18

• We must overcome barriers to prayer

III. Give Thanks in All Circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

• Gratitude is powerful – Philippians 4:6-7

• Be thankful in difficult times - Job 1:20-21; Daniel 6:7-10

• Cultivate an attitude of gratitude - Colossians 3:15-17

Living as Kingdom Citizens in an Uncertain World - November 3, 2024

Join us for an inspiring sermon podcast as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of living as kingdom citizens in today's divided world. Drawing parallels from the movie "The Terminal" and the biblical account of Elijah and Elisha, we explore the feeling of being 'stuck' between earthly and heavenly allegiances.

Through the lens of Scripture, discover how God's faithfulness transcends uncertainty, how He writes the true story of history, and how true leadership flows from His Spirit. Be encouraged to trust in God's unwavering promises, view your life through His redemptive story, and support Spirit-led leadership.

Reflect on your allegiance and learn how to live as a new creation in an old, broken world, pointing others to the eternal kingdom of God. Tune in to be challenged and uplifted in your spiritual journey.

With Pastor Mike Curry

Living as Kingdom Citizens in an Uncertain World
2 Kings 2:7-15
Main Idea: In a world often defined by political turmoil and uncertainty, we are called to live
as citizens of the eternal Kingdom of God in the temporary world of kings and presidents.
Introduction:
• Living in the “In-Between”
I. God’s Faithfulness Transcends Uncertainty
• The Kingdom of God operates on unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness.
o Deuteronomy 31:6, Lamentations 3:22-23.
• Confidence in God’s continued work led to the calm transfer of authority from Elijah
to Elisha.
• God’s faithfulness is our anchor during personal transitions and societal upheavals.
o Hebrews 10:23, 2 Peter 3:9.
II. God Writes the True Story of History
• History is a testament to God’s faithfulness and redemptive work.
o Isaiah 46:10, Daniel 2:21.
• The Bible records both the triumphs and failures of its heroes.
o Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul
• Our lives are part of God’s grand narrative.
o 2 Corinthians 3:2-3
III. True Leadership Flows from God’s Spirit
• Leadership in the Kingdom of God is recognized by the presence and power of God’s
Spirit.
o 1 Samuel 16:7; Isaiah 61:1
• The parting of the Jordan River was a confirmation of Elisha’s leadership.
o 2 Kings 2:14
• Impactful leaders may not always have political clout or public recognition.
o 1 Samuel 16:13; Zechariah 4:6
Action Points: How to Live as Kingdom Citizens in a Divided World
1. Trust in God’s faithfulness, even in dire circumstances.
2. View our lives and events through the lens of God’s redemptive story.
3. Support leadership anointed by God’s Spirit.

3 Circles - October 27, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. As we explore the Word together, we uncover a unique method of sharing the good news using three simple circles, a concept inspired by Pastor Scroggins from Family Church, Florida.

Amidst the beauty of creation, from breathtaking sunsets to the birth of new life, we often face the harsh reality of a broken world. This sermon guides us in reflecting on God's perfect design and how sin leads us away from it. We explore the consequences of departing from God's plan and the brokenness it brings, while finding hope in the gospel message of redemption through Jesus Christ.

Discover how Jesus paid the debt of our sin, offering us a path to recovery and purpose. By repenting and believing in the good news, we can embrace God's grace and live according to His design. Whether you're contemplating your spiritual journey or ready to take the next step, this message encourages you to find your place in God's masterpiece and live a life of fulfillment and purpose.

Join us as we navigate the road from brokenness to wholeness, celebrating the transformative power of the gospel and God's eternal love for each of us. May this sermon inspire you to seek a deeper understanding of God's plan and His unwavering grace.

Come and See -October 20, 2024

Join us in today's sermon podcast as we explore the Apostle Paul's prayer request and the profound impact of personal invitations to faith.  The sermon emphasizes the importance of fearlessly sharing the gospel and God's plan for our lives.

Reflecting on a personal journey with the Church of the Nazarene, the sermon highlights the incredible transformations witnessed when people are invited to "come and see" what God is doing. Through the story of a small church in Lemoore, California, we learn how simple invitations led to miraculous changes in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction, broken marriages, and more.

Delve into the biblical narrative from John 1, where the ripple effect of relationships and invitations to follow Jesus are explored. Discover how the disciples' encounters with Christ brought about radical transformations and confessions of faith.

This sermon challenges us to reach out, build meaningful relationships, and invite others to experience the hope and joy found in Jesus. As we prepare for next week's fall celebration, we are encouraged to invite others to hear the good news and witness the transformative power of God's love.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

“Come and See”

John 1:35-49

Main Idea: Other people come to faith in Jesus Christ because of personal connections with believers.

1. The Ripple Effect of Relationships

John the Baptizer - “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (vs. 35-37)

>  John, son of Zebedee (Matthew 4:21-22)  

              >  James, son of Zebedee

>  Andrew - “We have found the Messiah” (vs. 38-42)

                             >   Simon {Peter} - “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16)

>  Philip - “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law…” (vs. 43-49)

                             > Nathaniel {Bartholomew} - “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”

2. The Principle of Bonding

• Relationships are the glue that bonds people to the church.
  • The fewer relationships a person has in a church, the more apt that person is to leave.
  • The more relationships a person has in a church, the greater their potential for staying and participation.
• It takes, on average, 7 “touches” and  3  “hearings” for some to come to Christ.
  • Touches = Personal contacts
  • Hearings = Clear presentations of the Good News

3. The Power of an Invitation

• Jesus invitation to “come and see” transformed lives.
• The disciples’ invitation to “come and see” radically changed lives.
• Who are you inviting to come and see?

Action Steps: 

Over the next 30 days…

• Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
• Receive and read an email and/or text.
• Participate in at least one prayer walk.
• Send a note or email to 5 people.
• Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live

Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter

 

A Call to Reach the Nations (Part 2) - October 13, 2024

In this powerful sermon, listeners are encouraged to embrace the mission of spreading the hope of the Gospel as outlined in Acts 1:7-11. The pastor invites the congregation to take up the challenge of being witnesses for Christ, not just within their comfort zones, but to the ends of the earth. Reflecting on the ascension of Jesus, the sermon draws parallels with the Church's mission to carry the message of salvation to all corners of the world.

The pastor emphasizes the importance of crossing boundaries—whether geographical, social, or personal—to reach those in need of hope and salvation. The message is clear: every believer is called to be a missionary, sharing the love and grace of God with others, regardless of their circumstances.

Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in spreading the Gospel through prayer, acts of kindness, and personal testimonies. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt prayer for courage and obedience in fulfilling the Great Commission, reminding the congregation of the eternal significance of their mission.

“A CALL TO REACH THE NATIONS” Part 2
Main Idea: All believers are called to reach the peoples of the world, beginning with those around us.
Text: Acts 1:7-11
"Go, be my witnesses."
1. Jesus’ Farewell vs. 7-8
• A command - "You will be my witnesses"
o Jerusalem – Home and local community
o All Judea – Neighboring communities, states
o Samaria – Other places where people are antagonistic
o Reaching "the ends of the earth"
2. We’re all missionaries
• Missionary = someone who crosses boundaries with the purpose of communicating the
gospel of Jesus and making disciples.
o Boundaries: local, international, cross-cultural
• Remember: Every believer has a responsibility to share the gospel
3. An Encouraging Reminder vs. 9-11
• “Why do you stand here looking into the sky?”
• Consequence of inaction: disobedience
o Inactive Christian = disobedient Christian
o Stationary church = disobedient church
• Encouragement for the task
o Matthew 28:20 - "I am with you always"
o Acts 1:8 – “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you”
Action Steps:
Over the next 30 days…
 Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
 Receive and read an email and/or text.
 Participate in at least one prayer walk.
 Send a note or email to 5 people.
 Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

A Call to Reach the Nations - October 6, 2024

Join us in today's sermon podcast as we delve into the powerful message of hope and salvation. Our speaker passionately explores the importance of fearlessly proclaiming the mystery of the gospel and how it relates to our lives today.

In the wake of recent natural disasters, we are reminded of the spirit of community and helping one another. This sermon reflects on the devastation and the hope of rescue, drawing parallels to our spiritual journey and the need to share the hope we have in Christ.

The sermon emphasizes the Great Commission from Matthew 28, urging believers to go and make disciples of all nations. It highlights the authority given to Jesus and His call to share this mission with His followers. Through personal stories and biblical insights, listeners are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and actively participate in spreading the message of hope.

As we consider our role in this global mandate, the sermon challenges us to take practical steps in prayer, outreach, and service. By praying for those who do not know Jesus, participating in prayer walks, and inviting others to church, we can make a significant impact in our communities.

Join us in embracing the Great Commission and becoming a beacon of hope in a world in need of salvation. Together, let's fulfill our purpose as the church of the living God.

Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter

With Pastor Mike Curry.

THE HOPE INITIATIVE

“A CALL TO REACH THE NATIONS” Part 1

Main Idea: All believers are called to reach the peoples of the world, beginning with those around us.

Text: Matthew 28:16-20

 "Go, make disciples."

1. Jesus' Great Statement

• Great claim: All authority
• Great command: All nations
• Great promise: Always with them

2. The Great Commission components

• GO
• MAKE disciples
• BAPTIZE
• TEACH others to obey
• REMEMBER God is with us

3. The problem: Wanting privileges without responsibility
4. Every local church has a global mandate

Action Steps: 

Over the next 30 days…

• Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
• Receive and read an email and/or text.
• Participate in at least one prayer walk.
• Send a note or email to 5 people.
• Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

 

We Share Our Gifts with One Another - September 29, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we dive deep into the Apostle Paul's prayer from Ephesians 6:19 and explore how it can guide our lives. The urgency of our mission is clear—Jesus is coming soon, and it's crucial that we, as a church, come together to share our unique gifts for the glory of God.

In this episode, we engage with the younger members of our congregation, conducting a 'shape survey' to understand how God has uniquely equipped each of us. We categorize spiritual gifts into miraculous gifts, enabling gifts, and team gifts, explaining their significance and how they work together to build a thriving church community.

Drawing inspiration from Acts 2:42-47, we explore the early church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, and prayer, emphasizing the importance of living in community. Through practical examples and the involvement of our congregation, we demonstrate how each gift—from evangelism to administration—plays a vital role in the body of Christ.

Join us as we uncover the blueprint for a vibrant, growing church and challenge you to use your God-given gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom. Together, we can do more than we ever could alone. Let’s embrace our call to share and multiply the blessings we've received.

With Pastor Mike Curry

We Share Our Gifts with One Another

Acts 2:42–47

INTRODUCTION: All these people! All these gifts!

1. Miraculous Gifts (confirm and bear witness to the Word)

• Apostle, Tongues, Interpretation, Miracles, Healing

2. Enabling Gifts (qualities possessed rather than activities performed)

• Faith, Discernment, Wisdom, Knowledge

3. TEAM Gifts (functional job-, activity-, ministry- or task-oriented gifts)

• Evangelism, Prophecy, Teaching, Exhortation, Shepherding, Serving, Mercy-showing, Giving,

Administration.

MAIN IDEA: Everyone is a gift with gifts to share.

OUR GIFTS ARE MADE TO SHARE…

1. We are called to do life with others.

• We will live life in a community and not in isolation.

2. We are called to share what we have been given. • We will be generous with our gifts.

3. When we share our gifts, multiplication happens. • We will witness God grow our community.

ACTION POINTS:

 Faithfully and consistently gather in community and fellowship with other believers.

 Be generous with the gifts that God has given you and allow others to be generous with you.

 Be prepared to praise God for growing your community and bringing people to salvation in him.

We Grow Our Gifts Together - September 22, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. We delve into the profound impact of community in nurturing our spiritual gifts and growth. Through the transformative story of Saul's conversion in Acts 9, we explore how God uses others to help us see clearly, clear the way, and keep us on mission.

We celebrate the diverse talents within our congregation and emphasize the importance of unity and mutual support in our faith journey. Join us as we uncover the blueprint for thriving together in Christ, understanding our divine calling, and actively contributing to the body of Christ. May this message enrich your understanding of God's plan for your life and inspire you to embrace your unique gifts for His glory.

We Grow Our Gifts Together

Acts 9:1–31

MAIN IDEA: God uses others to help grow our gifts.

GOD USES OTHERS IN OUR LIVES TO GROW OUR GIFTS:

1. God uses others to help you see clearly. (v. 10–18)

• Truth: We help others discover their gifts.

1. God uses others to help clear the way. (v. 23–27)

• Truth: We use our gifts to help protect and propel the gifts in others.

1. God uses others to keep us on mission. (v. 28–31)

• Truth: We grow our gifts together to grow the Church.

 

Action Points:

• Consider and list practical ways you can use your gifts to protect and propel the gifts of others.
• Take a faith-filled risk to include someone who others may view as an inconvenience to the Church and help them see they belong.
• Take the SHAPE Assessment to begin to discover and grow the gifts God has given you. Click the link below, complete a paper copy from the welcome center and return to the office.

https://tinyurl.com/mvcnazshape

We Use our Gifts Together - September 15, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by Apostle Paul's words in Ephesians 6:19, our message delves into the theme of unity and the strength we find in working together. Are you ready for some engaging participation? Remember, we're not just an audience; we're a congregation united by faith.

In this sermon, we explore the idea that "we are better together" by looking at iconic duos from pop culture and history. More importantly, we examine the biblical partnership of Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla from Acts 18:1-8. Through their story, we learn how our gifts are more powerful when shared, used for both believers and non-believers, and how they expand God's kingdom.

Join us as we uncover practical ways to partner with others, both within and outside our church community, to make a greater impact. Let's embrace our spiritual gifts, serve together, and glorify God in all that we do. Amen!

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live

We Use Our Gifts Together

Acts 18:1–8

MAIN IDEA: We are better together.

OUR GIFTS ARE BETTER TOGETHER…

1. When we share our gifts with others. (v. 1–3)
2. When we use our gifts for believers and nonbelievers. (v. 4–6)
3. Because when we use our gifts together, the Kingdom expands. (v. 7–8)

Action Points:

• Consider and list practical ways you can work with others to make a bigger impact than you could alone.
• Partner with other Christians in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.
• Partner with God in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.

 

Embracing Your God-Given Talents - September 8, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. In this episode, we explore the significance of recognizing and utilizing the unique gifts that God has bestowed upon each one of us. Drawing inspiration from Romans 12:3-8 and Ephesians 6:19, we delve into the story of Malcolm Mitchell and his unexpected journey to becoming an avid reader, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication alongside natural talents.

Join us as we discuss how everyone is a gift with a gift, equipped by God to serve and bless others. Through examining our spiritual gifts and understanding their divine origin, we are encouraged to use them diligently for the glory of God and the benefit of the community. Whether you're a long-time believer or new to the faith, this message aims to inspire you to discover and activate your God-given abilities.

As we continue our series, "You Are Gifted for More," we invite you to evaluate your gifts, recognize their source, and commit to using them effectively. Let's embark on this journey together, seeking to fulfill God's plan for our lives and our congregation. Amen.

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With Pastor Mike Curry

Everyone Is a Gift with Gifts

Romans 12:3–8 NLT

 

MAIN IDEA: Everyone is a gift with gifts.

 

GOD HAS GIVEN DIFFERENT PEOPLE DIFFERENT GIFTS…

 

1. It is wise to evaluate your gifts. (v. 3)
2. Realize that different people have different gifts. (v. 4–5)
3. Your gifts have a unique and specific function. (v. 6–8)

 

HOW DO WE RESPOND TO BEING GIVEN GIFTS:

 

1. Evaluate what gifts you have been given. (v. 3–5)
2. Recognize where our gifts come from. (v. 6a)
3. Use your unique gifts. (v.6b–8)

 

ACTION STEPS:

• Do a thorough evaluation of the gifts that you have. Combine this reflection with the results of your SHAPE Assessment and conversations with those closest to you.
• Recognize how your gifts can be best used in your life (among your family, vocation, community, church, etc.).
• Thank God for his benevolence in giving you gifts.