What is Restoration Church and what makes us different? One word: "simplicity." This is the first message in our series "Re:Defined", all about the mission and purpose of Restoration Church in Lake Zurich. Related blog post: "The Four Essential Functions of the Church" Reflection questions: What might the benefits of being part of a simple …
Free to Love (Addressing an Evangelical Crisis) // Galatians 5:13-15
If love is the defining outcome of the gospel, shouldn't it be the defining mark of what it means to be a Christian? In this passionate end-of-year message, Pastor Matt looks at the growing crisis in the Evangelical Church, invites his listeners to take an honest assessment of themselves, and provides a redemptive pathway forward …
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The Gift of Peace // Luke 2:8-20
The gospel is the recovery of 'shalom' in the midst of a fallen & chaotic world. It is the good news that peace has come to earth! This is the concluding message from Pastor Matt in our series, "The Promised King". It was preached live at Life Spring Community Church in Spring Grove, IL on …
A Tale of Two Kings // Luke 2:1-7
"Glory is wrapped in humility and weakness." Even in the church we have bought the lie that glory is found in our influence and perceived 'success'. But the radical claim of the gospel is that "glory is wrapped in humility and weakness." To be a Kingdom citizen (one who identifies as a follower of Jesus) …
The Hope of Christmas // Luke 1:67-80
"Forgiveness is the hope of Christmas." In our suffering and unfulfilled longings is how we discover what hope really looks like. The promise of hope is why we celebrate Christmas. The Hope of Christmas // Luke 1:67-80 // December 12, 2018 [VIDEO] The Hope of Christmas // Luke 1:67-80
Receiving the Gift of Christmas // Luke 1:39-56
A blessing is a gift from God that is far greater, more satisfying, and outlasts any material gift you could ever receive. That is the true gift of Christmas. Receiving the Gift of Christmas // Luke 1:39-56 // December 3, 2018 [VIDEO] Receiving the Gift of Christmas // Luke 1:39-56
Defining the Message of Christmas // Luke 1:26-38
In a world filled with mixed messages, it's important to remember what the real message and reason for Christmas is: "The promised King has come!" Defining the Message of Christmas // Luke 1:26-38 // November 29, 2018 [VIDEO] Defining the Message of Christmas // Luke 1:26-38
A Glorious Future // Revelation 21:1-8
We live as Kingdom citizens today because the future is decided --- and it is glorious! A Glorious Future // Revelation 21:1-8 // November 6, 2018 [VIDEO] A Glorious Future // Revelation 21:1-8
The Mission of the Church // Luke 10:1-12
Followers of Christ are 'sent-ones' of Christ. This is the mission of every believer and every church. The Mission of the Church // Luke 10:1-12 // October 29, 2018 [VIDEO] The Mission of the Church // Luke 10:1-12
Count the Cost // Luke 9:57-62
Evangelicalism over the years has been relatively built on an inconsequential faith that simply says, "invite Jesus into your heart." The problem is Jesus never said such a thing. Rather, the call of Christ is a call to radical obedience. Are you sure you want to do this? Count the Cost // Luke 9:57-62 // …
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