Derwood Alliance Church

In this sermon, Devin delves into the Advent theme of peace, centering on Jesus as the Prince of Peace foretold in Isaiah 9:6-7. He begins by sharing a personal Christmas memory from his childhood, highlighting an unexpected moment of peace during a difficult time. Calhoun then explores four aspects of peace that Jesus brings: 1. Peace between us and God the Father: Jesus, as both God and man, bridges the gap between humanity and God, allowing us to have a restored relationship with Him. 2. Peace in our relationships: Through Christ's work on the cross, He breaks down barriers between people, enabling unity among believers. 3. Peace in our hearts: Jesus cares for us as an everlasting Father, bringing comfort and peace to our inner turmoil. 4. Peace to the whole earth: This final aspect of peace is yet to come, when Jesus returns to establish His eternal kingdom. Calhoun concludes by challenging listeners to examine whether they have truly experienced the Prince of Peace in their lives, urging them to sub

In this Advent episode on hope, Mark & Devin explores the Biblical concept of hope as a solid, concrete anticipation of God's promises being fulfilled. They contrast this with worldly hope, which is often just wishful thinking. It's emphasized that true hope is grounded in faith, citing Hebrews 11:1, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."Mark & Devin discuss how this hope is demonstrated throughout Scripture, particularly in the lives of figures like Abraham and Sarah, who hoped against all odds. They connect this to Jesus' resurrection, presenting it as the ultimate foundation for Christian hope. Romans 15:13 is highlighted, which speaks of God as the source of hope, filling believers with joy and peace through the Holy Spirit.The pastors encourage listeners to cultivate this hope by relying on the indwelling Holy Spirit, regularly engaging with Scripture, and maintaining an eternal perspective. They remind the congregation that because

In this Advent sermon, Pastor Mark Trinkl explores the theme of hope, grounded in Jesus Christ. He begins by reciting the Apostles' Creed, highlighting our belief in Jesus' ascension and future return. Trinkl defines Biblical hope as a confident expectation in God's promises, citing examples from Scripture such as Abraham's faith (Romans 4:18-19) and the "hall of faith" in Hebrews 11. The pastor emphasizes that Christians have a unique perspective on hope, able to look back at Jesus' first coming and forward to His return. He reminds us of Jesus' words in John 14:1-3, promising a place in the Father's house. Trinkl also addresses the hope we have for today, rooted in the presence of the Holy Spirit within believers. He concludes by challenging the congregation to become "golden fire hydrants of hope" in a world that is shaking and on fire, overflowing with the hope found in Jesus. #christmas #advent #hope #jesus

In his sermon "Wake Up and Give Thanks," Eric Peacock challenges the congregation to remain vigilant in their gratitude towards God. He begins by sharing personal experiences of loss and disappointment, explaining how these events led him to withdraw and enter a state of "stupor." Peacock uses this analogy to describe how believers can become unresponsive or indifferent to God's blessings.The speaker draws from several Biblical accounts, including Elijah's victory over the prophets of Baal and subsequent despair (1 Kings 18-19), the healing of ten lepers (Luke 17), and Samson's defeat of the Philistines (Judges 15). These stories illustrate how easy it is to forget God's goodness and neglect to give thanks, even after experiencing miraculous interventions.Peacock emphasizes the importance of speaking life and gratitude, referencing Proverbs 18:21: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who love it will eat the fruit thereof." He encourages th

In this episode, Mark & Devin discuss Mark's message, "Breaking Barriers & Transforming Live." Acts 10 recounts the transformative encounter between Peter, a Jewish apostle, and Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Through divine visions, God challenges Peter's cultural prejudices and sends him to Cornelius's home. This event, sometimes referred to as the "Gentile Pentecost," marks a significant shift in the early church's understanding of God's plan for all nations.The podcast emphasizes how this story illustrates God's heart for inclusivity and breaking down cultural barriers. It highlights the tension between maintaining one's convictions and avoiding unnecessary obstacles to sharing the gospel. Mark draws parallels to contemporary Christian experiences, encouraging listeners to examine their own cultural biases and trust the Holy Spirit's work in others' lives.The episode concludes with a challenge to believers to adopt Peter's humble

In this sermon, Mark Trinkl delves into Acts 10, focusing on the encounter between Peter and Cornelius. He emphasizes that God's plan has always been to include all nations and peoples in His salvation, not just the Jews. The story of Peter and Cornelius represents a watershed moment in the early church, breaking down cultural and ethnic barriers between Jews and Gentiles.Mark challenges listeners to consider how they might respond to God working outside their theological understanding or comfort zones. He suggests that, like Peter, we may need a "second conversion" to overcome our ethnocentrism and fully embrace God's work among all peoples. The sermon encourages us to examine what cultural barriers we might be holding onto that could be hindering the spread of the Gospel, and to be willing to let God transform our understanding and practices.#breakingbarriers #transformedbyjesus #jesusforallpeople

The Thailand mission team, led by Natalie, the missions pastor, shared powerful testimonies from their recent trip. They partnered with Envision, a Christian Missionary Alliance organization, focusing on relational ministry with university students and outreach in red light districts. Team members described spiritual battles they faced. But despite the darkness, they saw God at work, even in unexpected ways. The team emphasized several key lessons:1. The importance of intentional prayer and outreach2. God's presence even in spiritually dark places3. The value of building relationships and showing genuine care4. The need for wisdom in making choices, as illustrated by ProverbsNatalie encouraged the church to participate in missions through four main avenues: praying, giving, going on trips, and sending others. She reminded the congregation that while Thailand has its unique spiritual challenges, there are also strongholds to address in their own communities. Jesus is for our neighborhoods & the nation

In this episode, Mark & Devin explore the concept of life-giving relationships using Paul's letter to Philemon as a foundation. Mark emphasizes how Jesus transforms our relationships, calling us to view fellow believers as brothers and sisters in Christ. The pastors highlight the countercultural nature of Christian love, especially in loving our enemies and showing grace to those who wrong us.Pastor Mark uses examples like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a Coptic bishop to illustrate radical forgiveness and love in action. He challenges listeners to be sources of refreshment to others, even when feeling drained themselves. The podcast concludes with a call to maintain a kingdom mindset during politically divisive times, reminding the congregation that Jesus remains on the throne regardless of election outcomes.#followandformed #friendship #lifegivingfriendship #practicingtheway #loveyourneighbor #loveyourenemy #grace #mercy #forgiveness #transformedbyjesus

In this final sermon of the "Follow Informed" series, Mark delves into the concept of life-giving relationships using the book of Philemon as a foundation. He highlights three key points:1. Define relationships around Jesus: Paul encourages Philemon to see Onesimus as a brother in Christ, transcending social status. Mark emphasizes that as believers, we should view fellow Christians as family, united in Christ despite our differences.2. Put faith into action: Paul challenges Philemon to live out his faith by showing grace to Onesimus. Mark uses this example to urge believers to practically demonstrate their faith, even in difficult situations. He references Martin Luther King Jr.'s sermon on loving enemies as a powerful example of faith in action.3. Be a person of love who refreshes others: Philemon is commended for his love that refreshes others. Mark encourages the congregation to be people who bring refreshment and rest to those around them, citing Proverbs 11:25 as a principle of generosity

In this episode, the importance of staying close to God's presence in our lives as followers of Jesus is discussed. Eric shared how he maintains an ongoing conversation with God throughout his day, inviting God into his thoughts and experiences. He emphasized the need to discern God's voice versus our own desires or temptations, and how spending time in God's presence helps us align our will with His.The discussion also touches on the danger of drifting away from God, using examples like Saul and Samson who fell away despite starting strong. Listeners are cautioned against ignoring God's voice, as it can lead to a hardening of the heart and being turned over to our own destructive desires. Even when we do mess up and sin, the message is clear - God's grace and forgiveness are always available if we repent and return to Him.The conversation also explores the concept of a "rule of life" - spiritual disciplines and practices that draw us closer to Jesus. Things like daily scrip

Discover how to create an intentional spiritual practice through establishing a "rule of life" - a transformative approach to deepening your relationship with God. In this powerful message about spiritual formation, learn why transformation is possible but not inevitable, and how spending intentional time in God's presence can reshape every area of your life.This sermon explores:The concept of a rule of life and why it mattersBreaking free from religious rituals to find true restPractical steps for managing time with GodThe difference between religious acts and authentic relationshipHow transformation happens through God's presenceStarting small with achievable spiritual practices#FollowandFormed #PracticingtheWay #ChristianLiving #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianSermon #SpiritualDisciplines #Prayer #Faith #ChristianLife #BibleTeaching #ChristianityBasics #SpiritualFormation

In this episode, Mark & Devin explores the topic of sin, breaking it down into three main areas: the reality of sin, our relationship with sin, and the remedy for sin. They emphasize that sin is a universal human condition, tracing its origins back to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The pastors explain that as Christians, we have a unique relationship with sin, as the Holy Spirit convicts us and calls us to wrestle with our sinful nature.They continue to discuss the layers of sin, from outward actions to inward motives and desires. It's stressed the importance of allowing God into all areas of our lives and warns against the dangers of hidden sin. The remedy for sin, as outlined in 1 John 1:5-10, is to walk in the light, confess our sins to God, and believe in His forgiveness through Jesus Christ. The podcast concludes by encouraging listeners to confess their sins to trusted fellow believers for healing and accountability, as instructed in James 5:16.#followandformed #practicingtheway #sin #heal

In this sermon, Mark Trinkl explores the concept of sin and how it affects all people. He begins by defining sin as missing the mark of God's perfect standard, referencing Galatians 5:19-20 for examples of sinful behavior. Trinkl emphasizes three main points: the reality of sin, our relationship with sin, and the remedy for sin.Trinkl explains that sin affects everyone and has been present since the beginning of humanity, citing Romans 3:23, "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard." He describes our relationship with sin as threefold: sin done by us, to us, and around us. Using the analogy of an iceberg, Trinkl illustrates the depths of sin in our lives, from blatant sins to deep-seated structures of being.The sermon concludes with hope, presenting Jesus Christ as the remedy for sin. Trinkl references Romans 6:23, stating, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." He encourages listeners

In this episode, Devin & Natalie discuss Natalie's sermon centered on the theme of listening and obeying God's voice, particularly in the context of missions. She began with the imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd from John 10, explaining how a shepherd acts as both protector and guide for the sheep. Natalie then drew parallels to Moses' calling, examining four questions he asked God: "Who am I?", "Who are You?", "What if they don't believe me?", and "Can You send someone else?" Through each question, God reassured Moses with the promise, "I will be with you."Devin & Natalie emphasized that obedience to God's call is not about our abilities, but about His presence and power working through us. Natalie highlighted the Hebrew concept of "shema" (hear), which implies both listening and obeying. She concluded by reminding the congregation that the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 is a command for all believers, urgi

In this sermon, Natalie delves into the concept of listening and obeying God, using the imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd from John 10. She explains how a good shepherd leads, protects, and knows his sheep intimately. Natalie then connects this to Moses' encounter with God in Exodus, highlighting how God repeatedly assured Moses of His presence, saying, "I will be with you" (Exodus 3:12).  Natalie introduces the Hebrew word "Shema," which means both "hear" and "obey," emphasizing that in Biblical understanding, hearing God's voice naturally leads to obedience. She references Deuteronomy 6:4-5, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength," as a key example of this concept.  The sermon concludes with a call to action, challenging listeners to have a heart for the lost, trust in God's goodness, and practice "Shema" in their daily lives

In this episode, Pastors Mark and Devin explore the topic of suffering and its role in spiritual formation. They emphasize that suffering is an unavoidable part of life, even for Christians, and address the tendency to avoid or numb pain rather than confront it. The pastors discuss various forms of suffering, including trauma, and how it can hinder emotional and spiritual maturity.They recommend naming and feeling one's pain, then inviting God and trusted companions into the healing process. Pastor Mark references Pete Scazzero's approach of "name it, feel it, and invite God into it" as a healthy way to deal with suffering. The importance of professional counseling is also highlighted, especially for processing trauma.The pastors stress that while God can redeem suffering for His glory, healing is often a gradual process unique to each individual. They conclude with Brennan Manning's concept of the "victorious limp," illustrating how past wounds can become a testimony to God