Throughout Scripture, the metaphor of trees runs strong. We are told to be "like a tree planted by streams of water" and Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the farmer. Every branch in me that doesn’t bear fruit, he takes away. Every branch that bears fruit, he prunes, that it may bear more fruit." We'll be walking through the book of Ephesians looking at what it means to be "rooted and grounded in love." Join us today as we start the journey in Ephesians 1.1-2!

Discover how God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. This message explores the powerful story of Peter and John in Acts 4, who despite being 'uneducated and untrained men,' boldly proclaimed Jesus and saw 5,000 people come to faith. Learn what it means to chase God's dream by believing bigger than what seems possible, doing greater things than we could accomplish alone, and trusting further than our comfort allows. Understand how the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to have extraordinary impact, just as He transformed Peter from someone who denied Jesus to someone who boldly proclaimed Him before the authorities. Explore the reality that approximately 3 billion people worldwide still have no access to the gospel, and discover how God wants to use you right where you are to reach those in your spheres of influence. This teaching unpacks how a city is transformed not by one person or church, but by each believer doing what God made them to do where they are. If you're questioning your adequacy or calling, this message offers the encouraging truth that you are enough—not because of your abilities, but because of God's power working through your obedience.

Continuing our sermon series looking at our core values and vision:Following Jesus means embracing His mission to make disciples of all nations. This mission flows from Jesus' complete authority over heaven and earth, earned through His death and resurrection. As disciples, we're called to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach others to obey Jesus' commands. This isn't optional—it's central to our identity as followers of Christ. We fulfill this mission both by speaking the gospel with our words and demonstrating it through our actions, reaching out to everyone in our sphere of influence without exception.

The story of building the tabernacle in Exodus 35 reveals profound truths about biblical giving that transcend mere financial contributions. When Moses invited the Israelites to participate in constructing God's dwelling place, he emphasized the importance of giving from a willing heart rather than out of obligation or external pressure. This stands in stark contrast to religious manipulation, highlighting how true giving flows from genuine devotion and gratitude to God.The Israelites' response demonstrated the multifaceted nature of giving, as people contributed their skills, raw materials, time, leadership abilities, and artistic talents. This collaborative effort created a sense of ownership and unity within the community. The giving was so abundant that Moses eventually had to ask the people to stop - a powerful testament to what happens when giving is motivated by authentic worship and thanksgiving.This biblical account teaches that everyone has something valuable to contribute based on their unique gifts and resources. When people give generously from transformed hearts, it not only meets practical needs but also builds community and advances God's kingdom work. The principles demonstrated here continue to guide how we should approach giving today - with cheerfulness, gratitude, and a willingness to offer whatever God has equipped us to give.

Continuing our Centrality series, today we look at John 13. Jesus demonstrated the ultimate example of servant leadership during the Passover feast by washing His disciples' feet - a task considered beneath even slaves. This radical act revealed that authentic leadership flows from God's character and is demonstrated through humble service rather than position or status. Even Judas received this act of service, illustrating the boundless nature of Jesus' love. Being transformed into Christ's image requires maintaining a constant focus on Jesus, developing an attachment to His ways, and allowing His character to shape our actions. This journey involves both the one-time act of salvation and the ongoing process of sanctification. True service emerges naturally as we grow closer to Jesus, manifesting in practical actions like taking on menial tasks without recognition, serving in community outreach, and supporting ministries that help vulnerable populations. The challenge for believers is to identify areas where pride prevents service, actively seek opportunities to serve without recognition, and willingly take on tasks others might consider beneath them. This path of servant leadership isn't about the tasks themselves but about being shaped into Christ's image through humble obedience.

Growing to look like Jesus is the essence of true discipleship. When Christ enters our hearts through faith, He begins a transformative remodeling process that affects every area of our lives. This transformation develops His character within us - grace, compassion, patience, faithful love. Being rooted in God's love enables us to understand His deep love for us and empowers us to love others in the same way. This complete transformation requires giving Jesus access to every part of our lives, resulting in visible representations of His character to the world.

Grow like Jesus. The world needs to see Him through you!

This week marks the start of a new series examining the core values, focus, and vision that fuels EDFBC. It all starts with "Jesus First."

The supremacy of Christ demands that He be central in every aspect of life. As the image of God and creator of all things, Jesus holds authority over all creation and sustains everything through His power. When He takes His rightful place at the center of our lives, our values and actions align properly, leading to genuine transformation and positive impact on others. This alignment requires regular evaluation of priorities, intentional time with God, and practical steps to ensure Jesus remains preeminent in all areas of life.

When Jesus spoke His final words on the cross, 'It is finished,' He was declaring the completion of God's divine plan for humanity's redemption. The Greek word 'tetelestai' carried significant meaning in ancient culture, often used to mark completed tasks, ended military service, or fully paid debts. Through His sacrifice, Jesus fulfilled three crucial aspects: complete obedience to the Father's plan, full revelation of God's heart for humanity, and total redemption from sin and death. This wasn't a partial victory - it was absolute and final! Understanding the completeness of Jesus' work transforms our relationship with God. We no longer need to strive to earn our salvation or approach God through religious rituals. Instead, we can live in the freedom of Christ's finished work, accessing His resurrection power in our daily lives. This truth challenges us to stop trying to earn God's favor through our own efforts and instead trust fully in what Jesus has already accomplished!