Avenue Church

Open Hands Part 4: Giving as Worship

Let'd de-compartmentalize our worship. Deuteronomy tells us to bring "everything" to the temple. Paul echoes that we are to offer our entire life to God as a living sacrifice in an act of worship. We should see our opportunities to give as an opportunity to worship. What we worship determines what we hold onto the tightest and what has the tightest hold on us. 

Open Hands Pt 3: Giving Generously

In the New Testament, most giving is regarded as generosity. In 2nd Corinthians 8 and 9, Paul challenges the church to excel in the ministry of generous giving. He points to the "poor Macedonians" as an example of generosity. If we are not careful, we will see our generosity fueled by the amount we can safely give and the reward we seek. But generosity is best driven by a joyful attitude and a step of faith. 

Open Hands Pt 2: Giving Faithfully (Are we still obligated to tithe as Christians?)

Are New Testament Christians obligated to give tithes? Before it was a law to follow, tithes were given as an act of faith and in response to God's goodness. Jesus affirmed the tithe but emphasized the heart. It's not really about money but about our hearts. Today, giving is a way to show that we are placing God first in our finances. 

Open Hands Pt 1: Entrusted with all

Everything belongs to the Lord. He has entrusted us with everything we have. He is our source and supply. Do we put it to good use or spend and bury it out of selfishness and fear? The amount we have and the actions we take in faithfulness reflect our hearts and test our trust. Let's accept the challenge of using what we've been given well. 

Frequency Pt 4: Lord is that you?

Many voices are speaking to us. How do we know it's the voice of the Shepherd and not my voice, something I heard somewhere else, or even worse...the enemy's voice? Take time to listen and test what you hear against scripture. Ultimately, you will know it is the voice of the Good Shepherd if it leads you closer to him, even in the midst of a storm. 

Vision Sunday 2025: Make it plain

As we celebrate Avenue Church's fourth anniversary, we want to ensure we are clear on our mission. The reason we exist is more important than what we do. 

We want to help you know and follow Jesus, in community for a transformed life. 

Frequency Pt 2: Cut through the Noise

Sometimes, the hustle and bustle of life can make it tricky to hear God's voice. Yet, He is always communicating with us, whether through Scripture or other gentle reminders. His voice often comes as a gentle whisper, inviting us to listen closely. This week, we'll explore ways to tune out the noise and truly hear God's whispers in our hearts. 

Frequency Pt 1: Speak Lord, Your Servant is Listening.

Learning to listen to God's voice is our most significant ability as believers. It's simple but not always easy. We'll learn from Samuel, the last judge of Israel, how he grew in listening to and following God's voice. 

Surprise Part 4: A life expecting God's grace and goodness

Mary and Joseph dedicated Jesus at the temple, where Simeon and Anna offered prophecy and encouragement. Their faith in God's promises and dedication to spending time at the temple are examples of living expectantly. 

Surprise Pt 3: An Unexpected Invitation

Two groups, the magi and the shepherds, from polar opposite ends of society, found themselves at the young savior's feet. The invitations were different. But the response was the same. They worshiped!