Spark Cast

Special guest Rabbi Ari Cartun of Etz Chayim synagogue shares a few personal and theological reflections on why Etz Chayim rents its facility to Spark Church. This message is our first installment for our "Reconciliation" value as we learn how to love, respect, and be reconciled to each other in the midst of history, differences, and distinctions we may have. (00:00 - 08:15 of the audio is an introduction by Pastor Danielle and a presentation of a thank you gift Spark presented to Etz Chayim. We had technical difficulties and apologize for the poor audio quality from 00:00-8:47.)

Pastor Kevin teaches that you have been created in the image and likeness of God, one of the greatest truths taught in the Bible. That you have been marred, scarred, and broken is also true. What we don't always realize is that we all live out of the view we have of God, the perspective we have of this "image." In this talk, we will journey through the implications of this truth, and be inspired to heal the image and reputation that we have of God, of ourselves, and of others.

Pastor Danielle teaches that how we understand and speak about God greatly matters. Our views about God influence how we live, and it impacts the world around us. In this message we discover anew a God who is consistently loving and just; that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We will also be challenged to not let ignorance prevail in understanding the God of the Bible.

Pastor Danielle teaches on the Parable of the Good Samaritan found in Luke 10. While often understood as a parable that helps us perform "acts of kindness," we discover through history, culture, and context that the teaching is far deeper, richer, and more radical than only "good deeds." People who we often consider "the other," are actually "our brothers," and we are called, as disciples of Jesus, to love even them. You can download the teaching slides and handout online at www.sparkchurch.net

Pastor Kevin teaches on the "greatest" commandment found in Matthew 22 (also in Mark 12). This "mega" commandment, when practiced, radically changes how we see everything. To love God and to love our neighbor is not just one of the commandments, or even just the first. It is the very lens through which we view all the other commandments. And as we adhere to this radical commandment, it can change us, heal us, transform us.

Pastor Danielle teaches on the "Parable of Lost Things" from Luke 15. In this teaching, we discover that God lavishes unqualified acceptance on everyone, even those who have experienced unqualified rejection. For many, this kind of grace is not just amazing, it is unbelievable. Yet, it is the prodigal love of God taught by Jesus in this parable.