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Pastor Chris shares for the last sermon of The River Church wrapping up our Book of Judges series. The end of Judges comes to a horrific crash, burn, explosion, ball of fire that would rival any Hollywood movie set. We would have hoped for a beautiful “happily-ever-after” but we get the complete opposite. But the book of Judges is not short on lesson for us to learn and way we can apply this scripture to our lives even thousands of years later. There were good judges. Those who chose to do what God wanted them to do like Deborah and even Gideon (at first). However there were also really bad judges and others somewhere in between. Some were given large portions of scripture with multiple chapters of their story. But others were given just a single verse. Tola son of Push was given just that. One single verse for his mark in history.  Judges 10:2, “He judged Israel for twenty-three year. When he died he was buried in Shamir.” 23 year legacy boiled down to 15 words. That is it. He must have been half decent or he wouldn’t have been able to lead Israel for that many years. But this is Tola’s legacy. And if you were to ask me if I wanted Tola’ legacy or the one of the Levite that we read about in the end of Judges. You better believe that I am taking the 1 verse legacy. Leaving a legacy has been on my heart this past few weeks. The River Church all started back before 2000 as a vision, a hope, a calling, a shot in the dark on the heart of our founding Pastor Jim Bogear. There was an overwhelming burden for the lost as Jim looked out seeing miles and miles of rice fields. Knowing that one day would become a community on the outskirts of Northern Sacramento and downtown. There was a passion and desire for all who moved to this area to come to a love and saving relationship with Jesus Christ. To overwhelm a community with the Love of God sharing this amazing gift from the cross. Jesus tells us in Mark 12:28-31 , “One of the religion scholars came up. Hearing the lively exchanges of question and answer and seeing how sharp Jesus was in his answers, he put in his question: ‘Which is most important of all the commandments?’ Jesus said, ‘The first in importance is, ‘Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.’ And here is the second: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’ There is no other commandment that ranks with these.'” This is where we get Loving God and Loving Others as our core vision and mission. And even before that: Go, Grow, Give and Catching the Current of Christ’s love through Making and Maturing disciples. Community. Celebration. Commitment. Commission. Calling. This is what the River Church has been about. This is the legacy of TRC. What is your legacy doing to be? Is it going to be similar to what we have learned in this strange and unreal at times book of Judges? As Judges 21:25 tells us, “All the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.” This was their core issue and struggle for the Jewish nation during this time. Perfectly summed up in the final verse of the book. One of doing whatever seems right in your own eyes? Or one of Mark 12 in Loving God first and foremost and loving others? This is what we have to answer. Are you going to continue to live and lead the legacy of that which the River Church first stated on over 20 years ago that Jesus has given each of us? The River Church will never fade away but rather live on in our lives and the lives that we love. The ultimate purpose. The ultimate calling. This is the ultimate legacy. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Lauren shares about the life of Sampson. Sampson is one of the more well-known characters in the book of Judges. But he’s pretty much just known for his strength and being deceived by Delilah.  What’s interesting is we often forget about the character flaws of Sampson. The man struggled to keep his vow to God. Sampson specifically took the Nazarite Vow. This included many things like no drinking alcohol, no touching dead animals, and no cutting his hair. But he really STRUGGLED! He let his pride, strength, and even his own sense of invincibility lead him down some difficult paths. We blame Delilah of tricking Sampson and she absolutely did. But we forget Sampson’s role. The poor decisions he made that even led him to that situation in the first place.  Sampson often did what HE thought was best – rather than seeking God’s best for his life. He made many, seemingly insignificant, poor decisions that led him down a slippery slope.  It’s easy to point the finger at Sampson or the Israelites and wonder how they could make all of these decisions and turn from God. What if we pointed that finger back at ourselves and really took a good look in the mirror? What are those seemingly insignificant decisions we make that could be leading us down the wrong path? Are there heart issues do we need to let God deal with in order to get right with Him?  Here’s the thing with Sampson’s story – God redeemed Him, but there were still consequences. God redeemed Sampson and even gave him his strength back. And Sampson used it for the will and glory of God. But he still had major consequences. He lost his sight, lived as a slave, the Lord left him for a time. And he eventually died while doing God’s will. But what I want you to hear from his story is that, while we still have consequences to our actions, God is a God of Redemption. He doesn’t leave us in our sin and junk when we are truly repentant. It’s never too late to turn back to God.  During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Chris continued in our Judges series with part seven. Warning today is going to be a pretty strange and for some disturbing story. Never thought you would hear that at the beginning of a sermon. Ha! But even in the midst of this crazy section from Judges today there is a very big application for that is very relevant for our lives even today. Have you ever prayed the prayer, “God if you just do this, then I will do this?” The barter prayer. The businesses transition prayer. I have been there for sure in my life. We are going to hear about the story of a less known character in the book of Judges. Who just like we have at times, made the business prayer with God and gets into some pretty hot water. The problem with this is when we do this, we have a distorted perspective of God. God is more to us than a business partner. He is more than just a corporate transaction. The hard part with this is that we live in a world of transition. Some of you are in the business world. You own your own companies and small businesses. On the daily you process deals, contracts, and business transactions. And if we are not careful this can translate into our personal relationships and even into our relationship with God. This section of scripture today from Judges 10-12 shares the story of Jephthah. Who makes this deal with God on his own account, nothing from God. And this is the demise of his relationship with his family, Israel and even his relationship with God. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Continuing in our Judges series, we dive deeper into our buddy Gideon. We first met him when he was hiding in a pit trying to secretly thresh some wheat as to not be attacked by the neighboring nations. And in a comical way, he’s given the title of “”Baal-whipper” or “Oh-mighty-warrior” as he is hiding. Pretty funny actually. But after Gideon accepts the call on his life to allow God to equip him and give him the courage the strength to lead the Israelite nation into battle. He finds great victory over the Midianites. Gideon is cheered and praised for his leadership. He has won over the people and they now once again have a fearless leader. But just like most people, pride beings to set in. His thoughts shift from “What is God calling me to do” into “What do I want to do?” Self focus starts to set in. Rebellion is one bad beast that if not kept in check, can 100% consume us. JD is going to point-out 5 different signs of self-focus that we can see from Gideon in our next section. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Chris continues in our Judges series with part 5. God continues to show His mighty power and His strength time and time again. This week we read when God tells Gideon, “Hey this Israelite amy is too big.” WHAT?!?! That doesn’t even make sense! No commanders, general, leaders, or military has ever said those words! What is God thinking???? We look at life so many time in how we are lacking, how incificent and “less-than” that we are. But God goes, I use the “less-than” and not-so-seficient. This is where our Faith in God comes into play. There are countless times in my life that God has called me and my family to step out in faith. I know that there are many of you as well who have done the same. And I will tell you this doesn’t get any easier. The steps of faith just get bigger and bigger! But what I do see is a God that takes these moments in our life and uses them in such powerful ways. Our Christian walk with God is never exempt from steps of faith. And this book of Judges time and time again shows the faith of the “less-than” in situations. And in the end, God is glorified and praised with the “more-than”. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Continuing our Judges series, Pastor Lauren shares about the leader Gideon. We first meet him in not the most courageous situation. He in somewhat of a mocking manner is called the strong-Baal-slyer. But he is in a put hiding from the opposition nations tying to sift wheat. Pretty funny as he is so far from being a man of courage or a strong leader. But yet God has some incredible plans for his life and for the Israelite people. God throughout scripture rarely has called the strongest, the most courageous, the highly talented or the best person for the job. He usually calls the less than adequate or even at times, the lest likely candidate. But one of the incredible characteristics of God is that He doesn’t call the equipped. But rather He equips the called. He is more interested in a willing heart. Over someone who already posses the needed qualifications. Christ calls all of us to live out a bold brave life for Him. But we don’t have to have it all figured out. We don’t have to already posses what it needed to fulfill the mission He gives us. All we do have to do is with courage step forward and trust that God is going to work it all out. God is the one who will supply each of us with the needed strength, courage, ability, words, endurance, and gumption to live the life we are called. But do we trust Him to do that in our lives? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Our journey through the book of Judges has been nothing short of strange, over-the-top, and bizarre. This week is no exception. First learning of the incredible leadership from the judge Deborah and her amazing wisdom, insight and brave actions. Which brings up the topic of women in the church and leadership. I am thankful for our denomination and their leadership within the Wesleyan Church. Our stance is one of empowering women and fulfilling their calling of God on their lives within and outside of the Church. Deborah is an example of the humble servant leadership that is so desperately needed in the church, even if she is a woman. This leads us into the kinda gruesome story of Jael killing Sisera. Despite that motives and drive behind the action, God uses this situation for His glory and the freedom of the Israelite people. Such a great reminder of the sovereignty of our Almighty God. That no matter what is happening around us and the people that are playing into a given situation. God is still in control and directing everything that is happening. We live in a world right now that is out of control. 2020 has been one crazy year and 2021 is off to the same unbelievable start. Right now more than ever we need God to direct and lead us. Not like the Israelites that we read in Judges 17:6, “There was no king in Israel at that time; everyone did whatever they wanted.” This ultimately lead to a cycle of sin, oppression and pain. Thankful that God redeems them when they repent. But the only way to truly break this cycle is to do what is right in the eyes of God. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Continuing our new Book of Judges series, Pastors Chris & Lauren lead us through discussion questions based upon the strange, interesting and somewhat disgusting story of the Judge Ehud. Within this story are all of the key elements of the love, grace and power of our Almighty God. Who through this bizarre series of events, bring back peace to the Jewish nation for almost a century. During the series we are going to have a weekly reading plan to go through the entire book of Judges. Just 10-15 verses for 5 days at your pace during the week. Simple as that. You can download the Judges Reading Plan PDF right here. This is going to be a great journey for us. I truly believe that each and every week God has something that He specifically wants to share with you. That might be something inside of us that needs to change, a truth about God Himself, or an encouragement for there you find yourself in life. God wants to speak into your life today. So as we go through these questions after watching the video series from J.D. Greear, engage with the discussion, talk with a friend, journal your thoughts, come back to them during the week or text us! During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Jumping into a brand new series walking through the book of Judges. Yes, old-school, Old Testament book of the story of the Israelite people starting at the death of their fearless leader Joshua. Then running up to the point when the 3 big kings, Saul, David and Solomon come on the scene. This is a strange, gory, violent, painful time for the People of God. As we go through this book you still see a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, divine deliverance, and then peace. Shortly to have the Jewish people fall back into sin and it starts all over again. During the series we are going to have a weekly reading plan to go through the entire book of Judges. Just 10-15 verses for 5 days at your pace during the week. Simple as that. You can download the Judges Reading Plan PDF right here. This is going to be a great journey for us. I truly believe that each and every week God has something that He specifically wants to share with you. That might be something inside of us that needs to change, a truth about God Himself, or an encouragement for there you find yourself in life. God wants to speak into your life today. So as we go through these questions after watching the video series from J.D. Greear, engage with the discussion, talk with a friend, journal your thoughts, come back to them during the week or text us! During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Chris wraps up our Advent series with part 4 talking about the Love that came that very first Christmas. The love that came in the form of a new born baby child named Jesus. Almost all of the 4 gospels have some sort of birth oof Christ account. However, Matthew is the only Gospel to talk about some unexpected house guests that Jospeh, Mary and Jesus receive. These house guests were the Magi or Wise Men that has traveled a great length to come and visit. They presented gifts and worship Jesus Christ. The majority of manger scenes or displays and artwork depict the wise men. There that nightly at lowly stable where Mary gave birth. Sometimes it also has a camel or 3 extravagantly dressed men with gifts. This however was not the case. The wise men were not present at the birth. They came sometime later after they traveled somewhere around 2-3,000 miles to Bethlehem. Matthew chapter 2 record their journey to meet Jesus. And even though the traditional manager scene shows them present, I do like that they are there. They show represent how the love of Christ changes lives. Pastor Chris shares how the love of Christ changed the main characters in this scripture of Matthew chapter 2. These people also represent those in our world today. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Lauren shares this week with part 3 of our Advent series on Joy. 2020 has been rough and it’s can be hard to be joyful during trying seasons. The good news is that God is trustworthy – we can trust His ways. Mary and Jospeh had very different plans for their lives and marriage. But I believe, that even in their circumstance, they found joy. Although God’s actions were beyond human comprehension. Similarly, they may have faced misunderstanding and questioning looks from those around them. Mary and Joseph willingly followed God’s guidance. We sing about it (Joy to the World, the Lord is come), and think that it is an automatic reality at Christmas. Real joy comes from following God’s way. In reality, this season can be hard for many. And if we think about it, it was pretty hard for Mary and Joseph, too. The nativity we have in our mind is perfectly quiet animals that don’t stink in a barn. That it’s nicely lit by the glow of angels singing. We naturally think it was all comfort and joy, peace on earth. The nativity scene was in fact, messy, noisy, uncomfortable. Childbirth is never easy. it requires sacrifice and risk. But as a mom, it’s worth it. God’s way isn’t always easy because it also requires sacrifice and risk. But as someone who’s been there, its worth it, and that’s where true joys found – right in the middle of living in God’s will. We may try to manufacture happiness and joy, but it will only come to us as we go to God and His plans for our lives. We can try to manufacture it…experienced this myself recently. God cares for you, watches over you, and guides your steps.  Joseph came to the best decision of obedience and surrender to God’s plan and made his choice clear. Mary said May it be to me as you have said, and because of that they lived out the greatest story in human history. I imagine that brought some joy. Immanuel – God is with you. Regardless of the surrounding circumstances and feelings – sing:  “Joy to the World” knowing that Jesus has come to be with you each and every day – no matter what! No matter the risk, no matter the sacrifice, God’s ways are better, He always saves, and there is joy in His presence.  During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastor Chris shares Part 2 of our Advent Series on the PEACE that came that very first Christmas. How incredible was it that it first came to a group of unsuspecting shepherds. Who were just out on their night shift in the fields watching the flock of sheep. The greatest event in the history of the world has just occurred! The Messiah has been born! For ages the Jews had waited for his. When it finally happened, the announcement didn’t com from the Press Secretary at the Palace. It came through humble, lowly, smelly, uneducated, rough and tumble, blue collar, farm-workin Shepherds! The Good news about Jesus is that He comes to all types of people, with HIS message of Peace. He comes to the plain, the ordinary, and even the outcasts of society. HE comes to anyone with a heart humble enough to accept Him. In other worlds, whoever you are, whatever you do you can have a relationship with Jesus. Don’t think that you need extraordinary qualification, a certain amount of income, a specific level of education. Or a verification blue check-mark on your social media, celebrity status, or any minimum of achievements. Therefore, Jesus accepts you just as you are. As you participate from wherever you are right now. As we gather together even digitally online to celebrate the coming of Christ, let’s come looking for HIS good news of peace for you and for all! Pastor Chris shares 5 different things that Peace brings to us in the story of the Shepherds in Luke 2:8-20. Even though the announcement of Jesus’ birth was first brought to the shepherds, it was ultimately about bringing peace to all! How can you share the peace of Christ this Christmas? Because this peace should cause us to: Be transformed in our ordinary life, be whatever it is He is leading us to be and do. Additionally, be excited about who He is in our lives, witness to as many as possible with the good news of Jesus, and offer our praise to the Lord for coming for us that first Christmas. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Kicking off our Christmas Series, Pastor Chris shares part 1 on the HOPE of Advent! Merry Christmas TRC Family! It is that favorite time of the year once again. This year is going to look a lot different but we are still going to celebrate the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ! Christmas brings with it some of my favorite things: the decorations, the colder weather, giving gifts, cooking and the food! One of the best highlights of the season is going and getting the mail. Collecting the array of Christmas Cards and photos from friends and family near and far. With social media seeing photos of people has become a regular routine in our life. But there is still something special about a friend taking the intentional time to send you a card, sometimes with a family update or just some fun photos. We always take and collect those and hang them up each and every year in our house. Over 2000 years ago Mary received some angelic mail. The divine messenger was delivering an announcement from God Himself. While the message was troubling for Mary, the personal contact from Almighty God would have been a pretty significant highlight! The angel told Mary she was highly favored and that the Lord was with her. While we likely won’t receive a visit by an angel this Christmas season. That exact same message is still being offered to us today. Christmas came once through the Virgin Mary, but He came for all AND He came as Immanuel God with us! Luke chapter 1 verses 26 thru 28 accounts the message the Angel Gabriel brought to Mary. We too are remind and encouraged as believers that Jesus is with us. There is no greater comfort for Mary, Joseph or us. Even though we may have trouble and are fearful, we must always remember the reality that Immanuel is born. Truly, the Lord is with us. Lets dive in and take a look at 5 different HOPES that we share in this amazing news of the coming Messiah that first Christmas years ago. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

November is that time of the year when we think about being thankful. This is natural as we celebrate Thanksgiving in this month. But 2020 has definitely been an interesting year and like most people, it can be hard to be thankful for this one crazy year. This has personally been my story. Finding things to be grateful for has been a struggle. Our lives having been turned up-side-down and are not the same they once were. So in my journey to find scripture on thankfulness I found some very interesting things. Whether it was in the many verses on thanksgiving in Psalms, or it was from the NT in Luke or 2nd Corinthians, or Philippians, or Colossians, 1st Timothy or Hebrews; there was one similar thing. The thankfulness recorded in scripture was not from themselves. It was not from something that they had, it was not something they had attained, it was not something that they had personally done. The source of all thankfulness being centered around the Lord Almighty, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. And this got me thinking. How many times in life have we tried to respond to what is happening with gratitude? I know for me I have done gratitude journals, gratitude challenges for the month of November, writing down or sharing something I am thankful for at the dinner table for thanksgiving meal, and many other activities surrounding the Thanksgiving Holiday. But I have always been focused on things, gifts, blessings, relationships, etc. When you look at scripture, gratitude and thanksgiving given to God just because. Just for God being God. Nothing attached to it. Nothing received. Just because of who God is. Journey alone as we take this perspective into some of the most popular thanksgiving scripture from 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Philippians 4:6-7. You might be surprised and even more grateful this Thanksgiving season. During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastors Lauren and Chris wrap up our Gospel of Mark series with part 11 focusing on the final 2 chapters in Mark. In these chapters we see the account of Jesus being taken down from the cross and buried and in the tomb for 3 days. And just when all hope seemed to be lost, both of the Marys go to visit the tomb but Jesus is not there! Jesus has risen from the dead! The Angel in the tomb tells them, Jesus is not here. He is alive! What incredible news! Here is what I want us to focus on the truth that Jesus defeated the undefeated up to that point. There was nothing that could stop people from dying. Death was 100% permanent and final until Jesus. Our biggest problem, for some biggest fear, the un-controlable, was done away with. Christ died and came back! Really think about that for a moment. Some of us, just kinda move past that to the account of the Ladies at the tomb, His appearing on the beach cooking breakfast for the disciples, Hie appearance to Thomas who doubted (justifiably so). But take a step back and think about the truth that Jesus was dead (100% confirmed) prepared for burial, placed in the tomb, stone rolled over the entrance, and 3 days later, He wasn’t there, His clothing was, the Stone was moved, He was ALIVE! That is the God that I serve. That is the same God who calls me HIS. It is the same Jesus who went through all of that for you! For you to have the opportunity to have a relationship with the Heavenly Father. When I begin to have that perspective, to write that into my story, to, as scripture says, live in that same power that raised Christ from the dead, that changes EVERYTHING! If it doesn’t for you, go back and read the book of Mark! It SHOULD change everything! When we learn of this ultimate act of Love from Jesus, we are not the same. Everyone of us has been given amazing gifts (birthday, anniversary, Christmas, graduation, wedding, promotion, retirement) that were pretty awesome. We were different after receiving them. And that pales in comparison to the gift from Jesus on the cross! So where do you go from here?. How is your view point in life going to be different because of this study in Mark? Maybe you know right now with my asking those questions. Maybe you don’t and that is alright, but what are you going to do? Take some time this week and sit down and write out some new understandings or change that you know you need to make in your life in light of what you have learned in this series. Question #1: What does Peter’s story tell you about Christ’s capacity to forgive and restore? Have you ever believed that something you’ve done, thought, or said might be too much for Jesus to forgive? Question #2: What promises have you seen God keep in your life? How can this story encourage your faith that God has not forgotten you? Question #3: How do you express your faith on a daily basis? What habits and values do you live out? Question #4: Jesus openly admitted that following him would not be an easy endeavor. How have you found that to be true? Takeaway Question: What has been the top thing that you have learned from this study in Mark? How would you answer the question, “Is following Jesus worth it?” During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

With the second to last part of our Gospel of Mark Series, Pastors Chris and Lauren lead us through discussion questions focused on the Christ journey to the cross and ultimately His death for all of humanity. This part of Mark and specifically chapters 14 and 15 are focused on the final moment of Christ before His death. We are officially in the heart of Passion Week. Starting in the scene recorded in Mark 14 of what we know as the Last Supper in the Upper Room. You might have heard it known or called Maundy Thursday; just a few hours or so before Jesus would be betrayed by Judas and arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. Which then would lead into Jesus going before various governmental leaders. And ultimately be beaten, flogged, mocked, denied, forced to carry His own cross and crucified. So as we go through this scripture and teaching and questions. You are hearing and reading of the final moments of Jesus up to the fulfillment of His entire mission and purpose for coming to earth. This was the whole point of Jesus coming. Jesus was the gift from God, the fulfilled promise of the restoration of all of humanity. The ultimate sacrifice to put away all other temporary temple sacrifices. I cannot even begin to imagine what is going through Jesus mind. We see a glimpse of the turmoil and inner struggle in the Garden when Jesus is praying in Mark 14:36, “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” God is there is any other way to do this, please??But if not, I understand. Your will, Your plan, not my own. Wow! Jesus knows what God’s plan is. One of immense pain in all aspects: physical, emotional, and spiritual. And at the same time, Christ knows what the outcome will bring. Hope, Grace, Mercy, Peace, and so much more! This is the reason that we do what we do. This is the culmination of everything. Our purpose as Christians. Our hope for eternity! The reason that we wake up in the morning and the reason we keep doing church online even when we cannot meet. Why we Love God and Love Others!  This is it! Jesus’ selfless, giving of Himself, willing sacrifice on the cross. Just let that sink in for a moment. And yet it all starts in the upper room with Jesus sitting down with those that he knows are going to turn their backs in Him. Loving them with a love that our minds cannot even comprehend. Question #1: What does it say about Jesus’s love for us that He wants to spend time with us? Despite the truth that He knows everything about us? Question #2: How does Jesus’s anguish in the garden, anticipating His coming suffering, help you identify with Christ more closely? Question #3: As you listened to Francis tell the story of the Last Supper, the events in Gethsemane, the journey to the cross and ultimately Christ’s death, what emotions surfaced in you toward Jesus? Question #4: What does Jesus’s title of Messiah mean for you? In what ways do you profit from his coming, all these years later?1 Takeaway Question: How have your eyes been opened to the greatness of the gospel message? How should we respond? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Continuing our Gospel of Mark series with Part 9, Pastors Lauren and Chris share about Mark chapters 11, 12 & 13. It starts with Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey or what we know and understand as Palm Sunday that we celebrate the beginning of Passion week the Sunday before Easter. This is the final 3 months or so of Jesus being on Earth. During these last few moments on earth are Jesus’s death, His resurrection and His ascension into Heaven where Jesus is today. So from Jesus perspective this is it. These are some of the final moments that He is going to have with His disciples, with all of the followers and even with the Pharisees. We start seeing some final teachings from Jesus. He goes in a clears the Temple again. After doing it the first time as recorded in John chapter 2. Jesus teaches the disciples more about the power of prayer with the example of the fig tree. He teaches on integrity and money. Christ teaches about remaining watchful and His future and Jesus return. But right in the middle of chapter 12 we have this scene of the religious leaders and phrases trying to trick Jesus in verse 28. Mark 12:28-31, “One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Jesus right here outlines the greatest commandments in all of the bible. Specifically references from the Old Testament in Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. Which of both the religious leaders would have known from their study and education. And this is where we at TRC get our phrase that you heard often: Love God & Love Others. All of the law in the OT and the teachings of Jesus are summarized in these 5 words. But check how the religious teacher responds to what Jesus just said. Mark 12:32-34, “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.” The religious dude here is starting to get it. Jesus says you are so close to fully understanding. We don’t know what happens to this guy but what we do know right now is that even through he is close, he still is not fully there. But Jesus tells him, you are headed in the right direction. You get the OT law and the Love for God. You are understanding that the love for others is more than just religious acts. There must be action and heart behind the loving others. Salvation is not based upon intellectual knowledge alone. You must repent, Follow Jesus, and be made a new person by His Holy Spirit. And I think what Jesus is saying here with his response. Don’t settle for close. Don’t be content with almost there. Take the next step and make the “full, all-in” commitment to Jesus. Love God & Love Others! Question #1: Do you think there was anything wrong with the people hoping for a king that would come deliver them? If you were there, how do you think you would have reacted? Question #2: How does Jesus’s response to the widow’s miniscule offering reflect his perspective on power? What is he condemning? Question #3: Are we truly following Jesus? Or are we only Christians when it’s convenient? Question #4: Describe a time you have needed the right words to defend your faith. What happened? Takeaway Question: Are you ready for Jesus’s return? Are you living like he could return tomorrow? If not, why? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Jumping back into our Gospel of Mark series with Part 8, Pastors Lauren and Chris guide us through some great discussion questions. This section of Mark chapters 8 through 10 are really in the heart of Jesus’s ministry. It is a very intense and focused time for Christ. Jesus predicts his death 3 times while being interwoven with: healings, miracles, teachings, parables, and in the middle is this shocking event we in the church know as The Transfiguration. The Tranfiguration was where Jesus takes some of the disciples up on a mountain and a cloud appears and Jesus starts glowing crazy bright white and God speaks from Heaven. Jesus knowing that his time is getting less and less with the disciples and with the other people who are following Him. So Jesus is continuing to teach the disciples that His mission is not one of earthly power. However, the disciples up to this point at times have had glimpses of understanding why Jesus was here and who He was. But the majority of time we read that they are thinking of the hope of Jesus overthrowing the Roman empire and bringing their freedom. Francis chan is going to talk about this and specifically what Jesus is trying to teach them. This life of following Jesus is not about power and overthrowing the government. It is one of humility, denying ourselves, and suffering. Not really what the disciples probably had in mind. Question #1: What’s the real mission of the Christ? How does this contrast with what the disciples are expecting? Question #2: What challenge does Jesus lay down before his followers and the disciples? What might that look like practically? Question #3: What are James and John asking for What’s Jesus’s answer? Question #4: How does Jesus’s concept of greatness contrast with the world’s view? Takeaway Question: What’s the hardest aspect of discipleship for you? What presents the biggest challenge personally? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Pastors Lauren and Chris continue our Gospel of Mark series with part 7. This session covers a large section of scripture from Mark 6:30 all the way through Mark 8:30. And the biggest theme through these chapters is the continued grace that Jesus has for and with everyone. Wether is it the crowds and people who are gathering or even the disciples. It says in Mark 6:34, “When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.” The compassion that Jesus had for the people who would gather no matter where He traveled was incredible. Jesus truly loved them. No matter what was their reasoning for coming to see Him. Jesus knew they were lost, hurting, and in need of a Savior. Jesus also cared deeply for the disciples. It says in Mark 8:21, “And he said to them, ‘Do you not yet understand?'” For the majority of us that might sound kinda harsh, but Jesus follows that up by teaching them more. Walking through what He has been trying to explain again and again and again did not bother Jesus. Therefore, He truly wanted them to understand and learn about the mission that God had sent Him on. And even in the midst of this you can see small snippets of people who are just in the town and along the road and in the fields that have more faith than those who are closest to Jesus. By faith people are healed who come to Him. Jesus not only can heal by people touching his clothes. In addition, Jesus can also heal from a distance. The Syrophoenician Woman’s daughter faithfully healed just by her going and talking with Jesus. Daughter healed at home in bed not in the presence of Jesus. The deaf man is healed and the blind man at Bethsaida. However at the end in verse 29 of chapter 8, Peter finally gets it! Mark 8:29, “And he asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered him, ‘You are the Christ.'”Overall, I think the greatest thing that Jesus shows here is that He is not taken back by people’s lack of faith. This is something that He doesn’t go, “Pushhh, fine, then you don’t have faith, I won’t heal you.” He continues to teach them and show them. His power shines through in his grace for those He encounters. That is almost even more powerful than healing people. Sitting there with them in the midst of their lack of understanding and being willing to go through it all again. Question #1: What do you think the people eating the bread Jesus had just multiplied would have thought? In what ways have you been tempted to take God’s generosity for granted? Question #2: Why does Jesus rebuke the Pharisees in 7:5–13? In what ways are they hypocrites? Question #3: Have you added self-made “rules” that make you feel more holy, in your sight? In what ways have you added to the gospel, like the Pharisees did? Question #4: What “external” things are you blaming your sin on? What has to happen for you to allow Jesus to change your heart? Takeaway Question: In what ways do you feel you see Jesus more clearly now? How does this passage increase your understanding of him and his mission? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3

Jumping back into our Gospel of Mark series with Part 6, Pastors Lauren and Chris lead us through discussion questions after watching the Francis Chan teaching video. This section of Mark is an understating one. Jesus travels back to His hometown of Nazareth. However, after teaching in the local synagogue, the people begin to recognize Him. But not in a good, “welcome home” kind of way. More like, “This guy? Oh that is just Joseph and Mary’s boy. The carpenter. He cannot be anything more than just that.” Have you ever gone back to your hometown maybe after moving away for college or after getting married and relocating for a job? You hear all of the stories from old neighbors, people in the church, past teachers, friends, family. “Look it’s little _________. I remember when you were this tall.” Or it goes, “I remember when you were born.” Jesus must have been so discouraged. The scripture says, “He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.” (Mark 6:5-6) Then Jesus sends out the 12 disciples on a test run for evangelism and healing. They go out and teach, heal, cast our impure spirits and people respond in powerful ways. What a difference from Jesus who was not even welcomed home in his childhood neighborhood. That was probably such a proud papa moment for Jesus. To see these guys who He has been pouring time, energy, teaching and patience with finally get it. How incredible! But then word of John the Baptist’s death circulates. John has been imprisoned for teaching about Jesus and Herod had him locked up. This witness for Christ ultimately became the reason for his death. That must have been such a hard time for Jesus. His cousin who has less than 2 years earlier baptized Him in the Jordan river beginning Christ’s earthy ministry period. Sometimes we can read through the scriptures and think that the only bad day that Jesus had was when He was on the cross. But I don’t think that is entirely true. Jesus had bad days just like us. We can see that right here in Mark 6:1-29. A bit of an emotional rollercoaster going back home and not being welcomed, to His disciples finally getting it and witnessing to others and then the news of your family being killed for their faith in you. But Jesus kept going. There were days that Jesus hurt, that Jesus was sad, that Jesus lost family and friends. But this was the reason that Jesus came. To heal, to restore, to bring about salvation and Jesus knew the greater mission that God had sent him on. Was it going to be easy? Far from it. But was it going to be worth it? Absolutely! Question #1: Think about your own spiritual journey and possible objections you had (or maybe still do have) to Jesus. What response to Jesus would you expect someone to have today? Question #2: What role does repentance play in your life today? In what ways do you continue to repent in order to remain close to your Savior? Question #3: What does Mark 6:7–13 say to modern disciples? How can you practically live like the disciples did here by engaging in conversation with others? Question #4: Have you sacrificed something to follow Jesus? What does the cost of being Jesus’ disciple look like for you? Why is it worth the effort? Takeaway Question: How have you seen your faith grow in the past year? If not, why? During this time if you have any questions or areas of need where we can help, please contact us and let us know. You can call or text (916-641-1300) or email info@theriverchurch.net Also please let us know how we can be praying for you. You can always send us a prayer request or praise here or email Prayer@TheRiverChurch.net. You can also give online here or text (84321) to give. We are so grateful for your continued financial support allowing us to bring you church online even while we are physically not together. Sermon Audio Download Sermon mp3