http://www.charischurch.com Charis Community Church Podcasts en Charis Community Church Podcasts Charis Community Church no Charis Community Church jd.bridges@charischurch.com ℗ & © 2009 Charis Community Church 720 What is your attitude towards children? Two predominant views are often held. On one hand, some see children as burdensome and getting in the way of their convenience and agenda. On the other hand, some hold a view of children that places them at the center of their lives—rather than God. As we celebrate our first baby dedication ceremony, we explore Psalm 127 and are confronted by God's attitude towards children: they are one of His good gifts to us, a responsibility we must carry out, and an illustration of His work in our lives. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/children-are-a-gift-from-god http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/wrl-children-are-a-gift-from-god.mp3 Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:06:44 CDT Jon Bricker Worship in Real Life worship_in_real_life,wrl,children_are_a_gift_from_god,children,worship,lifestyle,gospel,christianity,christian,jesus_christ,jesus,christ,charis_church,charis_community_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,psalm,songs_of_ascent,psalms,... 40:31 Where do you turn when you need help? In hard times, where do you find relief? In fearful times, where do you go for protection and refuge? Whatever and wherever you turn for help reveals the focus of your worship. Psalm 121 tells us to turn to God and worship Him, Who daily keeps us, protects us, and watches over us. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/worshipping-with-gods-help http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/wrl-worshippingwith-gods-help.mp3 Sun, 07 Jun 2009 16:58:45 CDT Jon Bricker Worship in Real Life worship_in_real_life,wrl,worshipping_with_god's_help,worship,lifestyle,gospel,christianity,christian,jesus_christ,jesus,christ,charis_church,charis_community_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,psalm,songs_of_ascent,psalms,bricker,... 44:52 This sermon begins our summer series called, "Worship in Real Life". In this introductory sermon, we look at Psalm 120, the first of the Songs of Ascent. Our goal is to recapture a correct view of worship that encompasses all of our life, even during times of heartache and pain. “Getting on the Road of Worship” lays the foundation for understanding how the Gospel (the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ) affects every aspect of our lives. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/getting-on-the-road-of-worship http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/wrl-getting-on-the-road-of-worship.mp3 Sun, 31 May 2009 11:18:36 CDT Jon Bricker Worship in Real Life worship_in_real_life,wrl,getting_on_the_road_of_worship,worship,lifestyle,gospel,christianity,christian,jesus_christ,jesus,christ,charis_church,charis_community_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,psalm,songs_of_ascent,psalms,bricker,... 43:07 The main problem with the church in Galatia is the main problem Christians and churches contend with today: “Is Jesus really all we need, or do we need something else in addition to him?” Often, Jesus is viewed as a starting point, and then we try to add extra things to the work He did to “save” us, and fall into the trap of a performance-driven religiosity, contrary to what the Bible teaches. In our final sermon studying the book of Galatians, we are reminded that when we add anything to Jesus, we lose Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/boasting-in-christ http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-boasting-in-christ.mp3 Sun, 24 May 2009 11:02:41 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,boasting_in_christ,spirit,holy_spirit,sin,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,performance,works,church,religion,christian_living,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,... 47:05 The farming principles of sowing (planting) and reaping (harvesting) happen to have spiritual applications as well. What we plant into our lives will eventually grow: either into sin, slavery, and death OR joy, freedom, and life. The first is classified as sowing to the flesh, while the latter can be classified as sowing to the Spirit. In this sermon we look at the different ways that we sow to the Spirit and the flesh, and what our ultimate hope is as people who are saved by Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/sowing-to-the-spirit http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-sowing-to-the-spirit.mp3 Sun, 17 May 2009 14:04:57 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,sowing_to_the_spirit,spirit,holy_spirit,sin,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,christian_living,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,... 43:39 It is common in our culture for Christians to get frustrated with the church and feel they don't need community in order to grow spiritually and serve God. But, the Bible is very clear that we are meant to live, grow, and serve in community with other believers. God doesn't just call us all together to figure out how to live together on our own. He has given believers His Spirit and the church to lead us and empower us. In this sermon, we examine God's description of at what a community led by the Spirit looks like. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/a-spirit-led-community http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-a-spirit-led-community.mp3 Sun, 10 May 2009 13:45:15 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,a_spirit-led_community,spirit,holy_spirit,flesh,sin,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,christian_living,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,... 47:40 The Bible tells us that Christians have two opposing motivational systems working inside of our hearts: the Spirit and the Flesh. One works for our good, while the other only has the appearance of working for our good. When we function from one or the other, it has a significant impact on our character. In this sermon, we take a look at how God changes our character through the Holy Spirit, Who changes our motivations and desires. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/the-spirit-and-the-flesh http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-the-spirit-and-the-flesh.mp3 Sun, 03 May 2009 18:39:48 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,fl2l,the_spirit_and_the_flesh,holy_spirit,spirit,flesh,sin,charis_community_church,charis_church,freedom,christ,jesus_christ,galatians,jon_bricker,bloomington,il,normal,il,acts_29,a29 36:48 What does the Bible mean when it says that Jesus has come to make us free? What has He freed us from, or to do? Does this new freedom require anything of me, or of you? In this sermon, Bryce Hansen helps us understand the important doctrine of freedom in Christ. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/freedom-in-christ http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-freedom-in-christ.mp3 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 18:34:06 CDT Bryce Hansen From Law to Life from_law_to_life,fl2l,freedom_in_christ,charis_community_church,charis_church,freedom,christ,jesus_christ,galatians,bryce_hansen,bloomington,il,normal,il,acts_29,a29 49:08 Through faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ, people are given "spiritual life". Just as there is evidence, which points to physical life (i.e. a heartbeat, breathing, and etc), there is also evidence of spiritual life. In this sermon, we look at the first "signs of life"--Baptism and church membership--the Bible outlines for people who've been given life through Jesus http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/signs-of-life http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/signs-of-life.mp3 Sun, 19 Apr 2009 18:29:46 CDT Jon Bricker Signs of Life signs_of_life,baptism,membership,new_members,charis_community_church,charis_church,normal,bloomington,il,normal,il,jon_bricker,acts_29,a29 43:44 The Easter season is filled with family gatherings, church functions, and extended weekends, yet many people don't understand the true significance of what the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ means. This Easter Sunday, we leave opinions and speculation aside and examine God's Word, the Bible, to learn more and discover what this means for each of us. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/what-easter-means http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/what-easter-means.mp3 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 12:35:16 CDT Jon Bricker What Easter Means easter,what_easter_means,jesus,charis_community_church,jesus_christ,jon_bricker,normal,il,bloomington,il 45:32 Believing God is hard, but Christians are called to do exactly this: to live a life of deep, persevering faith in His incredible promises. This is our only hope of abiding happiness and blessing, because God only blesses the work He does (though He often allows/uses us and others in this). We experience God's blessing when we believe His promises and act according to the work He has done, is doing, and will do. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/our-poverty-his-promise http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-our-poverty-his-promise.mp3 Sun, 05 Apr 2009 12:39:19 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,our_poverty,his_promise,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,promises_of_god,promise_of_god,christian_living,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,... 45:44 All Christians are called to be missionaries, because they’re in a relationship with God, Who is a Missionary. The perfect example of this is found in Jesus Christ, who left His heavenly home to go on mission to save the world from sin. In this sermon we look at 7 characteristics of Jesus-Centered mission the Apostle Paul lays out for us in Galatians 4:8-20. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/jesus-centered-mission http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-jesus-centered-mission.mp3 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:57:38 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,jesus-centered_mission,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,blessing,christian_living,missionary,missionaries,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,... 41:44 The Bible is clear God accepts us solely on faith, apart from our performance. But what part do God's commands (do’s), prohibitions (do not’s), and expectations (should do’s) play in God's plan of redemption and the lives of Christians? That is the question we'll address in this week's message. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/the-gospel-and-the-law http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-gospel-and-the-law.mp3 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:04:53 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,gospel_and_the_law,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,blessing,christian_living,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 40:59 Ever heard someone say, "God bless you"? It’s a commonly used expression in various situations, but how does one know whether or not God is truly blessing him/her? In other words, what exactly is God's blessing, and how do we "get" it? In this message, we explore these very practical and personal questions and learn how God blesses us with the Gospel. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/blessed-by-faith http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-blessed-through-faith.mp3 Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:25:18 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,blessed_by_faith,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,blessing,christian_living,faith_alone,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 45:53 For many Christians, the role of faith in the process of growth and maturity in Christ is confusing and unclear. Uncertainty and unanswered questions tend to lead us away from the Gospel and back to a religious, works-based mindset. In effect, we return to depending on our performance to live the Christian life. In this sermon, the Apostle Paul reminds the Galatian church of the role of faith, not only in becoming a Christian, but also in growing as a Christian. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/living-by-faith http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-living-by-faith.mp3 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 14:17:12 CDT Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,living_by_faith,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,justification,christian_living,faith_alone,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 44:34 There are 2 opposite approaches to living the Christian life - the law-centered approach and the Christ-centered approach. In Galatians 2:15-21, Paul explains how the doctrine of justification through faith in Jesus Christ-alone puts an end to the one and lays the foundation for the other. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/the-christian-life http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-the-christian-life.mp3 Sun, 22 Feb 2009 12:40:59 CST Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,the_christian_life,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,justification,faith_alone,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 44:41 For many Christians, the Gospel is the entrance into the Christian life, but has little to do with our day-to-day obedience to God. The truth is that the gospel of Jesus changes everything about us when we believe it, and therefore the gospel has to do with everything. In this sermon, we see that the Christian life is lived in step with the gospel. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/in-step-with-the-gospel http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/fl2l-in-step-with-the-gospel.mp3 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 12:12:39 CST Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,in_step_with_the_gospel,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 48:00 Although the Apostle Paul was a missionary/church planter used by God to plant (start) many churches and write much of the New Testament in the Bible, there was a time in his life where he violently sought to destroy the church by persecuting Christians. Yet, experiencing God's grace is what made the difference in Paul's life. In this message, we see how similar our story is to Paul's story because the Gospel that changed Paul's life is the same Gospel that changes ours. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/experiencing-grace http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/experiencing-grace.mp3 Sun, 01 Feb 2009 16:29:23 CST Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,experiencing_grace,grace,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 42:48 The Apostle Paul was a missionary/church planter who started a church in Galatia, and then left to preach the gospel and start (“plant”) churches in other areas. After he left, however, false teachers came into the church in Galatia and began to preach a false gospel (i.e. a message contrary to the message he had been given from Jesus). In this message, we examine false gospels of our day and the one true gospel that has the power to save and lead us from law to life. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/one-true-gospel http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/one-true-gospel.mp3 Sun, 25 Jan 2009 15:18:50 CST Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,one_true_gospel,false_gospel,false_gospels,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 43:59 This letter to the Church in Galatia addresses a group of people struggling to grasp the fullness of God's grace. In Paul's opening words, he points to the Gospel in the resurrection of Jesus and gives reason for great hope. Join us as we begin a powerful series of re-thinking what it means to live under grace vs. living under law (living religiously). http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/introduction-to-galatians http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/introduction-to-galatians.mp3 Sun, 18 Jan 2009 09:05:44 CST Jon Bricker From Law to Life from_law_to_life,l2l,introduction_to_galatians,galatians,apostle_paul,church,religion,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,acts_29,a29,bloomington,il,normal,il 46:25 In this message, we re-investigate the vision and mission of Charis Community Church and—once again—establish the framework for our existence in the Bloomington-Normal community. To realize our vision of being a church that “reveals the whole Gospel to the whole person for the sake of the whole world”, we must insist that the Gospel be at the center of every fiber of our being as individuals and as a church family. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/insisting-on-the-gospel http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/insisting-on-the-gospel.mp3 Sun, 11 Jan 2009 10:03:25 CST Jon Bricker In this message, we re-investigate the vision and mission of Charis Community Church and—once again—establish the framework for our existence in the Bloomington-Normal community. To realize our vision of being a church that ... charis_community_church,gospel-centered,insisting_on_the_gospel,jon_bricker,charis_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,jesus,jesus_christ 39:48 Everyone lives within a particular culture. And, every culture has a commonly held set of beliefs. But, we often fail to realize we hold these beliefs--our religion--until we are confronted with a view that opposes them. This week we discover that the Good News of Christianity helps us to not only uncover our hidden religion(s) and beliefs about God, but confronts them, and provides a solution that leads us to Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/hidden-religion http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/hidden-religion.mp3 Sun, 04 Jan 2009 16:42:36 CST J. D. Bridges Everyone lives within a particular culture. And, every culture has a commonly held set of beliefs. But, we often fail to realize we hold these beliefs--our religion--until we are confronted with a view that opposes them. This week we discover that ... charis_community_church,gospel-centered,hidden_religion,gospel_of_mark,jesus,peter,disciples,j._d._bridges,jd_bridges,charis_church,normal,il 36:30 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/giving-ourselves-to-christ http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/giving-ourselves-to-christ.mp3 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 16:33:56 CST Jon Bricker giving_ourselves_to_christ,jesus,charis_church,charis_community_church,gospel,gospel-centered,normal,il,bloomington,il,bloomington-normal 36:13 The Hebrew word for “peace” is “shalom”. Although a typical understanding of peace is basically the absence of conflict, Shalom points to a much more wonderful hope. Shalom points to a day of “universal flourishing, wholeness, and delight.” In this message, we turn to the Bible to see how Shalom has come into the world, where it is present in the world, and how it will come again. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/incarnational-light-peace http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/incarnational-light-peace.mp3 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 16:31:10 CST Jon Bricker Incarnational Light incarnational_light,christmas,hope,peace,shalom,joy,jesus,gospel,gospel-centered,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,normal,il 43:43 Christmas season is a time of expectation for many reasons – gift-giving, Christmas carols, playing in the snow, family, and friends. But there is a deeper longing, a deeper hope, that none of those things can satisfy. In this message, we seek to put a name on that hope, longing, and expectation we all feel…especially during this time of year. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/incarnational-light-hope http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/incarnational-light-hope.mp3 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:25:15 CST Jon Bricker Incarnational Light il,normal,charis_church,charis_community_church,jon_bricker,gospel-centered,gospel,jesus,joy,peace,hope,christmas,incarnational_light 37:52 Many Christians are under the impression that the way we become Christians and the way we grow as Christians are two different things. In this message, we see that what is necessary to become a Christian are the same things that are necessary for us to grow as Christians – the dependence and faith of a child and repentance to God from false saviors. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/how-do-i-become-a-christian http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-how-do-i-become-a-christian.mp3 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 16:15:52 CST Jon Bricker For the Curious for_the_curious,how_do_i_become_a_christian?,message,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,gospel,gospel-centered,christianity,religion,religious,grace 36:26 A symptom of the culture in which we live is that truth is often perceived as opinion. So, one of the big objections people have to Christianity is that it's too exclusive, because of its authoritative claims. "How can Jesus be the ONLY way to heaven?" or "Aren't all religions equally valid?" are two common doubts about Christianity. This week we'll examine these doubts and why they, too, must be doubted. Then, we'll see what distinguishes Jesus from all world-religions http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/what-about-other-religions http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-what-about-other-religions.mp3 Sun, 16 Nov 2008 17:09:52 CST Jon Bricker For the Curious for_the_curious,what_about_other_religions?,message,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,gospel,gospel-centered,world_religions,other_religions,religion,religious,grace 43:23 We’ve all heard the different arguments people have for rejecting the Bible – “it’s full of contradictions”, “it’s been re-written and can’t be trusted”, “it’s outdated and regressive”. But are those claims and slogans about the Bible really true? In this sermon, we look at 1.) Why people don’t trust the Bible as authoritative in their lives, 2.) Why people can trust the Bible as authoritative in their lives, and 3.) Why people need to trust the Bible as authoritative in their lives. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/why-should-i-believe-the-bible http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-why-should-i-believe-the-bible.mp3 Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:03:37 CST Jon Bricker For the Curious for_the_curious,why_should_i_believe_the_bible?,message,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,gospel,gospel-centered,bloomington,normal 48:27 At the very heart of the Gospel, and at the core of our lives, is this question – “who is Jesus?” Our time, money, relationships, prayer life, Bible studies, marriages - even our very identity as Christians - has everything to do with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/who-is-jesus http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-who-is-jesus.mp3 Sun, 02 Nov 2008 19:13:41 CST Jon Bricker For the Curious for_the_curious,who_is_jesus?,message,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,gospel,gospel-centered 49:42 Deep down, we all feel the need to be saved. This need to be (or feel) “saved” is often at the root of the purchases we make, the person we date, the home we move into, and the job we take. We are hoping these things will “save” us; in other words, they will significantly or completely contribute to our identity, security, and happiness. Yet, these things are destined to fail us, because they are—at best—only temporary “saviors”. In this sermon, we turn our attention to the only means of salvation that lasts. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/why-do-i-need-a-savior http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-why-do-i-need-a-savior.mp3 Sun, 26 Oct 2008 08:50:57 CDT Jon Bricker For the Curious for_the_curious,message_series,why_do_i_need_a_savior?,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,jesus,gospel,savior,gospel-centered 48:46 A.W. Tozer, author of several theological books, said "The most important thing about a person is what comes into their mind when they think about what God is like." In this message we look to the Bible to provide an answer for the foundational question - “What is God like?” http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/what-is-god-like http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/what-is-god-like.mp3 Sun, 19 Oct 2008 11:36:49 CST Jon Bricker For the Curious what_is_god_like?,charis_community_church,for_the_curious,gospel,gospel-centered,aw_tozer,jon_bricker,a._w._tozer,charis_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,jesus,jesus_christ,attributes_of_god 43:58 This message is the first in a series entitled "For the Curious". In this series, we hope to answer some foundational questions about God, Jesus, the Bible, and Christianity. This first message centers on the question - "Can I know God?" We find that the answer to this question is found in Jesus Christ, through whom God has been brought to man, and man has been brought to God. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/can-i-know-god http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/4tc-can-i-know-god.mp3 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 11:34:21 CDT Jon Bricker For the Curious can_i_know_god?,for_the_curious,bible,christianity,jesus_christ,gospel-centered,charis_community_church,charis_church,normal,il,bloomington,il,jon_bricker,church 49:57 In our final message on the "Family Values" of Charis, we look at how community isn't something we need to find or build, but rather something that we need to realize has been given to us in the Gospel. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/family-values-realize-community-part-5 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/family-values-part-5-realize-community.mp3 Sun, 05 Oct 2008 10:10:08 CDT Jon Bricker Family Values family_values,realize_community,realizing_community,charis_community_church,gospel,gospel-centered,jon_bricker,charis_church,normal,il,normal_west 46:48 Very often, Christians put their faith and trust in Jesus to save them, but fail to get on mission with Him. This week we evaluate missional living and why we chose it as one of our core values at Charis Community Church. Is being on mission with Jesus really that important? Join us as we take a closer look at Jesus' ministry and what it means to be "missional". http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/family-values-live-missional-part-4 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/family-values-part-4-live-missional.mp3 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:28:51 CDT Jon Bricker Family Values normal_west,il,normal,charis_church,jon_bricker,gospel-centered,gospel,charis_community_church,live_missionally,missional_living,family_values 46:00 When it comes to worship – it’s not whether or not we will worship, but it’s to what or to whom we will give our worship. When we are not worshiping and living for God, we are simply worshiping and living for something else – something that God made. This week we look at what it means to worship God, which is the first of three values we share as Charis. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/family-values-worship-god-part-3 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/family-values-part-3-worship-god.mp3 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 14:19:27 CDT Jon Bricker Family Values family_values,worship_god,charis_community_church,gospel,gospel-centered,jon_bricker,charis_church,normal,il,normal_west 43:07 This week we continue our series on Family Values, taking a deeper look at how the Gospel is not just good news, but it's good news that has the power to transform lives. How does real transformation happen? We'll discover, by God's grace, the Holy Spirit empowers us through patterns for transformation, which lead to pictures of transformation, and how we can encourage each other through specific strategies of transformation. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/family-values-transformation-part-2 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/family-values-part-2-transformation.mp3 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 08:48:49 CDT Jon Bricker Family Values charis_community_church,gospel-centered,family_values,mission,vision,values,transformation,jon_bricker,charis_church,normal,il 52:28 The church is very often referred to as a "family" in the Bible. Yet, many people--both inside and outside the church--don't regard the church in this way through their words, motives and actions. This week we begin our 5-week message series on Family Values by investigating the power of the Gospel. We learn the common bond we have as church is found solely in the Gospel, and we learn that apart from the Gospel, the church will function as a dysfunctional family. So, what is the Gospel? And, what is the vision and mission of Charis Community Church? Charis' Vision: To reveal the whole gospel to the whole person for the sake of the whole world Charis' Mission: To transform people through the gospel of Jesus who will then transform our community and our world for the glory of God http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/family-values-the-gospel-part-1 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/family-values-part-1-the-gospel.mp3 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:55:16 CDT Jon Bricker Family Values the_gospel,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,family_values,mission,vision,values 44:39 It is a common (although often unspoken) belief among Christians that God "calls" pastors and missionaries to serve, but not other jobs and professions - like being a teacher, lawyer, mechanic, or stay-at-home mom. The belief or assumption is that church work is service to the Lord, but not other work. This is not true! In this message, we look at how God calls and uses all of His people to bless His creation through their work. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/redeeming-work http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/redeeming-work.mp3 Sun, 31 Aug 2008 11:24:44 CDT Jon Bricker It is a common (although often unspoken) belief among Christians that God "calls" pastors and missionaries to serve, but not other jobs and professions - like being a teacher, lawyer, mechanic, or stay-at-home mom. The belief or assumption ... redeeming_work,careers,vocation,career,gospel-centered,missionaries,missionary,pastor,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,normal,il,bloomington,il,bloomington-normal,mom,dad,gospel,jesus,jesus_christ 41:17 Imagine standing in the middle of a dark room with no idea how large it is. You speak and your echoes give you a sense the room is large, but until some light is shed the depths of the space are unknown. In this week's message, we learn the eyes of our hearts can be enlightened to three amazing truths revealed by the Gospel through faith in Jesus Christ. And, we find the implications of these truths are limitless by the power of God's grace. Scripture Passage: Ephesians, Chapter 1, Verses 13-23 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/enlightened-hearts http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/enlightened-hearts.mp3 Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:06:11 CDT J. D. Bridges Imagine standing in the middle of a dark room with no idea how large it is. You speak and your echoes give you a sense the room is large, but until some light is shed the depths of the space are unknown. In this week's message, we learn the eyes of ... charis_church,normal,il,charis_community_church,gospel-centered,enlightened_hearts,eyes_of_the_heart,ephesians,j._d._bridges,jd_bridges 37:04 We welcome new members to our church as we explore God's unique approach of bringing people from all types of backgrounds, nationalities, and personalities together through the Gospel. The result of this unified, yet diverse group is called the "church". Join us as we explore Jesus' expectations for His people within the church and the false notions associated with leading a Christian life apart from the church. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/belonging-to-the-church http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/belonging.mp3 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 12:34:07 CDT Jon Bricker We welcome new members to our church as we explore God's unique approach of bringing people from all types of backgrounds, nationalities, and personalities together through the Gospel. The result of this unified, yet diverse group is called the ... charis_community_church,gospel-centered,membership_covenant,church_membership,jon_bricker,charis_church 51:13 For Charis Community Church's 1-year anniversary, we hear the reflections and the primary lessons learned by Pastor Jon Bricker through the first year of Charis' existence. We examine the responsibilities God has given to His people and to those who lead them. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/charis-is-one-1st-anniversary http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/charis-is-one-1st-anniversary.mp3 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 12:17:43 CDT Jon Bricker For Charis Community Church's 1-year anniversary, we hear the reflections and the primary lessons learned by Pastor Jon Bricker through the first year of Charis' existence. We examine the responsibilities God has given to His people and to those who ... charis_community_church,gospel-centered,testimonies,charis_church,jon_bricker,charischurch.com,anniversary 38:10 One of the main themes of the Bible is that God has revealed Himself to people. He has revealed Himself through nature, through different prophets throughout history, and through Jesus. But, for what purpose? Why has God gone to such lengths to make Himself known to us? And, why are we so slow respond to His revelation? In this sermon we explore those questions and find that the primary reason for God’s revelation is relationship. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/revelation-and-relationship http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-revelation-and-relationship.mp3 Sun, 27 Jul 2008 14:57:01 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew nature,history,jesus,charis_community_church,gospel-centered,gospel_of_matthew,charischurch.com,bloomington,normal,jesus,jon_bricker 52:51 Have you ever wondered why you have so much trouble at times believing the Gospel or growing as a Christian? At times we struggle with sincere doubts about who Jesus is and what he accomplished for us in the Gospel. At other times we struggle with pride and an unwillingness to repent. In this sermon we explore the different approach Jesus takes in addressing sincere doubt as opposed to an unrepentant heart. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/getting-to-the-real-issue http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-getting-to-the-real-issue.mp3 Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:51:55 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew faith,charischurch.com,charis_community_church,jon_bricker,gospel_of_matthew,gospel-centered,sincere_doubts 42:30 People often determine their worth and identity through identifying themselves with a particular skill or trait they possess that other people deem valuable. As Christians, we find our identity and worth through identifying ourselves with Jesus and His gospel. In this message, we examine how Christian suffering and persecution is rooted in the Christian's identification with Christ. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/identifying-with-jesus http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-identifying-with-jesus.mp3 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 18:40:09 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew charis_community_church,jesus,identity,identifying,gospel-centered,matthew,gospel_of_matthew,jon_bricker,charis_church 42:27 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/abiding-in-christ http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/abiding-in-christ.mp3 Sun, 06 Jul 2008 07:43:38 CDT Bryce Hansen bryce_hansen,charis_community_church,abiding_in_christ 47:47 How can one message be both the Greatest News and the Worst News? This week we are reminded that each person's response to the Gospel, which is ultimately responding to God, becomes the greatest salvation imaginable or the greatest condemnation imaginable. For those who accept the Gospel, there are instructions for how it is to be shared with others. For those who reject the Gospel, there is a serious punishment, which can only be avoided through faith in Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/receiving-the-message http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-receiving-the-message.mp3 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:20:01 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew gospel_of_matthew,gospel-centered,jon_bricker,charis_community_church,charis_church,normal_il,message 46:04 In this week's message we see Jesus refer to an oncoming crowd full of harassed and hopeless people, as a "harvest". Join us as we learn how the Gospel forces us to both identify with people who are harassed and hopeless, and at the same time gives us the ability to take part in the harvest Jesus describes in this passage of the Bible. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/lord-of-the-harvest http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-lord-of-the-harvest.mp3 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 23:04:41 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew gospel,gospel-centered,harvesting,gospel_of_matthew,matthew,jon_bricker,normal,charis_community_church,charis_church,fields_are_white,lord_of_the_harvest 48:14 On any given day, there are numerous events, situations, and encounters we witness and perceive. What we often fail to recognize is how much our view of ourself actually changes our perception of the rest of the world. As sinners, do we come to Jesus with an understanding of our own need to be healed? Or like the religious people of Jesus' day, do we treat his healing power with contempt and deny our own need to be continually healed by God? http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/understanding-our-need http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-understanding-our-need.mp3 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:20:08 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew healing,miracles,reconciled,reconciliation,gospel-centered,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,normal,bloomington,gospel_of_matthew,matthew 44:37 Christians often emphacize doing things, rather than becoming things. Focusing on outward actions wrongly takes precedence over inward transformation. This mindset becomes an obstacle to Jesus, because we falsely associate salvation and a relationship with Jesus with our own sense of "goodness". In turn, this is communicated to our neighbors, our friends, and the rest of the world by both our actions and words. Thankfully, the Gospel stands in complete opposition to this obstacle and tears down the walls we often build. Join us as we re-learn the gospel of grace, which we've been called to live and share. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/obstacles-to-jesus http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-obstacles-to-jesus.mp3 Sun, 08 Jun 2008 13:16:41 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew gospel-centered,jesus_christ,charis_church,charis_community_church,jon_bricker,obstacles,gospel,gospel_of_matthew,sinners,tax_collectors,legalism 45:42 Is Jesus good? Is Jesus powerful? Is Jesus fully satisfying? Is the Gospel true? The answer to each of these questions becomes a basis for either denying or embracing the authority of Jesus. If the answer to all of these questions is "Yes", then there is compelling reason to both embrace and respond to His authority. But, what are the obstacles we face? http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/embracing-authority http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-embracing-authority.mp3 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 17:39:51 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew jesus,gospel-centered,apologetics,apologetic,jon_bricker,charis_church,charis_community_church,truth,gospel 40:38 Why were physical healings an important part of Jesus' ministry? Was it just an opportunity to relieve an individual from their pain? This week we examine a passage from Matthew, Chapter 8 and discover a Healer whose primary purpose wasn't to heal. Instead, Jesus was pointing us towards something far more 'Ultimate' than physical recovery. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/pointing-towards-the-ultimate http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-pointing-towards-the-ultimate.mp3 Sun, 18 May 2008 09:08:38 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew healing,miracles,jesus,gospel-centered,jon_bricker,charis_church,charis_community_church,gospel_of_matthew,redemption,restoration 38:46 Join us this week as we identify distinct characteristics of authentic faith from the final passage of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. We are challenged to reflect on what authentic faith looks like and to answer 4 tough questions. 1) Am I on the broad or narrow road? 2) Am I listening to and following the right teaching/teachers? 3) Am I truly in a relationship with Jesus? 4) Am I obediently following Jesus, or do I simply admire His teachings? http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/authentic-faith http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-authentic-faith.mp3 Sun, 11 May 2008 08:16:22 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew 45:59 We celebrate the baptism of 4 individuals at Charis. In a short message, we learn about God's saving grace through faith in His Son, Jesus, and what it means to be baptized as one of His followers as an obedient response to the Gospel. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/baptism-sunday-at-charis http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/baptism-sunday-at-charis.mp3 Sun, 04 May 2008 17:39:20 CDT Jon Bricker We celebrate the baptism of 4 individuals at Charis. In a short message, we learn about God's saving grace through faith in His Son, Jesus, and what it means to be baptized as one of His followers as an obedient response to the Gospel. baptism,charis_community_church,charis_church,jesus,gospel-centered,gospel,jon_bricker 17:12 There may be no title for God in the Bible that describes His personal, intimate, and loving nature better than "Father". In fact, Jesus describes God to His disciples as "your heavenly father", revealing the intimate context of the relationship Christians are to share with God. In this message, we continue studying Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and learn what kind of father God really is. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/what-kind-of-father-is-god http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-what-kind-of-father-is-god.mp3 Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:28:39 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew what_kind_of_father_is_god?,charis_church,charis_community_church,matthew,parenting,father,gospel_of_matthew,gospel-centered,sermon_on_the_mount,jesus,jon_bricker 44:27 "Judge not..." was a command given by Jesus to each and every Christian in regards to the way they view other people. At the heart of Jesus's command was something far deeper than simply making external changes in the way we view or treat others. We find Jesus consistently wants us to look inward to see where the problem really lies. This week we examine an often-quoted passage of Scripture that is sure to devastate egos and self-views, yet provides the only solution available for addressing our hypocrisy in the Gospel. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/judging-others http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-judging-others.mp3 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 16:14:15 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew judging_others,judgement,judging,jesus,charis_community_church,charis_church,jon_bricker,hypocrisy,hypocrit,gospel,gospel-centered 30:05 Some statistics show that anxiety-related illnesses attack almost 18% of our US population. So, what causes you to be anxious? How do you currently handle the anxiety you have? How did Jesus handle the times of anxiety He suffered? Join us as we answer these questions and more as we return to our series on the Gospel of Matthew. We'll examine God's plan for dealing with anxiety versus the empty strategies we often pursue. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/do-not-be-anxious http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-do-not-be-anxious.mp3 Sun, 13 Apr 2008 08:03:47 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew anxiety,anxious,therefore,charis_community_church,jon_bricker,do_not_be_anxious,gospel_of_matthew,gospel-centered,grace 51:17 The topic of church growth often assumes a horizontal or vertical focus. Horizontal growth usually involves the number of people coming to your church. And, it's assumed bigger is better. Vertical growth tends to focus on each individual and their relationship with God to the exclusion of the rest of the church. In our second message of a 2-part series on life at Charis, we explore what it means to grow as a community and the impact that can have on both horizontal and vertical growth. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/charis-life-growth-part-2-of-2 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/charis-life-growth-part-2-of-2.mp3 Sun, 06 Apr 2008 11:28:02 CDT Jon Bricker The topic of church growth often assumes a horizontal or vertical focus. Horizontal growth usually involves the number of people coming to your church. And, it's assumed bigger is better. Vertical growth tends to focus on each individual and their ... charis_community_church,charis_church,church_growth,ephesians_4,jon_bricker,gospel-centered 52:53 We are encouraged in the first part of a 2-part series to understand the depth and transforming power of the unity God has called us to as individuals and a church. This unity impacts our view of ourselves, our fellow members, and the community around us. By God's grace, through faith in Jesus, we learn what it means to "live a life worthy of the calling" as a church. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/charis-life-unity-part-1-of-2 http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/charis-life-unity-part-1-of-2.mp3 Sun, 30 Mar 2008 11:28:39 CDT Jon Bricker We are encouraged in the first part of a 2-part series to understand the depth and transforming power of the unity God has called us to as individuals and a church. This unity impacts our view of ourselves, our fellow members, and the community ... charis_community_church,church_unity,membership,missional,gospel,exclusivity,inclusivity 41:24 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/resurrection-sunday http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/resurrection-sunday-2008.mp3 Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:57:02 CDT Jon Bricker gospel,easter,resurrection 41:20 What do you treasure above all else? What things in your life are non-negotiable for your happiness? For some, the answers to these questions might be their careers, checking account balances, comfort, size of their home, their families, and the list goes on and on. Each of us are guilty to some degree of giving these things, which ultimately fade away, a priority in our hearts that God meant only for Him. Join us this week as we evaluate how dangerous these "treasures" can be and how God shines His light for us to see. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/heart-treasure http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-heart-treasure.mp3 Sun, 16 Mar 2008 15:06:48 CDT Jon Bricker Matthew light,darkness,treasure,charis_community_church,charis_church 49:12 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/discipline-defined http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/discipline-defined.mp3 Sun, 09 Mar 2008 12:05:55 CDT 36:31 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/beware-of-hypocrisy http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-beware-of-hypocrisy.mp3 Sun, 02 Mar 2008 08:48:32 CST Jon Bricker Matthew fasting,tithing,grace,charis_community_church,hypocrisy,charis_church 37:24 http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/boundless-grace http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-boundless-grace.mp3 Sun, 24 Feb 2008 08:21:11 CST Jon Bricker Matthew grace,charis_community_church,charis_church,gospel-centered 47:39 Why are fewer families attending church together? Why are divorce rates at an all time high? Why do average congregations have 61% female and 39% male attendance? Is there a connection? In this message, we see take a hard look at the role of the man in marriage, preparing for marriage and leading like Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/the-mans-role-marriage-and-lust http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-the-mans-role-marriage-and-lust.mp3 Sun, 17 Feb 2008 11:32:41 CST Jon Bricker Matthew lust,charis_community_church,husbands,marriage 43:17 Many people often associate a relationship with Jesus as simply a different "set of rules" they must follow to stay in good standing with God. In order to follow Jesus, they wrongly believe they must trade one set of rules in for another. However, Jesus doesn't offer new rules: He offers new life in Him. This new life is examined in the context of how we deal with anger. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/beyond-rule-keeping-anger http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-beyond-rule-keeping-anger.mp3 Sun, 10 Feb 2008 22:07:30 CST Jon Bricker Matthew anger,new_life_in_jesus,jesus,gospel-centered_living,charis_community_church 32:52 There are a lot of ways we can live our lives. One way to live is an "irreligious" life - no regard for God or His commandments. Another way to live is a "religious" life - trying to uphold all or a self-picked assortment of God's commandments and considering yourself to be "good enough". But, Jesus offers a third way to live through the Gospel... http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/a-third-way http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-a-third-way.mp3 Sun, 03 Feb 2008 11:29:06 CST Jon Bricker Matthew matthew,gospel-centered_living,how_to_live,a_third_way 32:52 Can we truly engage our culture and community, yet still be "not of this world"? This message will challenge you to go deeper into the lives of those around you and still be distinct as a believer in Jesus. http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/going-deep-staying-distinct http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-going-deep-staying-distinct.mp3 Sun, 27 Jan 2008 22:34:20 CST Jon Bricker Matthew matthew,matthew_5,city_on_a_hill,engaging_culture,staying_distinct 40:50 "Blessing" through our eyes is often not consistent with the blessings Jesus describes in the Sermon on the Mount. This message will challenge you to apply the Gospel and re-evaluate your definition of "blessedness". http://www.charischurch.com/sermon/blessing-wins http://www.charischurch.com/mediafiles/gospel-of-matthew-blessing-wins.mp3 Sun, 20 Jan 2008 22:27:31 CST Jon Bricker Matthew matthew_5,sermon_on_the_mount,blessed 43:12