The Word from Mountain View

Go Forward in Faith: Crossing the Red Sea - July 7, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the essence of faith and God's unwavering plan for our lives. 

As we gather after a long holiday week, we are reminded that we are all on a journey of faith. Reflecting on the story of Moses and the Israelites from the book of Exodus, we explore how God encourages His people to move forward in faith despite challenging circumstances. The sermon highlights the importance of trusting God's plan through our past, present, and future.

We revisit the remarkable story of Moses, his divine calling, and the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the brink of the Red Sea. The message focuses on God's assurance to Moses and the Israelites to move forward, not in fear, but in faith, and how this lesson applies to our lives today.

As we prepare for communion, we are invited to ponder the steps of faith we may be putting off and consider how we can encourage others in their faith journey. Join us as we embrace the living hope found in Jesus Christ and proclaim His sacrifice through the sacred act of communion.

Thank you for being a part of our sermon podcast. For more sermons and outlines, visit our church's website at www.mvcnaz.org. May you find a church home that honors the authority of the Bible and supports your spiritual growth.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

Classic (Old Testament) Summer Stories:
“Go Forward in Faith: Crossing the Red Sea”
Exodus 14:8-18

Main Idea: God encourages His people to move forward in faith, even
with challenging circumstances.

1. The Past Pushed Them Forward (Exodus 1:6-14)
- Sometimes our past difficulties propel us toward God’s
purpose for our lives.

2. The Present Prodded Them Ahead (Exodus 14:9-10)
- In our present challenges, God provides a way forward
if we trust Him.

3. The Future Pulled Them Forward (Exodus 3:8; 14:13-14)
Our hope in God’s promises pull us toward a better future.

Reflection Question:
- What are some steps of faith you have been putting off, but need to
make for you to move forward in your relationship with God?
- How can you encourage others around you take steps of faith in
their own lives?

Glimpses of Christ in Joseph's Story - June 30, 2024

In today's sermon podcast, we delve into the profound story of Joseph from the Old Testament, exploring how his life foreshadows the life and mission of Jesus Christ. Inspired by the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, our pastor prays for divine guidance to convey the mysteries of the gospel fearlessly.

Reflecting on old family photos, our pastor draws a parallel between the snapshots that evoke memories and the classic summer stories from the Old Testament. These stories spark faith and point forward to the New Testament, revealing God's overarching plan for humanity through Jesus Christ.

With the help of children acting out key scenes, we journey through Joseph's life—from his betrayal by his brothers, his rise to prominence in Egypt, to his ultimate reconciliation with his family. This narrative beautifully mirrors the suffering, redemption, and exaltation of Jesus, who came to save us from our sins and restore our relationship with God.

Join us as we uncover the deep connections between Joseph's experiences and the life of Jesus, and how these biblical accounts encourage us to trust in God's purpose, even when life seems unfair. May this sermon enrich your understanding of God's love and His plan for your life.

 

With Pastor Mike Curry

Glimpses of Christ in Joseph’s Story

Genesis 37-50

Main Idea: Scenes from Joseph’s life point us to trust a Greater Sav

Introduction

The Spontaneous Melodrama of Joseph’s Amazing Dream

Scene 1: A Beloved Son and His Father’s Favor

• Genesis 37:3-4

• Matthew 3:17

Scene 2: Suffering and Redemption

• Genesis 37:23-28

• Matthew 16:21

Scene 3: Reconciliation and Restoration

• Genesis 50:15-21

• Philippians 2:5-11

Action Point:

o Trust God’s purpose, timing, and redemption.

 

Embracing the Call: Stories of Mission and Hope - June 23, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of the Goossens family, missionaries in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite the absence of Randy due to illness, Joni Goossens shares an engaging and heartfelt account of their mission work.

Discover how their work impacts the region, from evangelism efforts with the Jesus Film to the establishment of new churches in the Philippines. Learn about the diverse roles in mission work, the importance of cultural connections, and the unique opportunities that arise from serving in different regions.

Be inspired by the stories of transformed lives and the call to actively participate in God's mission. Reflect on how your own gifts and experiences can be used to share hope and love with those around you. Whether in your neighborhood or across the globe, each of us has a role to play in spreading the good news of Jesus.

Thank you for listening, and may you go forth as changed people who change the world. For more sermons and outlines, visit our church's website at www.mvcnaz.org.

A Godly Father in An Evil Age - June 16, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Join us as we delve into the timeless story of Noah, found in Genesis 6, and discover powerful lessons on how to live righteously in an increasingly wicked world. Our pastor reflects on the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, seeking divine words to fearlessly proclaim the mystery of the gospel.

In this special Father's Day sermon, we explore the importance of godly fathers and their role in standing against cultural decay. We are reminded of Noah's unwavering faith and obedience to God amidst a corrupt and violent world, and how his example can inspire us today. This message is not just for fathers, but for all who seek to understand and live out God's plan for their lives.

Through engaging anecdotes and scriptural insights, we are encouraged to seek God's grace, pursue righteousness and faithfulness, and walk with God daily. As we reflect on Noah's story, we are called to be people of grace who impact our families and communities with the light and love of Christ.

May this sermon come alive to you and aid in your understanding of God's plan for your life. Tune in and be inspired to stand strong in your faith, just as Noah did.

With Pastor Mike Curry

“A Godly Father in an Evil Age”

Genesis 6:5-14, 22

Introduction – Godly fathers needed!

1. A godly father finds grace in the eyes of the LORD.

“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.” - Genesis 6:8

1. A godly father pursues righteousness and faithfulness.

“Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God.”  - Genesis 6:9

III. A godly father obeys God.

“Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” - Genesis 6:22

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” - Hebrews 11:6-7

Action Points:

• Seek God’s grace.
• Model godliness.
• Walk with God.

Broken Reflections to Restored Images - June 9, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon broadcast. Join us as we delve into the creation of Adam and Eve in Genesis 2, exploring God's design and the importance of living according to His will. We will reflect on the dangers of straying from God's path and the redemption offered through Jesus Christ.

Today's message will also feature personal reflections, including a story about the Hubble Space Telescope's flawed mirror and its eventual correction. This serves as a metaphor for how God can restore our brokenness. Through the story of Adam and Eve, we will discuss how God's original plan was shattered by sin but restored through Jesus Christ.

We will explore key Hebrew words for sin, the consequences of the fall, and the promise of a Savior. Discover how God's image can be restored within us and how we can live into the purpose He has for us. The sermon will conclude with actionable steps to embrace God's design, resist temptation, and hold on to His promises.

Join us as we seek to reflect God's character and live as He intended. May this sermon come alive for you today and aid in your understanding of God's plan for your life.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

 “Broken Reflections to Restored Images”

Genesis 2:7, 15-18, 21-25

Main Idea: God’s original plan for people was shattered by sin but restored by Jesus Christ.

1. Introduction: A distorted reflection.
2. God’s Design: A Perfect Image (Genesis 1:28; 2:7, 15-17)

• • God’s Three-fold Plan:

1. Be fruitful and multiply.
2. Fill the earth and govern it.
3. Work and care for the Garden - eat from any tree in the garden except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  

• • People are created in God’s image to:

1. Reflect of God’s character.
2. Represent of God’s rule and reign.
3. Work at harnessing creation’s potential and creating beauty and order.

• The Image Shattered: A tragic decision. (Genesis 3:1-7)

• • The choice:

1. Trust God’s definition of good and evil or seize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves.
2. They chose to disobey God and that led to sin entering the world.

1. The promise of a Savior (Genesis 3:15; Romans 5:12-15)
   • God’s first promise of redemption: the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head.
2. The image restored: Clothed in Grace (Genesis 3:21; Isaiah 61:10; Col. 3:9-10)
   • Just as God made garments of skin to cover Adam and Eve’s nakedness (shame), we too are clothed in God’s grace because of the sacrifice of Jesus—the Lamb of God who covers our sin.

Action Points:

• Embrace God’s Perfect Design
• Resist Temptation
• Hold onto God’s Promises
• Clothe Yourself in Christ
• Share the Good News

The First and Last Word - June 2, 2024

With Pastor Mike Curry.

“From Creation to Christ: The First and Last Word”

Genesis 1:1-3

 

Main Idea: Our view of Creation informs our understanding of Jesus Christ and His mission.

1. Introduction

• Significant Words

1. God Is and God Created: The First Word (Genesis 1:1-3a)

• God’s Existence: “In the beginning, God…” v.1a
• God’s Creative Act: “And God said…” v. 3

III. Jesus Christ, the Son:  The Last Word (John 1:1-3, 14)

• The Word Made Flesh
• Redemption and New Creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• Resurrection and New Beginnings (1 Corinthians 15:20-22)

1. Conclusion

• God’s Story Continues as we share the First Word and the Last Word
  • Revelation 1:8

 

Worship Service Video Podcast - May 26, 2024

With Pastor Mike Curry. Ephesians 4:1-6

WORSHIP SERVICE

video and audio recorded live at Mountain View Church.

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here.

Unity in Community (2) - May 26, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, our pastor delves into Ephesians 4:1-6, urging us to live lives worthy of our calling. We explore themes of humility, gentleness, patience, and love, emphasizing unity within the church of Jesus Christ.

This sermon continues from last week, stressing the importance of walking in unity and growing in faith together. By embodying these four graces—humility, gentleness, patience, and love—we not only strengthen our community but also prepare ourselves for the battles ahead.

Our pastor shares personal anecdotes and biblical references, illustrating how our conduct should reflect our heavenly Father. The message is clear: unity is vital, but it does not mean uniformity. We celebrate our differences, recognizing that they complement and strengthen us as one body in Christ.

Join us as we commit to walking worthy of our calling, united in purpose and love, ready to impact the world for the glory of God.

Unity in Community
Ephesians 4:1-6
Main Idea: Unity in community brings about lasting change and impact when
we walk worthy of our calling.
Walk worthy of the calling…
1. Celebrating God’s saving grace (v.1)
  a. A believer’s life should be a response of gratitude to God’s grace.
  i. 1 Peter 2:9
2. Walk in the four graces (v. 2):
  a. Humility (lowliness) – Philippians 2:3
  b. Gentleness (meekness) – Matthew 11:29
  c. Patient – Proverbs 14:29
  d. In Love – Romans 5:8
3. Walk with purpose (v. 3):
  a. To keep the unity, the peace.
  i. Romans 12:16-18
4. Walk for the seven reasons (v. 4-6):
  a. One body – 1 Corinthians 12:13
  b. One Spirit – Romans 8:14
  c. One hope – 1 Peter 1:3-4
  d. One Lord – Philippians 2:9-11
  e. One faith – John 1:10-13
  f. One baptism – Galatians 3:27
  g. Only One God & Father of all – 1 John 5:7 (KJV)
Action Points:
1. Embrace gratitude.
2. Practice the four graces.
3. Maintain unity and peace by seeking to complement and strengthen one
another.
Remember: Walking worthy of our calling involves intentional actions that
reflect God’s love and grace.

Worship Service Video Podcast - May 19, 2024

With Pastor Mike Curry. Ephesians 4:1-6

WORSHIP SERVICE

video and audio recorded live at Mountain View Church.

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here.

Unity in Community (1) - May 19, 2024

In this eye-opening sermon, the theme of embracing God's Saving Grace through Gratitude is explored deeply. Our pastor invites us into the Apostle Paul's prayer (Ephesians 6.19) and its applicability in our individual lives. The message emphasizes two key points - unity and community - as catalysts for real, lasting change. Drawing from Ephesians 4, the sermon underscores how walking worthy of our calling forms the foundation of our spiritual lives. This sermon is packed with uplifting anecdotes, and the occasion highlighted is a celebration of faith and grace. The pastor's take on the scripture offers new perspectives and the ability to reconnect with our own spiritual journeys. Using vivid analogies, the pastor prompts us to reflect on our personal experiences with grace and salvation. The message ends on the acknowledgement of God's unending love, explaining how He has called us out of our darkness and transgressions into His light. Thus, embracing gratitude in the face of God's saving grace is encouraged. A genuine must-listen for individuals hoping to deepen their understanding of God's plan, and those desiring to celebrate the transformative power of grace.