August 17, 2017 by 2 comments
So What Is the Alt-Right?
Jacob Phillips on the alt-right, white panic and the ways in which we subtly affirm our cultural values as preferential to others. ...Keep Reading
logo
10:30am Sunday Service
Sun Blaze Elementary School
Posts tagged with Redeemer Church at Lake Nona
June 12, 2017 by 1 comments
Workplace Shootings, Terror, and Overcoming Evil
Jake Phillips wrote a few words on the recent shooting here in Central Florida and acts of terror across the ocean. Both raise an age-old question: how do we respond -- and how should we think -- when faced with such evil?...Keep Reading
March 27, 2017 by 0 comments
Should Pro-Life Christians Be Concerned By Gorsuch's Roe v. Wade Answer?
Jake Phillips analyzes Judge Gorsuch's answer regarding Roe v. Wade, and whether it should give pro-lifers cause for concern. ...Keep Reading
November 8, 2016 0 comments
Being a "First-Responder" Church
Sheree Phillips with a follow-up post on how to be a "first-responder" church...Keep Reading
November 7, 2016 2 comments
Being a "First-Responder" Christian
Sheree Phillips explains what it means to be a "First-Responder" Christian, and why it should be a goal of all of ours. ...Keep Reading
November 1, 2016 by 0 comments
And Soon the Light Shall Come
Yesterday was All Hallows' Eve. Today is All Saints Day. But soon comes Advent. ...Keep Reading
October 26, 2016 by 0 comments
How Can Systemic Racism Be a Problem When So Many African-Americans Are Successful?
Jacob Phillips on why the success of individual African-Americans or Christians doesn't disprove allegations of systemic racism or bias against Christianity. ...Keep Reading
October 25, 2016 2 comments
In Defense of "I Kissed Dating Goodbye"
Joey Phillips reevaluates "I Kissed Dating Goodbye." It's better than he remembered. ...Keep Reading
October 20, 2016 1 comments
Boring Obedience
Sheree Phillips on how being faithful and obedience can seem boring or ordinary ...Keep Reading
October 5, 2016 0 comments
Apply the Word: This Isn't the Christ You're Looking For
In the latest Apply the Word, Alex recaps and draws application from Benny's sermon on John 6, the latest in our Visible Glory series. ...Keep Reading
September 8, 2016 0 comments
The Importance of Faith
Dave Pearce contributes a post about the importance of practical, active faith in God....Keep Reading
September 6, 2016 0 comments
Apply the Word: Reflecting the Visible Glory
Our latest Apply the Word reviews the first sermon from our new series on the Gospel of John, Visible Glory...Keep Reading
August 29, 2016 0 comments
Apply the Word: The Shepherd Leads
Alex writes the latest in our "Apply the Word" series, reviewing Joey's message on Psalm 23....Keep Reading
August 23, 2016 0 comments
Atonement Theory Week: Penal Substitution
Joey wraps up our "Atonement Theory Week" by looking at penal substitution ...Keep Reading
August 22, 2016 0 comments
Apply the Word: 3 Reasons to Pursue God
Alex Thermenos with the latest in our Apply the Word series, writing about three reasons we should pursue God. ...Keep Reading
August 18, 2016 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
Atonement Theory Week: Recapitulation (Part 2)
Ryan McLaughlin with Part 2 of the Recapitulation theory of the atonement...Keep Reading
August 17, 2016 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
Atonement Theory Week: Recapitulation (Part 1)
Ryan McLaughlin writes about the second theory we are highlighting in our Atonement Theory Week: recapitulation. ...Keep Reading
August 16, 2016 by 0 comments
Atonement Theory Week: Christus Victor
Jacob Phillips beings our "Atonement Theory Week" by look at the Patristic theory, i.e. "Christus Victor"...Keep Reading
July 25, 2016 1 comments
Sermon Notes: Application from Psalm 46
What are some points of application we can draw from the sermon on Psalm 46? Alex has some suggestions. ...Keep Reading
July 6, 2016 by Benny Phillips 0 comments
Statement on Alton Sterling's Death
Our statement on the death of Alton Sterling. ...Keep Reading
June 30, 2016 by 0 comments
The Future of Abortion
Jake Phillips writes about the recent Supreme Court decision and the future of abortion and the pro-life movement. ...Keep Reading
June 13, 2016 by Benny Phillips 0 comments
Statement Regarding the Terror Attack at The Pulse
Here is our church's statement regarding the terror attack at The Pulse. 12...Keep Reading
May 6, 2016 0 comments
The Problem With the "God's Not Dead" Films
Jake Phillips talks about the "God's Not Dead" franchise and why it's problematic. ...Keep Reading
May 5, 2016 0 comments
When Mother's Day Just Isn't Happy
Sheree Phillips takes a look at when holidays that are happy for so many bring pain and heartache to others....Keep Reading
March 30, 2016 by Taraleigh Davis 0 comments
The Word
Here is the lyrics to the spoken word that Jake Phillips delivered on Easter Sunday...Keep Reading
March 25, 2016 0 comments
What the Movie 'Warrior' Teaches Us About Good Friday
Jake Phillips writes about Good Friday and the movie "Warrior"...Keep Reading
March 22, 2016 0 comments
Pray for Brussels
Our statement on the Belgium attacks today in Brussels ...Keep Reading
March 17, 2016 3 comments
The Best Sovereign Grace Album Yet
Joey Phillips reviews the latest album, a kids album, from Sovereign Grace Music ...Keep Reading
March 7, 2016 0 comments
Thank You, Dr. Jerry Bridges
Our statement on the passing of Dr. Jerry Bridges...Keep Reading
March 1, 2016 3 comments
The Problem With "Make America Great Again"
Jake Phillips takes issue with the "Make America Great Again" slogan...Keep Reading
February 24, 2016 by Janelle Garrett 6 comments
Social Media and the Jealous Heart
Janelle Garrett writes about jealousy and the lens by which we filter social media. ...Keep Reading
February 23, 2016 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
When Music Led to Crime: My Neighbor's Story
Janelle Garrett tells the story of one of her neighbors, and what it can teach us about music, discernment and the heart...Keep Reading
January 28, 2016 0 comments
The Gathering: Q&A With Bob Kauflin
Jake Phillips asked Bob Kauflin a few questions in anticipation of The Gathering....Keep Reading
January 19, 2016 0 comments
Discussing the Benedict Option, Sort Of: Part 2
Part 2 of a discussion about the Benedict Option......Keep Reading
January 14, 2016 0 comments
Discussing the Benedict Option, Sort Of: Part 1
Jake Phillips and Ryan McLaughlin discuss the theory and practical application of the so-called "Benedict Option." ...Keep Reading
January 7, 2016 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
Anything Worth Repeating is Worth Repeating: An Orthodox Apologia for Star Wars
Our latest Friends of Redeemer post comes from Ryan McLaughlin, who offers an Eastern Orthodox defense of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens...Keep Reading
January 6, 2016 0 comments
John Piper, Guns and Motives (Part 2)
Part 2 of Joey's article about John Piper, guns and lethal self-defense...Keep Reading
January 4, 2016 0 comments
John Piper, Guns, and Motives
It is a temptation within American evangelicalism to conflate cultural and political values with biblical teaching. John Piper might be right about guns and self-defense, or he might be wrong. Either way, we can learn from him how to approach our own values based on the Bible rather than only the Constitution....Keep Reading
December 23, 2015 0 comments
Advent: God Is Not Dead, Nor Does He Sleep
What can a 19th century poet teach us about the meaning of the Advent season?...Keep Reading
December 2, 2015 3 comments
When, If Ever, Should We Call Abortion "Murder"?
There's a recent debate in evangelicalism about when, if ever, to call abortion "murder." Jake Phillips weighs in. ...Keep Reading
November 20, 2015 0 comments
"I Didn't Say That!": How Metacommunication Messes With Relationships (Part 2)
Sheree Phillips with the second part of her series on Metacommunication and relationships...Keep Reading
November 19, 2015 0 comments
The Christian Case for Accepting Refugees
Joey Phillips writes about the current refugee status, and why he thinks we should welcome as many as practicable ...Keep Reading
November 16, 2015 0 comments
Pray for France. Pray for Lebanon.
Jake Phillips writes about how we shouldn't feel inadequate about posting our solidarity with France on social media. We should do the same for Lebanon. ...Keep Reading
November 12, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
The Perfect Brain
Bob Putman analyzes The Brain with David Eagleman, a PBS production, and how it both wildly misses the point, but also demonstrates the glory and power of God. ...Keep Reading
November 11, 2015 1 comments
"I Didn't Say That!": How Metacommunication Messes With Relationships (Part 1)
What is metacommunication? And how does it impact our relationships? Sheree Phillips is spending a 5-part series exploring the concept and how it impacts our lives....Keep Reading
October 14, 2015 0 comments
Redeemer Church Is On the Move!
Redeemer Church at Lake Nona is moving to Sun Blaze Elementary School! ...Keep Reading
September 18, 2015 0 comments
How Do You Solve a Problem Like Kim Davis?
Jake Phillips argues that the issues surrounding Kim Davis are not hard to resolve. What might be more difficult, though, is handling an actual issue of civil disobedience. ...Keep Reading
September 16, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Responding to the Syrian Refugee Crisis
Janelle Garrett explains why she's disturbed by some of the responses to the Syrian refugee crisis. ...Keep Reading
August 26, 2015 0 comments
Real Life Faith When Real Life Hurts
If we walk in close proximity to others, we will be hurt. And we will hurt them. But we don't have to give up or resort to bitterness, because we can extend and be shown mercy that flows from the cross....Keep Reading
August 25, 2015 2 comments
Hands Up, Don't Crush
The seventh Planned Parenthood video was released last week. Break the arm of the wicked, oh Lord. ...Keep Reading
August 20, 2015 0 comments
Carl Trueman, the Psalms, and Keepin' It Real
Is our worship service and the songs we sing only appropriate for comfortable, middle-class Christians? Or is it also appropriate for the dispossessed, sad and broken among us?...Keep Reading
August 18, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
What If?
Janelle Garrett asks what would have happened if some of the most influential people in history had never lived? What if abortion had always been legal?...Keep Reading
August 7, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Enough
Jesus' sacrifice was enough to defeat our sin. When will the wicked have prospered for long enough? When will we see the Rider on the White Horse?...Keep Reading
August 6, 2015 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
Transgenderism and Transfiguration
Ryan McLaughlin writes about the transfiguration and the soteriological essence of all of our stories, fictional or otherwise, including that of Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner. ...Keep Reading
July 15, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Responding to the Call: Part 2
Bob Putman recaps the concluding message in our series "Sermon on the Mount: Kingdom Living in a Fallen World."...Keep Reading
July 14, 2015 1 comments
Feminism and the Stay-at-Home Mom
Sheree Phillips explains living through the rise of second-wave feminism, and how her choices were not a total rejection of its values. ...Keep Reading
July 3, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 1 comments
Anxiety and the Kingdom of God
Janelle Garrett writes about anxiety, the kingdom of God, and running to Jesus....Keep Reading
July 1, 2015 0 comments
Gay Marriage and Racism
Jake Phillips discusses gay marriage, racism, and the things we choose to talk about....Keep Reading
June 30, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Racism and Perspective
Janelle Garrett writes about how we attack the cultural problem of racism -- by listening and examining our own hearts....Keep Reading
June 26, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 7 comments
The Racist in the Mirror
Janelle Garrett writes about searching our own hearts, and being honest about what we find....Keep Reading
June 22, 2015 2 comments
Responding to the Charleston Terrorist Attack
After one of the worst racial attacks in American history, how will we respond?...Keep Reading
May 14, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Identity Trumps Motherhood: Sermon Recap
Bob Putman reviews Benny's sermon from this past Sunday about motherhood and identity. How God sees us is infinitely more important than how anyone else sees us, including ourselves. ...Keep Reading
May 13, 2015 0 comments
Christian Ethics and For-Profit Prisons: Fiduciary Duties
Jake Phillips writes about for-profit prisons and the problem of fiduciary duties. ...Keep Reading
May 10, 2015 by Benny Phillips 0 comments
Kingdom Living: Let Your Word Be Your Bond
What did Jesus mean when He said "let your yes be yes and your no be no?" What should we think about oaths, truth-telling, swearing, lies, and the differences and distinctions between them?...Keep Reading
May 6, 2015 0 comments
Christian Ethics and For-Profit Prisons: Let's Start With Some Facts
Jake starts the first of a couple of posts about Christian ethics and for-profit prisons by dispensing some facts....Keep Reading
May 4, 2015 by Benny Phillips 2 comments
Amillennialism and Kingdom Living
Benny Phillips explains why he holds an amillennial perspective on eschatology, and how it influences the way we interpret Scripture more generally. ...Keep Reading
April 23, 2015 0 comments
Myths: Complementarians Always Get It Right
The latest in our "Compassionate Complementarianism" series: Sheree Phillips addresses the myth that complementarians always get theology right. ...Keep Reading
April 21, 2015 0 comments
TGC15 and a Controversial Day About Justice
The Gospel Coalition just finished their national conference; one of the days focused on the issue of justice. Here's what one of our church members recaps the day. ...Keep Reading
April 20, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Kingdom Righteousness: Matthew 5:17-20
A recap of our latest sermon in our Sermon on the Mount series, "Kingdom Living." What did Jesus mean when he said that came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it? ...Keep Reading
April 15, 2015 0 comments
Hope Through Our Tears: A Review of Sojourn's "New Again"
Jake Phillips reviews the latest album by Sojourn, entitled "New Again." ...Keep Reading
April 14, 2015 1 comments
TGC15 and an Embarrassment of Riches
Joey Phillips describes just one little gem he learned from listening to Dr. Tim Keller's opening address at TGC15. Thank God for godly, smart pastors, locally and globally. ...Keep Reading
April 12, 2015 0 comments
Trip Lee, Thabiti Anyabwile, and the Unity We Seek
Jake Phillips discusses the ERLC summit on racial reconciliation and the lectures delivered by Trip Lee and Thabiti Anyabwile. What type of unity is our goal? ...Keep Reading
April 8, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Paid in Full
Bob Putman reviews Benny's Easter sermon, where he recounted the righteousness credited to us based on the death and resurrection of our Lord. ...Keep Reading
April 7, 2015 0 comments
Thinking Through Indiana's RFRA
Indiana is the latest state to pass an RFRA law. They also recently amended the language of the law in response to public backlash. What does it all mean?...Keep Reading
April 3, 2015 by Taraleigh Davis 0 comments
When "Good Friday" Doesn't Seem Very Good
Taraleigh Davis on how to see the good despite the darkness, how to cling to the hope of the promise we've been given even when it seems like the enemy is winning. ...Keep Reading
April 2, 2015 by Kyle Davis 2 comments
Easter and the Story of Jesus: Sunday Service
Kyle Davis explains the story we will try to tell through worship this Easter Sunday, and how we plan to accomplish that purpose. ...Keep Reading
April 1, 2015 1 comments
Spy Wednesday, Repentance, and Faith
Jake Phillips discusses Spy Wednesday, what it means, and the lessons we can draw from the story of Judas Iscariot. ...Keep Reading
March 30, 2015 by Bob Putman 1 comments
The Blessing of Persecution
A recap of the latest sermon in our "Sermon on the Mount: Kingdom Living in a Fallen World" covering the topic of persecution. ...Keep Reading
March 24, 2015 5 comments
Compassionate Complementarianism: Myths and Misconceptions
Jake Phillips continues our series on Compassionate Complementarianism by analyzing some myths and misconceptions about what complementarianism actually is. ...Keep Reading
March 20, 2015 1 comments
In Memoriam: The House That Built Me
Losing the home that we grew up in, a place that we loved more than any other place on earth, reminds us that our true home is yet to come. ...Keep Reading
March 19, 2015 0 comments
The Problem of Evil
Joey Phillips discusses the problem of evil and how Christians should respond to this objection. It is the most difficult philosophical and apologetic problem we will face. And while the answer might not be satisfactory, it exists. ...Keep Reading
March 17, 2015 0 comments
Compassionate Complementarianism Part 1: Who Wants to Talk About Gender?
Sheree Phillips introduces our series entitled "Compassionate Complementarianism." What does it mean? What does it look like?...Keep Reading
March 16, 2015 by Joey and Jake Phillips 0 comments
Politics or Theology? Thinking About Immigration
Combining two older posts into one, Joey and Jake argue that immigration is a theological issue more than a political issue, which should inform the way we think about it. ...Keep Reading
March 13, 2015 0 comments
Radical Normalcy: A Review of "Fierce Convictions" by Karen Swallow Prior
Jake Phillips reviews the book "Fierce Convictions" by Karen Swallow Prior, which detailed the life of Hannah More, who helped fight to abolish the slave trade in England along with Wilberforce. ...Keep Reading
March 12, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Drowning, Park Slides and Evangelism
Janelle Garrett writes about what she learned regarding evangelism through a near-drowning experience and watching her son play at the park. Evangelism is possible because we aren't alone....Keep Reading
March 11, 2015 0 comments
A Life-Altering Souvenir
Sheree Phillips explains how a man from Haiti named Souvenir taught her again what it means to serve and love family. ...Keep Reading
March 9, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Mercy: The Disposition of the Kingdom of God
Bob Putnam reviews the latest sermon from our Sermon on the Mount series, "Kingdom Living in a Fallen World." This sermon covered the topic of mercy....Keep Reading
March 6, 2015 0 comments
Hunger, Thirst and Be Angry
Joey Phillips writes about our pursuit of corporate and personal righteousness, and how such pursuit is impossible without anger. ...Keep Reading
March 5, 2015 0 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 6: Biblicism
Jake Phillips writes part 6 of our "Gospel Substitutes" series, analyzing the issue of Biblicism. What happens when we reduce the Gospel to mastering Christian theology and/or biblical content?...Keep Reading
March 3, 2015 0 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 5: Socialism
Part 5 of our "Gospel Substitutes" series focuses on Socialism. Is sanctification the goal of our relationships and friendships? If not, there is a danger that we are succumbing to the temptation of a gospel substitute. ...Keep Reading
February 27, 2015 1 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 4: Legalism
Joey Phillips covers the fourth part of our "Gospel Substitutes" series. He covers the topic of legalism. Why is legalism still such a significant temptation for the church even after the apostle Paul covered the topic in such detail?...Keep Reading
February 26, 2015 0 comments
Highlights from the Blogosphere 3
We've rounded up some edifying, challenging and encouraging posts on a myriad of topics from around the blogosphere. We hope it's helpful...Keep Reading
February 25, 2015 0 comments
What TV Show "Girls" Got Wrong About Abortion and Why It Matters
The HBO show "Girls" covered the topic of abortion, and they got it wrong. But their portrayal of the issue is part of the shift in rhetoric by pro-choice advocates. How should the Church respond?...Keep Reading
February 24, 2015 2 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 3: Mysticism
Sheree Phillips writes the third part of our "Gospel Substitutes" series, tackling the subject of Mysticism. At what point does the God-given desire for a close and emotional relationship with Him become a sinful Gospel substitute? ...Keep Reading
February 23, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Strength Under Control: Blessed Are the Meek
Bob Putnam summarizes the latest sermon in our series on the Sermon on the Mount entitled "Kingdom Living in a Fallen World." What does it mean to be meek?...Keep Reading
February 20, 2015 0 comments
Highlights from the Blogosphere 2
We've rounded up some of the most helpful articles from around the web. ...Keep Reading
February 19, 2015 0 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 2: Activism
Jake Phillips writes the second part in our series entitled "Gospel Substitutes." Is there a danger that our participation in Christian causes can become a substitute for the core message of the Gospel?...Keep Reading
February 18, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Counterfeit Redemption
Pop culture often presents us with stories of false redemption. The antidote is to combat stories with stories, specifically the story of blood-bought redemption. ...Keep Reading
February 17, 2015 0 comments
Gospel Substitutes Part 1: Formalism
We are beginning a series on our blog entitled "Gospel Substitutes" where we will analyze how we are tempted to substitute certain modes of thinking (formalism, legalism, socialism etc.) for the Gospel. Sheree Phillips begins our series with a look at Formalism. ...Keep Reading
February 16, 2015 4 comments
ISIS and Social Media: What Do You Think?
How should we think through the brutal executions orchestrated by ISIS, and the way that the news of such attacks spreads through social media?...Keep Reading
February 12, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 2 comments
Demonstrating the Gospel Is Not Enough
Janelle Garrett shows why demonstrating the Gospel is important, but not sufficient. We must also use words. We must declare the Gospel even as we demonstrate the Gospel. ...Keep Reading
February 10, 2015 0 comments
Highlights From the Blogosphere
Jake Phillips rounds up some helpful links from around the blogosphere about religion, theology and culture....Keep Reading
February 10, 2015 0 comments
Laughter: A Pro-Life Prayer
Jake Phillips prays over the issue of abortion in our country. Lord, break our hearts for what breaks yours....Keep Reading
February 9, 2015 by Sarah Grace Pavelchak 4 comments
Prayer: A Personal Reflection
The latest in our off-again, on-again Friends of Redeemer series comes from Sarah Grace Pavelchak, who writes a personal reflection on what prayer means to her. ...Keep Reading
February 9, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
What Does It Mean to Be 'Poor in Spirit'? A Sermon Review
Bob Putnam reviews the sermon deliver by Benny Phillips entitled "Poor in Spirit." It is the first sermon from our "Sermon on the Mount: Kingdom Living in a Fallen World" series. What does it mean to be 'poor in spirit'? ...Keep Reading
February 6, 2015 2 comments
Kate, Leopold and the Apostle Paul
Sheree Phillips analyzes how technology has changed the way we communicate, for better or worse. How has technology enhanced our communication? And what lessons can we learn from Paul (and yes, Hugh Jackman) that should inform the way we communicate with all of the technological gadgets available to us?...Keep Reading
February 5, 2015 0 comments
The Digital Age and the Temptation of the Apple: A Sermon Review
Jake Phillips reviews Jesse Phillips' sermon from this past Sunday entitled "Unplugged: Vocation in the Digital Age." It was the last sermon in our "Unplugged: Finding Peace in the Digital Age" series....Keep Reading
February 4, 2015 0 comments
Relationships and the Potential for Misunderstanding
Sheree Phillips writes about relationships and the potential for misunderstanding. Like texting with a smart phone, miscommunication is inevitable. But relationships are worth the potential for misunderstanding....Keep Reading
February 3, 2015 0 comments
Modesty, Rape Culture, Pots and Kettles
Jake Phillips asks whether the modesty movement contributes to the rape culture. Does talking about modesty necessarily objectify women?...Keep Reading
February 2, 2015 by Janelle Garrett 1 comments
Spouses Make Terrible Gods
Janelle Garrett writes about idolatry and why our spouses make for terrible gods. Is your spouse (or children or friend) functioning as an idol? ...Keep Reading
January 30, 2015 0 comments
Useless Bonfires and the Enemy Within
Sheree Phillips tells the story of Paul and his useless bonfire. How do we mortify our temptations to worldliness? How do we find our contentment in Christ alone? What does it mean to abide in Christ?...Keep Reading
January 29, 2015 1 comments
Gay Marriage: What Will the Supreme Court Decide and How Can We Respond?
Jake Phillips writes about the different possible outcomes of the Supreme Court gay marriage case, and how we might respond as a church. Will our response be predominantly political, cultural or Gospel-centered?...Keep Reading
January 27, 2015 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Friendship in the Age of Friending: Sermon Review
Bob reviews Joey's sermon from this past Sunday, "Friendship in the Age of Friending." It's the latest in our series entitled "Unplugged: Peace in the Digital Age." Joey explored what it means to have true, biblical friendships and fellowship in the age of artificial connections. ...Keep Reading
January 23, 2015 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
A Tale of Two Rivers: Charlie Hedbo and the Baptism of Christ
Ryan McLaughlin writes about the Charlie Hedbo attacks and the baptism of Christ: a tale of two rivers. What can we learn, as Christians, from this devastating attack? Well, for one, as Ryan writes, we can remind ourselves of the futility of man's efforts to save himself and rid the world of evil. ...Keep Reading
January 22, 2015 by Eric Garrett 0 comments
Beyond Good Intentions
When we consider how to approach those who are struggling, I believe most of us would agree that our disposition is of utmost importance. How many of us can look back with regret on a conversation we've had with someone grieving a lost loved one, bemoaning a challenging circumstance at work or home, or even struggling with a besetting sin and see where we were short, quick to speak and slow to listen, or simply uninterested in the person's suffering at the time? I believe we understand that loving a sufferer necessitates genuinely caring about his or her heartfelt struggle in times of difficulty. But is that enough?...Keep Reading
January 7, 2015 0 comments
A New Young Friend and the Old, Old Story
If you’re like me sometimes it’s hard to know what the gospel really looks like in relationships. I actually used to think the gospel was something you spoke only to the lost who needed to hear how the sinless life, atoning death and glorious resurrection of Christ made a way for them to have a relationship with God, brings meaning to suffering and provides hope for the future. Then I heard men like Jerry Bridges and others talk about “preaching the gospel to myself every day” and I wrestled with what that meant....Keep Reading
December 31, 2014 0 comments
Chesterton and the Year in Review
Jake Phillips writes about why 2014 was such a bad year for American society, and what we can do about it. Should we view it, and the year to come, optimistically? Pessimistically? Some combination of the two? Jake argues that G.K. Chesterton shows a better way: we must simultaneously be irrational pessimists and irrational optimists....Keep Reading
December 31, 2014 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Obsessed with the Cross
Most people know what you’re obsessed with. It’s clear because you live devoted to you obsession. ...Keep Reading
December 21, 2014 0 comments
The Empathy of the Incarnation
We are posting the opening of Jesse's sermon today, "The Empathy of the Incarnation." It drew on recent events to set up the notion that the only way to achieve true peace with friend or foe is through empathy, perfectly modeled for us by He who did not count equality with God something to be grasped. ...Keep Reading
December 16, 2014 0 comments
Torture and Situational Ethics
This past week, Senate Democrats released a 6,000 page report about CIA tactics in the post-9/11 but pre-Obama world. It is colloquially known as the “torture report,†although it centers around what the CIA called “enhanced interrogation techniques,†which were approved by the Bush administration, funded by Congress, and considered legal by various federal judges. Many of those techniques, though, are also considered torture. The report brings up three questions. The first, which I will mostly ignore, is whether the report should have been released at all, and, if so, should it have been released while the United States is still at war with an enemy that is both at issue in the report and can be expected to use the report as fodder for retaliation and recruitment. Certainly it appears as if the report is an attempt by several senators to re-write history. If they are known as the senators that brought wide-ranging, unethical practices to light, then perhaps it will be forgotten that they were fully briefed on the techniques and provided funding to implement the techniques without notable objection. The second question is whether the “enhanced interrogation techniques†were in fact torture. For the sake of this post, I will assume that many of them are (partly because of course they are)....Keep Reading
December 9, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
Fire Burning
Janelle writes a poem about the hidden hatred in all of us, and what the solution is. ...Keep Reading
December 5, 2014 0 comments
What is Important This Christmas Part 2: To Incarnate Christ
I’m one of those crazy people who gets up early on Black Friday to shop. It’s a tradition my daughters and I have enjoyed for years. Frankly, I don’t buy much. For me it’s primarily a sentimental opportunity to spend time with my girls and have our yearly lunch at Olive Garden....Keep Reading
December 4, 2014 by Eric Garrett 1 comments
What is Important This Christmas Part 1: To Sit at Jesus Feet
Well here it is...the holiday season. The traffic's getting busier, the office seems a bit more cheery, and, I confess, I'm playing Christmas music most of the time I'm in my car (at least until a few days before Christmas after I've overindulged in it). I've gotta say that I love this time of year. I love that many of us consciously spend more time with those we love. I love that aside from retail businesses on Black Friday and Christmas Eve, in general people (by the common grace of God) seem to genuinely consider others more. And yes, I love the music that proclaims the glories of our Savior's birth! But the reality is that this season can also be an energy-draining, anxiety-producing vortex....Keep Reading
December 3, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
A Little Old Lady and the Fruit of Godly Sorrow
Recently I’ve been reminded several times of various situations, or particular patients I’ve taken care of, when I was a nurse. Maybe it’s because as a stay at home mom part of me misses my former job. Or perhaps it’s because these things had such an impact on me. I’ve written here about a particular patient who was diagnosed with cancer. I’ve also written here about watching a man die....Keep Reading
December 1, 2014 by Ryan McLaughlin 1 comments
It's the End of the Year (As We Know It)
Ryan McLaughlin writes about the theology of Advent and what the Christmas season is actually about. Advent is a reminder that we are both looking back to when the Messiah came, and looking forward to when He's coming again. ...Keep Reading
November 24, 2014 by Bob Putman 1 comments
Casting Out Legalism
Pastor Benny began his message on Sunday by saying these are difficult verses because of how radical Paul’s message was. The Galatian churches were being affected by “men from James,” the Jerusalem church that James led. The Judaizers, whom James did not agree with, were saying, it’s fine and important to become a Christian, and yes, Jesus is the Messiah. But to become a Christian you have to become a Jew under the law....Keep Reading
November 21, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
The Day I Watched a Man Die
I watched a man die once. It was not an experience I’ve ever wanted to repeat again. He was a quiet, pleasant patient whom I had taken care of a few times since he had been placed within our unit. That day, my friend was his nurse. She called me in to come help her, stating he was having difficulty breathing. Sure enough, he was in his recliner gasping for breath. As she ran to grab non-rebreather mask (a step up from your typical 02 mask), things went downhill quickly. I didn’t have enough time to even call another nurse into the room with me before I knew I had to call a code. Thankfully, a physical therapy assistant was in the room with me, and helped me lift him onto the bed so I could start CPR. ...Keep Reading
November 19, 2014 4 comments
My Little Bit of Scripture Surprise
This past Monday started out pretty gloomy. I had trouble sleeping the night before, partly because aging brings sleeping issues and, yeah, I’m in “that season” of life when sleeping is typically challenging. But my restlessness was also related to some weighty concerns I’ve been having about people I love…a lot....Keep Reading
November 17, 2014 0 comments
Responding to the Coming "Amnesty" Executive Order
Jake Phillips writes about our response as Christians to the coming Executive Order regarding amnesty. Our biblical mandate to incarnate Christ and display compassion is more important than our political views regarding issues of immigration and enforcing laws. ...Keep Reading
November 14, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
From the Grave
Fascinated by scenes unfurled, fascinated they come and dance This vision of a Son of Man, who melts my heart with soulful glance Across the vision of cautious mind, foreboding foresight still I see the Maker of all things, bear a cross uphill...Keep Reading
November 13, 2014 1 comments
Wanting a Better Past
Often the moments I hear heart-wrenching comments like this are while sitting on the couch in my living room sharing a glass of sweet tea with women from my church. Like me, they’re dealing with the often-weighty consequences of sins by or against them: pain that runs deep like a knife being slowly twisted through the heart. It’s not always there. But when it’s triggered by something as simple as an overheard comment or as disorienting as a dream about “what happened” the knife pinches and turns….again and again. Finally they feel safe enough to tell someone. These moments are what one man calls having someone share their finest china with me. I don’t want to carelessly handle and potentially break something so valuable; so fragile....Keep Reading
November 12, 2014 by Eric Garrett 1 comments
Waiting and the Mercy of God
Recently, Sheree Phillips wrote a transparent and helpful post on the struggle of waiting for God. If you're like her (and me), then you probably have an aversion to waiting for just about anything. And the reality is that if you're a Westerner, you're probably just like us in this way. It's no new revelation that with our culture-wide embrace of fast food, fast cash, and the fast lane we simply can't stand waiting on things to happen. We are used to "getting things done" and when we can't change our circumstances it tends to make us uneasy, if not irritable and angry. So waiting reveals our hearts....Keep Reading
November 7, 2014 0 comments
Elections Part 4: Unity
Jake Phillips wraps up our posts on elections with a call to unity. Our identity in Christ is more important than our political affiliations, and it is important to remember, as Joey preached this past Sunday, that the believer is not permitted to make distinctions based on classes. ...Keep Reading
November 6, 2014 by Eric Garrett 0 comments
Toward a Better Understanding of Suffering: Part 2
Eric Garrett attempts to help us arrive at a better understanding of suffering. The fact is that Jesus suffers with us, not because there is inherent value in suffering (in fact, it's part of the curse), but because He has come to redeem our suffering by suffering in our place. Jesus hates our suffering, and has provided a way out. We cannot truly understand the glory of the resurrection unless we understand the grief of suffering. ...Keep Reading
November 5, 2014 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Union With Christ: A Sermon Review
Bob Putnam reviews Joey Phillips' sermon from this past Sunday about our union with Christ, a union that destroys divisions and makes us equal heirs to the promise of God. ...Keep Reading
November 4, 2014 by Jesse Phillips 0 comments
Election Day Part III: What does Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2 Mean for Americans?
How we contextualize Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2 within the United States' governmental structure? What does it mean to honor the governing authorities if the government under which we live is a government "of the people, by the people, for the people"? Jesse Phillips argues the answer is to locate the supreme authority within a governmental structure, and to apply the commands of Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2 to that authority....Keep Reading
November 4, 2014 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
Election Day Part II: "The King is Dead -- Long Live the King!" Toward a Politics of Resurrection Amid Democratic Despair
How should Christians think about voting, elections and democracy? Ryan McLaughlin argues that the way we should think about these issues should be informed by what we know about the kingdom of God, the resurrection, and the preeminence of Christ. ...Keep Reading
November 3, 2014 0 comments
Election Day Issues Part I: Let's Talk About Amendment 2
Jake Phillips writes about Amendment 2, the amendment votes will face tomorrow about allowing the legalization of medical marijuana for medicinal purposes. What are the issues facing Christian voters? What would the passage of Amendment 2 actually mean? Jake's goal is not to convince anyone to vote one way or another, but to clarify some of the issues surrounding Amendment 2. ...Keep Reading
November 3, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 1 comments
Modest is Hottest Or Something Like That
Modest dress is a worthy discussion (after all, the Bible does talk about it!) but modesty includes far more than what can be seen on the outside. In fact, the definition of modest is not “Women who dress culturally appropriate.” Rather, the definition is “the quality of being modest; freedom from vanity, boastfulness, etc.” I didn’t see “Modest is hottest” anywhere in that definition either. The definition goes on to say, “regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress, etc.”...Keep Reading
October 31, 2014 0 comments
Moments in Church History 3: Reformation Day
Joey Phillips writes part 3 in our Moments in Church History series, using Halloween to talk about Reformation Day. He shares several facts about Reformation Day, Martin Luther, and the 95 Theses. Although it's a lighthearted post, it's also an example of how God sovereignly uses mundane obedience to further His kingdom. ...Keep Reading
October 30, 2014 by Eric Garrett 0 comments
Toward a Better Understanding of Suffering Part 1
suffering4 This likely won't be my most popular post (not that I'm under any illusion that any of my posts are widely read). But I believe this issue to be so important that it needs to be discussed, particularly among those of us from a younger generation. For those of us who haven't experienced the pressures of real financial hardship, who haven't mourned the death of the someone close to us, who haven't experienced daily aches and pains, this topic might not seem that relevant to us. However, that's a lie. A considerate older person will tell you that the weight of the reality of suffering is right around the corner. But even among seasoned sufferers there often seems to be great misunderstanding about the nature of suffering, so I think it might be helpful to attempt to address suffering from a biblical point of view....Keep Reading
October 29, 2014 by Janelle Garrett 0 comments
The Law and Freedom's Promise
Benny Phillips continued Redeemer's Galatians series, preaching on Galatians 3:15-25 on Sunday. So far in the letter to the Galatians, Paul has a specific flow of thought: He has established that we are saved, justified and redeemed only by faith in Christ and not through righteousness of our own. Any careful reader (or listener) will inevitably have questions about where the law fits into the Christian life, then. Specifically, Paul answers the question, "Does the law (given to Moses) set aside the promise (given to Abraham)?"...Keep Reading
October 28, 2014 by Ryan McLaughlin 0 comments
5 Things Young Ex-Evangelicals Wish Their Reformed Brothers and Sisters Knew
Ryan McLaughlin, a Catholic who came from a Reformed Protestant tradition, writes about 5 misconceptions that Protestants have about Catholic theology. How can knowing these things help us in our dialogue and discussions with Catholics?...Keep Reading
October 23, 2014 by Eric Garrett 0 comments
The Word of God in Jeremiah
I love God's Word. I hope you do too. I love knowing that because of what Jesus accomplished for me in the gospel, earning my righteousness by living a perfect life, absorbing the penalty for my sin at the cross, and rising from the dead to secure my new life in him, I can sit at his feet and commune with the living God in a completely restored relationship. And I love that this is always possible no matter how sinful I feel - rightly or wrongly (Heb. 4:16). Seeing Jesus in me, God wants me to come to Him at all times and in every circumstance. The Word of God assures me of this, and it is comforting beyond words....Keep Reading
October 22, 2014 0 comments
College Preparation Part 2: The Rise of New Age Spiritualism
Jake Phillips discusses the rise of New Age spiritualism and what it means for college preparation. The key in combating New Age spiritualism is in being able to define what it actually is. How do we identify New Age thoughts where they exist, and how do we combat the consequences of the ideas?...Keep Reading
October 20, 2014 by Bob Putman 0 comments
Freedom to Think: A Sermon Review
If we assess the idea that “faith alone in Christ alone by grace alone†is all we need for salvation, we need to evaluate this in the light of scripture. And we need to evaluate the Judaizers’ idea that something more than Christ’s sacrifice is needed. Let’s not be too quick to condemn them. They were trying to protect something good: God’s holiness. They were saying, “Gentile Christians need to see the holiness of God and keep his commands.â€...Keep Reading
October 16, 2014 0 comments
Don't Dismiss Your Suffering
Sheree Phillips talks about suffering and grace. We have a tendency to minimize our sufferings because we don't think they compare to other types of suffering. But if we minimize suffering, we can inadvertently be minimizing grace. Suffering comes in degree, but grace doesn't....Keep Reading
Filter Blogposts by:
Get the blog feed
Redeemer Church at Lake Nona: Orlando, FL | office@lakenonachurch.com
Powered by Church Plant Media