Category Archives: Uncategorized

Saying Farewell to the Church We Love

Posted on November 3, 2023 by salooper57

This past Sunday, I finished up my work as the lead pastor at Lockwood Community Church in Coldwater, MI. I have been in this role, in this place, with these people for 35 years. I did not end my service … Continue reading →

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Church Member’s Checklist 2 (1 Thessalonians 5:16-28)

Posted on August 27, 2023 by salooper57

We think that we are in charge, and so of course we cannot rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances. Jesus knew that his heavenly Father is in charge. Such confidence in God makes all the difference. Faith, as John says in his first letter, is the victory that overcomes the world (1 John 5:4). Continue reading →

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The With-Us God

Posted on December 25, 2022 by salooper57

In this 26-minute message, we examine Matthew 1:18-25 – the angel’s message to Joseph about Mary’s child. Joseph has just been trying to decide what to do about Mary his fiancé, who had returned home from a trip pregnant! God … Continue reading →

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What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Posted on September 14, 2022 by salooper57

H-E-A-R Journals are a regular part of the D-Groups – discipleship groups of 3 to 5 people – that happen at our church. D- Group members read the same Scriptures each week, try to understand and apply them to life, and respond to the truth they see. When they meet with their group, they share one of their journal entries from the week. Continue reading →

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Intercession: How to Pray for Others

Posted on August 28, 2022 by salooper57

This sermon looks at how to pray for others and is based on Philippians 1:3-11. This remarkable passage offers great insights into how we can pray effectively for the people in our lives. How to Pray for Others (Philippians 1:3-11) … Continue reading →

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How to See the World Differently

Posted on August 20, 2022 by salooper57

I am currently co-teaching a class titled, “Following Christ Today.” Some may consider the “Today” in the title unnecessary for surely following Christ was not much different yesterday than it is today. They would be right in thinking that the … Continue reading →

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Bible Theology Class #3: Abraham’s Call (and its Consequences)

Posted on January 23, 2022 by salooper57

This class will help students understand what the Bible is about and how its parts – Old Testament and New, Gospels and epistles – fit together. Such an understanding will better prepare Christians to express their faith to others and … Continue reading →

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Genesis 3-11(Biblical Theology, Class 2)

Posted on January 16, 2022 by salooper57
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New Class in Biblical Theology Offered

Posted on January 13, 2022 by salooper57

The Bible is a big book, containing around three-quarters of a million words. It’s easy to get lost in its pages. Readers often wonder what the Old Testament has to do with the New Testament and what Leviticus has to … Continue reading →

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Saving Grace: Christmas on Main Street

Posted on December 25, 2021 by salooper57

This brief message examines what the grace of God looks like – grace that was once wrapped in swaddling and laid in a manger. On this Christmas day, may God grant you: presents under your tree, family around your table, … Continue reading →

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