Revive Chicago Church

Revive Chicago Church

Sermon archive for messages preached at Revive Chicago Church located in Naperville, IL.

read less
Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality

Episodes

Don't Give Up Meeting Together
3d ago
Don't Give Up Meeting Together
Sermon Summary:The sermon delves into the transformative power of faith-based fellowship, the balance between tradition and new beliefs in Christianity, and the vital role of communal worship. Drawing on Hebrews 10:25, it discusses the unknown authorship of the Book of Hebrews and considers the historical context of Jewish Christians facing persecution. The sermon emphasizes Jesus's sacrifice, which tore the veil to the Holy of Holies, granting believers boldness to approach God directly. It challenges psychological barriers that separate us from God, urging a sincere and confident faith. The discussion also addresses the importance of hope and God's faithfulness, rather than personal works or guilt. Key Points:The importance of Christian fellowship is rooted in Hebrews 10:25, which emphasizes not abandoning communal worship, even amid adversity.The authorship of the Book of Hebrews is unknown, with Apollos, Priscilla, and Aquila being potential authors who addressed the challenges Jewish Christians faced in reconciling their traditions with their new faith in Jesus.Early believers endured persecution from Romans and their community, which tempted some to revert to Judaism. The sermon stresses the importance of perseverance in gathering together as a community of faith.Jesus's sacrifice grants believers direct access to God, allowing them to approach with confidence, a privilege previously limited to the high priest once a year under the old covenant.Psychological barriers can inhibit our confidence in approaching God, but we are encouraged to recognize these as illusions since holiness is granted through grace, not earned by deeds.Holding unswervingly to hope is key, and the faithfulness of God is highlighted as the foundation of Christian hope, rather than our own faithfulness.The value of spurring one another toward love and good deeds, emphasizing community's role in understanding and growing in faith.Scripture References:Hebrews 10:25 - Encouragement to not give up meeting together.The Book of Hebrews - General references to the book's messages and themes about Jesus's superiority and the new covenant. Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church)Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.church
What Jezebel Spirit?
3d ago
What Jezebel Spirit?
Sermon Summary: Listen in as we tackle a controversial topic stirring within the Christian community this week: the misapplication of the term "Jezebel spirit" and its non-biblical roots. This discussion brings to light the pitfalls of Christian leaders capitalizing on such concepts for personal gain, whether to sell books or build their social media presence. There have been real-world consequences of these false teachings, including the spread of gossip, slander and the unwarranted division it causes among believers. Moreover, we reflect on the biblical teachings that warn against gossip and slander and the importance of staying anchored in scripture rather than getting swept up in online theological spats.In a heartfelt address to our congregation, we also touch upon the importance of unity and the dangers of engaging in divisive online debates. It's a reminder that sometimes the most profound act of faith is to avoid contention and instead, focus on our building up our faith community instead of tearing it down. Whether you're deeply entrenched in these debates or blissfully unaware, this conversation is a clarion call to prioritize faith and fellowship over controversy and conflict.The sermon centered around the importance of unity within our community and staying true to the teachings of the Bible, specifically addressing the concerns around the misapplication of the term "Jezebel spirit".Here are a few key takeaways from the sermon:The term "Jezebel spirit" lacks a scriptural basis and should not be used to sow discord among believers or to further personal agendas.The term "Jezebel spirit" is literally nowhere to be found in the Bible. It never warns about it, talks about it or teaches on it. We should avoid making a big deal out of things that aren't taught in the Word.Our focus should be on the core values of our faith: grace, forgiveness, and the love of Christ, rather than on divisive narratives.As a community, we should avoid getting entangled in online disputes that distract us from our spiritual growth and the pursuit of unity.Personal responsibility is paramount in our conduct, and we must guard against gossip, slander, and false teachings.Embracing humility and showing love to one another is essential in nurturing a community rooted in Christ's teachings.Let us remember to invest our energies in building each other up, rather than being divided over unfounded teachings. Our path is one of love, support, and togetherness as we journey towards a deeper connection with Jesus and each other. Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church)Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.church
The Faith Of The Canaanite Woman
Apr 14 2024
The Faith Of The Canaanite Woman
Have you ever found yourself entranced by a tradition, only to wonder where it truly stems from or what it signifies? Today we discussed the surprising origins of some of the rituals we hold dear and examine how they align with the God's intentions set forth for us. Tradition or true faith – where do you stand? We peel back the layers of religious practices, scrutinizing performative rituals and legal loopholes that Jesus rebuked, which often placed undue burdens on society's vulnerable. One final part that gets missed is Matthews purposeful contrast between the Pharisees and the Canaanite woman.  In the end, her daughter is miraculously healed because of her mother's persistent faith. Key Points:1. The sermon challenges listeners to examine the origins and significance of their religious traditions, questioning whether these practices align with God's intentions.2. A significant focus is on the distinction between human traditions and God's commandments, as exemplified by the confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees in Matthew 15, where Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for valuing human traditions over divine commands.3. Emphasis is placed on the importance of pure-hearted worship, not conditional upon feelings or emotions but based on acknowledging Jesus's worthiness.4. The story of the Canaanite woman from the Gospels illustrates the power of persistent faith that transcends traditional barriers and how genuine desperation for Jesus can lead to miraculous outcomes.Scripture References:- Matthew 15: Jesus's confrontation with the Pharisees about handwashing rituals and their adherence to traditions over God's commandments.- The healing of the Canaanite woman's daughter as an example of faith overcoming traditional barriers (referenced in the Gospels). Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church)Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.church
An Eclipse Of Reason
Apr 8 2024
An Eclipse Of Reason
The sermon challenges the sensationalism around end times predictions, particularly those linked to solar eclipses, such as the one everyone is buzzing about for tomorrow, April 8th. Let's take a balanced perspective grounded in scripture, emphasizing Jesus's return as a core Christian belief while cautioning against unfounded predictions and conspiracy theories. It's time Christians had a better understanding of the Bible's message about such events through a contextual view Matthew 24. Today, we're  advocating for faith without fear or superstition.Key Points:The danger of attributing apocalyptic significance to natural events like solar eclipses, which can sow fear, doubt, or false hope.The importance of biblical context when interpreting prophecies, rather than relying on numerical coincidences or superficial connections.Jesus's warnings about false prophets and the need for discernment, particularly in the face of sensationalist or apocalyptic claims.The historical significance of the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and its relevance to understanding Biblical prophecy.The misuse of biblical prophecy for personal gain or to instill fear, noting the futility of predicting Jesus's return.A call for faithfulness and stewardship, resisting deceptive teachings, and maintaining vigilance against false prophecies.Stories:A humorous debunking of conspiracy theories that use scripture or city names to predict the end times.An examination of a specific prophecy by a popular TV preacher who misses the cultural and historical context of Exodus 4:8. The profound impact of the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 AD as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly kingdoms.Scripture References:Exodus 4:8: Cited as an example of how some incorrectly match dates with scripture for prophecy.Matthew 24: Emphasized for Jesus's own words about the end of the age and the caution against being swayed by apocalyptic predictions. Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church)Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.church
Psalm 42
Mar 10 2024
Psalm 42
Join us as we explore the spiritual thirst articulated in Psalm 42 and how the sons of Korah capture this longing for the divine. Let's reflect on the nuances of this Psalm, then shift into the deep waters of our soul's intense yearning for God's presence. The conversation unpacks the role of the sons of Korah as temple caretakers and how their unique perspective on worship and their relationship with God shapes their poetic contributions to the Psalms. As caretakers of the temple, their insight offers a profound understanding of worship and divine connection.Tune in for a heartfelt examination of the soul's cry for God during spiritual drought and the pressures of doubt. The imagery of a panting deer mirrors our own intense desire for the Almighty, especially when we feel alone in our faith journey. The discussion encourages staying engaged with our community and faith, even in the face of emotional turmoil and questioning. We also address the power of positive self-talk grounded in scripture to manage our emotions and maintain hope. By comparing adult reactions to those of children, we gain perspective on the transient nature of feelings versus the enduring truth of God's promises.The episode concludes with an inspiring call to reinforce our faith through worship and prayer. We stress the importance of surrounding ourselves with fellow believers and using scripture as a foundation for our affirmations, helping to shield our minds from negativity. The conversation invites listeners to embrace the solace found in Psalms 42 and 43, and to seek God as a stronghold during times of perceived rejection. Whether you're facing your own dark night of the soul or looking to deepen your spiritual practice, this episode provides guidance and comfort through the timeless wisdom of the Psalms.*Song at the end is As The Deer / Nothing But The Blood By City Point Worship Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church)Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.church