Crosswinds Church in Plainfield Illinois is dedicated to teaching, living and connecting people with Jesus. Pastors John Stillman and Ken Schultz lead preaching for Crosswinds Church and regularly distribute audio content via this channel. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds Copyright 2008 Crosswinds Church Plainfield, IL en-us Mon, 5 Jan 2009 15:12:31 -0600 info@xwindschurch.org Mon, 5 Jan 2009 15:12:15 -0600 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com Crosswinds Church: Sermon Audio Channel Crosswinds Church in Plainfield is dedicated to teaching, living and connecting people with Jesus. Pastors John Stillman and Ken Schultz lead preaching for Crosswinds Church and regularly distributes audio content via this channel. Pastors: John Stillman and Ken Schultz Crosswinds Church info@xwindschurch.org Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman http://www.xwindschurch.org/Pics/feeds/podcast-audio.png http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds Crosswinds Church: Sermon Audio Channel 141 141 Chances are, you are over committed, and it’s time for you and I to sort out our commitments. You will be more effective in life being fully committed to a few good things, rather than half-committed to a dozen. In today’s message, Pastor John talks about how God opens the door to a new mission in life. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20090104.mp3 42B3D334-765D-4563-BF5B-1809E15CA1F7 Sun, 4 Jan 2009 15:12:07 -0600 Driven - "Opening the Door to Something New" Acts 16:6-15 Chances are, you are over committed, and it’s time for you and I to sort out our commitments. You will be more effective in life being fully committed to a few good things, rather than half-committed to a dozen. In today’s message, Pastor John talks about how God opens the door to a new mission in life. 00:40:28 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman As we face a new year what is going to make this year extraordinary? Is it losing weight? Making more money? Having more friends? Jesus has a new command that if obeyed could make this and extraordinary year. It is to "Love one another." Obeying with command will revive our church, your relationship with God, bring rival to others in our community. While breathing makes one physically alive. Loving makes one spiritually alive. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081228.mp3 AF1AABB0-DFF2-486D-B9B3-1B25D4538638 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:13:11 -0600 A New Year to Love - Various Scriptures As we face a new year what is going to make this year extraordinary? Is it losing weight? Making more money? Having more friends? Jesus has a new command that if obeyed could make this and extraordinary year. It is to "Love one another." Obeying with command will revive our church, your relationship with God, bring rival to others in our community. While breathing makes one physically alive. Loving makes one spiritually alive. 30:25 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz As we look at the Christmas story and experience our own Christmas in 2008, we recognize that Christmas has a lot to do with sharing. Today we’re going to get a little more personally involved in the sharing process, by sharing ourselves. In the angel’s announcement to Mary about the birth of Jesus, we can learn about the proper reasons for sharing ourselves through service. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081214.mp3 291B6B01-159F-484B-A135-0EC50440F5CD Sun, 14 Dec 2008 15:16:47 -0600 Sharing Christmas - "Sharing Yourself" Luke 1:26-38 As we look at the Christmas story and experience our own Christmas in 2008, we recognize that Christmas has a lot to do with sharing. Today we’re going to get a little more personally involved in the sharing process, by sharing ourselves. In the angel’s announcement to Mary about the birth of Jesus, we can learn about the proper reasons for sharing ourselves through service. 38:13 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Christmas is about sharing. We share time, meals, and gifts with family, friends, and co-workers. Ultimately, Christmas is about our heavenly Father sharing/sending/giving His Son to be our Savior. And then we are called by Jesus to share/send/give the gospel message to others. Today, Pastor John encourages us to take those first baby steps towards sharing and receiving, and increasing our joy in Christmas. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081207.mp3 F8220E20-BAE6-467F-BB96-83F673ECEA82 Sun, 7 Dec 2008 11:45:20 -0600 Sharing Christmas - "The First Steps to Sharing" Luke 1:5-25, 39-44 Christmas is about sharing. We share time, meals, and gifts with family, friends, and co-workers. Ultimately, Christmas is about our heavenly Father sharing/sending/giving His Son to be our Savior. And then we are called by Jesus to share/send/give the gospel message to others. Today, Pastor John encourages us to take those first baby steps towards sharing and receiving, and increasing our joy in Christmas. 37:20 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Are you full? Contentment is something that is often very absent in our modern lives and yet is the key to lasting joy. You can know true contentment and peace today in the person of Jesus Christ. This message in Philippians 4:11-13 the Apostle share what he has learned about the secret of contentment. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081130.mp3 4C8938BD-F418-4618-ABF3-F671C74A72EE Sun, 30 Nov 2008 11:37:47 -0600 Sharing Christmas - "Are You Full?" Philippians 4:11-13 Are you full? Contentment is something that is often very absent in our modern lives and yet is the key to lasting joy. You can know true contentment and peace today in the person of Jesus Christ. This message in Philippians 4:11-13 the Apostle share what he has learned about the secret of contentment. 28:11 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz When we experience healing, how do we know that it’s because of a work of God, and not simply science, luck, or good genes? In this message, Pastor John covers what the Bible says about healing and then offers some practical tips on how we can be involved in the healing process. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081123.mp3 E6EE4045-82FF-4246-ABCE-61F4E2DCFDB2 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 12:26:20 -0600 Alpha Series - "Does God Heal Today?" Various Scriptures When we experience healing, how do we know that it’s because of a work of God, and not simply science, luck, or good genes? In this message, Pastor John covers what the Bible says about healing and then offers some practical tips on how we can be involved in the healing process. 40:22 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Evil and temptation are a part of life, but we don’t need to be controlled by them. To overcome temptation, you need to pause and recognize 1) that there’s more at stake than what you think and 2) that your heavenly Father can be trusted. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081116.mp3 E1C945A9-AE5D-4A05-B541-B320502C76EA Sun, 16 Nov 2008 11:31:55 -0600 Alpha Series - "How Can I Resist Evil?" Ephesians 6:12, James 1:14-15, Matthew 4:1-4 Evil and temptation are a part of life, but we don’t need to be controlled by them. To overcome temptation, you need to pause and recognize 1) that there’s more at stake than what you think and 2) that your heavenly Father can be trusted. 37:55 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman We all have decisions to make - marriage choices, parenting choices, career choices, ministry choices. In this message, Pastor John talks about how God guides us so that we can be our best for Him. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081109.mp3 B7C5140A-773E-4847-8B07-7124C8B79EDD Sun, 9 Nov 2008 10:40:35 -0600 Alpha Series - "How Does God Guide Us?" Acts 16:6-10 We all have decisions to make - marriage choices, parenting choices, career choices, ministry choices. In this message, Pastor John talks about how God guides us so that we can be our best for Him. 41:13 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Prayer is the most predominant of all spiritual exercises that people participate in. But many feel a level of dissatisfaction with their prayer lives. In teaching on prayer, Jesus simplifies prayer by inviting us to address God just like you would a dad. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081026.mp3 FF85D555-3F0F-4957-A3B8-199E29CAF98F Sun, 26 Oct 2008 08:57:44 -0500 Alpha Series - "Why and How Should I Pray?" Matthew 6:5-13 Prayer is the most predominant of all spiritual exercises that people participate in. But many feel a level of dissatisfaction with their prayer lives. In teaching on prayer, Jesus simplifies prayer by inviting us to address God just like you would a dad. 37:07 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman While some think of faith as a step into the unknown, Christianity is actually a step out of the dark into the light, where things are more clearly visible. However, there are times when we face doubts and uncertainty. In this message, Pastor John turns to the eye-witness testimony of the apostle John about Jesus to strengthen our faith. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081019.mp3 B99A5270-2C66-4870-A6BB-985BABEBC12C Sun, 19 Oct 2008 22:57:14 -0500 Alpha Series - "How Can I Be Sure Of My Faith?" 1 John While some think of faith as a step into the unknown, Christianity is actually a step out of the dark into the light, where things are more clearly visible. However, there are times when we face doubts and uncertainty. In this message, Pastor John turns to the eye-witness testimony of the apostle John about Jesus to strengthen our faith. 38:55 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Jesus' death has been mocked and misunderstood, but for billions of Christians, Jesus' crucifixion means that we have been reconciled to a holy God. In today's message, Pastor John talks about Why did Jesus die? http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081012.mp3 A3A6A05C-5B93-443A-9F14-D7A9E7115BF9 Sun, 12 Oct 2008 11:29:38 -0500 Alpha Series - "Why Did Jesus Die?" Various Scriptures Jesus' death has been mocked and misunderstood, but for billions of Christians, Jesus' crucifixion means that we have been reconciled to a holy God. In today's message, Pastor John talks about Why did Jesus die? 39:43 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Jesus has been believed on by presidents, kings, queens, and emperors. Poets, artists, musicians, and actors have believed. Jesus has been believed to be the God of the universe by a long string of scientists, lawyers and doctors; grandmothers and thieves. Who is Jesus? In this message, Pastor John gives 10 reasons why we should believe that Jesus was and is God, and what we should do about it. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20081005.mp3 26A34CDC-06D5-4582-A490-83C09ECF8D09 Sun, 5 Oct 2008 12:15:34 -0500 Alpha Series - "Who is Jesus?" Various Scriptures Jesus has been believed on by presidents, kings, queens, and emperors. Poets, artists, musicians, and actors have believed. Jesus has been believed to be the God of the universe by a long string of scientists, lawyers and doctors; grandmothers and thieves. Who is Jesus? In this message, Pastor John gives 10 reasons why we should believe that Jesus was and is God, and what we should do about it. 35:03 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Is there more to life than this? The answer Jesus gives is a confident, "Yes. Trust me, there is more to life than this. Yes, because I am going to prepare the place for you that is beyond this world." But, should we believe him? In this message, Pastor John covers four reasons why we should trust Jesus when He says there is more to life than this. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080928.mp3 5B6D5A1B-8868-4163-9B49-F3FC211FA5CA Sun, 28 Sep 2008 17:10:16 -0500 Alpha Series - "Answering Life's Most Important Questions" Is there more to life than this? The answer Jesus gives is a confident, "Yes. Trust me, there is more to life than this. Yes, because I am going to prepare the place for you that is beyond this world." But, should we believe him? In this message, Pastor John covers four reasons why we should trust Jesus when He says there is more to life than this. 37:20 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Are the worries of life stressing you out? In today’s message we see that worry comes from the unmet needs in our lives or the possibility of our needs not being met in the future. In Matthew Chapter 6 Jesus help us sort out the priorities of life and helps us discover what our needs truly are. Our modern life produces all kind of stress but Jesus gave us the answers 2000 years ago for peace. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080921.mp3 D35868F5-ACDA-48AB-975B-A4A3614C70DE Sun, 21 Sep 2008 21:27:07 -0500 The Stop Signs of Jesus: "Stressing Out" Matthew 6:25-34 Are the worries of life stressing you out? In today’s message we see that worry comes from the unmet needs in our lives or the possibility of our needs not being met in the future. In Matthew Chapter 6 Jesus help us sort out the priorities of life and helps us discover what our needs truly are. Our modern life produces all kind of stress but Jesus gave us the answers 2000 years ago for peace. 37:23 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz Jesus says do not "Judge." And while most of us agree we do not like to be judged by others we tend to "judge" others. In this message we explore four reasons why Jesus asks us to stop judging our neighbors and how by doing so we will be blessed.. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080914.mp3 BEE93685-52A3-4BA1-BB87-F3363AA983D6 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:35:48 -0500 The Stop Signs of Jesus: "Judging Others" Luke 6:37-42 Jesus says do not "Judge." And while most of us agree we do not like to be judged by others we tend to "judge" others. In this message we explore four reasons why Jesus asks us to stop judging our neighbors and how by doing so we will be blessed.. 31:05 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz Parents have an important role in working with God to make their God-honoring dreams a reality in their children’s lives. Dreams to pass on someone genuine, gifted, faithful, and respected, to the world. In today’s message, Pastor John shares some observations about parenting that will help make your parenting dreams come true. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080907.mp3 220E45D6-9922-4448-A28C-9B4C9D26EEF5 Sun, 7 Sep 2008 12:52:52 -0500 Driven - "How To Make Your Parenting Dreams Come True" - Acts 16 1:5; I Timothy Parents have an important role in working with God to make their God-honoring dreams a reality in their children’s lives. Dreams to pass on someone genuine, gifted, faithful, and respected, to the world. In today’s message, Pastor John shares some observations about parenting that will help make your parenting dreams come true. 30:20 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Parent Child Dedication http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080907-Child-Dedication.mp3 BB2F5000-CAD6-4271-ABD6-647018759184 Sun, 7 Sep 2008 12:52:53 -0500 Parent Child Dedication Parent Child Dedication 20:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Christianity is a "conventional" faith in the sense that there are orthodox beliefs - such as salvation by faith through grace apart from works - that line up with Scripture. And conventional in the sense that, just like a convention is a gathering of people, Christianity involves people who gather and share life together. In this message, Pastor John discusses a practical approach to Christianity that honors Jesus and other Christians. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080831.mp3 4A5722DC-80E3-4BE8-871D-C6F7205B38BE Sun, 31 Aug 2008 09:13:26 -0500 Driven - "Conventional Christianity" Acts 15 Christianity is a "conventional" faith in the sense that there are orthodox beliefs - such as salvation by faith through grace apart from works - that line up with Scripture. And conventional in the sense that, just like a convention is a gathering of people, Christianity involves people who gather and share life together. In this message, Pastor John discusses a practical approach to Christianity that honors Jesus and other Christians. 39:22 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The Christian faith is based on God’s unmerited grace shown to sinners. In this message, Pastor John explores the doctrines of saving grace, common grace, and preserving grace that are crucial for all believers to understand. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080824.mp3 7BD17306-9F8F-44EE-97F6-32F5091B6A43 Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:38:47 -0500 Driven - "Grace Alone" Acts 14 The Christian faith is based on God’s unmerited grace shown to sinners. In this message, Pastor John explores the doctrines of saving grace, common grace, and preserving grace that are crucial for all believers to understand. 33:29 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The Word of God is a thread woven through the story of Acts 13. It is revealed, proclaimed, heard, some try to block it or are jealous of it (for no good reason), it spreads, and it is honored and glorified. How will you respond to it? http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080817.mp3 67BA0716-124A-4057-8B10-8006BD4B597D Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:36:00 -0500 Driven - "Tuning in to the WORD" Acts 13 The Word of God is a thread woven through the story of Acts 13. It is revealed, proclaimed, heard, some try to block it or are jealous of it (for no good reason), it spreads, and it is honored and glorified. How will you respond to it? 34:54 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Acts 12 is a strong warning against pride, and also a comfort to the church that God takes care of those who humble themselves and call out to him in prayer. In this message, Pastor John explores why pride is so distasteful, and what we can do to hedge against pride in our own lives. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080810.mp3 4643DA72-7791-44B1-B5B9-2D8645518BE6 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:17:29 -0500 Driven - "Pride and Parasites" Acts 12 Acts 12 is a strong warning against pride, and also a comfort to the church that God takes care of those who humble themselves and call out to him in prayer. In this message, Pastor John explores why pride is so distasteful, and what we can do to hedge against pride in our own lives. 36:20 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Our goal as Christians should be to reach people with the gospel and bring them out of what Augustine called the "City of Man" and work with God to turn them into residents of the "City of God." In today’s message, Pastor John will review three characteristics of the City within the city that will enable us reach the city with the gospel. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080803.mp3 61DA221D-518F-4CEC-A5AC-EE6352E6B68A Sun, 3 Aug 2008 09:24:45 -0500 Driven - "The City within the City" Acts 11:1-30 Our goal as Christians should be to reach people with the gospel and bring them out of what Augustine called the "City of Man" and work with God to turn them into residents of the "City of God." In today’s message, Pastor John will review three characteristics of the City within the city that will enable us reach the city with the gospel. 36:51 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman In a pile of what looks like junk to us, God provides something valuable and redeemable and worth going after. In today’s message, Pastor John replays Peter’s sermon to Cornelius’ household that no one needs to be unacceptable to God. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080727.mp3 A19AF0E1-8ECA-46C5-BDFC-253FA6DB12F5 Sun, 27 Jul 2008 09:24:44 -0500 Driven - "Jesus don't make no junk!" Acts 10:9-48 In a pile of what looks like junk to us, God provides something valuable and redeemable and worth going after. In today’s message, Pastor John replays Peter’s sermon to Cornelius’ household that no one needs to be unacceptable to God. 37:23 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The premise on which the church operated in the 1st century - and today - is sharing the good news of forgiveness of sin through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, which results in people who are liberated from sin and filled with joy, who then turn around and do good. Good news breeds good deeds. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080720.mp3 971161EE-8C22-4905-BCD5-05143F8D6C8B Sun, 20 Jul 2008 18:37:41 -0500 Driven - "Good News Breeds Good Deeds" Acts 9:32-10:8 The premise on which the church operated in the 1st century - and today - is sharing the good news of forgiveness of sin through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, which results in people who are liberated from sin and filled with joy, who then turn around and do good. Good news breeds good deeds. 44:11 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The conversion of Saul of Tarsus is one of the most well documented conversions in all of Scripture. On the Damascus Road, Saul was transformed from a persecutor of the church to a promoter of the gospel. In Saul’s conversion we see a demonstration of the patience and power of Jesus that is given as an example to each of us to encourage us in our faith and witness. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080713.mp3 E47410C4-6115-46F9-B2AC-5955495AE993 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 11:59:37 -0500 Driven - "Amazing Grace that Saved a Wretch like me" Acts 9:1-19 The conversion of Saul of Tarsus is one of the most well documented conversions in all of Scripture. On the Damascus Road, Saul was transformed from a persecutor of the church to a promoter of the gospel. In Saul’s conversion we see a demonstration of the patience and power of Jesus that is given as an example to each of us to encourage us in our faith and witness. 34:32 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Being a witness for Jesus is both a responsibility (because Jesus commanded it, Matthew 28:18-20) and a joy (because the Bible commends it, Philemon 1:6). This message concludes a look at several case studies in evangelism and the Christian’s call to POINT to Jesus wherever we may find ourselves. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080706.mp3 C7289297-3C32-4A7D-8C75-E605DCD92071 Sun, 6 Jul 2008 11:59:36 -0500 Driven - "POINTing to Jesus, Part II" Acts 8:26-40 Being a witness for Jesus is both a responsibility (because Jesus commanded it, Matthew 28:18-20) and a joy (because the Bible commends it, Philemon 1:6). This message concludes a look at several case studies in evangelism and the Christian’s call to POINT to Jesus wherever we may find ourselves. 40:29 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Being a witness for Jesus is both a responsibility (because Jesus commanded it, Matthew 28:18-20) and a joy (because the Bible commends it, Philemon 1:6). This week and next we’re going to be looking at the process of evangelism and the Christian’s call to share our faith wherever we may find ourselves using five "points" to POINTing to Jesus. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080629.mp3 775C3BD6-363B-48D7-A8C2-93B112F7E453 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 10:13:02 -0500 Driven - "POINTing to Jesus, Part 1" Acts 8:1-25 Being a witness for Jesus is both a responsibility (because Jesus commanded it, Matthew 28:18-20) and a joy (because the Bible commends it, Philemon 1:6). This week and next we’re going to be looking at the process of evangelism and the Christian’s call to share our faith wherever we may find ourselves using five "points" to POINTing to Jesus. 35:23 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman What do you do when the foundations are knocked out from underneath you? The three primary foundations of life in the 21st century are Health, Relationships, and Resources. In reality, these foundations can be very flimsy and easily knocked down. In this message, Pastor John shows how Jesus is the solid foundation that everyone needs. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080622.mp3 D0F07131-6F2E-4E7F-805D-6C1600EF591A Sun, 22 Jun 2008 09:27:08 -0500 Driven - "What do you do when the foundations are knocked out from underneath you?" Acts 7 What do you do when the foundations are knocked out from underneath you? The three primary foundations of life in the 21st century are Health, Relationships, and Resources. In reality, these foundations can be very flimsy and easily knocked down. In this message, Pastor John shows how Jesus is the solid foundation that everyone needs. 36:15 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Part of Luke’s purpose in writing Acts was to record the growth of the church as, through the Holy Spirit, Jesus continued the ministry He began. The growth of the church - any church - is for the glory of God. It isn’t pastors, programs, or practices that cause a church to grow - it is the Holy Spirit that causes growth as He draws people to Jesus. But, we must cooperate with the Holy Spirit for growth to happen. With that in mind, this passage provides us with three observations about the building of the church. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080615.mp3 8E71D930-0F08-498A-8D3C-A6AF27B7E58A Sun, 15 Jun 2008 08:59:32 -0500 Driven - "A Few Good Men (and Women)" Acts 6 Part of Luke’s purpose in writing Acts was to record the growth of the church as, through the Holy Spirit, Jesus continued the ministry He began. The growth of the church - any church - is for the glory of God. It isn’t pastors, programs, or practices that cause a church to grow - it is the Holy Spirit that causes growth as He draws people to Jesus. But, we must cooperate with the Holy Spirit for growth to happen. With that in mind, this passage provides us with three observations about the building of the church. 39:48 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman How do people know that you love Jesus? Perhaps you’ve heard of or seen a bumper sticker, "Honk if you love Jesus!" Anybody can honk, right? So, what are the indicators of your love for the Lord? How do you know if He is at work in your life? Does everyone that makes a noise and a ruckus, love Jesus? http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080608.mp3 C6BCC267-2D6E-411A-8999-444A88322B2F Sun, 8 Jun 2008 20:57:16 -0500 Driven - "Honk if you love Jesus" Acts 5:12-42 How do people know that you love Jesus? Perhaps you’ve heard of or seen a bumper sticker, "Honk if you love Jesus!" Anybody can honk, right? So, what are the indicators of your love for the Lord? How do you know if He is at work in your life? Does everyone that makes a noise and a ruckus, love Jesus? 36:43 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Some people are very skilled at "playing church," putting on a certain face and speaking through a mask of hypocrisy. Corruption and corrupt ideas can easily worm their way into the church. Passages like this teach us that God is a holy God whose purpose in grace is to eliminate our corruption. The church is not to be a breeding ground for corruption, deceit, and hypocrisy. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080601.mp3 B1799787-BEA2-454C-84B7-E8521E9DAFFF Sun, 1 Jun 2008 16:09:59 -0500 Driven - "Playing Church" Acts 4:32-5:11 Some people are very skilled at "playing church," putting on a certain face and speaking through a mask of hypocrisy. Corruption and corrupt ideas can easily worm their way into the church. Passages like this teach us that God is a holy God whose purpose in grace is to eliminate our corruption. The church is not to be a breeding ground for corruption, deceit, and hypocrisy. 37:53 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Charges levied against Christianity are that it is exclusive, restrictive, and irrelevant. If it weren’t for the resurrection, those charges might be true (1 Co 15:17). But the resurrection changes everything. It has a profound effect on how we should view Jesus Christ and huge implications for the world. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080518.mp3 ED2F69C5-00AC-416A-A4B7-4EBDAF9FA76B Sun, 18 May 2008 08:57:05 -0500 Driven - "The Relevance of the Resurrection" Acts 4:1-37 Charges levied against Christianity are that it is exclusive, restrictive, and irrelevant. If it weren’t for the resurrection, those charges might be true (1 Co 15:17). But the resurrection changes everything. It has a profound effect on how we should view Jesus Christ and huge implications for the world. 39:03 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman We have a picture in our mind of what the perfect life is like. But that isn’t always the case. When the imperfect family observes the "perfect" family, they wonder, What must it be like? In our text today, Luke shares a story to illustrate that only by walking with Jesus can things truly be perfect. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080511.mp3 62E065F0-9ACF-4F6E-B711-86B1D4B4B56A Sun, 11 May 2008 10:14:23 -0500 Driven - "Walking with Jesus" Acts 3:1-26 We have a picture in our mind of what the perfect life is like. But that isn’t always the case. When the imperfect family observes the "perfect" family, they wonder, What must it be like? In our text today, Luke shares a story to illustrate that only by walking with Jesus can things truly be perfect. 38:04 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Over the last decade, there’s been a lot of interest in the subject of how early Christians worshiped and did "church" as new (and older) generations of Christians feel the pull to get back to their "roots" as followers of Jesus. The reality is that there is no prescription of an entire Christian worship service in Scripture, although both Paul (1 Corinthians 14) and Luke (Acts 2:42-47) provide descriptions of Christian worship. Today we’re looking at Luke’s description of the lifestyle and worship practices of the early church. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080504.mp3 AC7CF5AC-9D87-4E0C-A543-AC231436172B Sun, 4 May 2008 14:56:45 -0500 Driven - "How We Worship" Acts 2:42-47 Over the last decade, there’s been a lot of interest in the subject of how early Christians worshiped and did "church" as new (and older) generations of Christians feel the pull to get back to their "roots" as followers of Jesus. The reality is that there is no prescription of an entire Christian worship service in Scripture, although both Paul (1 Corinthians 14) and Luke (Acts 2:42-47) provide descriptions of Christian worship. Today we’re looking at Luke’s description of the lifestyle and worship practices of the early church. 40:53 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Before Jesus ascended back to His Father in heaven, He gave His disciples these instructions: "Do not leave the city, but wait for the gift that my Father has promised." What do you do during times when God says, "Wait." In this section of Acts, we see the church waiting and preparing for God to act in a powerful way. There are some important lessons that we as a church can learn about prayer, unity, and courage. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080420.mp3 66E7FB05-0CDD-48C4-B440-4FCAE6DDAA21 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 11:14:59 -0500 Driven - "Things are looking up!" Acts 1:10-26 Before Jesus ascended back to His Father in heaven, He gave His disciples these instructions: "Do not leave the city, but wait for the gift that my Father has promised." What do you do during times when God says, "Wait." In this section of Acts, we see the church waiting and preparing for God to act in a powerful way. There are some important lessons that we as a church can learn about prayer, unity, and courage. 44:20 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman As a church we are called to be "driven" by two things.   1) Glorifying Jesus through worship and obedience. 2) Ministering to others and proclaiming the gospel.   Throughout the book of Acts, there are people driven by just these two things who are immensely satisfied and joyful. What drives you? What is the mission of your life?  The direction of New Testament Christians is simultaneously vertical (as the church glorifies and obeys Jesus) and horizontal (as we minister to others under the guidance of the Holy Spirit). http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080413.mp3 5EBF20A1-E996-46C3-AA7E-80467222A941 Sun, 13 Apr 2008 15:05:31 -0500 Driven - "What drives you?" Acts 1:1-9 As a church we are called to be "driven" by two things.   1) Glorifying Jesus through worship and obedience. 2) Ministering to others and proclaiming the gospel.   Throughout the book of Acts, there are people driven by just these two things who are immensely satisfied and joyful. What drives you? What is the mission of your life?  The direction of New Testament Christians is simultaneously vertical (as the church glorifies and obeys Jesus) and horizontal (as we minister to others under the guidance of the Holy Spirit). 41:48 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Jesus teaches his disciples about humility and conflict resolutions within the family of God. Jesus also teaches about how we should display the Godly character of forgiveness in our lives towards those that have hurt us. Being unforgiving hardens our hearts, but through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross we can learn how to forgive others. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080406.mp3 F0AE4474-B595-409B-AB24-884F821F0960 Sun, 6 Apr 2008 09:30:03 -0500 Ground Breaking Jesus "Seeds of Conflict" - Matthew 18 Jesus teaches his disciples about humility and conflict resolutions within the family of God. Jesus also teaches about how we should display the Godly character of forgiveness in our lives towards those that have hurt us. Being unforgiving hardens our hearts, but through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross we can learn how to forgive others. 35:00 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz Jesus’ teaching is ground breaking. Often we think of ground breaking ideas as something new, but things that are truly ground breaking are things that bring change that is so dramatic that everything is new. Jesus is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow. Yet when he and his teachings penetrate the depths of our hearts, everything is made new. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080330.mp3 77542211-2992-422B-B385-41B15678C581 Sun, 30 Mar 2008 09:30:02 -0500 Ground Breaking Jesus - Mark 4: 1-20 Jesus’ teaching is ground breaking. Often we think of ground breaking ideas as something new, but things that are truly ground breaking are things that bring change that is so dramatic that everything is new. Jesus is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow. Yet when he and his teachings penetrate the depths of our hearts, everything is made new. 35:00 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz John’s gospel contains seven "I AM" statements from Jesus. These were deliberate claims to divinity that Jesus made during His ministry. He echoed the words that He spoke to Moses at the burning bush when He said, "I AM who I AM." He is the self-existent, eternal, and living God. Today we see a clear demonstration that Jesus is the source of life. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080323.mp3 4E322DC2-415F-4D9E-8381-2C1B77EF4541 Sun, 23 Mar 2008 08:28:16 -0500 The I AM Legend Pt. ii - "Resurrection" John 11 John’s gospel contains seven "I AM" statements from Jesus. These were deliberate claims to divinity that Jesus made during His ministry. He echoed the words that He spoke to Moses at the burning bush when He said, "I AM who I AM." He is the self-existent, eternal, and living God. Today we see a clear demonstration that Jesus is the source of life. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Throughout the Scriptures, God is revealed as the self-existent I AM. Unlike you and me, God’s existence doesn’t depend upon anyone or anything. He simply is. In his encounter with Jesus at the burning bush, Moses personally experienced the great and legendary I AM. If you have not yet encountered the living God, He calls and invites you to know Him today. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080316.mp3 6E0DAE24-FAA5-4909-80A0-C8EF13DA13BF Sun, 16 Mar 2008 08:28:15 -0500 The I AM Legend Pt. i - "Deliverer" - Exodus 3: 1-15 Throughout the Scriptures, God is revealed as the self-existent I AM. Unlike you and me, God’s existence doesn’t depend upon anyone or anything. He simply is. In his encounter with Jesus at the burning bush, Moses personally experienced the great and legendary I AM. If you have not yet encountered the living God, He calls and invites you to know Him today. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The final chapters of Esther are a wrap-up to the story, but they are not unimportant because they tell us why this story was written down. It was written so that the readers would remember why they celebrate the festival called Purim. It was written so that people would remember that God delivers His people. It was written because they dared not forget the past. And neither do we. When we forget our sinful past and God’s salvation, we run the risk of missing the rest that Jesus came to give. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080309.mp3 06651117-1A5C-4695-90EF-A10A933B1613 Sun, 9 Mar 2008 08:28:14 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. vi - "Rest" - Esther 8: 1-10:3 The final chapters of Esther are a wrap-up to the story, but they are not unimportant because they tell us why this story was written down. It was written so that the readers would remember why they celebrate the festival called Purim. It was written so that people would remember that God delivers His people. It was written because they dared not forget the past. And neither do we. When we forget our sinful past and God’s salvation, we run the risk of missing the rest that Jesus came to give. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman As a rule, standing out in a world that calls us to blend-in to its value system is a good thing - except in the case of pride. Pride is an internal attitude of the heart that is focused on self -my needs, my hurts, my successes. Pride always, always, always will be reversed (see Job 20:6-7, Psalm 138:6, Proverbs 16:18, and Isaiah 42:8). In fact, like Haman, a great reversal awaits each and every one of us. It’s only a matter of whether the reversal is voluntary or forced. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080302.mp3 29115E91-4004-40F6-BAAD-A79E9C45498B Sun, 2 Mar 2008 10:41:54 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. v - "The Great Reversal" - Esther 5: 9-7:10 As a rule, standing out in a world that calls us to blend-in to its value system is a good thing - except in the case of pride. Pride is an internal attitude of the heart that is focused on self -my needs, my hurts, my successes. Pride always, always, always will be reversed (see Job 20:6-7, Psalm 138:6, Proverbs 16:18, and Isaiah 42:8). In fact, like Haman, a great reversal awaits each and every one of us. It’s only a matter of whether the reversal is voluntary or forced. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,Church,Crosswinds,Sermon,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Do you stand out as a person of influence? Do you believe that God has put you on earth to accomplish something? Is your heart burdened to make a difference or solve some problem? The truth is: we all are influencers in one way or another. Parents influence children. Sales people influence customers. Students influence their peers. But being an effective influencer is more than just being a persuasive speaker. It involves a process of steps and actions that are providentially initiated, guided, and planned by God. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080224.mp3 C500AF7F-033C-4610-80F6-4765EF4DFC4E Sun, 24 Feb 2008 08:18:50 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. iv - "Influencer" - Esther 4: 1-5:8 Do you stand out as a person of influence? Do you believe that God has put you on earth to accomplish something? Is your heart burdened to make a difference or solve some problem? The truth is: we all are influencers in one way or another. Parents influence children. Sales people influence customers. Students influence their peers. But being an effective influencer is more than just being a persuasive speaker. It involves a process of steps and actions that are providentially initiated, guided, and planned by God. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The focus of this chapter is on the hostility shown against God and His people, and how God responds. In this instance, the hostility manifests itself in the pride, attention-seeking, and vengeful attitude of Haman. In the middle of this, God shows His providence in controlling the roll of the dice that sets the date for the massacre of the Jews. As we face hate and attack, we are encouraged to wait patiently on God’s justice by demonstrating mercy. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080217.mp3 21FD802E-BEC1-4A7A-93F7-033EB5CA5A1B Sun, 17 Feb 2008 08:18:49 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. iii - "The Role of the Dice" Esther 3 The focus of this chapter is on the hostility shown against God and His people, and how God responds. In this instance, the hostility manifests itself in the pride, attention-seeking, and vengeful attitude of Haman. In the middle of this, God shows His providence in controlling the roll of the dice that sets the date for the massacre of the Jews. As we face hate and attack, we are encouraged to wait patiently on God’s justice by demonstrating mercy. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Do you ever feel like a number, like just another cog in the machine, a nameless face in the crowd? Esther had a pretty face, but no one cared much what her name was. She was just one of 400 girls taken by force to be part of the empire’s machine-like process to find a new queen. She stood out from the crowd, but it wasn’t because of her beauty. Ultimately, it was God’s favor that made Esther stand out in her blend-in world. Remember that next time you’re feeling lost in the crowd. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080210.mp3 28FB4B1E-4524-4B6D-A30E-61089D0E0983 Sun, 10 Feb 2008 08:14:04 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. ii - "Miss Persian Idol" - Esther 2 Do you ever feel like a number, like just another cog in the machine, a nameless face in the crowd? Esther had a pretty face, but no one cared much what her name was. She was just one of 400 girls taken by force to be part of the empire’s machine-like process to find a new queen. She stood out from the crowd, but it wasn’t because of her beauty. Ultimately, it was God’s favor that made Esther stand out in her blend-in world. Remember that next time you’re feeling lost in the crowd. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman There are a lot of pressures to blend-in with society, to fit in, just "do as you’re told," and avoid making waves. The opening chapter of the story of Esther tell us that Esther, Mordecai, and their fellow displaced Jews lived in the same kind of culture. It was a culture that applied extreme pressure to fit in and feared the disruption caused by anyone who attempted to stand out. God’s people need to know that His kingdom surpasses every earthly empire and don’t need to be afraid to stand out. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080203.mp3 F7365FB9-59E9-4750-ACA0-FC37A1642016 Sun, 3 Feb 2008 08:14:03 -0500 Standing Out in a Blend in World Pt. I - "Hammered" - Esther 1 There are a lot of pressures to blend-in with society, to fit in, just "do as you’re told," and avoid making waves. The opening chapter of the story of Esther tell us that Esther, Mordecai, and their fellow displaced Jews lived in the same kind of culture. It was a culture that applied extreme pressure to fit in and feared the disruption caused by anyone who attempted to stand out. God’s people need to know that His kingdom surpasses every earthly empire and don’t need to be afraid to stand out. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Nearly three-quarters of the churches in America are either plateaued or in decline. And this year, 3,500 churches will close their doors for good. Among growing churches, many report no conversion growth, meaning that their growth comes merely by Christians switching their membership to churches with better programs, more comfortable facilities, and greater opportunities to blend in with the crowd. In the conclusion to his letter to the church at Colossae, Paul encourages an outward focus through prayer, purpose, and people. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080127.mp3 27AB1C5B-40B2-41D7-81AF-EEF73C13A13A Sun, 27 Jan 2008 14:29:37 -0500 The Kingdom in the World - Colossians 4: 2-18 Nearly three-quarters of the churches in America are either plateaued or in decline. And this year, 3,500 churches will close their doors for good. Among growing churches, many report no conversion growth, meaning that their growth comes merely by Christians switching their membership to churches with better programs, more comfortable facilities, and greater opportunities to blend in with the crowd. In the conclusion to his letter to the church at Colossae, Paul encourages an outward focus through prayer, purpose, and people. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman We live in a gritty, dirty, dark world. Colossians 1:13 says that in Jesus God has defeated the dominions of darkness and brought us into Jesus’ kingdom of light. The problem is that we still live in a dark world. How do we overcome the darkness? Better yet, how do we keep from being overcome by the darkness? The solution is not religion. It’s not spiritualism or mysticism. It’s not moralism or rules. Those are solutions that come out of a world that is already in darkness. We need a solution that comes from above, not below. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080120.mp3 225857F7-6BDA-4671-A36D-E0820B7913F0 Sun, 20 Jan 2008 14:29:36 -0500 Living in the Kingdom of Light - Colossians 3: 1-4:1 We live in a gritty, dirty, dark world. Colossians 1:13 says that in Jesus God has defeated the dominions of darkness and brought us into Jesus’ kingdom of light. The problem is that we still live in a dark world. How do we overcome the darkness? Better yet, how do we keep from being overcome by the darkness? The solution is not religion. It’s not spiritualism or mysticism. It’s not moralism or rules. Those are solutions that come out of a world that is already in darkness. We need a solution that comes from above, not below. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Today’s message touches on a great area of darkness for many. Spiritual confusion. What is God expecting of me? How can I live a pure life, and avoid sin? How do I overcome my sinful nature? How can I live in a way that pleases God? And here’s the biggie: how can I get off the treadmill of trying to please other people? The anxiety of living a performance-based life just to please others is overwhelming. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080113.mp3 1B430BD3-08D0-45AA-AD45-6C8239E6F4D2 Sun, 13 Jan 2008 14:29:35 -0500 Get off that treadmill! - Colossians 2: 6-3:4 Today’s message touches on a great area of darkness for many. Spiritual confusion. What is God expecting of me? How can I live a pure life, and avoid sin? How do I overcome my sinful nature? How can I live in a way that pleases God? And here’s the biggie: how can I get off the treadmill of trying to please other people? The anxiety of living a performance-based life just to please others is overwhelming. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Did you make any New Year’s resolutions? Millions of us did. Resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking, change a personality trait, develop a good habit, be a happier person, go deeper spiritually. Resolutions and decisions to change are usually driven by a sense that something is wrong and needs to be fixed. Resolutions often come out of pain and suffering. In this section of Paul’s letter to the Christians at Colossae, he shares how he has resolved to suffer for the cause of the gospel so that everyone could know the mysterious, revolutionary joy of "Christ in you, the hope of glory." http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20080106.mp3 13CE2866-1FDD-40F9-84C5-D8D8972B6EAF Sun, 6 Jan 2008 14:29:34 -0500 Resolution/Revolution - Colossians 1: 24-2:5 Did you make any New Year’s resolutions? Millions of us did. Resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking, change a personality trait, develop a good habit, be a happier person, go deeper spiritually. Resolutions and decisions to change are usually driven by a sense that something is wrong and needs to be fixed. Resolutions often come out of pain and suffering. In this section of Paul’s letter to the Christians at Colossae, he shares how he has resolved to suffer for the cause of the gospel so that everyone could know the mysterious, revolutionary joy of "Christ in you, the hope of glory." 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman We are like a computer and the software we are using is a system call SARX 6.66. SARX, in the Greek, is the word used for our flesh. Paul uses it in Galatians 5 to mean our sensuous nature of man, "the animal nature" that is apart from the will of God. It is the nature to which we are physically born. And it is a nature that separates us from God. But there is another operating system called Spirit 7.77. It is life by the spirit of God and it is the code that can change our lives. So let’s reboot to the new operating system. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071230.mp3 2C04875C-BEFA-496D-9736-F8D207D70750 Sun, 30 Dec 2007 09:27:03 -0500 Resolution or Radical Reboot - Galatians 5 We are like a computer and the software we are using is a system call SARX 6.66. SARX, in the Greek, is the word used for our flesh. Paul uses it in Galatians 5 to mean our sensuous nature of man, "the animal nature" that is apart from the will of God. It is the nature to which we are physically born. And it is a nature that separates us from God. But there is another operating system called Spirit 7.77. It is life by the spirit of God and it is the code that can change our lives. So let’s reboot to the new operating system. 35:00 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz Joseph was a righteous man, an esteemed member of Israel’s tzadiqim. Faced with the choice between his reputation and obeying God, Joseph learned that Christmas came with a cost. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071224.mp3 87F05C13-767C-4950-B011-CF19D2965371 Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:29:33 -0500 The Cost of Christmas - Matthew 1: 18-25 Joseph was a righteous man, an esteemed member of Israel’s tzadiqim. Faced with the choice between his reputation and obeying God, Joseph learned that Christmas came with a cost. 20:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman There are all sorts of images of who Jesus is. Someone has said that God created man in his own image, and man returned the favor. What is your image/concept of this baby who was born in a stable in Bethlehem? Jesus asked His disciple that question once. "What about you? Who do you say that I am?" (Mt 16:15) This is the most crucial question we face. No other religious, spiritual, or philosophical influencer ever said, "You’re opinion of me will affect your eternal destiny." It’s all about Jesus. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071223.mp3 F168464B-8916-4784-850D-F76E7424BA72 Sun, 23 Dec 2007 14:29:32 -0500 It's all about Jesus! - Colossians 1: 15-23 There are all sorts of images of who Jesus is. Someone has said that God created man in his own image, and man returned the favor. What is your image/concept of this baby who was born in a stable in Bethlehem? Jesus asked His disciple that question once. "What about you? Who do you say that I am?" (Mt 16:15) This is the most crucial question we face. No other religious, spiritual, or philosophical influencer ever said, "You’re opinion of me will affect your eternal destiny." It’s all about Jesus. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Becoming a Christian can be like coming downstairs on Christmas morning and seeing a beautifully decorated tree stuffed with presents under its branches. You’ve already received eternal life and know that you will receive many other good gifts from God. But how disappointing would it be if, as you opened those presents, you found that all the packages were empty? For many of us, daily Christian living seems empty because there is no sense of God’s presence in our lives. We long to please God and live in a way that honors Jesus, but how can we when we don’t understand His will? In these verses, we learn how we can enjoy God’s perfectly pleasing presence! http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071216.mp3 DD6C5711-6FE2-4839-A540-4633E16E6D1E Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:29:31 -0500 Perfectly Pleasing Presence - Colossians 1: 9-14 Becoming a Christian can be like coming downstairs on Christmas morning and seeing a beautifully decorated tree stuffed with presents under its branches. You’ve already received eternal life and know that you will receive many other good gifts from God. But how disappointing would it be if, as you opened those presents, you found that all the packages were empty? For many of us, daily Christian living seems empty because there is no sense of God’s presence in our lives. We long to please God and live in a way that honors Jesus, but how can we when we don’t understand His will? In these verses, we learn how we can enjoy God’s perfectly pleasing presence! 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman At Christmas, we sometimes become aware of how small and broken down things are in our lives. Financial resources may seem small. Our decorations may look small compared to the neighbors. Our heart might feel small when we don’t have the feelings of good-will or generosity towards others, or a closeness to God that we know we ought to have. Paul’s letter to the new church in the small town of Colossae reminds us that God’s good news of the gospel comes to small places and fills them with joy! http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071209.mp3 901FB854-CFF6-4107-8A11-70CED858DBAD Sun, 9 Dec 2007 14:20:06 -0500 Filled with Hope - Colossians 1: 1-8 At Christmas, we sometimes become aware of how small and broken down things are in our lives. Financial resources may seem small. Our decorations may look small compared to the neighbors. Our heart might feel small when we don’t have the feelings of good-will or generosity towards others, or a closeness to God that we know we ought to have. Paul’s letter to the new church in the small town of Colossae reminds us that God’s good news of the gospel comes to small places and fills them with joy! 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Time is one of the most precious resources that we have, and yet it is one of the most neglected areas of management. Most people live with little or no margin in their time. As we pursue Godly priorities, He will lead us into a place of margin. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071202.mp3 07D58662-EBFE-4D43-9692-2F925C2C70BB Sun, 2 Dec 2007 14:20:05 -0500 Downtime - Selected Scriptures Time is one of the most precious resources that we have, and yet it is one of the most neglected areas of management. Most people live with little or no margin in their time. As we pursue Godly priorities, He will lead us into a place of margin. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Today we’re going to look at finances, and specifically, how to find financial margin. The closer you live to the limit of what you make, the less margin you will have and the more tension you feel. We weren’t meant to live on 100% of what we make. God, in His wisdom and love, intends for us to have margin. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071125.mp3 20452902-D2B9-4031-B86E-B7F2A7074CA8 Sun, 25 Nov 2007 14:20:04 -0500 Finding Financial Margin - 2 Corinthians 8-9 Today we’re going to look at finances, and specifically, how to find financial margin. The closer you live to the limit of what you make, the less margin you will have and the more tension you feel. We weren’t meant to live on 100% of what we make. God, in His wisdom and love, intends for us to have margin. 40:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman This message is called the Holiday Survival Kit, but it is really a message about surviving in the places you are most spiritually attacked. We find this kit in chapter 6 in the book of Ephesians. As we all look to go over the river and through the woods to Grandma‘s house, we can be on a march into a spiritual battlefield. The good news is the battle has been won! The bad news, many of us are still being picked off by snipers unnecessarily. We have something stronger than Kevlar to protect us, but often we take it off at home. And home is where we need it most. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071118.mp3 D5A1F7F2-574B-41C5-AA9B-64AC34A3F567 Sun, 18 Nov 2007 14:20:03 -0500 Holiday Survival Kit - Ephesians 6: 10-18 This message is called the Holiday Survival Kit, but it is really a message about surviving in the places you are most spiritually attacked. We find this kit in chapter 6 in the book of Ephesians. As we all look to go over the river and through the woods to Grandma‘s house, we can be on a march into a spiritual battlefield. The good news is the battle has been won! The bad news, many of us are still being picked off by snipers unnecessarily. We have something stronger than Kevlar to protect us, but often we take it off at home. And home is where we need it most. 35:00 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz Poor management of our time and resources costs you and I personally. This is why Jesus devoted one-fourth of His parables to how we manage our belongings - our money, our abilities, and our time. Two management experiences that we usually don’t find enjoyable are going to work and giving away our hard-earned money. By following the guidance of Scripture, you can learn how to make money, give it away, and enjoy both. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071111.mp3 FDBC2E21-EDAA-48B5-ACF9-0F6116952E22 Sun, 11 Nov 2007 14:20:02 -0500 Making money, giving it away, and enjoying both - pt. i - 1 Timothy 6: 17; Selected Scriptures Poor management of our time and resources costs you and I personally. This is why Jesus devoted one-fourth of His parables to how we manage our belongings - our money, our abilities, and our time. Two management experiences that we usually don’t find enjoyable are going to work and giving away our hard-earned money. By following the guidance of Scripture, you can learn how to make money, give it away, and enjoy both. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman For the next few weeks we’re going to be talking about why and how to properly manage or use the resources that God has given to each of us. Dictionaries define stewardship as "a personal responsibility for taking care of another person’s property or financial affairs." Today, we’ll look at our most important belonging of all - God’s calling to belong to Jesus. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071104.mp3 5448FBE1-D3ED-434C-8033-26FFBE38161A Sun, 4 Nov 2007 14:20:01 -0500 We Belong to Jesus - Romans 1:6; Selected Scriptures For the next few weeks we’re going to be talking about why and how to properly manage or use the resources that God has given to each of us. Dictionaries define stewardship as "a personal responsibility for taking care of another person’s property or financial affairs." Today, we’ll look at our most important belonging of all - God’s calling to belong to Jesus. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Today, we’re concluding our look at the Seasons of Life by considering the last phase, age 60 and up. Many have a negative view of old age and do what they can to avoid any appearance of age. But the Bible presents a positive view of what it means to be old. At the same time, Psalm 90 teaches that our days on earth need to be lived with wisdom that comes from an understanding of God’s eternal plan. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071028.mp3 1F6F6CFF-86BB-47E3-B3EE-7E925D0C01A2 Sun, 28 Oct 2007 14:10:35 -0500 Seasons of Life - pt. iv (Old Age) - Psalm 90 Today, we’re concluding our look at the Seasons of Life by considering the last phase, age 60 and up. Many have a negative view of old age and do what they can to avoid any appearance of age. But the Bible presents a positive view of what it means to be old. At the same time, Psalm 90 teaches that our days on earth need to be lived with wisdom that comes from an understanding of God’s eternal plan. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Today, we’re looking at the season of life from 40 to 59 years-old. It’s during middle-age that many choose to place a new focus on their health. This is wise, but our spiritual health is even more important than physical health. The examination may be uncomfortable, but Jesus, the Great Physician, provides us any healing that we need. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071021.mp3 70A71E00-23E3-438C-BCDE-D1F9D2D7397D Sun, 21 Oct 2007 14:10:34 -0500 Seasons of Life - pt. iii (The Middle-Age Years) - 3 John Today, we’re looking at the season of life from 40 to 59 years-old. It’s during middle-age that many choose to place a new focus on their health. This is wise, but our spiritual health is even more important than physical health. The examination may be uncomfortable, but Jesus, the Great Physician, provides us any healing that we need. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Today, we’re looking at the season of life from 20 to 39 years-old. It’s in the twenty-something years that God wants us to open our eyes to the resources that He has blessed us with. The "life lesson" of this stage of life is that our treasure, talents, and time are resources to be invested. Jesus challenged a man in his twenties to invest where the need was greatest - his own soul. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071014.mp3 1AA63C37-6A61-4EEE-B008-D51F25EA6282 Sun, 14 Oct 2007 14:10:33 -0500 Seasons of Life - pt. ii (Young Adult Life) - Mark 10: 17-31 Today, we’re looking at the season of life from 20 to 39 years-old. It’s in the twenty-something years that God wants us to open our eyes to the resources that He has blessed us with. The "life lesson" of this stage of life is that our treasure, talents, and time are resources to be invested. Jesus challenged a man in his twenties to invest where the need was greatest - his own soul. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "there is a season for every activity under heaven." Just like spring makes way for summer and fall is nature’s way of preparing the world for winter, the teenage years are just a preparation time for young adulthood, and the physical and mental changes of middle-age are just part of getting ready for old-age. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20071007.mp3 B555E84B-1A09-47CC-995B-E72F12CEA824 Sun, 7 Oct 2007 14:04:41 -0500 Seasons of Life - pt. i (The Teen Years) - Daniel 1 Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "there is a season for every activity under heaven." Just like spring makes way for summer and fall is nature’s way of preparing the world for winter, the teenage years are just a preparation time for young adulthood, and the physical and mental changes of middle-age are just part of getting ready for old-age. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Our focus last week was on restoring our worship to right side-up through a relationship with Jesus. It’s only through Jesus and a faith-based relationship with Him that we can worship God properly. Today we’re going to look at corporate worship - why we should worship together, what worshiping together does, and how we should do it. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070930.mp3 2BEB9674-C070-403F-A111-F6042E5B46B6 Sun, 30 Sep 2007 14:04:40 -0500 Worship and Witness - 1 Corinthians 14: 20-25; Acts 2: 1-39 Our focus last week was on restoring our worship to right side-up through a relationship with Jesus. It’s only through Jesus and a faith-based relationship with Him that we can worship God properly. Today we’re going to look at corporate worship - why we should worship together, what worshiping together does, and how we should do it. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman When we talk about worship, most people think of it as a space-time event - something that happens in a particular place - a church - and at a particular time - say, between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. Is this what God had in mind when He said, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy"? http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070923.mp3 D123FE47-7088-4C68-9F3F-A0143A0ABDFA Sun, 23 Sep 2007 14:04:39 -0500 24 - Selected Scriptures When we talk about worship, most people think of it as a space-time event - something that happens in a particular place - a church - and at a particular time - say, between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. Is this what God had in mind when He said, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy"? 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Painful thoughts are not unusual for a Christian to have. The emptiness of unanswered prayer, pain that you can’t describe or that you’re afraid to share, loneliness. That feeling like you’re going to have to quit the Journey, that you can’t make it to the finish line. How do you keep going then? How do you find endurance to finish the journey when you feel alone or worn out or are running hurt? http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070916.mp3 D2841BEF-F460-4F55-841F-9036789CE328 Sun, 16 Sep 2007 14:04:38 -0500 Endurance for the Journey - 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27 Painful thoughts are not unusual for a Christian to have. The emptiness of unanswered prayer, pain that you can’t describe or that you’re afraid to share, loneliness. That feeling like you’re going to have to quit the Journey, that you can’t make it to the finish line. How do you keep going then? How do you find endurance to finish the journey when you feel alone or worn out or are running hurt? 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman If Heaven is our destination and heaven is spending eternity with God, then the journey is about enjoying Him along the way. Unfortunately, many of us get excited about the destination of heaven. We have our ticket bought for us and simply sit at the station waiting for our heavenly destination. But if that is the case, we have missed the true purpose of this life. We have missed the joy and we might even have missed the journey because we are asleep at the station. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070909.mp3 9890E03F-6C3C-4697-99F5-8F42CCBBF562 Sun, 9 Sep 2007 14:04:37 -0500 Enjoying the Journey - Selected Scriptures If Heaven is our destination and heaven is spending eternity with God, then the journey is about enjoying Him along the way. Unfortunately, many of us get excited about the destination of heaven. We have our ticket bought for us and simply sit at the station waiting for our heavenly destination. But if that is the case, we have missed the true purpose of this life. We have missed the joy and we might even have missed the journey because we are asleep at the station. 25:00 Ken Schultz Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no Ken Schultz For the next three weeks we’re going to be thinking about how and why to embark on a spiritual Journey with Jesus, how to enjoy the Journey, and how to develop endurance for the Journey. In Luke 15, Jesus told three parables to drive home the point that "lost people matter to God." http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070902.mp3 B800245E-1BA7-4CB1-82B1-26D28DA82F9C Sun, 2 Sep 2007 14:04:36 -0500 Taking the First Steps Home - Luke 15 For the next three weeks we’re going to be thinking about how and why to embark on a spiritual Journey with Jesus, how to enjoy the Journey, and how to develop endurance for the Journey. In Luke 15, Jesus told three parables to drive home the point that "lost people matter to God." 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman The purpose of the Bible is to record how God is working out His redemptive plan through human history. God graciously called Abram into a covenant relationship to show that salvation is about God’s blessing rather than man’s effort. During times of confusion, doubt, and uncertainty, we can have confidence that God is at work. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070826.mp3 121D66F3-90B0-4D3B-A244-2C37A37B2AD0 Sun, 26 Aug 2007 13:55:27 -0500 God at Work - Genesis 11: 27-12:8 The purpose of the Bible is to record how God is working out His redemptive plan through human history. God graciously called Abram into a covenant relationship to show that salvation is about God’s blessing rather than man’s effort. During times of confusion, doubt, and uncertainty, we can have confidence that God is at work. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman There is a law of unexpected consequences. You’ve probably experienced it. You face a problem and endure it for a while. Eventually it comes to a point where you have to make a plan to get out of the problem. You rely on your experience and wisdom. Maybe get some advice. Maybe you even prayed. You execute your plan. But along the way, there are unexpected consequences to your plan. Abraham also experienced the law of unexpected consequences when he found himself off track in Egypt. Today we’ll learn some important lessons to help us get back on track. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070819.mp3 48E66331-6E76-45DE-B3ED-31C0AD4FAFCA Sun, 19 Aug 2007 13:55:26 -0500 Getting Back on Track - Genesis 12: 10-20 There is a law of unexpected consequences. You’ve probably experienced it. You face a problem and endure it for a while. Eventually it comes to a point where you have to make a plan to get out of the problem. You rely on your experience and wisdom. Maybe get some advice. Maybe you even prayed. You execute your plan. But along the way, there are unexpected consequences to your plan. Abraham also experienced the law of unexpected consequences when he found himself off track in Egypt. Today we’ll learn some important lessons to help us get back on track. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,God,Gospel,Crosswinds,Church,Plainfield,Stillman,Schultz no no John Stillman Abraham’s nephew Lot was a lot of trouble! But that did not keep Abraham from loving him. Abraham was learning that God was calling him into a covenant relationship to imitate God’s character of love to the world around him. http://www.xwindschurch.org/feeds/20070812.mp3 34396DFB-ABD6-4CB5-9504-2C16F397FF1D Sun, 12 Aug 2007 13:55:25 -0500 Quit Touching Your Sister - Genesis 13-14, 18: 16-33 Abraham’s nephew Lot was a lot of trouble! But that did not keep Abraham from loving him. Abraham was learning that God was calling him into a covenant relationship to imitate God’s character of love to the world around him. 35:00 John Stillman Jesus,G