Melissa Care Administrative Assistant Melissa Reitsma Melissa has been attending Peace since 2021 and is originally from Caledonia, Michigan. She is married to Eric and they have three children. Her family enjoys spending time together outdoors and doing archery. Her favorite Bible verse is Hebrews 12:1-2, "Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith." Contact the Care Admin

David & Bathsheba March 2, 2025 David & Bathsheba Sermon Series: Standalone Download PDF 2 Samuel 11 Main Idea Jesus is better than sin. Outline Sin is attractive (vv1-5). Sin is relentless (vv6-25). Sin is victorious (vv26-27). Discussion Questions Sin Is Attractive (2 Samuel 11:1-5) David remained in Jerusalem while his army went to battle. How does idleness or neglect of responsibilities make us more susceptible to temptation? What steps can we take to remain vigilant and avoid situations where we might be tempted? Sin Is Relentless (2 Samuel 11:6-25) After committing adultery, David attempted to cover up his sin, leading to further wrongdoing. How can one sin lead to a cycle of additional sins? What are some practical ways to address sin immediately, rather than allowing it to escalate? Sin Is Victorious (2 Samuel 11:26-27) Despite David’s efforts to conceal his actions, the passage notes that “the thing David had done displeased the Lord.” How does unrepented sin affect our relationship with God? Why is it important to confront and confess our sins, even when we think they’ve been hidden successfully? Jesus Is Better Than Sin In light of this story, how does the grace offered through Jesus provide a path to redemption and restoration? How can we rely on our faith in Christ to overcome temptations and make righteous choices? Application Questions Personal Reflection Identify areas in your life where you might be vulnerable to temptation. What proactive measures can you implement to guard against falling into sin? Community Support How can we, as a faith community, support one another in maintaining accountability and pursuing holiness? Embracing Forgiveness Reflect on a time when you sought forgiveness for a wrongdoing. How did embracing God’s grace impact your life, and how can you extend that grace to others? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

The Depravity of the Tongue September 7, 2025 The Depravity of the Tongue Sermon Series: Weeds Download PDF James 3:1-12 Main Idea An untamed tongue brings destruction Outline Digging In: Words matter immensely (vv1-5) Our tongues lead us to hell (vv6-8) How we speak shows who we are (vv9-12) Pulling Weeds: Recognize your need for repentance – we all fall short Remember you are being recorded – we all will give an account Reveal who you want to be – a blessing or a curse Discussion Questions Begin by reading James 3:1–12. Notice the severity of James’s warning. Words matter immensely (verses 1–5) James warns that those who teach must be careful with their words. Why do you think teachers carry such responsibility with speech? James gives analogies comparing the tongue to a bit for a horse, a rudder for a ship, and a spark that sets a forest ablaze. In what ways have you seen small words lead to large consequences? Our tongues can lead us to hell (verses 6–8) James describes the tongue as a fire, a restless evil, and something untamable. How does that challenge our view of words as harmless? How we speak reveals who we are (verses 9–12) James points out the hypocrisy of praising God and cursing human beings made in His image. When have you observed or done this? He uses pictures of springs, fig trees, and grapevines to show the need for consistency. How can the way you speak reflect who you really are, not just what you feel in the moment? Theological Reflection James implies that our words reflect our hearts. Our tongue’s destructive power reveals how deeply sin affects even the smallest parts of our lives. While it seems humanly impossible to tame the tongue, our hope lies in God’s transforming grace. Application Questions Recognize your need for repentance—reflect on a recent moment when your words brought harm. Confess it to God and ask for His grace. Remember you are being recorded—words can’t be taken back, yet we will give an account. How does that motivate you to speak more thoughtfully? Reveal who you want to be—choose to bless rather than curse. Today, speak life into someone’s situation. Each day this week, ask God to help you tame your tongue. Pray that your words would reflect His peace and truth. Consider journaling or pausing before speaking to filter your words. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill and guide your speech. Looking Forward Prayer Focus

The Purpose Is Personal February 16, 2025 The Purpose Is Personal Sermon Series: Contender Download PDF Jude 17-23 Main Idea Contend for the faith because the purpose is personal Outline 1: The purpose is personal so it will affect you (vv17-19) 2: The purpose is personal so stay in God’s love (vv20-21) 3: The purpose is personal so remember your mission (vv22-23) Discussion Questions The Purpose Affects You Personally (Jude 17-19) Jude reminds believers to remember the predictions of the apostles about scoffers following ungodly desires. How do these warnings resonate with current challenges to your faith? In what ways have you observed divisions or worldly influences affecting your personal walk with God? Staying in God’s Love (Jude 20-21) Jude encourages building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit. What practices help you to strengthen your faith daily? How do you actively keep yourself in God’s love, especially during times of doubt or struggle? Remembering Your Mission (Jude 22-23) Jude instructs to show mercy to those who doubt and save others by snatching them from the fire. How can you apply this mission in your interactions with others? What steps can you take to balance mercy and truth when addressing false teachings or misconceptions about the faith? Application Questions Personal Reflection Identify areas in your life where you may have become complacent in your faith. What changes can you implement to actively contend for your personal faith? Community Engagement How can you support fellow believers in staying true to their personal purpose in Christ? Consider specific actions or initiatives. Outreach Opportunities Think of someone in your life who is struggling with doubt or misinformation about the faith. How can you personally reach out to them this week to offer support and guidance? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Become Children of God January 18, 2026 Become Children of God Sermon Series: Becoming Download PDF John 1:9-13 9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. Main Idea We are called to become children of God. Outline Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9) Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10) Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13) Discussion Questions Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9) What words or phrases stand out to you in verse 9? How does the image of light help us understand what Jesus came to do? In what ways does Jesus reveal truth about God, ourselves, and the world? Where do you see people today searching for truth apart from Christ? What does it look like to live as someone who has stepped out of darkness and into Christ’s light this week? Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10) What is surprising or tragic about verse 10? What contrast do you see between Christ’s role in creation and the world’s response to Him? How does this verse challenge the idea that ignorance of God is neutral or innocent? Are there areas of your life where you benefit from Christ’s rule but resist His authority? Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13) According to this passage, how does someone become a child of God? What does verse 13 say is not the basis of becoming God’s child? How is becoming a child of God different from simply being God’s creation? What does adoption communicate about God’s initiative, love, and authority? Where do you tend to seek worth or belonging apart from your identity as God’s child? Looking Forward As we continue the Becoming Campaign, what are you planning to make as your commitment for next week’s commitment cards? Prayer Focus Pray for hearts that receive the true Light of Christ and turn away from darkness. Pray for clarity to recognize Jesus as the source of truth in a world full of competing voices. Pray for humility to acknowledge Christ as Creator and rightful Lord over every area of life. Pray for repentance where we enjoy God’s gifts but resist God Himself. Pray for faith to receive Christ rather than reject Him. Pray for deeper confidence in our identity as children of God, not based on performance or background. Pray for gratitude for the grace of adoption that comes only through Christ. Pray for obedience that flows from being loved sons and daughters, not from fear or obligation. Pray for boldness to reflect Christ’s light as children of God in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Pray for reverence for all human life, created by God and bearing His image. Pray for unborn children to be protected, valued, and welcomed as gifts from God. Pray for mothers facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies to receive courage, wisdom, and loving support. Pray for fathers to step into responsibility with compassion, strength, and sacrificial love. Pray for families who have experienced abortion or pregnancy loss to find forgiveness, healing, and hope in Christ. Pray for the church to reflect God’s heart by offering truth, grace, and tangible care to vulnerable families. Pray for adoption and foster care ministries as visible expressions of the gospel of adoption. Pray for lawmakers, judges, and leaders to pursue justice that protects the most vulnerable. Pray for pregnancy resource centers and caregivers to have provision, wisdom, and perseverance. Pray for hearts to be shaped by the light of Christ, recognizing every life as known, loved, and created by God.

From Rejected to Restored March 16, 2025 From Rejected to Restored Sermon Series: The Reversal Download PDF John 5:1-18 Main Idea The Gospel brings us from rejected to restored Outline Christ sees you when you are unnoticed (vv1-9) when you are unknowing (vv9-15) when you are unable (vv16-18) Discussion Questions Christ sees you when you are unnoticed (John 5:1-9) The passage describes a man who had been ill for thirty-eight years, lying by the pool of Bethesda, largely unnoticed by others. How does it make you feel knowing that Jesus notices those whom society often overlooks? In what ways have you experienced Jesus noticing you during times when you felt unnoticed or insignificant? Christ sees you when you are unknowing (John 5:9-15) After healing the man, Jesus later finds him in the temple and advises him to sin no more. How does this interaction demonstrate Jesus’ concern for both our physical and spiritual well-being? Are there areas in your life where you feel spiritually unknowing or uncertain? How can you seek Jesus’ guidance and wisdom in these areas? Christ sees you when you are unable (John 5:16-18) The healed man was unable to help himself into the healing waters, yet Jesus intervened. How does this illustrate Jesus’ power to assist us in our helplessness? Can you share a time when you felt unable to overcome a challenge, and Jesus provided the strength or solution you needed? Application Questions Identify areas in your life where you feel rejected or in need of restoration. How can you invite Jesus into these situations to experience his healing and acceptance? How can our church community become more attentive to those who feel unnoticed or rejected, offering them a sense of belonging and restoration? What practical steps can you take this week to extend Jesus’ restorative love to someone who feels marginalized or overlooked? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Meet The Pastors Have you met your pastors yet? Let’s fix that! Meet the Pastors is an event where you’ll hang out with the pastors at Peace Church. Knowing who’s leading you spiritually should be one of the most important factors in finding a place to worship. Come bring your family, eat lunch, ask questions, and discover why so many people gather here each week. Baptism We believe that Jesus has commanded all those who are His to be baptized with pure water "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19). This sacrament signifies our reception into the Church of God, which separates us from all other religions and dedicates us wholly to Him (Galatians 3:27). Yet, we deny that baptism is necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9; Luke 23:42-43, Romans 3:28, Romans 4:5, Galatians 2:16, Titus 3:5). We believe and confess that Jesus Christ, by His sacrificial death and the shedding of His blood, has fulfilled and abolished the old covenant practice of circumcision, instituting instead the sacrament of baptism (Colossians 2:11-12). Therefore, we believe in the baptism of infants, as it aligns with the biblical precedent of including children in the covenant community, much like the practice of circumcision under the old covenant (Genesis 17:10-12; Acts 2:38-39). Christ's redemptive work extends to the children of believers, and they, too, should receive the sign and sacrament of baptism, affirming that Jesus shed His blood for them as well (Luke 18:15-17; Acts 16:31-33). This practice underscores the continuity of God’s covenant promises, ensuring that our children are marked by the covenant from the earliest moments of their lives (Acts 16:15, 33; 1 Corinthians 7:14). We hold firmly that this sacrament, once administered, is sufficient for the entirety of one's life, symbolizing both our initiation into the faith and God's enduring grace towards us (Ephesians 4:5; Romans 6:3-4). Article about Infant Baptism Profession of Faith Article about Profession of Faith

Hope Because He Is Good November 16, 2025 Hope Because He Is Good Sermon Series: Because He Is Good Download PDF Psalm 33:13-22 13 The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man; 14 from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, 15 he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds. 16 The king is not saved by his great army ;a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. 17 The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue. 18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, 19 that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine. 20 Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. 21 For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. 22 Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us, even as we hope in you. Main Idea We hope in God because He is good. Outline God’s Gaze (13-15) The Fool’s Hope (16-17) The True Hope (18-22) Discussion Questions God’s Gaze (PSALM 33:13-15) What stands out to you about the way Psalm 33 describes God’s gaze upon humanity? How does knowing that God “looks down from heaven” and “sees all the children of man” shape the way you view your daily life? Verse 15 says God “fashions the hearts of them all.” What does this teach us about God’s involvement with us personally? Is God’s all-seeing gaze comforting, challenging, or both for you right now? Why? How might remembering God’s attentive presence change the way we respond to current struggles or uncertainties? How might in change the way we make decisions, even while in private? The Fool’s Hope (PSALM 33:16-17) According to these verses, where do people often place false hope? What are some modern equivalents of trusting in a “king’s army” or a “warhorse”? Why do you think we are tempted to rely on our own strength, resources, or strategies rather than on God? Can you think of a time when putting hope in something other than God left you disappointed? How can our group lovingly help one another recognize and turn away from misplaced hopes? The True Hope (PSALM 33:18-22) What does it mean that “the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him” (v.18)? How do these verses define true hope, and what makes it different from the “fool’s hope”? In what ways does God’s steadfast love provide the foundation for our hope? Verse 20 says, “Our soul waits for the Lord.” What does waiting on God look like in practical terms? As a group, where do we need God’s help right now to grow in hope and trust? How can we encourage each other this week to rest in God’s goodness and not in our own strength? Looking Forward In the upcoming days and weeks, what would it look like this week to take one step in putting more of your hope 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, trust, and hope. The members of your community group to be able to walk together and encourage each other as we live lives putting our hope in God alone. The lost to be made aware of the fool’s hope that is anything besides putting their hope in God. All Christians to stand in stark contrast to the world by being a people of hope. Yourself to better understand and live in light of the truth that God is good and we can put our hope in Him.

Deliver Us from Evil September 2, 2025 Deliver Us from Evil Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:13b Main Idea Outline Discussion Questions Read Matthew 6:13b. Why do you think Jesus teaches us to pray for deliverance from evil? What does this reveal about the reality of evil in our lives and in the world? Read Ephesians 6:10-12. How does Paul describe the spiritual battle believers face? How does this help us understand the need to pray for God’s protection? Read John 17:15. In His prayer, Jesus asks the Father not to take His disciples out of the world but to protect them from the evil one. How does this shape the way we live faithfully in a fallen world? Read 2 Thessalonians 3:3.Paul assures believers that “the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” How can this promise encourage us to trust God when we feel vulnerable? What role does prayer play in helping us resist evil and cling to God’s power? How have you experienced this in your own life? Theological Reflection Evil is not just abstract brokenness but a real enemy opposed to God and His people. Only God has the power to ultimately rescue and protect us. How does this prayer grow your dependence on His strength instead of your own? Application Each morning this week, pray specifically for God’s deliverance from evil influences—whether in your thought life, relationships, or the culture around you. Take time to put on the “armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13-18) through prayer, asking Him to clothe you with truth, righteousness, faith, and readiness. Share with your group one area of life where you feel spiritual opposition. Ask others to pray for God’s protection and strength for you. Closing If God is the one who delivers us from evil, how can we live with both humility and confidence each day? Where do you need to rely on His power to rescue and protect you right now? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

The Destruction of Gluttony September 28, 2025 The Destruction of Gluttony Sermon Series: Weeds Download PDF Philippians 3:18-21 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Main Idea Outline Digging In Gluttony is embracing deviance (vv18-19a) Gluttony is ingesting destruction (vv19b-20a) Gluttony is inviting distraction (vv20b-21) Pulling Weeds The Cross models selflessness Godliness guards your Yes with a thousand No’s Don’t let the temporary determine your eternal Discussion Questions Read Philippians 3:18-21. Paul contrasts those who live as enemies of the cross with those whose citizenship is in heaven. What stands out most to you in this passage? Verse 19 says, “Their god is their stomach.” What do you think Paul means by that? How might gluttony include more than just food? What kinds of things—comforts, pleasures, desires—can become a “stomach god” in our culture today? Paul describes those ruled by their appetites as headed for destruction. Why do you think unchecked gluttony leads to destruction in body, mind, and spirit? In contrast, Paul lifts our eyes to heaven, reminding us that our citizenship is there. How does focusing on our heavenly citizenship give us power to resist earthly excesses? Read 1 Corinthians 10:31. What does it mean to “eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God”? How does this reframe the way we think about food and desire? Theological Reflection Gluttony is ultimately not about food but about worship. It reveals whether we worship the Creator or created things. How does this perspective change how we approach habits of eating, drinking, consuming, or indulging? Application This week, identify one area where the desire for comfort or excess has too much control in your life. Pray for God’s strength to surrender it. Practice gratitude before each meal—not just a quick prayer, but truly thanking God for His provision and asking Him to help you glorify Him in how you eat and live. Consider fasting from food or another appetite-driven practice for one meal or one day this week as a way to re-center your heart on Christ. Closing If Paul says “their end is destruction, their god is their stomach,” how can your life show the opposite—that your end is glory, your God is Christ, and your mind is set on heaven? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Jesus: Lion, Lamb and Temple August 11, 2024 Jesus: Lion, Lamb and Temple Sermon Series: It Had To Be Said Download PDF John 2:13-22 Main Idea Outline 1) Lion 2) Lamb 3) Temple Discussion Questions Lion: In what ways do you see Jesus displaying authority and power in your life? How does this aspect of His nature challenge or comfort you? Lamb: How does Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb impact your understanding of grace and forgiveness? Share a time when you’ve experienced His mercy. Temple: What does it mean for Jesus to be the Temple? How does this change your perspective on worship and God’s presence? Personal Reflection: How do these three aspects of Jesus' identity—Lion, Lamb, and Temple—shape your relationship with Him? Which aspect do you feel most connected to, and why? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

And Forgive Us Our Debts August 10, 2025 And Forgive Us Our Debts Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:12a Main Idea How can we be forgiven? Outline Discussion Questions Read Matthew 6:12a.Why do you think Jesus uses the image of "debts" to talk about sin? How does this help us understand the seriousness of sin? Read Psalm 51:1-4. How does David’s prayer for mercy help us see the right posture before God when we seek forgiveness? Read Colossians 2:13-14. Paul says God has canceled "the record of debt" against us. What does this teach us about the completeness of God’s forgiveness through Christ? Read 1 John 1:8-9. What does it mean to confess our sins honestly? How does God's promise to forgive give us freedom to live without hiding or pretending? How does regularly praying for forgiveness keep our relationship with God vibrant and honest? Theological Reflection Forgiveness is not earned but given through grace. Jesus paid our debt in full at the cross. Why is it important to remember this when we come to God in confession? Application Take time each day this week to confess specific sins to God, thanking Him for the forgiveness you have in Christ. Ask God to reveal if there is any sin you are ignoring or excusing, and to give you the humility to bring it before Him. Consider journaling prayers of confession and thanksgiving for forgiveness as a way of deepening your awareness of God’s mercy. Closing If God has forgiven our infinite debt, how should that shape the way we approach Him in prayer? How might it also shape the way we treat those who have wronged Looking Forward Prayer Focus