The Word from Mountain View

Waiting in Faithful Love - December 8, 2024

In this special holiday sermon, we explore a lesser-known biblical song, Zachariah's song, and its significance in the Christmas narrative. Often overlooked, this song offers a prophetic and transformative message of deep, divine love and hope.

Join us as we delve into Zachariah’s praise, experiencing the steadfast and faithful love of God, showcasing His promise and salvation through Jesus Christ. This sermon reminds us of the powerful love story within the Bible that extends beyond the Hallmark movies' familiar tales.

As we prepare for Christmas, let us reflect on our own love for the Savior, discovering the joy in God's unwavering promise, and celebrating His gift of salvation that evolves from a prophetic declaration to a core, personal transformation.

Waiting in Faithful Love
Luke 1:68-79
Main Idea: Trust in God’s faithfulness and steadfast love, even in times of waiting and silence.

Introduction
 What’s your favorite Hallmark Christmas movie?

The Benedictus - Zechariah’s Prophetic Love Song 
1. A Spirit-filled cause for celebration! v. 67
a. A prayer heard, v. 13
b. A sign given, vs. 19-20
c. A promise kept, v. 57
2. A song of love for God’s Savior,  vs. 68-75
a. The personal Redeemer 
b. The mighty Savior of David’s house  
c. The prophesied One 
d. The merciful Covenant Keeper 
3. A song of love for a son,  vs. 76-79
a. God’s forerunner (Malachi 3:1-4)
1) The prophet of the Highest 
2) Preparing the way of the Lord
3) Proclaiming salvation: Forgiveness of sins 
b. Proclaiming the rise of the heavenly Son 
Conclusion: How can we wait in Faithful Love? 
1. Celebrate God's Faithfulness.
2. Reflect on our own love for the Savior.
3. Embrace Your Role in God's Plan.
4. Trust During Waiting and Silence.
5. Celebrate God's Promises.
6. Proclaim God's Salvation.

Finding Hope in the midst of Despair - December 1, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, a special reflection on the beginning of the Advent season. As we embark on this journey, we are reminded of the new Christian year, a time of hope and anticipation. Advent marks a change in our rhythm of worship, filled with candle lightings, special services, and a renewed sense of community.

Our message today draws inspiration from the Apostle Paul's prayer for bold words and fearless proclamation of the gospel. We delve into the essence of hope, symbolized by a single candle lighting the darkness, echoing the words of Psalm 25. Amid life's tensions and uncertainties, we are called to put our trust in God's everlasting righteousness and mercy.

Join us as we explore the transformative power of hope, the connection with God that brings life, and the promise of His unwavering love. Let us open our hearts to the symphony God creates from our life's tensions, and find strength to be the light in the world, reflecting the hope found in Jesus Christ.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Despair
Psalm 25:1-10
Main Idea: God’s promise that we can trust and rely on Him gives us hope.
I . Introduction
Today is the first Sunday of Advent and we celebrate hope!
II. Hope is Found in …
1. Connection with God
2. Life with God
3. Surrendering to God and Being Transformed by God
III. How to Cultivate Hope in your life
1. Surrender v. 1-3

2. Seek Guidance v. 4-6, 9
3. Remember God’s Character v.6-8
4. Act in Faith v.10
IV. Conclusion
Psalm 25 is a reminder that we worship a God we can trust and rely on. Hope is not
passive but active, and God is calling His people to be the hope of Christ in our world.

The Heart of Thanksgiving - Part 2 - November 24, 2024

Join us in today’s sermon podcast as we delve into Apostle Paul’s teachings on gratitude, joy, and continuous prayer, aiming to unlock the mystery of the gospel in our lives. Drawing from the powerful scriptures of 1 Thessalonians, we explore how a heart of gratitude can transform our spiritual journey and relationships.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and Biblical examples, this sermon emphasizes the vitality of maintaining a joyful spirit regardless of circumstances and the importance of persistent prayer in building a closer relationship with God. Discover how embracing a lifestyle of gratitude can enhance mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, while also strengthening our connections with others.

Reflect on practical ways to cultivate gratitude daily, from keeping journals to expressing thanks in personal interactions, and learn how these practices can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. Whether in prosperity or adversity, find out why giving thanks is integral to understanding God’s plan and experiencing His infinite peace and love.

With Pastor Mike Curry.
The Heart of Thanksgiving: Rejoice, Pray, Give Thanks (Part 2)
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)

II. Pray Continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

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

From Garbage to Grace: Transforming Lives Through Faith and Purpose, November 17, 2024

Welcome to today's inspiring sermon podcast where we delve into the power of transformation and the incredible journey of faith. 

We are introduced to Brian, a missionary from Honduras, who shares the miraculous story of Coca Gracias, a community that rose from a garbage dump to a thriving ministry. Through the Ministerio de la Voz, lives are being transformed by offering education in trades and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The podcast reveals how this initiative has impacted over 2,500 students, empowering them with skills and faith.

Brian's message encourages us to align our lives with God's will, emphasizing the importance of the church as the embodiment of God's purpose on Earth. He challenges us to overcome fear and isolation, urging us to be bold in our faith and to actively participate in transforming our communities.

The podcast concludes with an invitation to embrace God's will, encouraging listeners to open their hearts to the transformative power of Jesus. Join us in this journey of faith and discover the profound impact of living according to God's purpose.

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.