Each gospel begins in a unique way; Matthew begins with a genealogy demonstrating that Jesus is the Christ, the son of David, the son and of Abraham. But what is the significance of this ancestral line, and how does it connect Jesus to the Old Testament? Join us as we follow Matthew’s explanation to answer the question: what child is this?

Tonight we close a chapter on David’s long rise as the last of his rivals for the throne of Israel are removed. In the thick of schemes and statecraft, polygamy and politics, conspiracy and murder, the grand sweep reveals God’s careful and decisive providence in moments when his absence seems most keenly felt. But cracks in the new administration and its policy begin to show even as David’s grip on the nation consolidates. As we look forward to David’s accession in the chapters to follow, we cannot help but ask: will he prove a better king than Saul? God help us!

This morning as we enter into December we reflect on Genesis 3, the entrance of sin into the world, and the announcement of the gospel that accompanied God’s coming in judgement. Lord, come quickly!

Julian Zugg from MINTS shared an exciting update on how the Lord is using MINTS to equip and train ministers around the world.

Saul has died, but David’s path to the throne is far from clear. How will David navigate the delicate politics and what will guide his decisions? How will Abner, commander of Saul’s army, respond? How will the Lord orchestrate the protection of his people and the fulfillment of his promises to David in the midst of it all? Join us for 2 Samuel 2!

The generational sin of favoritism bears its wicked fruit as Joseph is betrayed, nearly murdered and then sold by his brothers. Jacob has lost a son. Reuben is distraught…but not over his guilt. Judah, the distant forefather of Christ, is boldly complicit in the affair. In the midst of all this wickedness, is there any hope for the chosen line of Abraham? Is the Lord absent?

The world around us is broken in ways we deeply feel, and so we long for things to be made right. And yet we often set our longing on things that fall short of what we and the world need. Join us as we see how Isaiah confronts our need and our short-sighted hope with God’s provision in Jesus Christ.

Rhonda Craig from Joni & Friends visited us this morning to update us on the ministry of Joni & Friends. We invite you to listen in, learn about the ministry, and hear Joni’s personal connection to the ministry in her own words.

In our Sunday School session today, we delved into Genesis 36 and 37. The scripture unfolds the lineage of Esau (otherwise known as Edom). He and his descendants dwell over and against their brothers, never to return to the promised land or to the Lord. Transitioning from this narrative, our focus shifted to Joseph—a bratty young man with dreams of grandeur.