The Rock Church

Better Than Peeps

I don’t know about you, but in the midst of marshmallow peeps, chocolate marshmallows, jellybeans, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, Easter 2017 was a blessing to my life! God really reminded me of why Jesus had to die and why I can have tremendous hope because of the Resurrection. Between our six services this past weekend, we had over 1,300 people come through our doors! There were at least 18 people who indicated that they prayed to receive Jesus for their salvation! God was so kind to bring us dozens of new visitors and people who got to worship Jesus and hear a clear presentation of the Gospel. They were also blessed to be loved on by all of the wonderful saints at The Rock.

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Stirred Up

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful…” — 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV84)

Like many of you, I read through the One Year Bible for my devotions each morning. I’ve done this for over 20 years. Sometimes, as I’m slogging through Leviticus, it is difficult to find a “meaningful” verse that applies to my every day life. Let’s face it, there are just so many ways you can apply verses dealing with offerings, skin infections, sacrifices, and atonement! Some days, I feel like I’m just going through the motions.

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Revealed

“For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.” — Luke 8:16 -17

I’d like to tell you a story. Although it took place a few years ago, it really encouraged my family’s faith and I believe that glorifies the Lord.

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Forgiven

I’ve been recently teaching on one of my favorite subjects: forgiveness. I truly believe that many Christians do not really understand their forgiveness. This lack of understanding causes them to live like slaves to their sin! In John 8:32 Jesus says He came to set men free (“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”). Here’s some good news, Christian: ALL your sins are forgiven — you are FREE! We are free from sin. But, do we live like it? In order to live a life of freedom and joy, you need to understand that ALL YOUR SINS have been forgiven.

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More This Christmas

“However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him“ — but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.’” (1 Corinthians 2:9-10 NIV)

Christmas is so close, and I can assure you, there are a few excited boys at the Young home (yes, I am one of them)! Christmas is indeed a magical time. (more…)

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Thankful

“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” (Ephesians 1:16-17 NIV)

I was recently on vacation with my family in Iowa (see picture of butter cow above), and was reminded about how thankful I am for your faithfulness and generosity in your giving to The Rock Church! God is using your gifts and sacrifices to make a real difference in the lives of many people and in the ministry of our church.

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Prepared

“See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared.” — Exodus 23:20 (NIV)

I read this verse last week in my quiet time. What an exciting visual — God’s angels leading the way to a place Jesus has prepared for our church. I have been claiming this verse for a “home of our own” — our own Sandy/Draper facility — since 2006. (more…)

Posted in A Word from the Pastor, Roots by admin

Lord of All

“If you love me you will obey me.” 1 John 14:14 (NIV)

Years ago I remember meeting with a young man in my church and telling him, “I’m sorry, but I can no longer meet with you.” I took a long sip of my coffee and watched as the words I had spoken sunk deeply into the heart of my dear friend across the table. “But why?” came his incredulous reply. “Because you’re not doing what I’ve asked you to do.”
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Connected

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:44-47)

I was struck as I prepared my message covering Acts 16:1-15 at the impact a young boy named Timothy has had on the world – yet we know almost nothing about him. We know that Timothy was saved as a direct result of Paul’s ministry during his first missionary journey, and that on Paul’s second journey, he decided to take this young protégé along with him – and the world has never been the same!
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