Jesus constantly found Himself surrounded by crowds—people with mixed motives, questions, needs, and expectations. Yet He never lost His mission, His character, or His compassion. This message explores how His purpose, faith, truth, and mercy guide us to live with the same clarity and impact in the crowds we face every day.
This week we launch our new series by looking at how God moves through endings and beginnings. In Mark’s opening verses, John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus, marking the end of one chapter for God’s people and the start of something entirely new.
When Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, He triumphed not through power but through God’s Word. His victory shows us that true strength comes from obedience and trust in Scripture. When we resist the enemy with truth, he flees—and we share in Christ’s triumph.
The story of the sheep and the goats is a reminder that while we often measure ministry success by numbers like attendance or giving, Jesus uses a very different standard.
“The Community of Jesus” reveals that following Christ is not a solo path but a shared journey of grace. In Matthew 18–20, Jesus teaches humility, sacrifice, and the power of genuine community. Believers are called to depend on God, serve others, and protect the vulnerable. Like the rich young ruler, each person must choose devotion over comfort. In God’s kingdom, the last are first, the humble are lifted up, and every soul is equally loved.
We join Peter on his profound journey with Christ — from his bold confession that Jesus is the Messiah to his moments of misunderstanding and his witness of the transfiguration. Through Peter’s story, we are reminded that while our understanding of God is often partial and imperfect, we are fully known and loved by Him.
From the tiny mustard seed that grows into a tree, to the treasure hidden in a field, each parable reminds us that the kingdom of heaven is both priceless and powerful. Jesus calls us to treasure His kingdom above all else, guard our hearts from hidden influences, and keep sharing the good news with the world until the net is full.
As we celebrate 30 years of the Ottawa Church of Christ, we remember that the mission Jesus began is still ours today—to proclaim the good news, serve with compassion, and make disciples of all nations.
Jesus is the greatest Teacher, and His Sermon on the Mount lays the foundation for true discipleship. The Beatitudes remind us that God blesses the poor, the mourning, the meek, and even the persecuted. He calls us not only to outward obedience but to inward transformation.
The opening chapters of Matthew remind us that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham and David. His genealogy shows God’s faithfulness, His life reflects obedience where Israel failed, and His ministry calls us to let go of the old and embrace the new life He offers.