Highlight Two interesting theological points are presented in this prayer. First, the connection to Old Testament messianic prophecy from Psalm 2:9. Where “king of earth” - King Herod, and “the rulers” - Pontius Pilot, “band together against the Lord and against the anointed one (v. 26). It was written by King David many years before, but after Jesus’ death and resurrection we can see where the Holy Spirit spoke through him to proclaim the death of the Messiah.  Read More

Highlight The early church devoted themselves. That opening carries weight, because the Greek word translated here is proskartereo which means “a steadfast and single-minded fidelity to a certain course of action.” These practices are not just something the early church did from time to time, it was their way of life. They sought to fully immerse themselves in the teaching of the apostles, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. It was not just an in passing situation or check mark for them. It was a daily practice of gathering to participate with brothers and sisters in Christ.  Read More

Welcome Welcome to Week 2 of the 2023 Praying Through Change Reading Plan. This reading plan is designed to partner with Compassion Christian Church’s sermon series of the same name, which you can find information about right here. This is a series all about how we are called to pray continuously and in all seasons (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). Prayer is especially important in times of change and uncertainty. Everyone responds to change differently. A few people love change and embrace it with open arms, whereas others would like things to never change. The reality is God is the only thing that stays the same. Everything else is in constant change. So how do we handle that change? It is simple to say pray through it, but in reality, it takes training to trust God, silence and solitude to hear Him, and time spent reflecting on His faithfulness. This is a spiritual practice and we are here to walk alongside you as you learn to deepen your prayer life.   Read More

Highlight In the previous and current sermon series, we have talked about doing the things Jesus did that we can emulate. One consistent spiritual discipline Jesus practiced was prayer. The gospels tell of him often going on his own to pray to the Father.  Read More

Highlight Traditionally, John 17 is called “the high priestly prayer of Jesus,” because it reflects the role of a High Priest in Leviticus 16. The Day of Atonement, which God established to happen each year on the tenth day of the seventh month. On this day, the High Priest was to purify himself, offer sacrifices, enter into the Most Holy Place in the temple, and would intercede on behalf of the whole Israelite nation.   Read More

Highlight Read these verses in John 11 closely. It is the story of Jesus comforting Mary and Martha and raising Lazarus from the dead. But wait, we are supposed to be looking at Jesus’ prayers. Where is his prayer of comfort or his prayer for Lazarus to come back to life? The prayers we expect him to be praying.  Read More