Pastor Dave Bondeson continues the "Chosen Exiles" sermon series by examining the crucial role of elders in the church, based on 1 Peter 5:1-5. He explains that elders are called to lead the congregation towards purity, always grounded in grace and modeling the life of Jesus. The sermon explores how this leadership functions practically at Woodlands Church, emphasizing the importance of humility, dependence on the Holy Spirit, and unity among the elders. Through prayer, study, and discussion the elders seek to discern God's leading and direction for the church, with the congregation affirming God's direction. The staff then organize and lead ministry, which is carried out by the congregation. This message provides valuable insights into church leadership and its impact on the spiritual growth of the entire church body.

Pastor Jon Ewton continues the "Chosen Exiles" series with a message about practical Christian living from 1 Peter 4:7-11. He unpacks the meaning of "the end of all things is at hand" and how that should impact our daily lives. The sermon centers on the command to love one another earnestly above all else. Pastor Ewton explains that this love covers a multitude of sins and transforms how we interact with each other and the world. He also discusses the importance of showing hospitality without grumbling and using the unique gifts God has given each of us to serve others and steward God's grace. Ultimately, our service and our lives should be directed toward God's glory.

Pastor Jon Ewton's sermon "For the Will of God" in the "Chosen Exiles" series explores 1 Peter 4:8-11. Key takeaways include loving one another earnestly, the significance of baptism as an expression of inner transformation, and adopting the mind of Christ to prioritize God’s will over personal desires. Believers are encouraged to leave behind past sinful behaviors and live righteously despite possible persecution. Emphasizing that faith must be actively practiced, this profound message invites us to truly embody the teachings of Christ.

Pastor Jon Ewton unpacks 1 Peter 3:8-20, offering practical guidance for living as "chosen exiles." The sermon emphasizes cultivating unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind within the church. Listeners are challenged to bless those who revile them and to live lives that reflect the Gospel in their daily interactions. Pastor Jon also stresses the importance of being prepared to articulate the hope they have in Christ Jesus with gentleness and respect, as well as to follow Christ's example of suffering. He approaches the difficult passage in 1 Peter 3:19-20 with humility, providing insight into studying challenging passages of the Bible.

Join Pastor Jon Ewton this Easter at Woodlands Church as he dives into the vital importance of authenticity in our faith. Through the stories of the thief on the cross, doubting Thomas, and Mary Magdalene, Pastor Jon demonstrates how Jesus welcomed real, flawed individuals into relationship with Him.

This message challenges us to discard the "fake" personas we often present and instead embrace honesty about our struggles: our sin, our doubts, and our pain. True freedom and healing are found not in pretending, but in coming to Jesus exactly as we are. Learn how to cultivate genuine connection with Christ and experience the transformative power of the resurrection in your own life.

Pastor Dave Bondeson unpacks the meaning of Jesus' crucifixion in the third installment of our "One Day" Easter series. This message delves into the emotions of those who witnessed the crucifixion, the weight of Jesus being rejected and forsaken, and the ultimate victory won through His sacrifice.

Discover the four essential realities of the cross: Jesus was rejected, Jesus was forsaken, the work of Jesus is finished, and Jesus was faithful. Learn how the cross saves us, gives us confidence, provides a model for living, and restores us to relationship with God. This sermon offers a deeper understanding of the cross and its enduring impact on our lives.

In the second sermon of our Easter series, "One Day," Pastor Dave Bondeson examines the significance of the Garden of Gethsemane. He draws a powerful connection between Gethsemane and the Garden of Eden, revealing how both gardens serve as poignant reminders of humanity's tendency towards failure and betrayal.

Pastor Dave explores the failures of Adam, Judas, and the disciples Peter, James, and John, and he contrasts this with the unwavering faithfulness of Jesus, who, despite facing immense anguish, submitted to God's will. This sermon offers a message of hope and redemption, reminding us that through Jesus's sacrifice and resurrection, our failures are overcome, and we are invited into a restored relationship with God.

Referencing Hebrews 10, this message looks forward to the ultimate "One Day" of Jesus's return and the restoration of all things, and the invitation to encourage one another as we await his return.