Messages by Brent Clark (Page 6)
The Value of the Kingdom
Lots of ideas and motivations clamor for our undivided attention in our world. But what is truly worth our time? Is there something worth dedicating ourselves to and reorienting our lives around? In some of the parables Jesus told, we see what he believed to be the value of his kingdom and why it is worth giving everything for.
Entering the Kingdom
The things we may think get us into the Kingdom of God are often the things that pull us further away. Pastor Brent continues our series on the Kingdom by sharing what entrance should look like according to Scripture. Are we more interested in visiting the Kingdom of God or becoming citizens?
The Resurrection & the Kingdom of God
The message of Jesus is bigger than we think. This Easter Sunday, Pastor Brent begins a new series about the Kingdom of God. The resurrection isn’t just a key catalyst of establishing God’s Kingdom; it validates everything Jesus said and did.
Save Us
The contrasts we see in Jesus on Palm Sunday are numerous. As described in the book of Matthew, Jesus did not see His kingship as others did. What Jesus came to Earth to bring – humility, servanthood, healing, sacrifice, and peace – is what eventually killed Him.
Come Alive
Even when death and despair surround us, it’s never too late for Jesus to resurrect the dead things in our lives. Pastor Brent explores the book of Ezekiel, demonstrating the hope we can still hold when everything seems lost. Can dry bones still live?
Faith in Action
The story of Abraham in the book of Genesis teaches us what faith is and what it isn’t. Faith isn’t just belief; it’s action in response to God’s call. It invites us to look inside ourselves, asking if following Jesus is truly better and worth it. Take a look at this message from Pastor Brent as we continue this Lenten series!
Temptation and Sin
We join in exploring Scripture passages outlined in the Lectionary with churches around the world in this new series, Beauty for Ashes. Pastor Brent begins by addressing the temptation we witness in the Gospel of Matthew. Ultimately, we can only grasp the magnitude of God’s love when we understand the magnitude of our own sin and weaknesses.
Conversations
The corruption and pain we’ve discussed over the past few weeks does not negate the importance of sharing our faith in Jesus anyways. However, we need to approach those conversations with love and a desire to build authentic relationships. We conclude the Asking for a Friend series with a panel discussion addressing that very issue.
Diversity
Whether we like it or not, our cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds have a profound impact on the way we perceive the world and Jesus. Rather than ignoring that influence, we have the opportunity to learn more about God’s heart and character through His diverse creation. Listen to a conversation between several Ashworth members about their faith and experiences in light of their cultural contexts.
Uniformity or Unity
How can Christians preach a message of unity and reconciliation when the church is so divided? Pastor Brent explores the difference between unity and uniformity in the context of the gospel. Working towards unity in the church context is not easy, but it allows communities to see the image of God in others in greater ways.
Abuse in the Church
How do we reconcile the character Jesus embodied with the broken church we see today? Pastor Amy and Pastor Brent guide a discussion regarding abuse in the church, specifically spiritual abuse, sexual abuse, and abuses of authority. Hope and healing is possible, but it starts with recognizing and owning the flaws embedded in our churches’ cultures and systems. Sermon Manuscript [Introductory video shows headlines of abuse in the church] Amy: How do you feel? Sad, dread? Brent: Angry? Amy: Angry?…
Heresy & Truth
In the midst of difficult conversations about life and faith, where do we find our basis for truth? Pastor Brent continues our new series by exploring the concept of heresy and its impact on spiritual communities, offering practical insight to discern what is essential and what is not.