Riverwood Church - Waverly, IA: Sermons
Erin Bird - Pastor of Riverwood Church
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A Jesus-centered community in Waverly, Iowa that strives to live as Jesus lived and love like Jesus loved.
Available episodes
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6 days ago
The Start of the Church (Gospel on the Move #3)
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Mar 13, 2023
The Great Commission
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Mar 6, 2023
Leaders for the Church (Gospel on the Move #2)
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Feb 27, 2023
The Mandate for the Church (Gospel on the Move #1)
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Feb 20, 2023
Jesus-Centered Partnerships (Jesus-Centered Relationships #4)
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Feb 14, 2023
Jesus-Centered at Work (Jesus-Centered Relationships #3)
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Feb 6, 2023
Jesus-Centered Marriage (Jesus-Centered Relationships #2)
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Jan 30, 2023
Jesus-Centered Parenting (Jesus-Centered Relationships #1)
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Jan 24, 2023
In and Out (Vision Sunday 2023)
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Jan 17, 2023
Gospel Growth Around Us (21 Days of Prayer #3)
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Jan 10, 2023
Gospel Growth in Us (21 Days of Prayer #2 & Centered #10)
What you wear affects perception. This is true of your physical clothing as well as your spiritual clothing.
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Jan 5, 2023
Gospel Growth in Me (21 Days of Prayer #1)
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Dec 24, 2022
Waiting Over (Waiting for Arrival #5)
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Dec 19, 2022
Waiting for God (Waiting for Arrival #4)
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Dec 5, 2022
Waiting for the Priest (Waiting for Arrival #2)
"The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, "You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek." Psalm 110:4 ESV
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Nov 28, 2022
Waiting for the Prophet (Awaiting Arrival #1)
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Nov 14, 2022
Jesus-Centered Identity (Centered #9)
Life can be so busy, and we are so focused on the details surrounding us that we can often miss the important things that are in front of us.
Watch/Listen/Read More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/jesus-centered-identity-centered-9/
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Nov 7, 2022
Jesus-Centered Religion (Centered #8)
Paul starts the passage in Colossians 2:16-23 by saying, "Do not let people judge you." By that, he is trying to say not to let people’s judgments/assumptions affect you.
Watch/Listen/Read More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/jesus-centered-religion-centered-8/
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Oct 31, 2022
Jesus-Centered Freedom (Centered #7)
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Oct 24, 2022
Jesus-Centered Growth (Centered #6)
Growing in faith isn’t found in super complex methods. Like Daniel learns from Mr. Miyagi in "The Karate Kid," it’s the basics that help you grow.
Watch/Listen/Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/jesus-centered-growth-centered-6/
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Oct 11, 2022
Desexualizing the Imago Dei (Imago Dei #5)
Is same-sex attraction ok? 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 tells us that our body is not our own but, instead, it belongs to Christ. Our spirit becomes one spirit with his.
Watch/Listen/Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/desexualizing-imago-dei-5/
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Oct 3, 2022
Ending the Imago Dei (Imago Dei #4)
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Sep 26, 2022
Respecting the Imago Dei (Imago Dei #3)
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Sep 19, 2022
Having an Imago Dei Identity (Imago Dei #2)
We don’t own ourselves - God owns us. We deserved death, but Jesus took our place on the cross. We were bought with a price and shouldn’t become slaves of man (1 Corinthians 7:23.)
Last week, Erin talked about how we can see the Imago Dei in others because it helps us view others the way we should. This week, however, we are going to look at the Imago Dei in ourselves.
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Sep 12, 2022
The Value of the Imago Dei (Imago Dei #1)
Listen/Watch and Learn More at: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/value-of-the-imago-dei-1/
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Sep 6, 2022
Jesus-Centered Suffering (Centered #5)
Typically, we try our hardest to avoid suffering. Yet, if we spend our whole lives actively working to avoid suffering, we will miss out on moments where suffering brings us closer to others and closer to God.
Listen/Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/jesus-centered-suffering-centered-5/
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Aug 29, 2022
Jesus-Centered Transformation (Centered #4)
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Aug 22, 2022
A Jesus-Centered Faith (Centered #3)
So many people justify their wrongdoings in the name of Jesus. Society, as a whole, doesn’t truly understand who Jesus was at this point.
Watch/Listen/Read More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/stronga-jesus-centered-faith-centered-3-strong/
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Aug 15, 2022
Jesus-Centered Walking (Centered #2)
When we encounter an idea that we are not familiar with, we wonder, “What does that look like?” Paul is trying to answer that question for us in Colossians 1:9-14.
Watch/Listen/Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/jesus-centered-walking-centered-2/
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Aug 8, 2022
A Jesus-Centered Life (Centered #1)
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Aug 1, 2022
Psalm 1 (Summer of Psalms #8)
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Jul 25, 2022
Psalm 124 (Summer of Psalms #7)
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Jul 20, 2022
Psalm 61 (Summer of Psalms #6)
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Jul 4, 2022
Psalm 8 (Summer of Psalms #5)
Watch & Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/psalm-8-summer-of-psalms-5/
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Jun 27, 2022
Psalm 19 (Summer of Psalms #4)
There is an insurmountable gap between how glorious God is and how sinful we are. If we perfectly apply the law, God will cover the gap. Yet, we cannot perfectly apply the law on our own. This is why we need Jesus.
Watch and Learn more: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/psalm-19-summer-of-psalms-4/
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Jun 20, 2022
Psalm 37:1-9 (Summer of Psalms #3)
Fret Not: fear/anger-based worry
• The wicked (verses 1 and 2) - do not be envious of wrongdoers (of what they have - ie money, fame, power, etc.)
• The success of others (verse 7)
• Life in general (verse 8) - don't get angry; don't lose your cool
Watch & Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/psalm-371-9-summer-of-psalms-3/
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Jun 13, 2022
Psalm 34 (Summer of Psalms #2)
When we follow Christ and we feel let down, what do we do? There are many many stories of people that felt like God wasn’t good after going through tough circumstances in life. So if we can “taste and see the that Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), how do we explain the suffering and issues in life?
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/psalm-34-summer-of-psalms-2/
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Jun 6, 2022
Psalm 121 (Summer of Psalms #1)
What is the greatest fear you are facing right now?
• Financial?
• Grades?
• Safety?
— Where do I go for help?
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/psalm-121-summer-of-psalms-1/
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May 30, 2022
The Finish (Building Lives #6)
Sanballat and Tobiah are giving their last-ditch effort to stop Nehemiah from completing the wall.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/the-finish-building-lives-6/
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May 23, 2022
The Distractions Inside (Building Lives #5)
The inside distractions in our lives are even more insidious than violent external threats. External threats can actually motivate you. Internal distractions, however, tend to demotivate you completely and fracture and/or break you from the inside.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/distractions-inside-building-lives-5/
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May 16, 2022
The Distractions Outside (Building Lives #4)
Many people have a dream and goal in life that they are working towards but have to deal with constant distraction and derailment. Similarly, Nehemiah had to deal with distraction while sticking to the mission God gave him.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/the-distractions-outside-building-lives-4/
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May 9, 2022
The Implementation (Building Lives #3)
Nehemiah 3, shows how it took everyone generously giving their time and energy to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. Some would build, and some would repair - but they all had a specific job to ensure the completion of the effort.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/the-implementation-building-lives-3/
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May 2, 2022
The Plan (Building Lives #2)
Waiting can be difficult, awkward, painful, and slow. As humans, we tend to do anything we can to distract ourselves from waiting. Waiting can often bring rich rewards. God uses these moments of waiting to do deep work in His children.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/the-plan-building-lives-2/
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Apr 25, 2022
The Call (Building Lives #1)
Even though he had never been to Jerusalem, Nehemiah was Jewish and cared deeply about his people. He mourned and fasted for days when he heard that the gates had been burned down. Nehemiah needed God to move the king’s heart to allow him to begin rebuilding the walls and gate. Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/the-call-building-lives-1/
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Apr 18, 2022
The Resurrection (Easter) Mark #51
In movies, happy endings can often feel cheesy. Life rarely works out with a “happy ending.” J.R.R. Tolkien says that he thinks Happy Endings give us a glimpse of something deeper that we long for. Happy endings can point us toward the Easter story, however.
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Apr 4, 2022
The Pain Before The Cross (Mark #49)
The disciples must have felt pretty special that Jesus would ask them to follow Him so closely. But, just a while before this part of Mark, they learned that He would die soon and that one of them would be the betrayer. At this stage, Jesus started to show worry for the first time.
Watch and Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/pain-before-cross-mark-48
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Mar 28, 2022
Betrayals (Mark #48)
Since we are all betrayers, are we going to be blind, unrepentant, or repentant betrayers? While we were still enemies of God, Christ died for us. He is not hurt and wounded by our betrayal. When we sin/betrayal, where do we turn? To beating ourselves up or ignoring the shame and filling the void with substances, food, entertainment? Or, do we turn to Jesus and jump out of the boat and swim to Him?
Learn More and Watch The Sermon here: https://weareriverwood.org/betrayals-mark-48/
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Mar 21, 2022
United To Christ Together
Guest speaker, Patrick Ray, teaches about how Churches worldwide have different problems, but we all have the same hope. Through Jesus, we can be unified despite our differences. Democrat or Republican, Russian or Ukrainian, Racial differences, etc. Galatians 3:27 explains how those baptized into Christ are not different, but we are clothed with Christ. We are also Abraham's descendants and heirs to the promise if we belong to Christ.
Watch or Learn More at: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/united-to-christ-together
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Mar 14, 2022
The Passover (Mark #47)
Throughout the centuries, the Jewish people would celebrate Passover. It was also customary to go to Jerusalem to celebrate. In Mark 14:12-26, Jesus sends some of his disciples ahead to get a room for Jesus and his disciples.
In this room, Jesus breaks bread and gives it to the disciples. He instructs them to eat it as it is His body. He then takes a cup of wine and He tells them that it is His blood of the covenant that is poured out for each of us. The tradition of Passover was typically four cups of wine (Exodus 6). They symbolized sanctification, deliverance, redemption, and praise.
Read More and Watch the Sermon: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/passover-mark-47/
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Mar 7, 2022
Death Preparations (Mark #46)
Just as we want to give all of our time/attention/money/etc. to that special person in our life or the hobbies we love, we should feel even more the same way about God. In Mark 14, verse 3, a woman (probably Mary Magdalene) poured a jar of expensive oil on Jesus' head. This perfume was made with pure nard and was worth a year's wages. Imagine using a full year's wages in a quick moment to honor someone you love. For many, that is unfathomable.
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Feb 21, 2022
Revealed (Putting the Bible In Its Place #4)
What is the purpose of school? It’s not to make friends, to get good grades, or to be able to regurgitate facts. The purpose of school is to learn. It’s essential to know the purpose of what you’re involved in. This is also true of scripture. Many people seem not to understand the purpose of the Bible. Why did God give us the Scriptures? The Bible is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness, but those are not the primary purposes of the Bible. Learn More: https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/revealed-putting-the-Bible-in-its-place-4
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Feb 14, 2022
Recognized (Putting the Bible In Its Place #3)
How do we know we can trust the Bible and what’s included and intentionally not included? Watch the sermon or learn more on our website at https://weareriverwood.org/ctc-sermons/recognized-bible-in-its-place-3
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Feb 6, 2022
Reliable (Putting the Bible In Its Place #2)
the Bible claims in and of itself to be the word of God. On its own, this can be a weak piece of evidence. Combined with the following points, however...
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Jan 30, 2022
Written (Putting the Bible In Its Place #1)
In 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17, Paul instructs Timothy on teaching sound doctrine. He explains how every detail in scripture is breathed out by God.
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Jan 23, 2022
Vision Sunday 2022 – Looking Back, Looking Ahead
Today's sermon is a look at where Riverwood is, as a church, today. Pastor Erin helps us take a look at our past, discuss our areas of growth & areas to work on, and help us see the vision of where Riverwood is planning to focus in the future.
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Jan 16, 2022
Less is More (The Upside-Down Kingdom #3)
This human yearning for more has been around since sin entered the world but Jesus would have us understand that less IS more.
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Jan 9, 2022
Empty is Full (The Upside-Down Kingdom #2)
In Matthew, Jesus extols the spiritual benefits of fasting. He also shows that prayer and fasting are linked.
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Jan 2, 2022
Down is Up (The Upside-Down Kingdom #1)
Jesus tells us that the way we connect with heaven is to pray. In other words, the way to get up to heaven is to get down on our knees in prayer.
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Dec 26, 2021
Seek God (Seek #6)
What James wrote about 2000 years ago continues to apply to us today. Seek God while you Watch/Listen to the final part of our "Seek" series.
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Dec 24, 2021
Seek Jesus (Seek #5)
Many people don't believe they could be loved by God because of the mistakes they make in life. We find forgiveness by seeking Jesus.
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Dec 19, 2021
Seek Hope (Seek #4)
In today's sermon, Pastor Erin explains how we should Choose Hope during the Holidays - even when hope isn't the obvious choice.
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Dec 12, 2021
Seek Wisdom (Seek #3)
In this sermon from our Advent Series, Pastor Erin shows the difference between knowledge and wisdom through the story of the Wisemen that visit Christ's birth.
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Dec 5, 2021
Seek Meaning (Seek #2)
The shepherds were often social outcasts making the fact that the shepherds were the first to be told of Christ's birth even more interesting and meaningful.
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Nov 28, 2021
Seek Contentment (Seek #1)
We often try to fill our need for contentment with new things. Yet, while purchases can provide temporary contentment, it always fades.
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Nov 21, 2021
Why We Should Continually Give Thanks to God
We should give thanks to God because of His goodness, guidance, because He delivers & heals, and for His power & blessings.
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Nov 14, 2021
The End (Mark #45)
At the beginning of Mark 13, Jesus and his disciples have “The Olivet Discourse.” One of the disciples remarks at the beautiful stonework on the new temple.
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Nov 7, 2021
Scribes vs. Widows (Mark #44)
When a poor widow gives all she haves, Jesus marvels about her gift. The amount she gave was great due to the incredible sacrifice that accompanied that gift.
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Oct 24, 2021
Continually (How to Give #6)
Generosity is not supposed to be disposable or temporary. Generosity should be repetitive and intrinsic just like blinking or breathing is to each of us.
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Oct 17, 2021
Truthfully (How to Give #5)
The grace that overflows from God to us so freely should manifest in our giving freely of the abundance we have. Through this, we reflect God's heart to others.
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Oct 10, 2021
Cheerfully (How to Give #4)
2 Corinthians 9:7 ends with “for God loves a cheerful giver.” Why is cheerful giving hard? How do we overcome the baggage that keeps us from giving cheerfully?
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Oct 3, 2021
W.I.P.illy (How to Give #3)
Instead of asking the question "How much should I give?" we should instead try to figure out "How much should I keep?"
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Sep 26, 2021
Bountifully (How to Give #2)
2 Corinthians 9:6 uses a simple “If this, then that” statement. Show sparingly and you will reap sparingly. Sow bountifully and you will reap bountifully.
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Sep 19, 2021
Expectantly (How to Give #1)
Paul teaches the church at Corinth about giving in 2 Corinthians 9. In part 1 of this 6-week series, we learn from Paul how we are to "give expectantly.”
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Sep 12, 2021
Living Out the Gospel (Defining Church #4)
We were born into our sin yet we are to keep pulling away from that which we were born into feel continually drawn to.
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Sep 5, 2021
Under Jesus (Defining Church #3)
In today's sermon, Pastor Erin pulls apart our misconceptions of who is in charge of the church we attend.
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Aug 29, 2021
On Mission Together (Defining Church #2)
In part 2 of the “Defining Church” series, Pastor Erin shows how the church should be “on mission” together.
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Aug 22, 2021
The Redeemed People of God (Defining Church #1)
This is the first part of a four-week study. If you are not a follower of Jesus, you’re welcome to be a part of Riverwood. We started this church for you.
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Aug 8, 2021
Christ, The Son of David (Mark #43)
Shortly after answering the 3 questions previously covered, Jesus immediately addresses how He can be the “Son of David” and also David’s Lord.
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Aug 2, 2021
The Great Commandment (Mark #42)
The most important commandment in all of scripture is also one of the most famous verses in all of scripture that many churchs have built their mission on.
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Jul 25, 2021
God of the Living (Mark #41)
“Cancel culture” is nothing new. Even Jesus faced being canceled. In spite of that, It’s important understand God and know that we bear his image.
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Jul 11, 2021
The Club of the Rejected (Mark #39)
In today's sermon, Pastor Erin breaks rejection down for us and explains how we can always rely on God who pulls closer in spite of our constant rejection.
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Jul 4, 2021
Life in the Community of Faith (Standalone)
1 Peter 5:6-11 instructs us as believers to be humble, to be watchful, and to stand firm in resisting the devil. Listen now to guest speaker Jonathan Davis.
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Jun 20, 2021
Protected from Pride (The Protection of Proverbs #4)
We can often get lost in pride as we rely on ourselves and not on Christ. When our hearts are prideful, we can't truly trust in God or have full faith in him.
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Jun 13, 2021
Protected from Greed (The Protection of Proverbs #3)
Greed is ingrained in our culture. Businesses recognize this & market products directly at our greed. Bigger, Better, & More are all used to trigger our greed.
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Jun 6, 2021
Protected by Wisdom (The Protection of Proverbs #2)
Proverbs 1:20-33 speaks to our culture. Humanity, as a whole, has turned its back on the wisdom of God and put faith in its own abilities and knowledge.
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May 30, 2021
Why Proverbs (The Protection of Proverbs #1)
Proverbs chapter 2 begins with Solomon addressing his son and imparting words of wisdom that his son should heed. The kids join the congregation this Sunday.
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May 23, 2021
The Fig Tree and The Temple (Mark #38)
Mark 11 tells two stories that intertwine to form one larger picture. In the first story, Jesus curses a fig tree and in the second, Jesus cleanses the temple.
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May 16, 2021
Loving The Unlovable People (Mark #37)
Launch Sermon PlayerJesus, once again, shows his power when healing the blind man, Bartimaeus. More importantly, he shows us how to love those that we might consider unlovable. Even more than that, Bartimaeus gives up one of his only possessions to seek healing from Jesus. What person/people are in your life that you could go […]
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May 9, 2021
What Does Greatness Look Like? (Mark #36)
Launch Sermon PlayerJames and John approach Jesus asking if they may be seated at his right and left hand in glory. While sincere, this question is based in selfishness. When you live life in a selfish way, you continue to act selfishly even after humbling experiences. Happy Mother’s Day! Good mothers often give up their desires […]
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May 2, 2021
What Can You Do To Enter Heaven? (Mark #35)
Launch Sermon PlayerWhen the rich, young ruler approached Christ and asked “What must I do to be saved,” Jesus responded by telling the young ruler to give away everything he owns and follow Him. Even the disciples were surprised when Jesus comments how it is harder for a camel to go through the eye of […]
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Apr 25, 2021
Let The Children Come to Him (Mark #34)
Launch Sermon PlayerJesus showed that he could heal many people simply by touching them. Is it a surprise that parents are pushing their children towards Him in hopes of healing or blessings? Yet, when the children started surrounding Jesus, the disciples were quick to rebuke the parents for surrounding Him with these children. Listen as […]
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Apr 18, 2021
Man of His Word (Mark #33)
The topic of divorce can be a sticky subject. It has affected many of us, so to hear some of the Scriptures teaching on divorce can be painful.
And yet on Riverwood’s “Baptism Sunday,” Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Jesus’ teaching on divorce from Mark 10:1-12, showing us how this subject actually points us to the love and faithfulness of Jesus. So listen in to be encouraged to trust Jesus.
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Apr 4, 2021
Love Rose Up (Easter Sunday 2021)
Easter is the highlight of the Christian Calendar. Without Resurrection Sunday, there is no Christian faith. Join us as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through John 10:1-18 to help us appreciate the resurrection of Jesus and learn how it can change your life over 2000 years later.
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Apr 2, 2021
Love Laid Down (Good Friday 2021)
As part of our reflective Good Friday service, Pastor Erin shared briefly from John 10:17-18 about the willingness of Jesus to give His life for ours, helping us appreciate Jesus’ sacrifice and enable us to worship Jesus on Easter Sunday all the more.
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Mar 28, 2021
Love Came In (Palm Sunday 2021)
If you’ve ever anticipated doing something extremely difficult, you might have felt nervous, hesitant, or even tried to delay the suffering. Yet Jesus, knowing what lie ahead of Him, walked willingly with determination toward Jerusalem. How did He do it?
In this Palm Sunday sermon, Pastor Erin Bird shows us what enabled Jesus to resolutely move toward Jerusalem where mocking, torture, and death awaited Him, in the hopes that it will fill you with an awe of Jesus and a motivation to love those around you. So go grab a Bible and listen in as Erin walks us through Luke 19:28-40
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Mar 21, 2021
All for the Gospel (Mark #32)
Often in life, we “want it all.” We want to buy expensive things without spending much money. We want to lose weight while still eating as much as we desire. In other words, we want to have our cake and eat it too.
We carry this attitude into our relationship with God. We want God’s blessing while still living however we want. But in Mark 9:43-50, Jesus warns us that to truly follow Him and live the life God has for us, it might require us to take some difficult steps. Listen in to learn how to truly live “all for the gospel.”
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Mar 15, 2021
Gospel Teamwork (Mark #31)
There are others in the world believing and working along side you, claiming God and his promises. Pride and and inward eye can mar that picture of Gospel Teamwork. Today Elder Ed Pavelec walks through Mark 9:33-42 teaching on this idea
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Feb 28, 2021
Jesus the Tabernacle (Mark #29)
The Transfiguration is a famous story from the pages of the Bible. But could there be more to the story than just a “shining” Jesus? Listen in as Pastor Erin unpacks Mark 9:2-13, helping us see Jesus like never before.
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Feb 21, 2021
Suffer Like the Christ (Mark #28)
Sometimes in life, paradoxical phrases lead us to deep truths. For instance, "Less is More" or "The way out is in" are phrases that sound like paradoxes, but in the right moment, they can give you clarity.
In Mark 8:27-9:1, the twelve disciples hear Jesus state what, to them, feels like a paradox. But upon closer inspection, we discover a deep truth that can completely change our lives in 2021. What is that truth? Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird explains.
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Feb 14, 2021
Beware the Yeast (Mark #27)
Many people turn to the teachings of Jesus for encouragement, guidance, and reassurance. But what do you do when Jesus gives a warning? You listen and take it to heart!
In this week’s sermon, Pastor Erin Bird expounds upon the warning Jesus gives in Mark 8 and what we need to watch for in our own lives in 2021.
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Feb 7, 2021
Personal Jesus (Mark #26)
All people are looking for some sort of “Jesus” to save them from their loneliness, or their past, or their addiction, or their fears, or from whatever. As John Calvin famously put it: “The human heart is an idol factory.” And so in this search for rescue, the “idol factory" turns romantic partners, or money, or fame, or a whole host of things into its own “personal Jesus.”
But rather than look for something or someone to rescue us, we need to look to the one and only Jesus who already loves us, and not just in a general sense (because He loves everyone), but in a very unique and personal sense.
So listen in as Pastor Erin Bird shows us from two different-yet-similar stories from the book of Mark just how Jesus displays this unique and personal love toward you.
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Jan 31, 2021
How Big is Your God? (Mark #25)
Have you ever had a crisis of faith? A time in life where you doubted God’s goodness, or power, or even His existence? Perhaps you are there right now.
In this week’s sermon, Pastor Erin Bird introduces us to a woman found in Mark 7:24-30 who had every right to doubt God’s goodness or power, and yet she displays a big faith in Jesus. Listen in to discover the four ways you, too, can grow to have a big faith in God as well.
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Jan 24, 2021
Vision Sunday 2021
For our annual Vision Sunday, Pastor Erin takes some time to look back at all the things God did in 2020 (and it’s a lot of really big things!), as well as where he and the Elder Team believe God is calling us in 2021. While this sermon is primarily aimed at the Riverwood Church family, it is a great message for anyone who has supported Riverwood in the past or is considering making Riverwood their home church in the future.
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Jan 17, 2021
Serve the King (Praying the King’s Agenda #3)
The “Great Commission,” found in Matthew 28:18-20, are some of the last words Jesus uttered on earth. It is a very famous passage. But what many Christians don’t realize is this passage, which talks about “going” and “baptizing” and “teaching” only contains one command. What is that command?
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird concludes our “Praying the King’s Agenda” series as part of Riverwood’s 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting.
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Jan 10, 2021
Obey the King (Praying the King’s Agenda #2)
Obedience is hard. It feels confining. It feels joyless. It doesn’t feel very fun. So just how does a Jesus-follower actually obey the King’s Agenda without hating their faith and life?
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Jan 3, 2021
Hear the King (Praying the King’s Agenda #1)
In order for a follower of King Jesus to “pray” the King’s Agenda, he or she must first “hear” the King’s Agenda. But how does one actually hear the King’s Agenda? Listen in as Pastor Erin shares from Matthew 28:18-20 as well as several other passages just how to do that.
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Dec 20, 2020
The Angel’s Song – Love (Christmas Songs #4)
When Jesus was born, the angels declared His earthly arrival to shepherds. Inside of their short song are all the other themes of Advent - Hope, Peace, and Joy. But there is one more theme their song helps us see, and it is one of the most important themes in all of the world.
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird helps us hear about God's Love through the Angel's Song.
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Dec 13, 2020
Mary’s Song – Joy (Christmas Songs #3)
For many people, 2020 has been a really hard year. We’ve battled a pandemic. We’ve experienced cultural tension over politics, race, masks, and more. And some people have personally battled health issues, the loss of a job, the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or some type of trauma. So the idea of having “joy” this Christmas season seems like an impossibility.
Yet joy is within reach.
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird shows us how we can find joy even in the most difficult circumstances by learning from Mary’s “Christmas” Song found in Luke 1:46-55.
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Dec 6, 2020
Zechariah’s Song – Peace (Christmas Songs #2)
Many people find themselves longing for something in life that will give them peace. It might be a longing to be married, or be a parent, or to have a certain amount of wealth, or finally get that dream home. Whatever it is, we yearn for this external person or item to bring us internal peace.
And yet, it doesn’t work.
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird shows us from the Christmas Song Zechariah sings in Luke 1 where inner peace is truly found.
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Nov 22, 2020
Giving Thanks in the Midst of Struggle (Church Intention #3)
For many people, 2020 has been a really hard year. Whether because of the pandemic, politics, loss of a loved one, or our own personal crisis, we long for this season to pass.
And yet, the Bible commands us to “Give thanks in all circumstances.” How are we supposed to do that in a year like 2020?
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through the “impossibles” of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, helping us discover how we can still give thanks in the midst of intense struggle.
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Nov 8, 2020
Gospel Doctrine vs. Gospel Culture (Church Intention #1)
Life is full of tension. If you have parents, a spouse, kids, coworkers, or classmates, you have experienced tension.
But “tension” isn’t just found in relationships. You can also find it in politics, on social media, and even in church. And oftentimes, when we encounter tension, we seek to resolve it.
However, some “tension” can't be resolved. In fact, there are some arenas in life where you should “intentionally” remain in “tension.” Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through one such tension that should exist within a church.
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Nov 1, 2020
Fear & Anxiety
Many people globally are living with fear due to the coronavirus, while many Americans are living with anxiety over the upcoming Presidential election. And this doesn't include the hard things happening in many people's lives personally that are causing stress, worry, and more.
Thankfully, God's Word speaks into our fear and anxiety, helping to bring peace. Listen in as one of Riverwood's elders, Ed Pavelec, takes us to several passages in Scripture to bring encouragement during our troubled times.
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Oct 27, 2020
The Fame of Jesus (Mark #23)
Back in His day, Jesus was a celebrity. When a person in our day and age meets a celebrity, they want a selfie, or an autograph, or even some advice. But in Mark 6:53-56, we see the people do something very different when they see Jesus - something that any Jesus-follower in 2020 should also do.
What is it? Listen in to "The Fame of Jesus" to find out.
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Oct 25, 2020
Missing the Forest for the Trees (Mark #24)
Ever had an embarrassing moment where you are holding your phone in your hand, and yet think "Wait... where is my phone?" Suddenly, you begin looking all around for your phone, checking your pockets or reaching into your purse, when about 5 seconds later you realize your foolishness. Anyone?
Yeah, us neither.
But other people have missed what is right in front of them, such as some of the Jewish leaders of Jesus' day. And if we are not careful, we can make a very similar mistake they made when it came to faith.
So to avoid "missing the forest for the trees," listen in as Pastor Erin Bird takes us through Mark 7:1-23.
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Oct 11, 2020
Trust I Am (Mark #22)
Have you ever thought you saw someone out in public only to discover it wasn’t actually them? Or perhaps you had a conversation with someone, only to later learn who they actually were.
We’ve all done it, making a mistake about a person's identity.
In Mark 6:45-52, we see the author give several clear clues of who Jesus truly was, but His disciples will completely miss the clues. But if you can catch these clues to Jesus’ true identity, it can help you through your most difficult times. So listen in as Pastor Erin Bird shares “Trust I Am.”
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Sep 30, 2020
Live Like Jesus, Die Like John (Mark #20)
Life is full of inconveniences. Whether it is having to gas up the car when you are late for a meeting, coming home after a vacation to a broken refrigerator, or taking care of a puking child at 3:00 am, life is full of inconvenient moments.
But did you know love is also rarely convenient?
In this message from the Gospel of Mark, Pastor Erin Bird helps us see that if a person is going to love like Jesus loved, they have to be ready to love in the inconvenient moments.
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Sep 20, 2020
Sent by Jesus (Mark #19)
In John 20:21, Jesus told His followers that just as His Heavenly Father sent Him to bless the world, He was sending His followers to do the same. But what does it look like for a Jesus-follower to be "sent"?
Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 6:7-13, showing us eight details about what it looks like to be sent by Jesus to be a blessing.
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Sep 14, 2020
Live Like Jesus (Mark #18)
When a typical person faces doubters or haters, the natural reaction is to want to insult or hurt the person back. But is this the reaction a Jesus-follower should display?
Join us as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 6:1-6 as we learn how to live like Jesus when faced with doubters, mockers, and haters.
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Sep 7, 2020
Love Like Jesus (Mark #17)
In case you haven't noticed, our world is really divided. We are arguing about masks, race, politics, and boneless chicken wings. What our world needs (besides more chicken wings!) is for Jesus-followers to step out of the arguments and begin loving people like Jesus loved people.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 5:21-42, looking at two miracles where we discover how Jesus showed love to the miracle recipients more than just giving healing. And if you follow Jesus, these are ways you are called to love as well.
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Aug 31, 2020
The Pro-Life Jesus (Mark #16)
In our current political and cultural climate, the lives of certain people don't seem to matter. Some Republicans don't seem to think certain Democrats are worth much of anything. Some Black Lives Matters adherents don't think too highly of Trump supporters. And many Twitter users are ready to cancel anyone who doesn't agree with them 100%.
In Mark 5:1-20, Pastor Erin Bird shows us that anyone who claims to be a follower of Jesus HAS to be pro-life. And not just pro-babies, but pro-human. But how are you supposed to love someone who holds the complete opposite political or philosophical as you? Listen in to learn how.
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Aug 23, 2020
(Mark #15)
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Aug 16, 2020
Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mark #14)
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Aug 9, 2020
The Parable of Growing Seed (Mark #13)
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Aug 2, 2020
Psalm 34 (Summer of Psalms #9)
Ed Pavelec, one of the elders of Riverwood Church, completes our "Summer of Psalms" sermon series with an encouraging message from . Listen in to learn how to "taste and see that the Lord is good!"
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Jul 26, 2020
Psalm 91 (Summer of Psalms #8)
The world is open and exposed, yet the Lord provides us a place to hide.
Ed Pavelec teaches from Psalm 91, that we are safe and secure in God's sovereign protection. Listen in!
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Jul 19, 2020
Psalm 150 (Summer of Psalms #7)
One of the Bible’s central themes is the worship of God! In this week's message, Worship Leader Jake Epley will walk us through , a praise psalm that teaches us the basics of praising God for who He is and what He’s done.
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Jul 12, 2020
Psalm 119 (Summer of Psalms #6)
What does it mean to love the Bible? Guest Speaker Shane Klein teaches on , sharing perspective on the psalmist's love for God's Word and how we ought to as well!
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Jul 5, 2020
Psalm 147 (Summer of Psalms #5)
Launch Sermon PlayerGuest Speaker, Shane Klein, teaches from Psalm 147 as part of our “Summer of Psalms” series.
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Jun 28, 2020
Psalm 51 (Summer of Psalms #4)
At his lowest point, King David fell into terrible sin, was confronted by God's word through the prophet Nathan, and had to repent of his disobedience. His poignant expression of contrition in Psalm 51 can serve as a model for the Jesus-follower when he or she falls short of God's standards.
Guest Speaker Jacob Tews leads this study of Psalm 51, looking in detail at its context and application for our lives.
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Jun 21, 2020
Ephesians 6:1-4 (Father’s Day 2020)
These are complicated times. We live in a difficult, confusing, and often frustrating age, and more now than ever does the world desperately need households led by godly dads.
Guest teacher and Minneapolis church planter Patrick Ray shares a Father's Day message from , as well as insight on #BlackLivesMatter, police reform, community well-being, and how we as Jesus-followers ought to respond in light of what the Bible teaches.
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Jun 14, 2020
Psalm 46 (Summer of Psalms #3)
Do you ever find yourself seeking a rest from life's daily grind through things like Netflix, YouTube, disc golf, or even drinking coffee?
In this week's message, Matt Townsley walks us through which shows us that God is our protection, provider, and power. If you a desire to seek true rest from the stressors of this world, listen in to know what it means to "be still" and know a God who loves you more than you can imagine.
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Jun 7, 2020
Psalm 42 (Summer of Psalms #2)
This will be our first Sunday back for in-person gatherings! While we are excited to be together again, most of us have undoubtedly been through some turbulent times. To some extent, we've all encountered loss, grief, frustration, and suffering within the span of these last few months.
In this week's message, Worship Leader Jake Epley will walk us through , a lament that teaches us that in the midst of depression and discouragement, our only hope is found in God alone who truly satisfies.
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May 31, 2020
Psalm 127 (Summer of Psalms #1)
Have you ever wondered what the Bible says about work? Is it wise to put in 40 hours and be done? Is working overtime punishment or pleasing in the eyes of God?
In this week's message, Matt Townsley walks us through showing how overconfidence and overworking can lead to an unfulfilled life. So, if you have a desire to work at home or in the office in a way that honors God, listen in!
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May 24, 2020
The Lamp of the Parables (Mark #12)
The parable Jesus tells in Mark 4:21-25 is often referred to as "The Parable of the Lamp." But as you'll hear in this sermon from Pastor Erin Bird, the gospel story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is the lamp to the parables.
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May 17, 2020
True Family (Mark #11)
In this week's passage, Jesus surprises his listeners (and us, the readers) by declaring that true family isn't the one you're physically born into, nor is it the racial group you identify with, nor is it even our best friends at work or on a sports team. Rather, Jesus declares that true family comes through the gospel.
To hear more, listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 3:20-35.
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May 10, 2020
The Chosen Few (Mark #10)
We all long to be chosen. To be selected by a team, company, or that special someone feels like we have worth, and value, and are loved.
So you can imagine when Jesus chose His twelve disciples, those twelve guys were on top of the world. But in truth, to be chosen by Jesus is actually very, very humbling. Why?
Listen in to discover how the calling to follow Jesus is a humbling event, and yet a moment that also instills us with a very different type of confidence.
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May 3, 2020
Redefining Religion (Mark #9)
Ever thought you knew the words to a song, but it turns out you were singing it all wrong? Some of the Jewish leaders of Jesus' day thought they knew how to do thing likes fasting and observing the Sabbath, but turns out they were off the mark.
In this week's message, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 2:18–3:6 showing how we are much like the ancient Jewish leaders who were off in their understanding of religion and obeying God. So if you have a desire to have a close relationship with God that isn't a burden to your soul, listen in.
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Apr 26, 2020
The Faith of the Five (Mark #8)
What should a healthy church look like? And how do we trust God when He doesn't give us what we want?
These are two questions that strangely get answered in a story about a healed paralytic. If you've ever asked yourself either of these two questions, listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 2:1-12.
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Apr 19, 2020
Care for the Outcast (Mark #7)
Too often, Americans will read a Bible story and "insert" themselves into the story. For instance, when we read the famous story about David and Goliath, we imagine ourselves as David, slaying the "giants" in our lives. But when we twist a Bible story into a personal story, we actually rob the story of having greater power in our lives.
This week, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Mark 2:1-12, showing us that to insert ourselves into the story as the outcast leper cheats us of seeing something better. And what is better? Listen in to find out.
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Apr 5, 2020
The Authority of Jesus (Mark #5)
In Mark 1, we see Jesus begin to become famous, but it wasn't for being rich, or for being attractive, or even for displaying talent in a sport or art form. His fame came from a display of authority.
This is good news for you! Because His authority means He is with you, He cares for you, and is still in control in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird challenges us to trust God no matter what.
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Mar 29, 2020
Repent and Believe (Mark #4)
First words matter. Whether in a speech or a job interview, your first words set the stage for what is to come.
Mark strategically waited until verse 15 of his Gospel account on the life of Jesus to let us hear Jesus speak for Himself. And the first words we hear from Jesus have the potential to change your life.
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Mar 22, 2020
The Temptation of Jesus (Mark #3)
All humans are tempted, the question is, what will you do when tempted?
Even though He was fully God, Jesus was also fully human during His time on earth. So just like you, He was tempted. Through the gospel accounts of Mark and Matthew, we discover how Jesus faced temptation and managed to never give in.
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Mar 15, 2020
The Significance of Baptism (Mark #2)
The Bible teaches that Jesus was without sin. And yet, we see in Mark 1 that Jesus was baptized by his cousin, John the Baptizer. Why we Jesus baptized? What was significant about this moment? And what does it mean for us in 2020?
Listen in as one of Riverwood's elders, Ed Pavelecs, walks us through Mark 1:9-11.
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Mar 8, 2020
Prepare the Way (Mark #1)
This week, we begin a series studying the book of Mark, which will allow us to see the purpose and person of Jesus. If you want to learn more about Jesus, or be reminded of His awesomeness, listen in as Pastor Erin walks us through Mark 1:1-8.
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Feb 24, 2020
Forward with Boldness (FORWARD #4)
According to Barna, Americans pray for their family, for guidance, for health and wellness, and even to express thanks. But one thing they don't pray for - boldness.
Maybe it's because we are already bold. But more likely, we don't pray for boldness because we like our lives safe and comfortable.
But if Riverwood is going to be a church after God's heart, we need to take a page out of the early church's book and pray for boldness. If you are curious about what this looks like, or how one even begins to pray a "bold" prayer like this, listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through a story found in Acts chapters 3 & 4.
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Feb 16, 2020
Forward with Generosity (FORWARD #3)
Money. (Yep, we went there!) Why do churches seem to always talk about money?
Well, we can't tell you why other churches talk about money so much. But at Riverwood, we don't talk about it as much as we probably should, but when we do, we look at not what we can get FROM you as much as what God wants FOR you. And we believe God wants you to be generous like Him.
So listen in as Pastor Erin Bird teaches from the book of Acts about the joy that can be found through generosity.
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Feb 10, 2020
Forward Together (FORWARD #2)
Perhaps you've heard the phrase, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." There definitely are times in life a person needs to move fast. But for a church to go far, they MUST go together.
But that proves to be especially difficult here in America, because Americans are extremely individualistic (plus, they prefer fast!). So how is a church in the midwest of the U.S. in 2019 supposed to move forward together? We let the early church as seen in Acts 2:42-47 give us some clues. If you want to learn what these clues are, listen in as Pastor Erin continues the Forward sermon series.
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Jan 26, 2020
Vision Sunday
We believe God has given Riverwood a very important mission, to invite the spiritually disconnected of our communities to find and follow Jesus. But are we accomplishing it?
On Vision Sunday, Pastor Erin Bird helps us look back at 2019 to see how we did and did not accomplish our God-given mission, and Elder Tim Corcoran helps us look ahead to 2020 to see what might be ahead to help us continue helping people in our region find Jesus.
This is a memorable Sunday in the life of Riverwood, so give this week's message a listen!
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Dec 22, 2019
Sacrificed Everything (The Cost of Christmas #4)
Every Christmas, churches and families will spend time looking at the stories of the various biblical characters involved in the narrative of the birth of Jesus (which we have done through this Cost of Christmas series). But there is one character that surprisingly sometimes gets overlooked: Jesus.
So in this week's sermon, Pastor Erin helps us see through Philippians 2:5-11 what the first Christmas cost the Son of God. Listen in to be inspired by Jesus and challenged by what Jesus-followers are called to give-up as well.
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Dec 15, 2019
Sacrificed Resources (The Cost of Christmas #3)
Americans love to spend a lot of money and time on Christmas. Did you know the average American will spend over $900/person and spend well over 40 hours in the month of December on Christmas related activities such as shopping, traveling, and worship services? (Yep, that's a lot!)
However, if you are a follower of Jesus, God has a different plan for your money and time than just to use it all on a cultural holiday. To learn His better plan for you, listen in to part 3 of Riverwood's series "The Cost of Christmas."
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Dec 8, 2019
Sacrificed Livelihood (The Cost of Christmas #2)
The Oxford Dictionary defines livelihood as "a means of securing the necessities of life." But often times, we confuse what a "necessity of life" truly is, fooling ourselves into thinking wants are actually needs.
These false "needs" keep Jesus-followers from a closer relationship with God. In week 2 of our Advent Series, Pastor Erin Bird shows us from Luke 2 the incredible risk the shepherds took that first Christmas night, and how their example can lead us to sacrifice the things we think we need in order to be happy.
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Dec 1, 2019
Sacrificed Reputation (The Cost of Christmas #1)
If someone were to ask your friends to describe you, the words your friends use would reveal your reputation. Most of us hope to have a good reputation in life. But did you know that to follow Jesus might actually cost you a good reputation?
In this first message in The Cost of Christmas Advent series, Pastor Erin Bird unpacks several passages of the Bible, showing how the first Christmas cost Joseph & Mary a good reputation on earth, yet they willingly gave it up because they believed the coming Messiah, their son Jesus, was worth it.
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Nov 24, 2019
Give Thanks (Thanksgiving 2019)
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Nov 17, 2019
Walk in Wisdom (How to Walk #3)
Launch Sermon PlayerEven back in John’s time, people were twisting what the Bible has to say about Jesus. Today, things haven’t changed a whole lot. Pastor Erin Bird of Riverwood Church teaches from the book of 1 and 2 John about how to walk in wisdom.
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Nov 10, 2019
Walk in Love (How To Walk #2)
Last week, we saw in 2 and 3 John the power and importance of truth. But if a church is only about truth, it will cease to care for people. That's why John shifts from "walk in truth" to "walk in love."
But what exactly does it mean to "walk in love"? Listen in as Erin Bird helps us explore 2 & 3 John to discover the second way for us to walk.
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Oct 20, 2019
The Gospel and Rest (The Everyday Gospel #14)
This week Pastor Erin Bird teaches from the book of Hebrews about how we should use rest to see Jesus.
True rest is not:
- a place
- a day
- lack of activity
Rather, true rest is
- a person (Jesus)
- found in the gospel
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Oct 13, 2019
The Gospel and Work (The Everyday Gospel #13)
Our culture is very work-centered. When we meet someone for the first time, we often ask, "So what do you do for a living?" If someone is in college, we ask, "What's your major and what do you hope to do with it?"
But did you know the story of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection changes our approach to work? This week at Riverwood Church, Worship Leader Jake Epley teaches from the book of Colossians about The Gospel and Work.
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Sep 2, 2019
The Gospel and Contentment (The Everyday Gospel #12)
Subscriptions are becoming more popular than ever before. People spend money monthly on things that they think will give them contentment. Instead of relying on worldly things for contentment, we should seek the Gospel. Pastor Erin Bird of Riverwood Church discusses how we use the Gospel to find contentment.
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Aug 25, 2019
The Gospel & Saving (The Everyday Gospel #11)
When it comes to saving money, most of us believe we don't have enough. Whether we have $10 in the bank or a million, we tend to think we need more.
But what if God gives you money not simply so you can keep more for yourself, but use more of it to help others? Listen in as Riverwood's teaching pastor, Erin Bird, helps us consider from 1 Timothy 6:17-19 how God desires us to use the money we would normally stash in the bank.
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Aug 18, 2019
The Gospel & Giving (The Everyday Gospel #10)
Well-known pastor Andy Stanley says that "Giving isn't about what God wants from you, it's about what God wants FOR you."
Riverwood's pastor, Erin Bird, agrees. In this second message in the "Money Edition" of The Everyday Gospel, Pastor Erin shows from 2 Corinthians 9 that the financial contentment you long for comes not in a big bank account or huge pay raise, but rather through giving in six different ways. May this challenging yet inspiring message help you discover what God wants for you and your money.
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Aug 11, 2019
The Gospel and Stewardship (The Everyday Gospel #9)
It can be hard to earn a living and make ends meet these days. It can be even harder when God calls us to give to others out of those earnings. In this sermon, Pastor Erin uses Psalm 50 to dig into the idea of stewardship, what belongs to God and what belongs to us. He helps us understand what it means to follow Jesus and love others with our resources.
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Aug 4, 2019
The Gospel and Emotions (The Everyday Gospel #8)
Some people seem to believe emotions are "bad" and should not be shown. Others, on the other hand, wear their emotions on their sleeve. So which is better? Are we to downplay our emotions so they don't lead us into making a poor decision? Or do we embrace our emotions so that we can feel alive, even if those emotions hurt those around us?
In this third message in the "Self Edition" of "The Everyday Gospel" series, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through a passage out of 2 Corinthians 2, showing us that while our emotions are natural, they are not to rule us. Rather, our emotions should be clarified and corrected by the Gospel and move us toward God.
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Jul 29, 2019
The Gospel & The Past (The Everyday Gospel #7)
All of us have a past. Some of us are quite proud of the things in our past - accomplishments, relationships, or fond memories. Others of us are ashamed of our past. And some of us probably have a mixed past, one filled with both pride and shame.
But have you ever stopped to consider how the gospel speaks into your past, both the good moments and the regrettable ones?
In this second message in The Everyday Gospel (The Self Edition) (and part 7 overall in the series), Riverwood Partner Matt Townsley teaches from 2 Corinthians 5:10-23 to help us see how the death and resurrection of Jesus changes the way we view our past and how God can use it for the future.
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Jul 14, 2019
Combined Outdoor Baptism Service
Riverwood joined Grace Baptist and Denver Baptist Churches for a combined outdoor baptism worship service and potluck. Jonathan Davis, lead pastor for Grace Baptist, taught us from Acts 10:34-43, showing us how the life of Jesus WAS the gospel, and how, through baptism, we declare the life and gospel of Jesus.
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Jul 7, 2019
Joy in All Circumstances (Genuine Joy #11)
It is very important to have joy in all circumstances. But what do we do when something so tragic happens, that there seems to be nothing to be joyful about? How do we be joyful when things aren't going like we expect? This week, Pastor Erin Bird teaches why it is so import to find joy under all circumstances.
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Jun 23, 2019
Joy in the Journey (Genuine Joy #9)
All of us are on a journey. On our journey through life, we encounter difficulties, struggles, obstacles, and even our own mistakes. How do we make it through the journey of life, and to do it with joy? Ed Pavelec, one of Riverwood's elders, walks us through Philippians 3:12-4:1, showing us the encouragement the Apostle Paul gave his original readers so they might find joy in the journey.
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Jun 16, 2019
Joy in Christ Alone (Genuine Joy #8)
It is important to watch out for those who claim the Bible is wrong. It is also important to find joy in Christ alone. This week, Pastor Patrick Ray talks about the book of Philippians and where we should find our true joy.
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Jun 9, 2019
The Joy of Sending (Genuine Joy #7)
Many Americans think "bigger is better," including when it comes to church. "If you have a bigger attendance, you must be a more successful church." The book of Philippians shows us you can find joy in sending others to teach the Gospel, not just keeping people in your church. Pastor Erin Bird of Riverwood Church talks about how there can sometimes be more success when you show the Gospel globally than if you just worry about how many people attend a particular church.
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Jun 2, 2019
Joy in Obedience (Genuine Joy #6)
Some humans will hear about various dangers in life, whether smoking cigarettes, eating too much sugar, or driving a motorcycle without a helmet, and proceed to ignore them. Why? Because they believe the "rules" of life don't apply to them.
Sometimes, Christians will do the same thing. They will hear the "rules" of the Bible, but think they don't apply to them. What they don't realize is that these so-called "rules" don't exist to make life miserable, rather, they exist to bring them joy.
Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through Philippians 2:12-18, showing how gospel-motivated obedience can lead to genuine joy.
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May 26, 2019
Joy in Humility (Genuine Joy #5)
Want to know the secret to great relationships? Believe it or not, the book of Philippians holds the secret. So if you long for great relationships at home, work, school, or church, this message from Pastor Erin Bird as part of our Genuine Joy series will give you the inside scoop.
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Apr 28, 2019
Joy in Jesus (Genuine Joy #1)
This week, we kick off a study of the New Testament book of Philippians by looking at Acts 16. Listen in to meet the first three people who helped start the church in the ancient city of Philippi when they decided to follow Jesus.
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Feb 10, 2019
The Gospel & Sex (The Everyday Gospel #2)
For many people, there is a strong sexual desire that leads them to engage in sexual activities that traditional Judeo-Christian teaching says is wrong. But what does the Bible really say about sex? And does God actually care about how we use our bodies for sexual pleasure?
In this second message of The Everyday Gospel series, Pastor Erin Bird sensitively tackles the tough topic of sex, showing from a Biblical perspective why God has a right to tell humans what they should and should not do with their bodies. Because it turns out the gospel story of Jesus' death on a cross even affects what happens between the sheets.
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Feb 4, 2019
The Gospel & Marriage (The Everyday Gospel #1)
In 2019, the Riverwood family will be looking at how the Gospel affects multiple areas of life. We will look at how the life & death of Jesus affects our view of self, our view of money, and our view of time. But before we get to any of that, we will be looking at how the Gospel affects our relationships. And in this first week of the series, Riverwood's Teaching Pastor, Erin Bird, tackles the topic of marriage.
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Jan 27, 2019
Sharing the Gospel with Joy and Confidence
Most people naturally share that which pleases them. We typically don't hesitate to share about a movie we enjoyed, or a great new restaurant we visited.
Guest teacher and Riverwood "missionary" Patrick Ray, a church planter from North Minneapolis, shows us from John 1 that when people met Jesus, they got excited and couldn't help but tell others. If you are a Jesus-follower, may this message inspire you to find joy in Jesus, so you, too, can share Him with confidence.
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Jan 20, 2019
Lord, Send Me (Dangerous Prayers #3)
Just as the decorations at a party can serve as clues as to what type of party you are at, the Bible is filled with clues that God has established a theme in life of sending people to bless others.
In this final message in the "Dangerous Prayers" series, Pastor Erin Bird shows us God's sending theme by taking us through multiple passages of the Scripture, inspiring Jesus-followers to pray "Lord, Send Me."
Are you ready surrender everything to God and let Him send you to bless others?
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Jan 13, 2019
Lord, Break Me (Dangerous Prayers #2)
If you've ever been lost, whether while hiking or driving, you know that sometimes in order to go forward, you have to first go back.
In our spiritual lives, sometimes in order to go forward in our faith, we need to go back in a sense, to allow God to break us, to remove some things in our lives, such as selfishness or sinful patterns, so that He can mold and shape us into who He sees us to be.
In this second part of our "Dangerous Prayers" series, Pastor Erin Bird shares through Jeremiah 18:1-6 as well as through his own life story, how painful the breaking process can be, but also how necessary it can be. If you are the type of person who wants to follow Jesus closely, listen in to "Lord, Break Me."
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Jan 6, 2019
Lord, Search Me (Dangerous Prayers #1)
A dangerous prayer isn't one that asks God to put you in dangerous situations. A "dangerous" prayer is a bold prayer, a prayer that completely surrenders your life to God. A dangerous prayer isn't about ruining your life, but if God answers it, your dangerous prayer will upend your life.
In this series, we will look at three dangerous prayers. In the last week, we will pray "Lord, Send Me." But before a Jesus-follower can be sent, they need to be surrendered. And so in the second week, we will pray "Lord, Break Me." But that is a scary prayer! And so this week, to prepare our hearts to be lovingly broken, we look at David's prayer "Lord, Search Me."
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Dec 30, 2018
Jesus Our Great High Priest
Have you ever had a chance to meet someone famous? If so, perhaps you were at a loss for words, or perhaps said something silly, or embarrassed yourself by acting differently than you normally do.
But what would it be like to meet Jesus?
Listen in as guest teacher, Shane Klein, walks us through Hebrews 4:14-16, seeing Jesus as our Great High Priest.
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Dec 23, 2018
Prince of Peace (A Son is Given #4)
We all long for peace. From birth to death to multiple points in-between, we long for calm in the midst of the chaos of life.
But all of our attempts to find peace usually end up temporary and ineffective. How do we find true lasting peace?
In this final message in the Advent series A Son is Given, Pastor Erin Bird shows from Colossians 1:19-20 why Jesus was given the name "Prince of Peace" more than 700 years before He arrived that first Christmas Day, and how you can find a peace that surpasses understanding.
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Dec 16, 2018
Everlasting Father (A Son is Given #3)
Dads make a huge difference in our lives. Their presence or absence affects us far more deeply than we may realize. The love of a good daddy can make all the difference.
Did you know that Jesus displays love like a perfect dad? Listen in to this third message in the Advent series A Son is Given to discover why Isaiah called Jesus "Everlasting Father."
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Dec 9, 2018
Mighty God (A Son is Given #2)
Have you ever had an initial impression of someone only to discover you were totally wrong? You might have made a wrong assumption about their age, education level, or importance at work.
Throughout history, large swaths of humanity have made the same mistake about Jesus. They have thought of him as just another human, or a wise sage, or even a great prophet from God. But those assessments are WAY off.
Listen in to this second message in the A Son is Given Advent series to be reminder or even to discover that Jesus isn't just a great human, but rather the Mighty God.
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Dec 2, 2018
Wonderful Counselor (A Son is Given #1)
If you've ever found yourself in need of some advice or insight, because you were unsure of what to do, what you needed at that moment was a counselor. Approximately 700 years before Jesus was born, Isaiah the prophet called Jesus a "Wonderful Counselor." Listen in as Riverwood's teaching pastor, Erin Bird, explains how to seek after Jesus to be your "Wonderful Counselor" during Advent and beyond.
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Nov 25, 2018
Supplication (ACTS of Prayer #4)
If you are like most people, you don't want to be seen as a bothersome pest, whether at work, home, or in your relationship with God. And yet, Jesus invites His followers to persist in prayer, almost to the point of seeming like a spiritual pest to God.
In this last message in the ACTS of Prayer sermon series, Pastor Erin Bird helps us see why persistent prayer isn't bothersome to God, but rather honoring and glorifying. So listen in to learn the importance and power of proper supplication.
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Nov 18, 2018
Thanksgiving (ACTS of Prayer #3)
It's that time of year - Thanksgiving! In this devotional message, Luke Anderson (one of Riverwood's Elders)† teaches through Psalm 100 on why we should give thanks, to whom we give thanks, and how we might express our thanksgiving.
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Nov 11, 2018
Confession (ACTS of Prayer #2)
Have you ever had a problem in life that, in the moment, seemed overwhelming, but years later, as you look back at that moment, you realize it wasn't that huge of a deal?
That's perspective.
In this second message in the ACTS of Prayer series, Pastor Erin Bird helps us see how the letter A (Adoration) in the ACTS model of prayer gives us perspective. And that perspective leads us to the letter C - Confession. And Confession leads us to connecting deeper with our Creator.
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Nov 4, 2018
Adoration (ACTS of Prayer #1)
For many people, prayer is awkward, hard, confusing, or boring. Recognizing this, Pastor Erin Bird is using the month of November to teach the Riverwood family about the ACTS model of Prayer in an effort to help us connect with God. And in this first message, he takes us to Psalm 34 to tackle the topic of Adoration.
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Oct 29, 2018
The Circle of Love (1 John #7)
The Lion King had the "Circle of Life," but the True King invites you into the "Circle of Love." What is this circle? Listen in to find out, and learn how it can radically change your life and relationships.
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Oct 21, 2018
True Love (1 John #6)
Our American culture LOVES to talk about love. But do we truly understand what true love is and what we are supposed to do with it?
In this sixth message in the 1 John series, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through one of the most famous passages from the book of 1 John, and helps us see not only God's intense love for us, but what He wants us to do with that love.
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Oct 14, 2018
Act Like a Child (1 John #5)
Just as a dolphin is designed to swim and an eagle is designed to soar, all Jesus-followers are designed to do something. But the only way a Jesus-follower can do this one thing is to understand who they are as part of God's family.
So if you are a Jesus-follower, listen in. And if you are NOT a Jesus-follower, listen in as well to know what it is God will expect of you if you do become a follower of Jesus.
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Oct 7, 2018
Beware the Antichrist (1 John #4)
The famed "bad guy" of the end times is supposed to be "the Antichrist." But who is this "man of lawlessness"? And when will he show up - or has he already appeared?
In this week's non-scary message from 1 John, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through the end of chapter two and beginning of chapter 4, looking at what the Antichrist values, and how Jesus-followers can be sure to not fall for anti-christ teaching.
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Sep 30, 2018
Being with Jesus
As part of our Celebration Sunday, guest teacher Bob Westfall taught from Colossians 1:24-29, reminding Riverwood's new elders (and all of us) that "Being precedes Doing." Listen in to this fantastic message that will encourage you to just "be with Jesus."
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Sep 23, 2018
A New Old Commandment (1 John #3)
To become an expert on a particular subject, you have to study it in detail. This type of study requires you to hear and read the same material repeatedly until you practically have the subject memorized. And when you have the subject memorized, it becomes a part of you, affecting the way you think and what you talk about, making you an expert.
If you are a follower of Jesus, what if the subject you knew in and out was the gospel? What kind of effect would that have on your life? More importantly, what kind of effect would that have on the lives of those around you?
Listen in to this third part in the 1 John series with Pastor Erin has he talks about how to fulfill the "New Old Commandment" in 1 John 2:3-17.
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Sep 16, 2018
The Light Path out of Hypocrisy (1 John #2)
To be human means to be a hypocrite. And that's a problem, because hypocrisy is a sin, and sin cannot be in the presence of a perfect holy God. So what is a human to do?
In this week's message, we look at the challenging yet encouraging words written by the Apostle John so long ago that let us know we do not need to be trapped in the darkness of our sin and hypocrisy.
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Sep 9, 2018
It’s All About Jesus (1 John #1)
As humans, we long to be accepted by others. We want to connect with people through the things we enjoy, whether a favorite hobby, sports team, musician, movie, or something else.
Because we find meaningful connection through these things, we often make them the most important things in life. But what if God has something else for you that can lead to meaningful connection with humans AND with Him?
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Sep 2, 2018
The Greatest Struggle of the Christian Life (Grow in Groups #2)
If someone asked you, "What's your greatest struggle?" you might be tempted to respond something like "gossip," or "lust," or "overeating," or "spending too much money," or something else. No matter what your answer, though, THAT is not your greatest struggle.
To learn what your greatest struggle actually is, listen in to guest teacher Patrick Ray, who explains from Hebrews 10:11-14 what our biggest struggle actually is, and how being part of something like a Growth Group can help you radically overcome that struggle.
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Aug 26, 2018
The Call to Groups
In America, we are quite independent as people, and many Jesus-followers bring this same independence into their spiritual growth. However, the writer of the biblical book of Hebrews encourages Jesus-followers to NOT go it alone in their pursuit of Christlikeness.
In this first message in the two-week "Grow in Groups" series, guest teacher Andrew Boone unpacks Hebrews 10:19-25, showing God's call to all Jesus-followers to make Jesus-centered relationships an intentional part of their spiritual growth.
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Aug 19, 2018
What Elders Do (Elders #3)
There's a lot of confusion about what a church elder is expected to do. Do they manage budgets? Do they oversee the pastor and staff? Do they manage the projects of the church, or oversee the administrative details, or simply control all the happenings of the church?
In this third and final message in the Elders series, Pastor Erin Bird helps us answer the question "What is an elder supposed to actually do?" by looking at 1 Peter 5:1-5.
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Aug 12, 2018
Who are Elders (Elders #2)
Last Sunday, we heard why a church would want elders to lead them. But who should these elders be? The most outspoken guy in the church? The bank president who has proven to be a success and great manager? The lady who has been a part of the church the longest or served on every other committee?
In this week's message, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through the qualifications the Apostle Paul gave to Titus about who would make a great elder for a church.
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Aug 5, 2018
Why Elders? (Elders #1)
There are SO many types of church governance out there in Christendom: deacons, councils, boards, dictatorships, church staffs, and more. So why is Riverwood choosing to move to an elder form of leadership?
In this first message in a three part series, Pastor Erin Bird explains why he believes Riverwood will benefit from installing elders to help continue the mission of inviting the spiritually disconnected to find and follow Jesus.
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Jul 29, 2018
Perseverance (Disciplined #8)
For many Jesus-followers, engagement with the spiritual disciplines can be tiring, frustrating, and difficult. Whether it is prayer, Bible reading, fasting, or something else, they find themselves drifting toward comfort and disengagement, eventually quitting the spiritual discipline altogether.
But what if your best days are found on the other side of your spiritual funk?
In this final message in the Disciplined series, Pastor Erin Bird teaches from James 1:2-4 about the power of perseverance, and how your greatest days and spiritual maturity will be found through the struggle of the disciplines.
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Jul 15, 2018
Sacrifice (Disciplined #7)
No one accidentally wins an Olympic gold medal. It takes tremendous work and sacrifice to obtain something of such incredible worth.
Likewise, to grow to love like Jesus loved and live like Jesus lived often requires great sacrifice. In this seventh part of the Disciplined, Pastor Erin Bird teaches from two parables the Jesus told to show the power of sacrifice. If you want to have an amazing relationship with God, listen in for how you can grow spiritually through three different disciplines of sacrifice.
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Jul 8, 2018
Generosity (Disciplined #6)
Money.
Yep, we're going there. The topic of finances is quite the sticky topic to discuss in church. And yet, if you want to love like Jesus loved and live like Jesus lived, you have to wrestle with the topic.
In this sixth part of the Disciplined series, Jacob Tews helps Jesus-followers see the beauty of living generously, particularly when it comes to the area of finances. So listen in to be challenged and inspired to enter into the spiritual discipline of giving.
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Jul 1, 2018
Serving (Disciplined #5)
If you were to ask a random Christian to name some spiritual disciplines, "serving" would probably not be one of the first disciplines listed, if at all. And yet serving is an incredibly important discipline because it helps to change our selfish hearts.
So listen in to learn how the discipline of serving can help you grow spiritually, as well as learn who you are to serve.
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Jun 26, 2018
Prayer (Disciplined #4)
Ever felt like prayer is boring? Or have you felt like you couldn't pray because of sin in your life and/or past? Or maybe you're simply afraid to pray because it has just been so long since you've tried to talk with God and you fear He might be a bit upset that you've been ignoring Him?
In this masterful sermon on the spiritual discipline of prayer, guest teacher Patrick Ray walks us through Romans 8, showing us why we shouldn't let shame or fear or boredom keep us from this God-given gift called prayer. So if you want to grow in your conversations with God, listen in to this fourth part of the Disciplined series.
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Jun 17, 2018
Worship (Disciplined #3)
You may not realize it, but you are almost always worshipping. The question is: who or what are you worshipping?
In this third part of the Discipled series, we look at how easily we worship the things of this earth instead of the One who made the earth, and how to go about changing that. So listen in if you want to grow as a worshipper of God.
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Jun 10, 2018
Community (Disciplined #2)
Relationships are hard. Hang out with someone long enough, and you will inevitably get hurt, whether through their words or actions. And when we get hurt, we often want to pull away from the relationship.
However, humans were created as relational creatures. So we want to be in relationship, and yet we get hurt by those relationships. So how do we live in this tension?
Listen in to learn how to allow the spiritual discipline of community help you grow to be more like Jesus.
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Jun 5, 2018
Scripture (Disciplined #1)
For the summer of 2018, Riverwood Church is taking a look at the topic of spiritual disciplines. Over 9 weeks, the Riverwood family will look at nine different disciplines Jesus-followers can engage in.
However, there is a danger to this topic. In this opening message in the Disciplined series, Pastor Erin Bird helps us learn what the inherent danger is with spiritual disciplines, how to avoid this danger, and the reason Scriptural intake is a foundational discipline for those who want to grow spiritually and follow Jesus.
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May 27, 2018
Sacrifice & Jesus (& Jesus #8)
What should a church family really look like? How should a church family operate? What should a Jesus-follower be willing to give up for the sake of others within the church family?
In this final message in the "& Jesus" series, guest teacher Andrew Boone takes us to Romans 15 to challenge Jesus-followers to critically think about how they are to live within a church family. Listen in to this encouraging & challenging message that all Jesus-followers need to hear.
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May 20, 2018
Conscience & Jesus (& Jesus #7)
When it comes to the role of conscience in the Christian faith, things can get a bit sticky. The conscience of one Jesus-followers allows him to enjoy a beer while the conscience of another Jesus-follower won't let her even walk into a bar. Does this mean God is unfair? Or that one of the Jesus-followers is wrong in his or her conviction?
Join us as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through this difficult issue by studying Romans chapter 14.
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May 14, 2018
Pleasure & Jesus (& Jesus #6)
Oftentimes, when a person feels stressed or uncomfortable in life, he or she will seek out pleasure to bring some relief. But sometimes, the pleasure they seek keeps them from the life they truly want.
In this sixth part of the & Jesus sermon series, Pastor Erin Bird walks through Romans 13:11-14, which shows Jesus-followers that life on this earth is not the time to fill up with as much pleasure as one can get. Rather, it's time for something far more meaningful and important.
Listen in as we look at the topic of "Pleasure & Jesus."
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May 6, 2018
Government & Jesus (& Jesus #5)
Most people see the government as a bureaucratic nightmare that is focused on getting and keeping power. How should a Jesus-follower respond to the government, especially when government leaders make decisions that a Jesus-follower might disagree with.
The answer might surprise you.
Listen in as we learn from Romans 13 how a follower of Jesus should approach his country's government.
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Apr 29, 2018
Marriage & Jesus (& Jesus #4)
Many people within our American culture think of marriage as an emotional and sexual prison. Why else do 41% of all marriage experience emotional and/or physical infidelity? And why else would 74% of men and 68% of women be willing to have an affair if they knew they wouldn't get caught? Clearly, marriage is viewed by many as a shackle.
But rather than be a jail that keeps us from joy, what if God designed marriage to not only fill us with joy, but to help us become more like Jesus? Whether you are married or not, learn how God designed for husbands and wives to operate within marriage.
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Apr 22, 2018
Kids & Jesus (& Jesus #3)
In our modern American culture, some people view kids as trouble, or annoying, or just something to be ignored. But have you ever considered how God views kids?
In this third message in the & Jesus series, teaching pastor Erin Bird shows us from Romans 12 and Ephesians 6 why we need to love and honor kids if we are going to be followers of Jesus.
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Apr 15, 2018
Relationships & Jesus (& Jesus #2)
The story of Batman isn't just a comic book story or a super hero story. It is actually a revenge story. It is a story about Bruce Wayne getting revenge upon crime for taking his parents from him when he was a kid.
Living inside of you is an inner Batman - a character that wants revenge whenever something or someone is taken from you. This inner Batman makes us feel strong, but he actually robs us of having amazing, healthy relationships. If you want to have the type of relationships that you dream about, then your inner Batman has to die.
In this second part in the & Jesus series, our teaching pastor, Erin Bird, walks us through Romans 12:9-21, showing us how to help our inner Batman die so the image of Jesus can rise within us.
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Apr 9, 2018
Your FIST & Jesus (& Jesus #1)
Have you ever had to make a decision that those around you thought was absolutely crazy, but you knew beyond a shadow of doubt was the right thing to do? Some times, that's what it looks like to follow Jesus. An unbelieving world thinks a Jesus-follower is nuts for some of the things he or she believes God is calling them to do. How does a Jesus-follower make these difficult decisions in the face of such questioning?
Listen in to this first part in our & Jesus sermon series from Romans chapter 12 as Pastor Erin Bird helps you answer that question, whether you are a follower of Jesus or not.
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Apr 2, 2018
Glorious Day (Easter 2018)
Many people in our American society are familiar with the Easter story, even those who don't go to church. But do these miraculous events from over two-thousand years ago mean anything for people living in 2018?
In this Easter message entitled Glorious Day, Pastor Erin Bird shows how the physical resurrection of Jesus points to a spiritual resurrection that God wants to do within you, changing you at your core.
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Mar 25, 2018
Motivated by Jesus (Following Jesus #3)
Most people in life spend their time trying to be happy. They selfishly focus on whatever they believe will make life easier, more pleasurable, or more memorable.
But then there a few people who seem to devote the majority of their time to helping others. They are incredibly Unselfish. How do they do it?
By having a shift in their motivation.
In this message, Riverwood's teaching pastor, Erin Bird, walks us through Colossians 3:1-17, helping us see how to make a shift in motivation in our spiritual lives that will help us not fall into a pit of selfishness, but a life filled with compassion, love, and peace.
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Mar 18, 2018
Continue with Jesus (Following Jesus #2)
It is very natural for humans to think that in order to achieve a certain level of holiness, they have to "earn" it. Whether it be through classes, practices, or upholding certain traditions, they believe they have to jump through certain hoops in order to be "saved" or to please God.
But as Erin Bird, teaching pastor for Riverwood, shows us from the book of Colossians, what we need isn't to add classes or religious practices in order to make God happy - rather, we just need to continue with Jesus.
So no matter where you are at in your spiritual journey, listen in to learn how you can love like Jesus loved and live like Jesus lived.
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Mar 11, 2018
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus (Following Jesus #1)
Have you ever seen those videos of people texting on their phones while walking who end up running into a sign, or into a pond, or even into a wall? They are so distracted by their phones, they miss what is around them.
In the book of Colossians, the Apostle Paul didn't want his readers to spiritually walk into "walls" by getting distracted by the things of life. So to protect them, he helps them by telling them to keep their eyes on Jesus.
If you are a Jesus-follower, this message will help you learn how to keep your eyes on Jesus. And if you aren't a follower of Jesus yet, listen in to learn why you might want to follow Jesus.
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Mar 4, 2018
Four Reasons Why You Should Share the Gospel
Evangelism. It's a scary word for a lot of people. Most Jesus-followers don't engage in it, and those that do often do it from impure motives. Teaching from 2 Corinthians 5:9-21, guest teacher Steve Erickson walks Jesus-followers through four reasons why they should share the gospel with others, and how to do it with the right heart.
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Feb 25, 2018
Speaking the Gospel (The Gospel #4)
Imagine a scientific lab that discovered a cure for cancer, but didn't tell anyone. That would be awful, wouldn't it? Yet on a spiritual level, many Jesus-followers know the "cure" for sin, but remain mum.
In this last message in "The Gospel" sermon series, Pastor Erin Bird shows from the book of Colossians that if someone is a Jesus-follower, it is expected he or she will "speak the gospel." And as we'll see, Jesus-followers are to speak the gospel to those who don't know Jesus as well as to those who already follow Him.
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Feb 18, 2018
Living the Gospel (The Gospel #3)
So far in this series called "The Gospel," we have seen the importance of continually learning the gospel (week 1) so that we can think the gospel (week 2). But the purpose for allowing the gospel to be a filter to our way of thinking is to impact our way of living. The Scriptures do not teach us the gospel simply to fill our heads with the story of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. The Bible shows us how the gospel is to impact our everyday lives and relationships.
In this third part of "The Gospel" series, Pastor Erin Bird takes us through Ephesians 4:1-6, showing us exactly how God calls us to "live the gospel," which will impact our relationships at home, at work, and even in our churches.
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Feb 11, 2018
Thinking the Gospel (The Gospel #2)
How you see yourself shapes what you do. If you see yourself as a great athlete, you'll keep trying your best at your sport. If you see yourself as a horrible cook, you'll stay away from the kitchen.
The same goes for your faith. How you think about yourself spiritually affects what you do and how you feel about life.
In Romans 12:1-3, the Apostle Paul talks about this very thing - how your thinking affects your behavior. Listen in as Pastor Erin Bird explores these ancient words while also giving a "tool" that can help you think the gospel, leading you to the life you deeply desire.
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Feb 4, 2018
Learning the Gospel (The Gospel #1)
Just like a person can become fluent in a foreign language with study and practice, a Jesus-follower can become "fluent" in the gospel by studying it. This week, in part one of "The Gospel" series, we look at the importance of learning the gospel continually, because it has the power to shape how we think, speak, and live.
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Jan 28, 2018
State of the Church 2017
On this particular Sunday, Erin Bird, our lead pastor, takes a moment to look back at what happened in the Riverwood family in 2017, and what is possibly to come in 2018.
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Jan 21, 2018
Committed to the Gospel (Committed #3)
After you breathe your last breath, what do you hope to have left behind?
Nice thoughts about your life?
A full bank account that will provide for your children?
A building bearing your name?
If you are a Jesus-follower, these things are too small. God wants to do so much more than just see people say nice things about you at your funeral.
If you want to leave a legacy that will make an eternal impact, listen in to "Committed to the Gospel" as Pastor Erin Bird walks us through 2 Timothy 4:1-8.
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Jan 14, 2018
Committed to Grow (Committed #2)
Ever been lost in a strange city? Some people stop and ask for directions (well, at least most of the women reading this do...). Some people just try to figure it out (which many of the guys reading this try to do...). But most often, in our day of smartphones, we consult a map.
A map helps us get reoriented to where we currently are and how to get where we want to go.
Sometimes, we need the exact same thing spiritually - we need some sort of "map" to figure out how to move forward in our spiritual journey with Jesus. Thankfully, God has provided just the thing!
Listen in to learn more about this God-given map, and how it can help you grow spiritually in 2018.
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Jan 7, 2018
Committed to God (Committed #1)
People are committed to all sorts of things: family, work, hobbies, sports, etc. But underneath our devotion to such items is often a greater dedication - a commitment to self.
In this first message in the Committed message series, we hear from 2 Timothy 3:1-13 how a commitment to self actually keeps us from the life we want and that God has for us. So listen in to learn how to make the primary commitment in your life a commitment to God.
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Dec 10, 2017
An Incarnational Life (An Incarnational Christmas #3)
Many Americans love to drive around town in December looking at Christmas lights. (We are like bugs drawn to the light!) Why? Perhaps because light, while it is outside of us, does something within us. Light gives us some joy, a bit of hope, and a sense of awe.
Maybe this is why Jesus is called "the Light of the World."
In this third part of our teaching series "An Incarnational Christmas" we discover that Jesus, as the light, has come to give us joy, hope, and awe. But his incarnation does more than just give us light. It also changes how we live.
So listen in to "An Incarnational Life."
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Dec 3, 2017
An Incarnational Mirror (An Incarnational Christmas #2)
Our view of self as humans vacillates wildly. We shift from thinking we are one of the most awesome persons on earth to one of the worst people to have ever lived. (And sometimes we even think all of that on the same day!)
But the Incarnation of Jesus actually addresses our view of self, helping us see who we really are in the eyes of God. And that view will simultaneously humble us and embolden us as humans.
So listen to "An Incarnational Mirror" to better understand who you truly are and who you are meant to be.
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Nov 26, 2017
Incarnational Impact (An Incarnational Christmas #1)
The New Oxford American Dictionary defines "incarnation" as "a person who embodies in the flesh a deity." In Christianity, the incarnation of Jesus, God the Son, into human flesh is a foundational doctrine to the faith. But this doctrinal truth does more than just separate Christianity from other religions, it impacts the meaning of Christmas and our view of God.
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Nov 19, 2017
Why Give Thanks
As part of our annual Thanksgiving Family Worship Gathering, Riverwood's very own Jacob Tews shared some thoughts about why Jesus-followers can give thanks in all circumstances - even the hard ones.
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Nov 12, 2017
My Story in His Story (His Story #40)
In this final message in the His Story sermon series, we wrap things up in a different way. Rather than see how the Bible points to Jesus, we ask "How does your story point to Jesus?" To answer that question, we look at the story of a woman in John 4 and then hear from five Jesus-followers who reveal how their story really does point to Jesus.
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Nov 5, 2017
The Revelation of Jesus (His Story #39)
Ever seen a Magic Eye picture? It looks like a mess on the surface, but if you peer through it, you see something entirely different - a 3D image inside the picture.
The Book of Revelation is somewhat similar. On the surface, it appears to first be apocalyptic literature all about the end of the world. But as you peer deeper, you discover that it first points to Jesus.
Listen in to discover at least four ways that the Book of Revelation shows us Jesus in its pages, and in the process actually encourages you rather than scare or confuse you.
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Oct 29, 2017
Jesus in the Epistles (His Story #38)
The Epistles in the New Testament are letters written to individuals and churches to help them follow Jesus. Listen in as we look at 1 John 2:1-14 to learn the four things the Epistles can do for those whose faith is in Jesus.
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Oct 22, 2017
Jesus & His Church in Acts (His Story #37)
Sometimes in life, we see, hear, or experience an event, and yet somehow we misunderstand the truth. For instance, you might meet an incredibly tall athletic-looking man and assume he plays basketball. Yet the reality might be that he hates sports and actually has an affinity for the fine arts.
Well, something similar has happened to Americans' view of church. Because of our experiences, we have created definitions of what a church is, and yet we misunderstand what it truly is.
So as you listen in to this message from Pastor Erin Bird, be prepared to have your definition of church challenged - which will help you understand more clearly what it means to follow Jesus.
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Oct 15, 2017
The Ascension of Jesus (His Story #36)
Forty days after Jesus rose from the dead after his brutal crucifixion, he ascended to heaven in front of his followers. Right before he lifted off the ground, he gave one last instruction. This final command of Christ has been feared by Christians throughout history. Many find this command too difficult to obey, or they want to obey it in their own way in their own timing.
But as we hear in this next part of the His Story series, this final command of Jesus isn't supposed to be drudgery, rather it is for our good and the good of others. It is supposed to be a command that Jesus-followers gladly obey with joy. What is this command and how can you (if you follow Jesus) fulfill it? Listen in to "The Ascension of Jesus."
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Oct 8, 2017
The Resurrection of Jesus (His Story #35)
Christians all around the world throughout history have remembered the death of Jesus on the cross as payment for sin. But did you know the gospel message doesn't stop with the crucifixion of Jesus? There's more to the story.
Listen in to discover why the resurrection of Jesus is crucial to the gospel story. Because if there's no resurrection, there's no Christianity.
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Oct 1, 2017
The Crucifixion of Jesus (His Story #34)
The crucifixion of Jesus is the central aspect of the Christian faith. Churches around the world every Sunday sing about it, talk about it, and take communion elements to remember it. But have you really looked at the crucifixion? Do you know what Jesus truly went through?
In this next part of the His Story series, we take a deep look at the physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering of Jesus from the Garden of Gethsemane to the spear thrust in his side. And as you listen to this gruesome message, may you realize the immense love God has for you.
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Sep 24, 2017
Jesus in the Lord’s Supper (His Story #33)
Christian churches all around the world celebrate the sacrament of communion (also called the Lord's Supper). But where did this practice come from?
Listen in to discover the roots to this ancient ceremony. And as you do, you will discover how the Lord's Supper, like the Bible, points to Jesus.
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Sep 17, 2017
The Miracles of Jesus (His Story #32)
Have you ever experienced a "wow" moment? You know, a moment that takes your breath away, and all you can say is "wow"?
Jesus gave his disciples and the people around him some "wow" moments. We call them miracles. And as we study the reaction of the disciples in Mark 4:35-41 to one of the biggest miracles Jesus, we see how the miracles of Jesus should affect us.
So listen in to this next message in the His Story series. You might just have a wow moment while looking at the miracles of Jesus.
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Sep 10, 2017
The Message of Jesus (His Story #31)
Some people become famous in life for having one consistent message. For instance, Martin Luther King Jr. is known for his speeches on civil rights.
Jesus also had one consistent message. In this next part to the His Story series, we look at His one repeated message, and discover how it should affect the one message of your life.
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Sep 7, 2017
The Disciples: The Call and the Cost to Following Jesus (His Story #30)
The first-century disciples (followers) of Jesus were ordinary men and women like you and me. But some of them did extraordinary things because they allowed their lives to not be about themselves, but to be all about the message and life of Jesus.
No matter where you are in your spiritual journey, if you want to follow Jesus (or are simply curious about following Him) listen in as Riverwood's Worship Pastor, Jeff Willis, talks about the call and cost of following Jesus.
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Aug 27, 2017
The Arrival of Jesus (His Story #29)
Everyone one of us has experienced a disruption in life. Some disruptions are good, like finding out you got the job. But some disruptions seem to wreck our personal stories, like hearing the doctor say "It's cancer."
The arrival of Jesus into the pages of history was a disruption. But in this message, we learn how the arrival of Jesus should be a good disruption to our story. So listen in to hear three points that help you see how the birth of Jesus impacts you personally.
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Aug 21, 2017
Missional Life Rhythms
In this stand-alone message, guest teacher Steve Erickson shows from the life of Jesus how a Jesus-follower can use the everyday spaces he or she finds themselves in to grow spiritually and be a blessing to others.
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Aug 13, 2017
The Baptism of Jesus (His Story #28)
We live in a day and age where "fake news" is a regular part of the cultural conversation. But did you know that there has been quite a bit of "fake news" shared about the sacrament of baptism?
This week, we look at the baptism of Jesus and the context surrounding it in Matthew chapter 3. Through this passage, we discover 5 "fake news" headlines about baptism that get debunked, helping us see what baptism is truly all about.
So listen in to learn more about the beautiful sacrament of baptism.
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Aug 6, 2017
Jesus & the Whale (His Story #27)
This week, we look at the biblical story of an incredibly hypocritical Jewish prophet, and see how his hypocritical life points to the non-hypocritical life of Jesus.
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Jul 30, 2017
Jesus in the Lions’ Den (His Story #26)
Oftentimes when people read the Bible, they engage in a case of "mistaken identity." When they read a story, they unintentionally read it as if they were the main character. And one story we often engage in "mistaken identity" is the story of Daniel and the Lions Den.
In this week's message, Pastor Erin Bird helps us see that Daniel's story in the sixth chapter of the book that bears his name isn't first about us, but rather about Jesus. And when we realize that the identity of Daniel points to Jesus, we discover something about ourselves in the process.
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Jul 23, 2017
Jesus Resurrects Dry Bones (His Story #25)
In the book of Ezekiel is a famous story about dry bones becoming skeletons which become bodies which become living human beings. But did you know this famous story from Ezekiel 37 can also help you in the moments you are struggling to trust God in your darkest moments? Listen in to be encouraged that your current condition is not your forever condition.
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Jul 16, 2017
The New Covenant (His Story #24)
In America, we are addicted to new. New movies, new music, new clothes, new cars, new relationships, new everything. Let's face it: We like new. But oftentimes, we make the mistake of believing that "new" makes us better.
Now, don't make the mistake of thinking "new" then is bad. God actually wants you to experience "new" life. But rather than give us external things like clothes or cars, He wants to give us a new heart. If you want a new heart and to experience the life God has for you, listen in.
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Jul 9, 2017
Jesus in Isaiah (His Story #23)
In this unique Worship Gathering, we weaved together passages from the Old Testament book of Isaiah with contemporary songs that point to the birth, life, death, & resurrection of Jesus. As you listen, may you worship God and be blown away at the revealing of Jesus over 700 years before He ever was set in a manger in swaddling cloths.
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Jul 3, 2017
Jesus in the Psalms (His Story #22)
If you've ever been ridiculed, or betrayed, or lost a dear loved one, or battled depression, you have felt alone. You have felt unloved, unwanted, disconnected, and isolated. Some people, when they feel this way, try to medicate the pain through sleep or drink or thrills.
But some people try to medicate the pain spiritually. And for thousands of years, many people have used the Book of Psalms to try to spiritually heal the emotional aloneness they feel.
In this twenty-second part in the His Story series, we take a look at the comfort and encouragement the Psalms can bring. But we also see Jesus inside these ancient song lyrics, and as we do so we realize that we do not suffer alone and we will not suffer forever. So listen in to be encouraged.
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Jun 25, 2017
Naaman, A Slave Girl, & Jesus
Have you ever considered what it is that makes people like Mother Theresa or Martin Luther King Jr. so inspiring?
It's humility.
Humility is the ability to put the needs of others before your own. It's hard, but it can be powerful. Listen in to the story of Naaman and the power of humility, even when shown reluctantly.
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Jun 18, 2017
The Temple of God (His Story #20)
Most people know a temple as a sacred building that some religion believes contains the presence of their deity. They gather at the temple to engage in various religious practices to worship their god and fulfill spiritual requirements.
The ancient Jews weren't much different. In the book of 1 Kings, the wise King Solomon had the first Jewish temple built to house the Ark of the Covenant so that the presence of God could be with the nation and the people could worship the One True God.
As Solomon dedicates the temple to God before the assembled nation, he reveals in a prayer four things about temples that actually help Jesus-followers understand God's design for how to live out their faith. So no matter where you are in your spiritual journey, listen in to see how knowledge about temples can help you positively impact the people around you.
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Jun 11, 2017
Three Core Beliefs
When making small talk with a young person, we often ask, "What do you want to do when you grow up?" And when they respond, we might follow up with something like, "That's great! How are you going to make that dream become a reality?"
But rather than ask WHAT they want to do and HOW they are going to do it, perhaps we should be asking "Who are you?"
When we ask this of ourselves, this critical question of WHO helps us know who we are, which then affects what we do. But did you know this question also helps us understand the Christian faith? For when we ask "Who is God?" it helps us discover the character and nature of God, which explains what He does and how He chooses to do it.
So listen in as guest teacher Steve Erickson teaches us "Three Core Beliefs."
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Jun 4, 2017
The Failure of the King (His Story #19)
Ancient nations longed to have a king rule over them because they believed that a good king would make them safe, strong, victorious, and fulfilled as a nation.
We aren't much different in our day and age. While we do not want political kings, we do find personal kings. We long for things, people, or experiences that make us feel safe, strong, victorious, and fulfilled.
The problem is, none of these kings can ever come through 100% of the time. Each and every one of them will fail.
But this is actually a good thing. Listen in to this 19th message in the His Story series and discover how Jesus is the one true King you have been looking for and actually need.
This week's passages are from 2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 51, and Psalm 145.
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May 21, 2017
The King 2.0 (His Story #17)
Ever felt like a failure when your Plan A didn't go as envisioned? This week, in "The King 2.0" (Part 17 in the "His Story" sermon series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA), Pastor Erin Bird shows us the biblical pattern that Plan B might actually be God's Plan A, and you aren't a failure at all - rather you are exactly where God wants you to be.
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May 14, 2017
Jesus Loves Ruth (His Story #16)
"Jesus Loves Ruth" is Part 16 in the His Story series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week, Pastor Erin Bird walks us through the Old Testament book of Ruth.
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May 7, 2017
Jesus at Jericho (His Story #15)
Launch Sermon PlayerTo surrender is incredibly difficult (just ask a kid who doesn’t want to obey their parent!). But to have the type of relationship with God that we want, it means we have to surrender. In the story of the battle of Jericho, there are four types of surrender that can help someone become […]
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Apr 30, 2017
Nate Luck’s Personal Story
Launch Sermon PlayerOn April 30, Riverwood member Nate Luck shared his story about his spiritual journey of finding Jesus.
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Apr 30, 2017
Jesus, the True & Better Moses (His Story #14)
Launch Sermon PlayerIn Deuteronomy 18, Moses told the Israelites that God would raise up a prophet, a leader, like him. Listen in to learn how Jesus fulfills this prophecy completely.
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Apr 26, 2017
Looking Back Looking Forward (Riverwood’s 3rd Birthday)
Launch Sermon PlayerHave you ever looked at a decision and said in your head “I can’t do that!” or “That’s not possible”? In the book of Numbers chapter 13, we see the Israelites, upon hearing some hard news, adopt a mentality of “impossible!” But in the midst of the people saying, “we can’t!” there were two men who looked toward God […]
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Apr 16, 2017
Jesus the GOAT (His Story #13)
Launch Sermon PlayerWhat is your definition of a GOAT? Is it an animal or is it more? In this next message in the His Story series, we take a closer look at (the very boring book of) Leviticus and see how 2 goats show us that Jesus is the GOAT.
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Apr 9, 2017
Jesus in the Ten Commandments (His Story #12)
Launch Sermon PlayerA few years ago, the Ten Commandments were in modern-day news. Should they still be observed? Should they be ignored? Or do these ancient Jewish laws fulfill some other purpose for Jesus-followers in light of the Gospel? Listen in as Pastor Erin explains from Exodus 20:1-17 how the Ten Commandments should or should not affect your life today.
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Apr 2, 2017
Jesus in the Passover (His Story #11)
Launch Sermon PlayerEvery human alive has had at least one significant day that changed their lives. Whether it’s the birth of a child, a wedding, graduation day, or their own birth, everyone has gone through a day that changed everything. The ancient Israelites went through a day that changed them as a nation and changed their religion. […]
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Mar 26, 2017
Meet Moses Meet Jesus (His Story #10)
Launch Sermon PlayerRunning a marathon requires a lot of work and training to get up to the point of running 26.2 miles. But what if you did all the prep work in the last week instead of taking months to train? Or what if you had to give a book report, but all you used in your […]
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Mar 19, 2017
Jacob, Joseph, Judah, JESUS (& You) – His Story #9
Launch Sermon PlayerThe story of Jesus goes through some very questionable characters. For instance, this week in Genesis chapters 37-50, we meet a cocky 17-year-old who gets sold into slavery by his half-brothers and thrown in prison by his master, while his older brother sleeps with a cult prostitute – who turned out to be his daughter-in-law. Pretty […]
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Mar 12, 2017
Jesus Loves the Leahs (His Story #8)
Launch Sermon PlayerEver felt unloved or even unlovable? The story of Leah and her dysfunctional relationship with her husband, Jacob, and sister, Rachel, from Genesis 29 shows that you are seen, heard, and attached to God, who is worthy to be praised. So listen in to hear just how much you are loved.
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Mar 5, 2017
Jesus and Abraham (His Story #7)
Launch Sermon PlayerAbraham is the father of the Jewish faith. The covenant God established with Abraham in Genesis 15 promised a nation would come from Abraham and his descendants. But did you know that same covenant ceremony also pointed to Jesus and the Gospel? Listen to to hear how God revealed the Gospel thousands of […]
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Feb 26, 2017
Jesus at Bable (His Story #6)
Launch Sermon PlayerWe use language everyday. When we communicate well, things go very smoothly. But when there is a breakdown in communication, there is a breakdown in unity. So why would God confuse the language of humans in Genesis 11? And how does the story of the Tower of Babel point to Jesus? Listen in to […]
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Feb 19, 2017
Jesus and the Ark (His Story #5)
Launch Sermon PlayerThe story of Noah and the Ark is one of the most horrific stories in all of Scripture. The mass killing of every human on earth except 8 people? Really?!? Come on! And yet, hidden inside this Rated-R story is evidence of Jesus and His gospel message of love and grace.
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Feb 12, 2017
Cain & Abel & Jesus (His Story #4)
Launch Sermon PlayerWhy do we do the things we don’t want to do? We eat too much, we drink too much, we buy too much. We know we shouldn’t do them, but we do them anyway. In this fourth message in our His Story series, we see through the sad story of Cain & Abel […]
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Feb 8, 2017
Jesus at the Fall (His Story #3)
Launch Sermon PlayerFor some people, the subject of sin is a very uncomfortable topic. For others, it is a ridiculous topic. And yet for others, it’s simply no big deal. But the Bible treats the topic of sin as a very important one that MUST be addressed. And the topic is first discussed very early in […]
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Jan 29, 2017
Jesus in Creation (His Story #2)
Launch Sermon PlayerThere is a mistake that many Christians make with their theology. They start at the wrong place in the Bible. If you follow Jesus and don’t want to make the same mistake, listen in. And while you are at, you’ll also hear about the crazy love God has for humans.
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Jan 22, 2017
What is the Bible? (His Story #1)
Launch Sermon PlayerWe all love stories. We love reading about a character who overcomes great odds on some kind of adventure. Well, guess what? God wants to author an amazing story in your life. But we’ll warn you – that epic story begins when you understand what the Bible is.
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Jan 15, 2017
Trust (Values #3)
Launch Sermon PlayerSometimes we mistakenly treat intangibles (like love) as if they were tangible objects (like cookies). We act as if giving away the intangible will leave us with less. But things like love and grace and respect aren’t like cookies or gum. Rather, the more you give it away, the more you actually have. […]
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Jan 8, 2017
Truth (Values #2)
Launch Sermon PlayerTruth is incredibly important. In this second part to the Values series, we look at the topic of truth, seeing how there is a negative affect of truth, but a powerful positive aspect to it as well. So listen in to learn why Riverwood as a church values truth, and what it can do for you as […]
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Jan 1, 2017
Grace (Values #1)
Launch Sermon PlayerIf your relationship with God seems a little stale, or you are investigating the Christian faith, or you just want to start your new year off right, we invite you to listen in to this first message from the Values series about the amazingness of Grace.
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Dec 18, 2016
Love All (Do Christmas Different #4)
Part 4 of 4 in the Do Christmas Different series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's passage is John 3:16-17 (along with Luke 2:10).
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Dec 11, 2016
Give More (Do Christmas Different #3)
Part 3 in the Do Christmas Different series (an Advent Conspiracy message series) from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's topic was Give More. The passage was Matthew 2:9-12.
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Dec 5, 2016
Spend Less (Do Christmas Different #2)
Part 2 in the Do Christmas Different series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This Advent Conspiracy message is from Matthew 2:1-8.
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Nov 27, 2016
Worship Fully (Do Christmas Different #1)
Part 1 in the Do Christmas Different Advent Series at Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's theme is Worship Fully and the passage is Luke 1:26-56.
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Nov 13, 2016
The Low Path to the Top (Uphill #9)
The ninth and final message in the Uphill message series, a study of 1 Peter from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's passage is the entire chapter of 1 Peter 5.
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Nov 6, 2016
Remember the Right Path (Uphill #8)
Part 8 of the Uphill sermon series at Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa, a message series from 1 Peter. This week's passage is 1 Peter 3:18-4:11.
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Oct 30, 2016
Suffering Uphill (Uphill #7)
Part 7 in the Uphill series from 1 Peter at Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's passage is 1 Peter 3:13-17, 4:12-19, which is all about suffering.
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Oct 23, 2016
The Path to Blessing (Uphill #6)
Part 6 in the Uphill series, a study of 1 Peter from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's passage is 1 Peter 3:8-12, all about how to be a blessing to others through honor.
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Oct 9, 2016
Respect for the Climb (Uphill #4)
Part 4 of the Uphill sermon series out of 1 Peter from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's passage is 1 Peter 2:13-25.
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Oct 2, 2016
Rocky Paths (Uphill #3)
Part 3 in the Uphill message series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's passage is 1 Peter 2:1-12.
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Sep 18, 2016
Motivation to Climb (Uphill #1)
Part 1 in a verse-by-verse series from 1 Peter called Uphill at Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's passage is 1 Peter 1:1-12.
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Aug 21, 2016
Interrupted Desires (Interrupted #5)
Launch Sermon PlayerIt’s easy to see when someone is engaging in an activity that isn’t good for them. But when someone tries to interrupt OUR desires, well… that’s a different story! But what if God is interrupting our desires not to rob us of something good, but rather to give us something even better? That’s […]
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Aug 14, 2016
Interrupted Expectations (Interrupted #4)
Launch Sermon PlayerWe carry expectations into everything. Into the movie theater, into restaurants, into marriage, into our jobs, into a class, into church, and even into our relationship with God. Some expectations get met, some are exceeded, but some never get met. But what do you do when God fails to meet your expectations? That’s what this […]
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Aug 7, 2016
Interrupted Prayer (Interrupted #3)
Launch Sermon PlayerJust like an addict needs an intervention from their loved ones who desire the best for them, sometimes people need a spiritual intervention from God who desires the best for them. But how will YOU respond when He intervenes in your life? In this third part of our Interrupted series studying the book of […]
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Jul 31, 2016
Interrupted Escape (Interrupted #2)
Launch Sermon PlayerMost people long to have someone pursue them – to go to great lengths to display their love and devotion. In the story of Jonah, we see God go to tremendous length to show His love for Jonah. Likewise, in the gospel, we see the extreme lengths God went to to show His love […]
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Jul 24, 2016
Interrupted Life (Interrupted #1)
Launch Sermon PlayerDon’t you just hate interruptions? And yet, life is filled with them! So what should you do when a major interruption disrupts your everyday living? That’s what we look at in this new series, “Interrupted.” Through this series, we will study the Old Testament book of Jonah, discovering how Jonah messed up the […]
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Jul 18, 2016
ReUnderstanding Baptism (#Unexpected #16)
The final message in the #Unexpected teaching series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa, where we look at the baptism of Jesus, the prequel to the Sermon on the Mount.
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Jul 10, 2016
Don’t Follow a Flooded Fool (#Unexpected #15)
Part 15 in the #Unexpected teaching series, a study from the Sermon on the Mount at Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's text is Matthew 7:24-29.
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Jun 26, 2016
Be Stupid (#Unexpected #13)
Be Stupid is the 13th part of the #Unexpected series, a study from the Sermon on the Mount from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa. This week's passage is from Matthew 7:7-12.
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Jun 21, 2016
How to Judge (#Unexpected #12)
Here is the next part in Riverwood Church's #Unexpected series, a study of the Sermon on the Mount. This week, we learned how to judge the way Jesus teaches us to.
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Jun 12, 2016
Don’t Get Your Panties in a Bunch (#Unexpected #11)
This message is Part 11 in the sermon series Unexpected a study of the Sermon on the Mount from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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May 29, 2016
How to Pray (#Unexpected #9)
This is part 9 of the #Unexpected message series from the Sermon on the Mount at Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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May 15, 2016
Grace for Grace (#Unexpected #7)
Part 7 in the #Unexpected series, a study of the Sermon on the Mount from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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May 8, 2016
People of The(ir) Word (#Unexpected #6)
People of The(ir) Word is part 6 in the #Unexpected sermon series about the Sermon on the Mount from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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May 1, 2016
ASK Lust Out (#Unexpected #5)
Part 5 in the #Unexpected sermon series, a study of the Sermon on the Mount from the book of Matthew, chapters 5-7, from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA.
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Apr 24, 2016
Murder Your Anger at the Imago Dei (#Unexpected #4)
Part 4 in the #Unexpected sermon series, a study of the Sermon on the Mount, from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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Apr 17, 2016
Jesus the Abolitionist (#Unexpected #3)
Jesus the Abolitionist is Part 3 in a study on the Sermon on the Mount, from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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Apr 10, 2016
Be a Rubber Band (#Unexpected #2)
Be a Rubber Band is the second message in the #Unexpected sermon series about the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5-7, from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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Mar 27, 2016
Easter Changes Everything (Easter 2016)
Easter 2016 message from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa, entitled Easter Changes Everything.
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Mar 20, 2016
Share the Truth (Putting Go Back in the Gospel #3)
Launch Sermon PlayerIf you are a follower of Jesus, then you have been given the most precious, valuable thing the universe has ever seen. It’s called the gospel. But you aren’t supposed to hoard it. It’s to be shared. The gospel possesses the power to repair a person’s relationship with God, so it should be […]
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Mar 13, 2016
Share Your Life (Putting Go Back in the Gospel #2)
Part 2 of the Putting Go Back in the Gospel series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA. This week's passage is from Luke 5:27-32.
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Mar 6, 2016
Share the Wealth (Putting GO Back in the Gospel #1)
Part 1 of 3 of the Putting GO Back in the Gospel series at Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA.
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Feb 29, 2016
Love Is The Greatest (Redefining Love #4)
Part 4 of 4 in the Redefining Love series (a study of 1 Corinthians 13) from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA.
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Feb 22, 2016
Love is Forever (Redefining Love #3)
Part 3 of the Redefining Love series, a study of 1 Corinthians 13 from Riverwood Church in Waverly, Iowa.
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Feb 14, 2016
Love Is Tough (Redefining Love #2)
Love is Tough is part 2 in the Redefining Love series from Riverwood Church in Waverly, IA.
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