In this sermon, Karl Ihfe delves into the famous story of David and Goliath, examining David's bold heart as a key characteristic that made him a man after God's own heart. Ihfe contrasts David's boldness with the Israelite army's "learned helplessness," highlighting how losing heart leads to false beliefs, misguided attitudes, and self-defeating behaviors.

Ihfe identifies three situations where David demonstrated boldness: everyday challenges (like facing lions and bears), opposition and criticism (from his brother Eliab), and pressure to conform (rejecting Saul's armor). He applies these lessons to modern Christian life, encouraging believers to face their own "Goliaths" – whether at work, in relationships, or in sharing their faith – with God's help. The pastor emphasizes that boldness grows through small acts of courage and trust in God's presence, even when facing challenges alone.

In this sermon, Karl Ihfe begins a new series called "The Heart of a King," focusing on David's life and what made him "a man after God's own heart" (Acts 13:22). He emphasizes that while David was gifted in many ways, it was his heart that drew God to him. Karl highlights three key characteristics of David's heart:

1. Wild abandon to God: David worshipped with unbridled passion, as seen in his dancing before the Ark (2 Samuel 6).
2. Deep reflection: David spent time alone with God, pondering and considering, as evidenced in many Psalms (e.g., Psalm 139:23-24).
3. Stubborn love: David loved persistently, even towards those who wronged him, like Saul and Absalom.

Karl encourages the congregation to cultivate these heart qualities, reminding them that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).

https://bwaychurch.org

In this sermon titled "Holy Interruptions," Dr. Jeremy Smith explores the idea that God often works through unexpected interruptions in our lives. He begins by sharing a personal anecdote about his dogs interrupting his work, which leads to meaningful moments of reflection. Dr. Smith then delves into how Jesus' ministry was largely shaped by interruptions, citing numerous examples from the Gospels where Jesus responded to unexpected needs and requests.

The speaker emphasizes that while we often resist interruptions, they can be opportunities for God to work in and through us. He references Mark 5, where Jesus stops to heal a bleeding woman while on His way to save a dying girl, as a powerful example of how God's priorities may differ from our own. Dr. Smith also discusses how the Apostle Paul's plans were redirected by the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:6-10), reminding us that even our well-intentioned plans may not align with God's will.

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In this sermon, Karl Ihfe outlines the church's recent focus on missions, stemming from a season of prayer and discernment. Survey results showed members' desire for emphasis on local missions, long-term partnerships, empowering indigenous workers, and intentionality in mission work. Ihfe discusses key partnerships like the children's home, Open Door, and Carpenter's Kitchen.

The sermon delves into Biblical passages, including Matthew 28:16-20 and Romans 10:9-15, to underscore the importance of sharing the gospel. Ihfe uses these scriptures to remind the congregation of their role in God's mission. He shares a story about high school students providing prom dresses as an example of living out the gospel in practical ways.

Ihfe concludes by challenging the church to be "the sermon" in their daily lives, encouraging members to seek opportunities to share God's love in their communities. He announces the church's plan to support members in local mission efforts, matching funds for various outreach initiatives.

https://bwaychurch.org