Northwest Gospel Church Sermons Camas/washougal

Genesis 1:1 | Ben Potloff | "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1 ESV). What Christians believe to be true comes from what the Bible teaches the most and the clearest (Gavin Ortlund, Finding the Right Hills to Die On). From the very first verse of our Bible, God clearly and epically reveals one of the most important and foundational truths about himself: Before anything was made, there was God, and God made everything.MAIN IDEAGod made everything.OUTLINEI. There is a God who has always been.II. There is a God who created all there is.

Ephesians 2:17-22 | Max Janusch | Regardless of what we know to be true, Christians often practice their faith in isolation from one another. But, God's plan for his people is so much greater than a personal faith lived out in the seclusion of one's living room. God is saving sinners and is building for himself a people who represent him to one another and the rest of the world. Here, we see that our unity in God is built by God for God.MAIN IDEAOur unity in God is built by God for God.OUTLINEI. We have been united in Christ with God and one another. (vv. 17-18)II. We are built on God’s saving revelation of himself. (vv. 19-20)III. We are being made into God’s holy house. (vv. 21-22)

Luke 2:22-38 | Ben Potloff | Lesser known than the other witnesses of Christ's first advent, Simeon and Anna play a crucial role in God's revelation and Luke's recording of the coming of Jesus. Here, we see two more actors in the Advent story who are left glorifying God after experiencing the Lord Jesus and witnessing the fulfillment of God's promises to his people.MAIN IDEAThe wait is over, Salvation has come. OUTLINEI. Israel was waiting for their promised salvation (vv. 22-26, 38b)II. Jesus Christ is the promised salvation (vv. 27-32, 36-38a)III. Some reject and some receive the promised salvation (vv. 33-35) 

Luke 2:1-21 | Ben Potloff | As God the Son, having taken on human flesh, is born in a manger another glorious scene takes place and another pair of Advent witnesses is introduced. Lowly shepherds are met by heavenly angels who point the way to the birthplace of the long-awaited Savior. Luke continues to highlight the wonderful and mysterious happenings that show just how remarkable the coming of Christ is.MAIN IDEAThe birth in Bethlehem is reason to rejoice!OUTLINEI. The birth in Bethlehem was the fulfillment of a promise (vv. 1-7)II. The birth in Bethlehem was good news of great joy for all (vv. 8-21)

Matthew 1:18-25 | Ben Potloff | While impossible to miss, we often lose the significance, glory, and mystery of the birth of Jesus. These wonders are put on display in Matthew's account of Jesus' birth, as the long-awaited Savior is born to a virgin in fulfillment of what the prophets spoke long ago. Here, we see that Christmas is about God coming to save us. MAIN IDEAChristmas is about God coming to save us.OUTLINEI. Immanuel: The baby to be born would be God (vv. 18-20, 22-24) II. Jesus: The baby to be born would be Savior (vv. 21, 25)

Luke 1:5-25, 57-80 | Ben Potloff | In Luke's Gospel account, the story of the birth of the one, promised Messiah actually begins with the birth of two babies. Preceding Jesus, we see the miraculous story of John the Baptist and how he testifies to the glory of Jesus even from within the womb!MAIN IDEAGod’s promised mercy is our perpetual hope.OUTLINEI. God’s priest would have a son who would be a great prophet (vv.5-25, 57-63)II. God’s prophet would prepare His people for the promise (vv. 64-80)

Philippians 4:14-23 | Max Janusch | By his grace and according to his own design, God has determined that one of the primary means for the sending, supporting, and sustaining of gospel workers is the Church. In part, ‘to be the Church’ means to support the work of gospel ministry, to partner with gospel laborers, and to be an agent of encouragement for those putting their hands to the plow of evangelism and church planting. God is exceedingly gracious for calling every Christian to plan a part in this most glorious of tasks.MAIN IDEAGod is glorified in gospel-advancing fellowship.OUTLINEI. Paul commends the Philippians' partnership. (vv. 14-20)II. Paul encourages with gospel connectedness. (vv. 21-23)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. In what way(s) is it easiest for you to contribute to gospel partnerships? In what way(s) is it hardest for you?2. What are some barriers that you put up, or leave up, when it comes to engaging in gospel mission? How can the encouragement and support of others help you engage more?3. How do

Philippians 4:10-13 | Ben Potloff | Here, Paul discusses the way that the Lord has provided for him in times of need, both through the church in Philippi and through His nearness. In verse 10, readers see Paul discussing how the church’s concern for him has been revived as they had an opportunity to care for him. He continues to discuss throughout the later three verses how the Lord has provided for him by bringing him the contentment that is only found in Jesus! We may not currently find ourselves in a similar situation to Paul (arrested for sharing the gospel) but we all know the trials and temptations that life in our world can bring. Like Paul, let us learn to cast our eyes to Jesus to whom all our joy and contentment can be found.MAIN IDEAThe secret to contentment is the strength Christ provides.OUTLINEI. Concern for others is praiseworthy (v. 10)II. Contentment in Christ is possible (vv. 11-13DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Paul rejoices in the concern the Philippians had for him and his needs. What are some of

Philippians 4:2-9 | Ben Potloff | Joy and peace often seem to be a package deal. Like inseparable friends, one is seldom seen without the other. In fact, they even start looking alike after a while. There they are, side by side, in Paul’s list of spiritual fruit (Gal. 5:22), and, just as he suggests, they both wave invitingly to us from the lives of those we admire most, as we see in Philippians 4:2-9.MAIN IDEAIn Christ, we seek unity, rejoice, and know peace.OUTLINEI. Christians are to seek unity in the Lord (vv. 2-3, 5)II. 2. Christians are to rejoice in the Lord (v. 4)III. Christians are to exchange worry for prayer and pure thoughts, receiving peace in the Lord (vv. 6-9)DISCUSSION QUESTIONSComing soon!

Philippians 3:17-4:1 | Ben Potloff | Multiple times in the New Testament, Paul refers to the Christian’s citizenship in heaven. Those who are citizens of God’s kingdom are welcomed into his family, given grace, and united together with him. Citizens of the Kingdom of God have different, allegiances, live for a different purpose, and live differently than the citizens of the Kingdom of Darkness. Paul describes those in the Kingdom of Darkness as those who live in sin and unrepentance; they are enslaved to their appetites, celebrating shameful sin, and serving the things of the world. Unlike them, citizens of heaven may reside on earth but their allegiance is to God in heaven. This is the God who is sovereign over all things and in whom we eagerly await his return and redemption of our broken souls and bodies. Until that day, Paul encourages us to stand firm in our faith against the influences of the world remembering to whom we belong.MAIN IDEAWe live in light of Christ’s return.OUTLINEI. A mind set on earth b

Philippians 3:12-16 | Gavin Hesse | Running for the health of it is one thing; running for first place is still another. However, we can look at this passage as one running for their very lives. People facing the fury of a huge storm in a disaster movie don’t go back into their house for the heirloom dining set as the tidal wave approaches their city. They leave all possessions that would weigh them down for the chance at safety. Likewise, soldiers in war do not casually stroll across open spaces hoping that the other side has poor aim. They sprint towards their objective from cover to cover with nerves and senses alert to avoid a fatal shot. Surely, a man chased by wolves in the snowy mountains does not stop to number the jaws barking at his heels. No, he hoofs it with all possible haste towards shelter. The prize is life itself. Giving up the race is to accept death.MAIN IDEAThrough Jesus, we will reach Jesus.OUTLINEI. Press for the prize. (v. 12-14)II. Your race is not run alone. (v. 15-16)DISCUSSION QUEST

Philippians 3:1-11 | Ben Potloff | What do we consider as “surpassing worth” in our lives? According to Paul, following Jesus not only involved giving up our self-earned “righteousness,” but embracing a life of suffering, death, and resurrection. Is it worth it? Paul argues that knowing Jesus is the only thing of “surpassing worth.” Is Jesus worth it to you?MAIN IDEAFaith in self is worthless, faith in Christ is worth everything.OUTLINEI. Gaining righteousness by the law is loss. (vv. 1-7a)II. Gaining righteousness by faith is life. (vv.7b-11)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Why was Paul’s resumé rubbish compared to Christ? 2. Why do you think we are prone to seek self-justification? How does this creep into your Christian life? 3. How would focusing on Christ’s surpassing worth change your daily life? How would it give you more joy? 4. We are tempted to find our identity in what we do instead of what Christ has done. How does that happen in your life?5. How can you make it your aim to know Christ more this week?

Philippians 2:19-30 | Ben Potloff | Who doesn’t appreciate a good example? Anyone faced with an important or complicated task can see the value in an example. Elementary-age kids are given examples of good handwriting as they learn. Parents show teenagers how to parallel park before turning them loose on the streets of Clark County. In Philippians 2:19-30, the Apostle Paul offers two good examples for us. After reveling in the humility of Christ (Philippians 2:1-11) and the implications of this humility on the Christian life (Philippians 2:12-18), Paul now presents Timothy and Epaphroditus, two of his gospel co-workers, as examples of service and humility that the Philippians ought to emulate.MAIN IDEAHonor in the Lord those you see the Lord in.OUTLINEI. Timothy, a son of proven worth who served selflessly. (vv. 19-24)II. Epaphroditus, a brother worthy of honor who risked his life. (vv. 25-30)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. In this passage, we see examples in Timothy and Epaphroditus of the humility and selflessness P

Philippians 2:12-18 | Ben Potloff | This week, even when it’s uncomfortable, allow God’s word to reveal the places of grumbling and arguing in your heart. Pray that the Lord will give you contentment and love for the life and people that he’s given you.MAIN IDEAWe work out the life that God works within.OUTLINEI. A Christian’s call is to work out their salvation. (vv. 12, 14-15)II. A Christian’s confidence is that God is working in them. (v. 13, 16a)III. A Christian’s costly growth is cause for rejoicing. (vv. 16b-18)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. In what ways are we called to “shine as lights in the world”? How do you think not “grumbling or disputing” is a witness to the world around us? How can you grow in this area?2. What are the errors we can fall into if we do not read verses 12 and 13 together but in isolation? Which error are you prone to fall into? 3. Paul was willing to do whatever is cost for the faith and joy of the Christians in Philippi. Are you willing to pour yourself out for God and for others? What

Philippians 2:1-11 | Ben Potloff | God wants his people to be unified, and now more than ever in our current context it seems like we can find a million petty reasons to be divided even in the church. The opening of Philippians 2 challenges our worldly loves, preferences, and opinions, and it confronts us with the work of the God-man.MAIN IDEAUnity in Christ leads to humility like Christ which brings glory to Christ.OUTLINEI. In Christ we have unity that is expressed in selfless humility. (vv. 1-4)II. In Christ we have the mind and the motive to live like Him. (vv. 5-11)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Paul calls for the Christians to have unity in conviction (core beliefs of the faith) and in affection (caring for one another). Which of these do you struggle to practice in your own Christian life? Why do you think that is? 2. In the sermon, Ben shared this quote: “The essence of gospel-humility is not thinking more of myself or thinking less of myself, it is thinking of myself less.” Do you agree? Why or why not? 3. I

Philippians 1:18b-30 | Ben Potloff | Paul’s letter to the Philippians confronts us with this truth as he declares that in life or death, there is only one thing that matters: Jesus Christ. If Paul lives, it will be for Christ. If he dies, it will be for Christ whom he will meet face to face. Nothing else is more supreme. We find this tension in our soul as we wish to declare the same but also have many “loves” that are not Christ. However, knowing and loving Christ at this level is the only antidote for suffering and source of eternal joy.MAIN IDEATo live is Christ, to die is gain.OUTLINEI. Paul’s life is about honoring Christ and serving others. (vv. 18b-21a, 22, 24-26)II. Paul’s death doesn’t scare him because it will lead to being with Christ. (21b, 23)III. Paul’s command is to live fearlessly for Christ, knowing suffering brings assurance. (vv. 27-30)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:1. What did Paul view as the purpose of his life? What is your life’s aim and purpose? How does the gospel move you away from selfishnes

Philippians 1:12-18a | Ben Potloff | When we look at the work of our hands and the days before us, it’s easy to lose sight of these two things; gospel work and the hope of eternity. It is both a discipline and an act of grace to be able to look up from our “today” and see where the Lord is working. May he give us those eyes today and may it fill us with joy to see and know Christ’s work in and through us right now.MAIN IDEAWe rejoice in Christ proclaimed, come what may.OUTLINEI. Even when there is an attempt to block the gospel, it spreads broadly and is proclaimed boldly. (vv. 12-14)II. Even when messengers are fake, the message of Christ proclaimed brings joy, (vv. 15-18a)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. As human beings we are all searching for deep and lasting joy. Where are you tempted to find joy outside of Christ and how have those things failed to deliver the joy you long for?2. Read the passage again. What gave Paul true joy even though he was in prison? How would this change your life and perspective if your s

Philippians 1:1-11 | Ben Potloff | Paul has reasons to be sad, being separated from the Philippians. But, he has greater reasons to rejoice. Paul could grieve about being removed from brothers and sisters in Christ, but his confidence in Christ Jesus gives him a sure faith that at the very least, he will see these dear friends again on the Day of Jesus Christ. The Day of Jesus Christ is a day that we also look forward to with hope. Not only for the completion of our walk in this life and for the fulfilled righteousness of the Lord, but also for a similar reason as Paul. One day, all those in Christ will stand together before the throne, and generations of faithful men and women will rejoice together forever in Jesus who has saved us. What a day that will be!MAIN IDEAWe grow in the grace that God begins and ends.OUTLINEI. Their partnership in the gospel created Christlike affection for one another. (vv. 1-5, 7-8)II. Their participation in the gospel was started by God and will be finished by God. (v. 6)III. Th

Acts 16:11-40 | Max Janusch | Before we begin our journey through Paul's letter to the Philippians, we first need to consider the establishment of the Church in Philippi. Throughout the book of Acts, the word of God takes root and spreads throughout the Mediterranean world as it is proclaimed. But what happens when the mission of the Apostles encounters uncharted and hostile territory? What happens when the gospel comes to Philippi? Here, we see that opposition cannot hinder God's mission. Find sermon discussion questions at nwgospelcw.com/questions

Jude 17-25 | Ben Potloff | God's people stand apart from the false teachers and false believers who try and sneak into the community of the Church. But, God is not fooled, and neither are his people. Jude's letter concludes with a call to persevere and a reminder of the one who enables us to persevere. "[T]o the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen." Find sermon discussion questions at nwgospelcw.com/questions.