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

Jon Executive Pastor of the Peace Family of Churches Jon Delger Jon grew up at Peace and has been on staff since 2018. Originally from Middleville, Michigan, he is married to Stephanie, and they have four children. Jon enjoys doing projects on their house, spending time with family, reading, and cheering for Michigan football. His favorite Bible verse is Romans 8:32. Contact the Executive Pastor of the Peace Family of Churches

Lindsey 4th & 5th Grade Coordinator Lindsey Kerstetter Lindsey has been attending Peace since 2018 and joined the staff in 2022. Originally from Grand Rapids, she is married to Ryan, and they have three children: Lucy, James, and Charlie. Her family enjoys outdoor activities and caring for their barn cats and 12 chickens. In her free time, Lindsey loves biking, hiking, boating, and DIY projects around the house. When she slows down, she enjoys reading her Bible or a good book on the porch. She has many favorite Bible verses, often rotating scripture cards in her kitchen. A recent favorite is Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Contact Kid's Ministry Admin

Hell is God's Judgment February 15, 2026 Hell is God's Judgment Sermon Series: Like It Or Not Download PDF Matthew 25:31-46 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ 41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ 44 Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ 45 Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ 46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” Main Idea Like it or not, Hell is God’s Judgment Outline JUDGMENT IS COMING (vv. 31–33) HELL IS WHAT WE ALL DESERVE (vv. 34–45) HELL IS ETERNAL PUNISHMENT (v. 46a) JESUS OFFERS ETERNAL LIFE (v. 46b) Discussion Questions JUDGMENT IS COMING (vv. 31–33) What stands out to you about how Jesus describes His return? The separation is described as clear and decisive. How does that challenge modern ideas about moral relativism or universalism? What does this passage teach us about accountability before God? How should the certainty of judgment shape the way we live now? HELL IS WHAT WE ALL DESERVE (vv. 34–45) When you first read this passage, does it sound like salvation is earned by good works? Why or why not? Why is the word “blessed” in verse 34 so important? How does “inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” shape our understanding of grace? Why does Jesus describe works in such detail if salvation is by faith alone? Where do you see evidence of transforming grace in your life? Are there areas where your faith has not yet translated into action? HELL IS ETERNAL PUNISHMENT (v. 46a) Why is the word eternal so important in this verse? How would you respond to someone who says eternal punishment is unfair? How does this passage deepen your understanding of God’s justice? How does understanding what we deserve magnify grace? JESUS OFFERS ETERNAL LIFE (v. 46b) How does the cross resolve the tension between God’s justice and God’s love? Why is it significant that the One who sits on the throne first hung on a cross? How does believing in eternal judgment fuel evangelism? What fears keep you from sharing the gospel boldly? Looking Forward Who in your life who needs to hear the gospel urgently? What would taking a step of boldness to bring them the good news of Jesus look like this week? Prayer Focus Pray for a deeper awareness of the seriousness of sin in your own life. Pray for humility to recognize that apart from Christ, you deserve judgment. Pray for renewed gratitude that Jesus took your place. Pray that the reality of eternal life would fill you with joy and assurance. Pray that your faith would produce visible fruit. Pray for compassion toward the “least of these” in your community. Pray for opportunities this week to serve someone in tangible ways. Pray that your obedience would flow from grace, not guilt. Pray that your life would increasingly reflect the character of Christ. Pray for a growing burden for those who do not know Jesus. Pray for boldness to speak about both judgment and grace with clarity and love. Pray for wisdom to know when and how to start gospel conversations. Pray for courage to overcome fear of awkwardness or rejection. Pray for specific friends or family members by name who need reconciliation with God. Pray that Peace Church would never shy away from hard truths in Scripture. Pray that we would be known for gospel clarity and gospel compassion. Pray that serving others would increasingly mark our church family. Pray that temporary comforts would not distract you from eternal realities. Pray that the hope of eternal life would anchor you in trials. Pray that remembering coming judgment would cultivate holiness and urgency.

Faithful With… What We’ve Been Given March 1, 2026 Faithful With… What We’ve Been Given Sermon Series: How Much Did That Cost? Download PDF Matthew 25:14-30 14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, goodand faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ Main Idea YOU ARE TO BE FAITHFUL WITH WHAT YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN. Outline GOD HAS GIVEN YOU RESPONSIBILITY (VV14-18) GOD WILL GIVE YOU A RESPONSE (VV19-30) Discussion Questions What differences do you see between the first two servants and the third? What is the same about the master’s response to the five-talent and two-talent servants? What reasons does the third servant give for his inaction? What stands out to you about the contrast between verses 21–23 and verses 26–30? GOD HAS GIVEN YOU RESPONSIBILITY (VV14-18) The talents represent more than money. What are some “talents” (resources, relationships, abilities, opportunities, time, influence, spiritual gifts) God has entrusted to you? Why is comparison dangerous when it comes to what God has given different people? The master calls millions of dollars “a little.” What does that teach us about God’s perspective? In what areas of your life are you actively investing what God has given you? Where might you be burying something God entrusted to you? GOD WILL GIVE YOU A RESPONSE (VV19-30) What does it mean to “live in anticipation of the King’s return”? Why do you think fear paralyzed the third servant? What fears might keep believers today from stepping out in faithfulness? What do you think it means to “enter into the joy of your master”? If Christ returned today, what in your life would reflect faithful anticipation? Pastor Ryan said, “Faith isn’t part of your life… faith is how we are to live.” What does that statement challenge in you? Looking Forward What is one practical way you be more faithful with what God has given you this upcoming week? Prayer Focus Pray for freedom from comparison and jealousy. Pray for a softened heart toward God’s ownership of everything. Pray for courage to stop burying what God has entrusted to you. Pray for wisdom to recognize the specific responsibilities God has given you. Pray for faith that responds to grace rather than fears failure. Pray for a Kingdom mindset that sees money as “a little” in light of eternity. Pray for joyful anticipation of Christ’s return. Pray for wholehearted surrender in every compartment of life. Pray for Peace Church to be marked by faithfulness, not fear. Pray for gratitude for the Gospel that fuels obedience.

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

Down Home Christians June 1, 2025 Down Home Christians Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:1-8 Main Idea Outline Discussion Questions How does a right understanding of God's omniscience (that He sees and knows all, even in secret based off of verse 8) challenge how we communicate with God in our lives? (Psalm 139:1-4) How does Matthew 6:1–8 expose the danger of living for the approval of man rather than God, and how does Galatians 1:10 reinforce this truth? In what ways does the desire for human approval reveal a misplaced identity or understanding of righteousness? Jesus emphasizes that God is concerned with the posture of our hearts rather than outward religious acts, echoing the words found in 1 Samuel 16:7. How should this shape the way we approach spiritual disciplines like giving, praying, and worship? Application: What are some practical ways based on the context of Matthew 6:1-8 how we can resist the pull of religious performance and instead embrace a humble walk with God? Jesus emphasizes the "Father who sees in secret." How does knowing that God sees and values what is done in secret encourage or challenge you this week? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Serving Opportunities Serve as a Community Group! Ready to step up and serve as a group? It's more than checking a box - it's about loving others, making an impact, and growing stronger as a group. Check out the opportunities below and register. 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

He Is The Thrid Person Of The Trinity April 27, 2025 He Is The Thrid Person Of The Trinity Sermon Series: The Helper Download PDF Matthew 28:19 Main Idea The Holy Spirit is God; the third person of the Trinity Outline 1. He is the spirit of God 2. He inspired the word of God Discussion Questions Jesus promises peace through the Holy Spirit, not as the world gives. How does this peace differ from worldly peace, and how have you experienced it? What are some misconceptions people might have about the Holy Spirit, and how can we address them with biblical truth? John 16:7-13 Jesus says it is for our good that He goes away so the Helper can come. How does this passage deepen your understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in guiding us into truth? What are some ways you can practice listening more attentively to the Spirit’s leading in your daily life? Romans 8:26-27 Paul writes that the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. How does knowing that the Spirit prays for you change the way you view prayer and dependence on God? When have you experienced the Spirit’s help when you didn’t know how to pray? Application Questions Identify areas in your life where you need the guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit. How can you invite Him into these situations? How can our church community become more aware of and responsive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in our gatherings and ministries? What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, recognizing Him as the third person of the Trinity? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Event Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Join Us as a Sponsor or Exhibitor! Partner with Peace Church for our upcoming events to showcase your organization and connect with our community. As a sponsor or exhibitor, you'll engage with attendees and promote your mission through various sponsorship packages. Below, you'll find details on available packages, upcoming event dates, and the application process. We look forward to partnering with you! Packages Platinum Sponsor: $2,000+ (Minimum monetary donation required: $500) Brand Visibility Primary logo placement on all conference materials (website, emails, programs, banners) Inclusion on pre-service slides Full page advertisement in conference booklet (5.5" x 8.5") Conference Tickets 10 complimentary passes Social Media Promotion Multiple posts on all Peace Church social platforms Exhibitor Booth Premium booth space in the highest-traffic area of the conference venue Speaking Opportunity A 5-minute speaking slot during the opening or closing session Networking Opportunity Private meet-and-greet with keynote speakers Promotional Materials Inclusion of promotional materials in attendee bags Post-Conference Exposure Special mention in post-event communications and the opportunity to send a follow-up email to attendees. Gold Sponsor: $1,250-2,000 (Minimum monetary donation required: $250) Brand Visibility Logo and website featured in the program, conference website, and conference emails Inclusion on pre-service slides Full page advertisement in conference booklet (5.5" x 8.5") Stage announcement Conference Tickets 6 complimentary passes Social Media Promotion Mention on one of our social media platforms Exhibitor Booth Standard booth space at the conference Promotional Materials Inclusion of promotional materials in attendee bags Post-Conference Exposure Mention in post-event communications Silver Sponsor: $500-1,000 (Giveaway or monetary donation) Brand Visibility Logo and website featured in the program and conference website Inclusion on pre-service slides Full page advertisement in conference booklet (5.5" x 8.5") Conference Tickets 4 complimentary passes Social Media Promotion Mention on one of our social media platforms Bronze Sponsor: $250-500 (Giveaway or monetary donation) Brand Visibility Logo and website featured in the program and conference website Inclusion on pre-service slides Conference Tickets 2 complimentary passes Social Media Promotion Mention on one of our social media platforms Exhibitor Booth: $100 ($50 Monetary donation and $50 giveaway) Includes one 8' table Additional tables can be purchased for $25 each Black tablecloth and 2 chairs, available upon request Electrical outlet, available upon request (must provided your own extension cords and 6-ways) Upcoming Events & Important Deadlines Women's Conference - September 18-19, 2026 Exhibitor Application Deadline - July 1, 2026 Payment & Giveaway Submissions Deadline - September 1, 2026 Exhibitor Move-In - September 18, 2026, 3:00-5:00 PM Exhibitor Hours - September 18, 2026, 5:30-6:30 PM, 8:00-9:30 PM | September 19, 2026, 8:00-9:00 AM, 10:30-2:15 PM Exhibitor Move-Out - September 19, 2026, 2:30-5:00 PM Marriage Conference - February 12-13, 2027 Sponsor & Exhibitor Application Deadline - November 1, 2025 Artwork, Logo, and Promotional Materials Deadline - November 30, 2026 Exhibitor Registration Discount Deadline - January 12, 2027 Payment & Giveaway Submissions Deadline - January 12, 2027 Exhibitor Set Up - February 12, 2027 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Young Adult Conference - March 6, 2027 December 1, 2026 - Sponsor & Exhibitor Application Deadline December 31, 2026 - Artwork, Logo, and Promotional Materials Deadline February 6, 2027 - Payment & Giveaway Submissions Deadline February 6, 2027 - Exhibitor Registration Discount Deadline March 6, 2026 - Exhibitor Move-In, 8:00 AM March 6, 2025 - Exhibitor Hours, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM March 6, 2025 - Exhibitor Move-Out, 12:00-1:00 PM Sponsor & Exhibitor Guide Sponsor Guide Sponsor & Exhibitor Guide Booth Setup Guidelines

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Counseling Resources We’ve got an incredible staff team that works hard, has a lot of fun, loves the Lord, and loves the Word. If that sounds like a mission and a community you want to be part of, check out the job opportunities below. Peace Church is a Gospel-Centered, Family-Focused church on a mission to make disciples of Jesus. What We Believe Go Leadership & Staff Go History of Peace Church Go Peace Church is a Gospel Centered, Family Focused church on a mission to make disciples of Jesus. We have an incredible staff team that works hard, has a lot of fun, loves the Lord, and loves the Word. If that sounds like a mission and a community you want to be part of, check out the job opportunities below. Christina Schug LMSW, PMH-C Schug Counseling Services Phone (269) 716-1705 Phone 121 S Main St, Wayland, MI 49348, USA Phone Visit Website Freedom in Faith Freedom in Faith Phone (616) 329-5485 Phone Phone Visit Website Steve Bristol MDIV, LMSW, CAADC Alliance Counseling Phone (616) 222-0631 ext 740 Phone Phone Steven@alliancecounselinggroup.com Visit Website Jim Brazel MA, LLMFT West Michigan Wellness Center Phone (616) 210-3214 Phone 129 100th St SE, Byron Center, MI 49315, USA Phone jim@westmichiganwellnessgroup.com Visit Website Sherilyn Schaeffer MA, LPC The Journey Christian Counseling Phone (206) 705-3032 Phone 546 76th Street Southwest, Byron Center, MI 49315, USA Phone Visit Website Deb Crater MA, LPC, EMDR Clinician Centennial Park Phone (616) 949-9550 Phone 2828 Kraft Ave SE #186, Grand Rapids, MI 49512, USA Phone Visit Website Biblical Counseling Center Biblical Counseling Center Phone (616) 457-0050 Phone 515 Baldwin Street, Jenison, MI 49428, USA Phone 515baldwin@gmail.com Visit Website Whitney Scholten MA, LLC Winning At Home Phone (616) 772-1733 Phone 300 South State Street suite 13, Zeeland, MI 49464, USA Phone Visit Website Bridget Nash MA, LPC Open Chair Counseling Phone (616) 676-7081 Phone 9361 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, MI, USA Phone Bridget@openchaircounseling.com Visit Website Adam Nash MA, LPC Open Chair Counseling Phone (616) 676-7081 Phone 9361 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, MI, USA Phone Adam@openchaircounseling.com Visit Website What We Believe Go Go Staff & Leadership Go Our History About