Are you truly a disciple of Jesus, or just identifying as a Christian? In this message, we explore what it really means to follow Him by denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and surrendering fully to His way. Discipleship is a lifelong journey of abiding in Jesus, being shaped by His practices, and walking in His truth. Who are you following?

We all love the advantages life offers, but when it comes to the ultimate advantage, the Holy Spirit, we may feel fearful or confused. The Holy Spirit offers us guidance, peace, and comfort, working in both ordinary and extraordinary ways. Though often misunderstood or feared, the Holy Spirit is a helper from God that points us to Jesus, helping us experience His love on a personal level.

The power of knowing, experiencing, and following Jesus transforms our lives when all three are present. Though most Americans acknowledge the Bible’s value, few engage with it daily, a choice between wisdom and folly. Reading God’s Word daily brings peace, trust, clarity, and empowerment, equipping us to proclaim the gospel and fulfill our mission as followers of Jesus.

Our mission as a church is to lead people to know God through His Word, experience Him through the Holy Spirit, and follow Him in our hearts through obedience. At the center of knowing, experiencing, and following Him, we encounter God. To truly live out this mission, we must balance the Word, Spirit, and obedience, sacrificing personal preferences to align with His purpose.  

Do you believe God still performs miracles today? Without the supernatural, we are left with a life of good morals, but no power. Through gratitude, regular time in the Word, and prayer we can open our eyes to the miraculous all around us and share the greatest miracle of all: eternal life with Him.

The Magi's gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh not only honored Jesus but also told the story of the gospel: His eternal reign, righteousness, and victory over sin and death. These gifts remind us of the greatest gift of all, eternal life and redemption for everyone who believes in Him.

The magi’s gift of myrrh foreshadowed Jesus’ suffering and death for our salvation. Jesus came to reach us from our sin, wrap us in His love, and release us from death. Just as Jesus chose to endure pain wrapped in the Father’s love on the cross, we are called to trust in God’s love in our darkest moments, resisting the urge to escape and instead remain hopeful.

What is the best gift you ever received? The best gifts go beyond the object itself, they make us feel seen and valued. In Jesus, God gives us the ultimate gift, declaring we are known, significant, and loved. The wise men’s gift of frankincense reminds us that Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of God’s promises, fully God and fully man, and our Great High Priest. Through Him, we receive complete forgiveness, access to God, and unending grace...a gift that changes everything.

The story of the Magi reveals truths about our response to Jesus. They pursued Him, recognized His royalty, and honored Him with generous, sacrificial gifts. The gift of gold signified Jesus' kingship, confirming He is not just any king, but THE King. How we perceive Jesus shapes how we respond to Him. Recognizing His authority calls for worshipful honor.

Join Allison and Pastor John as they reflect on the transformative teachings of the Sermon on the Mount in this season's final episode. They explore the power of building your foundation on Christ, embracing a renewed mind, and living out Jesus' teachings. To watch this past week's sermon: Built to Last | John Reilly For more info: northway.org