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- Take Courage
Take Courage October 13, 2024 Take Courage Sermon Series: Take Courage Download PDF 2 Chronicles 15:1-7 The Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded, and he went out to meet Asa and said to him, “Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin: The Lord is with you while you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. For a long time Israel was without the true God, and without a teaching priest and without law, but when in their distress they turned to the Lord, the God of Israel, and sought him, he was found by them. In those times there was no peace to him who went out or to him who came in, for great disturbances afflicted all the inhabitants of the lands. They were broken in pieces. Nation was crushed by nation and city by city, for God troubled them with every sort of distress. But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” Main Idea In a world turning from Him, God calls us to take courage in Him! Outline 1. Stand in the Spirit (vv1-2) 2. Stand in the Contrast (vv3-7) Pre-Questions In Mark 6:50 Jesus tells His disciples, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” What fears or challenges do you currently face where Jesus’ words could be comforting? How does recognizing Jesus’ presence in your life impact the way you deal with fears? Discussion Questions Verse 2 of 2 Chronicles 15 warns, “But if you forsake Him, He will forsake you.” What does this teach us about the consequences of turning away from God? In what ways might people today forsake God, and what are the spiritual or emotional effects of this? King Asa responded to Azariah’s message with reforms (later in chapter 15). How can spiritual leaders today lead others toward faithfulness and renewal in God’s ways? In what practical ways can we - as a group - encourage one another to seek God more diligently and remain faithful even when faced with challenges?
- Yes and Amen to the Promise of Mercy
Yes and Amen to the Promise of Mercy March 24, 2024 Yes and Amen to the Promise of Mercy Sermon Series: Yes And Amen Download PDF Matthew 20:29-34 29 And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. 30 And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 31 The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 32 And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” 34 And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him. Main Idea Jesus, our triumphant king, is God's yes and amen to the promise of mercy Outline 1. Broken or blinded by sin we need to see our need for mercy (29-30) 2. Rejected or reviled by people we still need to seek the mercy of Jesus (31) 3. Busy or burdened to mission, Jesus will stop to show us mercy (32-34) Pre-Questions 1. What questions do you have when you, either heard this message and/or read this passage? 2. How do you celebrate Holy Week? What does it mean to you and your family? Discussion Questions 1. In which areas of your life do you think sin blinds you? (If you're not sure ask your spouse or a close friend) 2. In Matthew 20:30 & 31 the blind men call out to the Son of David. What is the significance of this (read 2 Samuel 7)? 3. Our world tells us that we're not "blind," and that we're good. Like the crowds, when the world tries to silence us, what should be our response? 4. In this passage we see that God isn't too busy for the blind men. With what thing - this week - do you need to trust that God isn't too buys for you?
- Deb Crater | Peace Church
Heading 3 Deb Crater Centennial Park
- Cheyenne Werner
Cheyenne Women's Ministry Director Cheyenne Werner Cheyenne has been attending Peace since 2013 and joined the staff in 2019. Originally from Woodland, Michigan, she lives in Middleville with her husband Tyler and their two children, Elise and Isaiah. Her and her family enjoy playing board games, watching AFV, playing kickball, listening to audiobooks, doing food-tasting challenges, and taking trips together. In her free time, Cheyenne loves creating artwork with pencils, watercolors, or resin. She also enjoys writing, baking cookies, hiking, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her favorite Bible passage often changes with seasons, but she finds great encouragement in Isaiah 65:24: "Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear." Contact the Family Ministry Admin
- Kevin Doerfler
Kevin Custodian Kevin Doerfler Kevin has been attending Peace since 2021 and joined the staff in 2023. Originally from Ohio, he has been married to his wife Ginnie since 1989. They moved to Gun Lake in 2019 after spending three decades in Portage/Kalamazoo. They have one daughter, Lauren, who is married to Luke, and they have a grandson, Roman. Kevin and Ginnie have a Morkie named Gracie and enjoy traveling, cooking, canning, reading, and spending time with friends and family. Kevin’s favorite Bible verses are Colossians 3:17 and Romans 8:32, 38-39. Contact Facilities Department
- Community Group Serving Opportunities | Peace Church
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
- Follow Your Heart
Follow Your Heart September 29, 2024 Follow Your Heart Sermon Series: Calling Out Cultural Lies Download PDF Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? Main Idea Follow God, not your heart. Outline 1. Our hearts are liars 2. Our hearts are lacking 3. Our hearts are lost Pre-Questions How do emotions and desires play a role in our decision-making processes? How can we balance those with the wisdom and guidance of Scripture? Can you think of a time when following your heart led to a situation you later regretted? How could trusting God’s guidance have changed the outcome? Discussion Questions Cultural Perspective vs. Biblical Perspective The phrase “follow your heart” is common in culture today. How do you think this message aligns or conflicts with biblical teaching? Read Jeremiah 17:9. What does this passage tell us about the condition of the human heart? Defining Trust in God In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are encouraged to “trust in the Lord with all your heart.” How does this differ from following our own heart or desires? Share an example of a time when you had to trust in God’s plan over your own feelings or desires. What was the outcome? Guarding Your Heart Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” What does it mean to guard your heart in the context of today’s culture? How can we apply this practically in our lives.
- Contact Us | Peace Church
Contact Us First name* Last name Email* Phone Message* Send Us A Message (616) 891 - 8119 office@peacechurch.cc 6950 Cherry Valley Rd, Middleville MI, 49333
- What We Believe | Peace Church
What We Believe Our Theology Inerrancy We affirm that the whole of Scripture and all its parts, down to the very words of the original, were given by divine inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). We affirm that Scripture in its entirety is inerrant, being free from all falsehood, fraud, or deceit (Proverbs 30:5; John 10:35). We affirm that the Holy Spirit bears witness to the Scriptures, assuring believers of the truthfulness of God's written Word (John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 2:12-13). We hold to the doctrine of verbal plenary inspiration, meaning that every word of Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The Bible, therefore, is not just true but the highest authority for life and faith, a sacred and awe-inspiring gift from God (Psalm 119:160; John 17:17). Article Article The Gospel We believe that human beings are born into sin, fall short of God’s perfect standard (Romans 3:23), and that this sin is deserving of eternal death (Romans 6:23). Central to our faith is the belief that Jesus Christ came to live the perfect life of righteousness that we couldn’t live (2 Corinthians 5:21), die the death for sin that we deserved to die (1 Peter 3:18), and rose to new life so that all who put their faith in Him can have new life as well (Romans 6:4). We believe in penal substitutionary atonement, meaning that Jesus bore our penalty as our substitute to atone for our sin (Isaiah 53:5-6). Sermon Article 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 Sexuality We believe God designed marriage to be between one man and one woman for life and for sex to remain within such a marriage (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6). Although there are many temptations in this world, we believe sex outside of such a marriage to be sin (Hebrews 13:4). Those living in sin should turn to Christ with faith and repentance, receive God’s forgiveness, and come to live according to God’s good design (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Acts 3:19). We believe God created man in his own image, male and female in knowledge righteousness and holiness with dominion over the creatures (Genesis 1:27). Reformed We align with the Reformation theology, holding to salvation by grace alone, through Christ alone, by faith alone, to the glory of God alone, and the ultimate authority of Scripture alone (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 14:6; Romans 1:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). We also affirm God's sovereignty over all things in creation and salvation (Romans 8:28-30). We affirm the five points of Calvinism (outlined in the Canons of Dort) (John 6:37; John 10:29; Ephesians 1:4-5). Complementarity We believe God created human beings, male and female, and that God made men and women equal in value yet distinct in role (Genesis 1:27; Galatians 3:28). God has given both men and women extraordinary gifts for ministry but has called men into unique roles of Christ-like leadership in the home and in the church (1 Timothy 2:12; Titus 1:5-9). Specifically — within the church — we believe God calls men exclusively to be pastors and elders (1 Timothy 3:1-7). Within the home, we believe that God calls men to love their wives like Christ loves the church (his bride), and wives are called to submit to their husbands like the church does to Christ (Ephesians 5:22-25). Sermon Series Creation We believe that God created Adam and Eve in His own image as the first humans on earth, from whom all other humans have descended (Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:7, 21-22; 1 Corinthians 15:45). We affirm that Satan tempted Adam and Eve, disobeyed God, and thus brought sin into the world, causing all humanity to be born into sin and in need of a savior (Genesis 3:1-6; Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:22). We affirm the literal, historical existence of Adam and Eve and assert that God was actively and sovereignly involved in creation (Acts 17:24-26; Isaiah 45:12). We believe that God created the world in six days and that He created it good (Exodus 20:11; Genesis 1:31). End-times We believe the millennium began with Jesus Christ's resurrection and will continue until His second coming. This is also called amillennialism. This eschatological view interprets the "thousand years" mentioned in Revelation 20 symbolically rather than literally. During this period, deceased believers reign spiritually with Christ in heaven, awaiting their physical resurrection and the renewal of all things (Revelation 20:4-6). We believe this holds that Satan is bound in a limited sense, having been defeated at the cross, allowing the gospel to spread throughout the nations (Revelation 20:2-3; Matthew 28:18-20). Sermon Tithing Elder and Deacon Requirements Article Article Distinctions Our Mission & Vision Vision To see the Gospel embraced and passed on for generations of Kingdom impact. Mission At Peace Church, we are Gospel-Centered, Family-Focused, and Kingdom-Minded. Our Values Gospel-Centered Gospel The gospel is the good news that although we have sinned and fallen short of God’s perfect standard (Rom 3:23) and therefore deserve eternal death (Rom 6:23), God sent his only Son Jesus Christ to live the perfect life we couldn’t live, die the death for sin we deserved to die, and rise to life so that by faith we can have eternal life with him (John 3:16). Bible Although we can summarize the main message of the gospel in a sentence, really the whole Bible is the story of the gospel - the story of God saving his people. We believe the Bible is God’s Word (2 Tim 3:16) and therefore that it is without error and the highest authority in our lives. Mission God made it clear that the mission of every Christian church is to make disciples of Jesus (Matt 28:18-20). We have been given the life-saving message of the gospel, and we must take it to the world, preaching and praying for the lost to be saved by faith in Christ. Family-Focused The Family of the Home God designed the family as the primary place where discipleship happens (Deut 6:4-9). A strong church and society is built around healthy families seeking to follow Jesus together. We believe in the sanctity of marriage, the sanctity of human life including unborn human lives, and we seek to invest in creating healthy marriages and families. The Family of the Church God calls the church to operate not merely as an organization, but as a family - the family of faith. We care for each other, encourage each other, and challenge each other, as we seek to follow Jesus together. Kingdom-Minded The Kingdom of God is wherever knees and hearts are bowing to the King. It is not just happening at Peace Church. We seek to reach our community with the gospel, plant more churches who preach the gospel, and send missionaries to the ends of the world to preach the gospel. Three Forms of Unity While creeds/confessions/catechisms are not the Bible, they are helpful resources to help us explain and teach what the Bible says. Peace Church holds to what has been called the Three Forms of Unity, the historic Christian creeds of the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dort. Belgic Confession Go Heidelberg Catechism Go The Canons of Dort Go
- The Judgement Is Real
The Judgement Is Real February 9, 2025 The Judgement Is Real Sermon Series: Contender Download PDF Jude 1:5-16 Main Idea Outline Pre-Questions When you think about the concept of judgment in the Bible, what comes to mind? Can you recall instances in Scripture where God’s judgment was evident? How do those instances influence your understanding of His character? Discussion Questions Understanding Past Judgments (Jude 1:5-7) Jude references historical events as examples of God’s judgment. How do these examples serve as warnings for believers today? What lessons can we learn from these past judgments about obedience and faithfulness? Identifying False Teachers (Jude 1:8-13) Jude describes certain individuals who have infiltrated the church. What characteristics does he attribute to them? How can we discern and guard against such influences within our own faith communities? The Seriousness of Leading Others Astray (Jude 1:14-16) What does Jude say about the fate of those who lead others into sin? How does this underscore the importance of sound teaching and personal integrity in the church? Contending for the Faith In light of Jude’s warnings, what does it mean to “contend for the faith” in our daily lives? How can we encourage and support one another in remaining steadfast amidst challenges to our faith? Application Personal Reflection Are there areas in your life where you might be compromising your faith? How can you address these areas to align more closely with God’s will? Community Vigilance What steps can our church take to remain vigilant against false teachings and to uphold the truth of the Gospel? Encouraging One Another How can you actively support fellow believers in their walk of faith, especially those who may be struggling or facing doubts?
- Present Darkness vs. Spiritual Strength
Present Darkness vs. Spiritual Strength February 18, 2024 Present Darkness vs. Spiritual Strength Sermon Series: Withstand Download PDF Ephesians 6:10-13 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Main Idea We need the whole armor of God if we are to stand strong. Outline 1. We need to be all in because the enemy is all in (vs 10-11) 2. We need the right perspective to identify the true enemy (vs 12) 3. We need the whole armor for the whole battle (vs 13) Pre-Questions What do you think of when you think about spiritual warfare? What kind of things stuck out to you in the sermon that you’d like to address further? Discussion Questions In the sermon, Ryan said “The Devil has a specific strategy for you. He doesn’t use cookie-cutter strategies.” How does this impact your perspective on how you must fight? How does knowing our enemy change how we operate in the world around us? After hearing this sermon and reading this passage of scripture, who is God calling you to love that you wouldn’t naturally love? How will you put on the armor this week? When Jesus went to the cross he was most likely crucified naked in our place. How does Jesus’ death allow us to be able to put on the armor of God? How does the Gospel connect to putting on the armor of God? In light of this, how will you respond in worship?
- Caring for Widows
Caring for Widows January 12, 2025 Caring for Widows Sermon Series: Womb to Tomb Download PDF Exodus 22:22-24 Main Idea God's people are to share God's heart to care for those who can't care for themselves Outline God has concern for those who are neglected. {Exodus 22:22-23} God has condemnation for those who are unjust. Exodus 22:24} Pre-Questions James 1:27 describes pure religion as looking after orphans and widows in their distress. How does this verse challenge our current practices in caring for widows within our church community? When you hear the term ‘pro-life,’ what aspects of life come to mind? How does caring for widows fit into a holistic pro-life ethic? Discussion Questions General Questions: In 1 Timothy 5:3-16, Paul provides specific instructions on supporting widows. What principles can we extract from this passage to apply in our context today? Psalm 68:5 describes God as a ‘father to the fatherless, a defender of widows.’ How can embodying this aspect of God’s character influence our approach to social justice and mercy ministries? 1 Timothy 5:4 emphasizes that if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should first learn to show godliness by caring for their own family. How can families and the church collaborate to ensure widows receive comprehensive support? In what practical ways can you personally contribute to caring for widows in your community? Consider time, resources, and advocacy. Family Questions: Have you ever met someone who was lonely or needed help? How did you feel when you helped them? Do you know someone in our family or church who has lost a loved one? How can we show them that we care about them? A widow is someone who has lost their husband. How do you think they feel, and what can we do to make them feel loved? In Luke 4:18, Jesus said He came to help people who are hurting or lonely. How do you think Jesus would want us to treat widows or people who don’t have family to help them? What are some things we can do as a family to help people who are lonely, like widows or older people in our church? Activity: “Love in Action” Challenge • Plan a family project to bless a widow or an older person. Ideas include: • Making a homemade card or artwork. • Baking cookies and delivering them. • Inviting them over for a meal or visiting them. • Offering to help with tasks like yard work or groceries.