Westlake Podcast

Fringe - Storm

A Super Savior

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Following Christ

This is the time of year when many are making resolutions (diet, exercise, read the Bible, etc.). But, why do our good intentions seldom work? Could it be that we try to manage our lives, control outcomes and just "try harder" too much? Are we neglecting our most basic human need? We can't save, rescue or champion ourselves. We need a "Savior" for that, Jesus! As we stand on the brink of a new year and new decade, a time when many focus on resolutions and newness, I must Preach Jesus in 2010. A "Savior" is what we need! Let's explore together.

Preach Jesus

"What do you want?" This is a long-time heralded Christmas question. But, how will you respond? We are challenged today by Luke's account of the dedication of Jesus at the Temple. Jesus' encounters with Simeon and Anna at the temple have the potential to reshape our Christmas quest. Like Simeon of old, will we recognize what confronts us, face to face with Jesus? Are we ready to see? Come, and see Jesus and be shaped by the beauty of what is before your very eyes!

Love All

Do you remember receiving the "perfect gift" at Christmas? There seems to exist unspoken pressure at Christmas to give the "perfect gifts." Many of us will search long and far to find just the right gift. But ... what if we decided to "go the distance" toward Jesus this year, might this render a different kind of gift? We will reconnect with the ancient story of the wise men/Magi traveling a great distance to bring gifts (Matt. 2:1-12). This Christmas, might we reenter the story to discover a new methodology to "give more."

Give More

Exchanging gifts has been a time honored tradition at Christmas. But, has this become the center of Christmas? How much is too much? When does Christmas become excessive? And, how has American consumerism played a role in this? If Christmas has become any less authentic, the story of Joseph (Matt. 1:18-25) may help us recover true Christmas tradition once again. Let's reenter the story.

Spend Less

"What do you want?" This is a question we ask every year at Christmas. But, what does this question say about how we celebrate Christmas? Let's reenter the Christmas story again. Our hearts are formed by what we worship. How might the familiar Christmas story cause us to reconsider: "What do you want?"

Worship Fully

Thanksgiving and "Black Friday" lead us into the Christmas season. But, what does a day like "Black Friday" say about how we celebrate Christmas? Let's consider what it might mean for us to reframe the Christmas season this year.

Prelude to the Advent Conspiracy

What does it mean to be "generous"? In Malachi 3, God issues a challenge to his people. God knows how human nature works (how we like to clutch to what we have). But, God urges toward the generous life. Explore some of the "resistance factors" we have toward "tithing" and how we overcome them with "the generosity factor."

The Generosity Factor

Baptism is our moment when we experience the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ by faith. But, now that I am baptized, what's next? What are the ongoing implications of a baptized life? Galatians 3:26-27 challenges us to wear the implications of our baptism like new clothes. As we explore what baptism means to our lives, we will see more clearly what it means to "wear it well."

"What Does My Baptism Mean?"

The Bible has a lot to say to us about baptism. Baptism marks a seismic shift from an old identity, ethic and worldview, to a radically new identity in Christ, a new life in the Spirit, and a restored and hope-filled worldview. Baptism is our anchor in the water that the old world has passed away and everything has become new in the life of the believer. And, again, it is ALL because of Jesus Christ! Let's explore what the Bible, in baptism, God gives.

"What Does the Bible Say?"

What is baptism about? Is it just something we're commanded to do? Is it just a step in salvation? Baptism may be more important than you think, but maybe not for the reasons you think. What did Jesus say about baptism? Perhaps Jesus can help us bridge these troubled waters.

"What Did Jesus Say?"

2009 has been a challenging year for many people with the condition of the current economy and people losing jobs, income, etc. Yet, God's goodness and faithfulness has overshadowed many of the "dark clouds." About this time last year, a new vision was introduced to the Westlake family, based on the Great Commission. Today, we take time to reflect and celebrate the vision God has given Westlake: Know God; Love Others; Serve the World. We celebrate God and what he has done, is doing and will do among us.

Celebrate The Vision

Weekly messages from the Westlake Church of Christ in Indianapolis, IN, from Lead Minister, Ryan Morrison.

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Westlake Podcast

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