The Holy Spirit December 14, 2025 The Holy Spirit Sermon Series: From the Realms of Glory Download PDF Matthew 1:18-21 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Main Idea The Holy Spirit, the true Spirit of Christmas, makes Christmas powerful, personal, and purposeful. Outline 1. The Holy Spirit makes Christmas powerful (verse 18) 2. The Holy Spirit makes Christmas personal (verses 19-20) 3. The Holy Spirit makes Christmas purposeful (verse 21) Discussion Questions The Holy Spirit makes Christmas powerful (v18) Why is it significant that Matthew is so clear about the role of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ conception? What does this verse teach us about who Jesus is and where His authority comes from? How does the involvement of the Holy Spirit remind us that Christmas is ultimately God’s work, not human effort? Where do you need to trust the Holy Spirit’s power rather than your own control this season? The Holy Spirit makes Christmas personal (vv19-20) How do Joseph’s initial plans show his character and humanity? Why do you think God chose to speak directly to Joseph through an angelic message? What does this tell us about how the Holy Spirit meets people in moments of fear, confusion, or uncertainty? How does knowing God cares about individual obedience shape how you see your own choices this season? The Holy Spirit makes Christmas purposeful (v21) What is the clear purpose of Jesus’ coming according to this verse? Why is it important that Christmas is ultimately about salvation from sin? How does understanding Jesus’ mission shape how we celebrate Christmas today? In what ways can your celebration of Christmas reflect its true purpose this year? Looking Forward In the upcoming days and weeks, which of these three aspects of Christmas, do you feel most called to focus on this upcoming week? How do you intend to practically focus in on and live out that truth? Prayer Focus Pray for a deeper trust in God’s power rather than your own effort. Pray for release from stress, control, and the pressure to make Christmas perfect. Pray for renewed faith that God is actively at work, even when things feel uncertain. Pray for awe and wonder at the supernatural work of God in the incarnation. Pray for sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in daily decisions. Pray for courage to obey God when obedience feels costly or confusing. Pray for peace in areas of fear, disappointment, or unanswered questions. Pray for grace to trust God’s character when His plans differ from your own. Pray for repentance and renewal where sin has dulled your joy in Christ. Pray for opportunities to point others to Jesus through words and actions. Pray for intentionality in how time, money, and energy are used this season. Pray that your celebrations would reflect Christ’s mission, not just cultural tradition. Pray for a Christmas shaped by the Holy Spirit—marked by power, closeness to God, and gospel purpose.

Trust Because He Is Good November 9, 2025 Trust Because He Is Good Sermon Series: Because He Is Good Download PDF Psalm 33:6-12 6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host. 7 He gathers the waters of the sea as a heap; he puts the deeps in storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him! 9 For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. 10 The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. 11 The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations. 12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! Main Idea WE TRUST GOD BECAUSE HE IS GOOD. Outline 1. TRUST BECAUSE HIS WORD IS GOOD (6-9) 2. TRUST BECAUSE HIS WORK IS GOOD (10-12) Discussion Questions Trust because his Word is good (PSALM 33:6-9) What does these verses teach us about the power and reliability of God’s Word? How does this language echo Genesis 1 and other creation passages (e.g., John 1:1–3; Hebrews 11:3)? How does seeing God’s Word as creative and trustworthy strengthen our faith? Verse 8 says, “Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.” What does it mean to “stand in awe” of God in everyday life? How can awe lead to deeper trust? How might trusting in God’s Word help you face uncertainty or anxiety? Trust because his work is good (PSALM 33:10-12) What do these verses reveal about God’s control over human plans and world events? What does this teach us about the limits of human wisdom and political power? How does knowing that God’s purposes prevail give you confidence in a chaotic world? Verse 12 says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.” What does this verse teach us about belonging to God? How does being part of God’s people deepen our trust in His goodness? Can you think of a time when you saw God’s “good work” in your life, even if it didn’t make sense at first? Looking Forward In the upcoming days and weeks, what would it look like this week to take one step of deeper trust in God’s goodness? Prayer Focus Pray for… The people of Peace Church to be so aware of the goodness of God that we respond in praise and trust. The members of your community group to be able to walk together and encourage each other as we live lives trusting God’s Word and work. The lost to be made aware of the lack of trustworthiness in everything they rely on. All Christians to confess our propensity to trust human wisdom and systems more than God’s Word. Yourself to better understand and live in light of the truth that God is good and we can trust in Him.

Heading 3 Deb Crater Centennial Park

Make Covenant October 20, 2024 Make Covenant Sermon Series: Take Courage Download PDF 2 Chronicles 15:8-15 Main Idea God calls us to make covenant with Him! Outline 1. Remove ungodly influence (vv8-9) 2. Renew heart-filled faith (vv10-13) 3. Remember we are God's! (vv14-15) Discussion Questions Covenants throughout the Bible show God’s commitment to His people. How does God’s covenantal faithfulness provide security in your own relationship with Him? How can reflecting on God’s covenants help you trust Him more in your current challenges? How does understanding that we are part of a New Covenant through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 8:6) influence your daily walk with God? What are practical ways you can renew or deepen your commitment to live faithfully within the covenant of grace God offers? Is there an area of your life where you sense God is calling you to “make a covenant” or recommit yourself to Him, such as a new direction in ministry, personal holiness, or community involvement? What steps can you take this week to live out the commitments you’ve made to God in your personal covenant with Him? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Honoring the Martyrs November 23, 2025 Honoring the Martyrs Sermon Series: Standalone Download PDF Revelation 6:9-11 9 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. 10 They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” 11 Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been. Main Idea THE MARTYRS AREN’T REJECTED BY GOD; THEY ARE RECEIVED BY HIM. Outline THE MARTYRS WERE PROVEN FAITHFUL (V9) THE MARTYRS WILL SEE JUSTICE (V10) THE MARTYRS HAVE RECEIVED GLORY (V11) Discussion Questions THE MARTYRS WERE PROVEN FAITHFUL (V9) In verse 9, what does it mean that the martyrs were killed “for the word of God and for the witness they had borne”? What does this reveal about what God values in His servants? Why is faithfulness—especially under pressure or persecution—so significant in God’s eyes? How does the faithfulness of the martyrs challenge our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus? In what areas of your life is God calling you to deeper faithfulness right now? How can you cultivate a stronger witness for Christ in a culture that may not openly persecute but often pressures us toward compromise? THE MARTYRS WILL SEE JUSTICE (V10) Why do the martyrs cry out, “How long, O Lord?” What does this tell us about their desire for justice? How does their prayer show both honesty and submission to God’s timing? Why is it difficult for Christians today to wait for God’s justice rather than seeking vengeance or becoming cynical? In what ways does the promise of divine justice shape how we respond to injustice in our world? What injustices in your own life—or in our society—tempt you to doubt God’s timing? How can the church today stand with persecuted believers around the world and faithfully pray, “How long, O Lord?” THE MARTYRS HAVE RECEIVED GLORY (V11) What is the significance of the white robe given to the martyrs? How does this image reflect God’s honor, acceptance, and vindication of His people? How does remembering the glory awaiting believers strengthen us during present trials? What does this verse teach us about God’s care for those who suffer for His name? As we enter Thanksgiving Week, how does the example of the martyrs stir gratitude in your own heart for what Christ has secured for you? Looking Forward In the upcoming days and weeks, what would it look like this week to take one more step towards living out your faith in a way that doesn’t avoid persecution? Prayer Focus Pray for… A heart that treasures God’s Word as deeply as the martyrs did. The courage to bear faithful witness to Christ in every circumstance. Steadfastness in areas where you are tempted to compromise. Grace to live boldly for Christ even when obedience is costly. A deeper awareness of believers today who are suffering for their faith. Confidence in God’s perfect timing when you are waiting for justice or resolution. A heart that cries out honestly to God without losing faith in His goodness. Believers around the world who are enduring injustice, oppression, or persecution. Patience to resist taking vengeance into your own hands. A compassionate church that stands with and advocates for persecuted Christians. Gratitude during Thanksgiving Week for the glory secured for you through Jesus. Strength to endure present trials with confidence in God’s ultimate justice and reward. A deeper longing for heaven and a greater love for Christ’s appearing. Growth in faithfulness, endurance, and hope like those who laid down their lives for Christ.

Steve Safety Coordinator Steve Tiesenga Steve and his wife, Tanya, live in Byron Center and have been married since 1996. They have four children: Ashley (Scott), Drew, Troy (Eliana), and Kate. Before coming to Peace, Steve and his family served as missionaries in Uganda for about seven years. He works as a Tool & Equipment Coordinator at Buist Electric, a role he has held for two decades. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, working on his ‘86 Bronco II, and being outdoors. One of his favorite Bible passages is Philippians 4:4-7. Contact Facilities Department

The Truth Eternal December 7, 2025 The Truth Eternal Sermon Series: From the Realms of Glory Download PDF John 18:37 33 So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” 37 Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” 38 Pilate said to him, “What is truth?” After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews and told them, “I find no guilt in him. Main Idea CHRISTMAS GIVES US THE ETERNAL TRUTH… Outline THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS KING (VV33-36) THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS COME (V37A) THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS TRUTH (VV37B-38) Discussion Questions THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS KING (VV33-36) Why is Pilate so concerned with whether Jesus is a “king”? What is at stake politically? Spiritually? What does Jesus mean when He says, “My kingdom is not of this world? How is His kingdom different from earthly kingdoms? How does Jesus’ birth story (humble, lowly, unexpected) reflect His kind of kingship? What areas of life do we find hardest to bring under Jesus’ kingship? How might acknowledging Jesus as King shape the way we approach the Christmas season? THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS COME (V37A) What does this passage reveal about Jesus’ purpose in coming into the world? How does His intentional coming shape your understanding of Christmas? What does the incarnation show us about God’s love and desire to redeem? How does knowing that Christ has come bring hope to your circumstances right now? What is one tangible way you and your family can keep the purpose of Christ’s coming at the center of your Christmas celebrations? THE ETERNAL TRUTH IS THAT CHRIST IS TRUTH (VV37B-38) What does Jesus mean by “bear witness to the truth”? How does His life and teaching accomplish this? Why does Jesus connect truth with listening to His voice? Where do you see Pilate’s question (“What is truth?”) reflected in today’s society? What are the biggest competing “truths” that pull for our attention today? What practices help you hear the voice of Jesus clearly in a noisy world? Looking Forward In the upcoming days and weeks, which of the three eternal truths (Christ is King, Christ is Come, Christ is Truth), do you feel most called to focus on this upcoming week? How do you intend to practically focus on that truth? Prayer Focus Pray for… hearts that fully submit to Jesus as King, surrendering areas where we cling to control. eyes to see Christ’s kingdom clearly, and not confuse it with earthly power or cultural expectations. faith to trust the rule and reign of Christ even in circumstances that feel chaotic or uncertain. a fresh awareness that Christ has come with purpose, and that His intentional arrival shapes our identity and hope. deeper gratitude for the incarnation, that God Himself stepped into our world for our redemption. the ability to listen to the voice of Jesus, especially in a world filled with competing voices and noise. discernment to recognize truth, rejecting lies, half-truths, and confusion. courage to bear witness to Christ’s truth, just as He bore witness before Pilate. renewed love for Scripture, where the voice of Jesus speaks clearly and authoritatively. a Christmas season centered on Christ, not distractions, stress, or cultural pressures. spiritual unity within the community group, as we seek together to live under Christ’s kingship, purpose, and truth.

Polarizing Division Vs. Gospel Peace   March 3, 2024 Polarizing Division Vs. Gospel Peace   Sermon Series: Withstand Download PDF Ephesians 6:15 Main Idea The Gospel makes us ready to bring peace in a polarized world. Outline 1. Gives us what we stand in and on. (v15a) 2. Makes us ready to face the world. (v15b) 3. Brings us back home. (v15c) Discussion Questions Reflect on the list of divisive issues mentioned in the sermon (gun laws, climate change, abortion, etc.). Which of these topics do you find most challenging to discuss with others who hold opposite views, and why? How can the Gospel guide us in these conversations? The sermon highlights the growing polarization in American politics and its correlation with people's views on social and policy issues. How does identifying primarily as an ambassador of the Kingdom of Heaven, rather than by political affiliation, change the way we engage with the world and its issues? The main idea of the sermon is that the Gospel makes us ready to bring peace in a polarized world. Discuss how the Gospel equips us to be peacemakers. What are practical ways we can embody the gospel of peace in our interactions with others, especially those with whom we disagree? Ephesians 6:15 discusses the "readiness given by the gospel of peace" as part of the spiritual armor. In the context of the sermon, how does this piece of armor help Christians withstand the spiritual battles behind cultural and political wars? Share examples from your own life or observations. Considering the sermon's emphasis on the Gospel's role in bringing peace to a polarized world, what are some specific actions or commitments we can make as individuals and as a group to bring the message of peace into divisive environments? How can we support each other in these efforts? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Faithful With Our Giving March 15, 2026 Faithful With Our Giving Sermon Series: How Much Did That Cost? Download PDF Luke 12:13-21 13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” 16 And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” Main Idea WE ARE TO BE FAITHFUL WITH OUR GIVING. Outline REALIZING COVETING IS A BAD PLACE TO START (VV13-15) BEING RICH TOWARDS GOD (VV16-21) Discussion Questions REALIZING COVETING IS A BAD PLACE TO START (VV13-15) Why do you think Jesus refuses to settle the inheritance dispute? What does Jesus identify as the deeper issue behind the man’s request? How does coveting affect the way we view other people’s possessions or success? Why does coveting make contentment difficult? Where do you see the “How much did that cost?” mentality showing up in everyday life? Why do you think money often causes conflict between people or within families? What are some signs that coveting may be influencing our hearts? What practices can help us grow in contentment with what God has given us? BEING RICH TOWARDS GOD (VV16-21) Why does God call the rich man a fool? What does the parable reveal about trusting in wealth for security? What does it mean to be “rich toward God”? How does this parable challenge the way people normally think about success? What are some ways people today try to build security apart from God? How can generosity help guard our hearts against trusting in money? What practical steps can help someone begin growing in faithful giving? How does giving help shift our focus from building our own kingdom to participating in God’s kingdom? Looking Forward What is one practical way you can be more faithful in giving this week? Prayer Focus Pray for hearts that are free from coveting and comparison. Pray for contentment with what God has provided. Pray for wisdom and faithfulness in how we steward money. Pray that God would help your group grow in generosity and trust in Him. Pray for Peace Church to use resources faithfully for God’s kingdom. Pray for people in the church who may be struggling financially. Pray that each person would learn to be rich toward God in their lives and giving.

Ashleigh Women's Ministry Coordinator Ashleigh Harms Ashleigh has been attending Peace since April 2022 and joined the staff in November 2023. Originally from South Lyon on the east side of Michigan, she married her husband Chris in December 2019. They have two dogs, Bella and Poppy. Ashleigh enjoys a wide variety of activities in her free time, including baking, reading, and spending time on her porch. She also enjoys crafting, working out, and most importantly, spending time with other people. Her favorite Bible passages are the book of Job and Psalm 27:14: "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" Contact the Family Ministry Admin

Grayce Kids Ministry Administrative Assistant Grayce Koning Grayce has been attending Peace since 2021 and joined the staff in May 2023. Originally from Marcellus, Michigan, she has been married to her husband Ben for many years. They live in Middleville with their son Wyatt and their dog Nash. Grayce enjoys being outdoors, going to the lake or beach, golfing, running, exercising, and dancing. She has a background in jazz, tap, and ballet and has always loved music. She also enjoys reading, drawing, and traveling to new places. Some of her favorite Bible verses are Matthew 28:20, Psalm 46:1, Isaiah 40:31, and Isaiah 41:10. Contact Kid's Ministry Admin

Emily Graphic Designer Emily Van Til Emily began attending Peace and joined the staff in June of 2026. She grew up in Middleville and went to Thornapple Kellogg Schools. Her and her husband got married in October of 2023, live in Middleville, and have a cat named Tilly, and a dog named Otis. She loves indoor plants, the outdoors, is an avid crafter, and loves anything to do with cooking and baking! Her favorite verse is James 1:2-4. Contact the Communications Admin