First Covenant Church of Sacramento is dedicated to sharing the Gospel with every person everywhere and growing and equipping believers into fully devoted followers of Christ. http://www.firstcov.org en-us Copyright 2012 First Covenant Church of Sacramento Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:29:24 -0800 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:29:24 -0800 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss bwebber@firstcov.org (Brian Webber) First Cov Staff Developing fully devoted followers of Christ First Covenant Church of Sacramento is dedicated to sharing the Gospel with every person everywhere and growing and equipping believers into fully devoted followers of Christ. Brian Webber bwebber@firstcov.org clean http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-02-19.mp3 As we conclude the series it’s in this message that the rubber really hits the road for Jonah and quite frankly for us too. Is Jonah really aligned with the purposes of God, is he on the same page, going after the same things, are we? Christianity Sun, 19 Feb 2012 13:00:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me As we conclude the series it’s in this message that the rubber really hits the road for Jonah and quite frankly for us too. Is Jonah really aligned with the purposes of God, is he on the same page, going after the same things, are we? 00:34:51 Jesse Smith, Jonah, Is God fair, God, fair, Ninevah, whale http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-02-12.mp3 God is a God that is full of compassion and grace. His compassion and grace move him to continually give us second chances. In this sermon we are able to see how God gave Jonah a second chance and how that affected all that are involved in the story. Christianity Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:00:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me God is a God that is full of compassion and grace. His compassion and grace move him to continually give us second chances. In this sermon we are able to see how God gave Jonah a second chance and how that affected all that are involved in the story. 00:36:04 Jesse Smith, Jonah, second chances, Ninevah, whale http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-02-05.mp3 Jonah in the belly of the fish. He knew why he was there. He knew what he’d done. He knew who put him there but one thing we can learn positively from Jonah is it’s not enough to just realize that you’ve wandered from God you must actually take some steps back to Him and obey. That’s exactly what we see in this passage. The circumstances that Jonah finds himself in prompts him to return to God and re-commit to God’s original calling on his life. Christianity Sun, 05 Feb 2012 13:00:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me Jonah in the belly of the fish. He knew why he was there. He knew what he’d done. He knew who put him there but one thing we can learn positively from Jonah is it’s not enough to just realize that you’ve wandered from God you must actually take some steps back to Him and obey. That’s exactly what we see in this passage. The circumstances that Jonah finds himself in prompts him to return to God and re-commit to God’s original calling on his life. 00:37:06 Jesse Smith, Jonah, repentance, Ninevah, whale http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-01-29.mp3 We can run from God but there is always a fare to be paid. Christianity Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:00:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me We can run from God but there is always a fare to be paid. 00:34:37 Jesse Smith, Jonah, running, Ninevah http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-01-22.mp3 Before we dive into the story of Jonah in the next message we must take the time to see how Jonah fits in the bigger picture of humanity. There really is no other story like this one in the entire Old Testament. It really is supposed to stand out. It’s completely different. There’s a higher story here, a higher message, a higher challenge because from the beginning the Hebrew people had a higher calling that we have as well. To be a people who live distinct and different so that the people around us are drawn to God. Christianity Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me Before we dive into the story of Jonah in the next message we must take the time to see how Jonah fits in the bigger picture of humanity. There really is no other story like this one in the entire Old Testament. It really is supposed to stand out. It’s completely different. There’s a higher story here, a higher message, a higher challenge because from the beginning the Hebrew people had a higher calling that we have as well. To be a people who live distinct and different so that the people around us are drawn to God. 00:35:11 Jesse Smith, Jonah, calling, The Calling, Ninevah http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-01-15.mp3 Jonah is much more than an children’s story. It is a real historical event that challenges us to live out God’s call in our life. We are all Jonah. We have all responded at times as he did. Christianity Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Jonah in Me Jonah is much more than an children’s story. It is a real historical event that challenges us to live out God’s call in our life. We are all Jonah. We have all responded at times as he did. 00:34:27 Jesse Smith, Jonah, The Jonah in Me, whale, Ninevah http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-01-08.mp3 Pastor Dan teaches from John 3:30 which is the exalting of Jesus in every area of life. Christianity Sun, 08 Jan 2012 14:29:19 -0800 Dan Palmer clean Pastor Dan teaches from John 3:30 which is the exalting of Jesus in every area of life. 00:33:53 Dan Palmer, 3:30, John 3:30, exalting Jesus http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2012-01-01.mp3 As we begin the new year, we are challenged to get rid of all the things on our shelves that we don't need and to get involved in discipleship Christianity Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:29:19 -0800 Jeff Koons clean As we begin the new year, we are challenged to get rid of all the things on our shelves that we don't need and to get involved in discipleship 00:29:40 Jeff Koons, new year, shelves, 2012 http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-12-18.mp3 Luke 1:28-36 » We look at the Christmas story through maybe the most beautiful lens of all and that is through the eyes of Mary and Joseph. Christianity Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Christmas Eyes We look at the Christmas story through maybe the most beautiful lens of all and that is through the eyes of Mary and Joseph. 00:29:27 jesse smith, christmas, Mary, Joseph http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-12-11.mp3 As we look at the Christmas story through the eyes of the Wise Men we are able to see what the journey of a wise person in this life truly looks like. Christianity Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Christmas Eyes As we look at the Christmas story through the eyes of the Wise Men we are able to see what the journey of a wise person in this life truly looks like. 00:34:03 jesse smith, christmas, wise men, wisemen http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-12-04.mp3 We, just like Simeon, have been told, “The Messiah is coming.” We are heirs to that promise. We are prompted by the same spirit. We should be longing to see his face just as Simeon was. How do we do this? That’s the big question. Simeon is a great example on how we too wait for the Messiah to come. Christianity Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Christmas Eyes We, just like Simeon, have been told, “The Messiah is coming.” We are heirs to that promise. We are prompted by the same spirit. We should be longing to see his face just as Simeon was. How do we do this? That’s the big question. Simeon is a great example on how we too wait for the Messiah to come. 00:23:22 jesse smith, christmas, simeon http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-11-27.mp3 In today's message, Pastor Mark Shetler leads us into our new series, Christmas Eyes, as we take a look at Christmas through the eyes of the famous characters of the Christmas story. Christianity Sun, 27 Nov 2011 13:22:19 -0800 Mark Shetler clean Christmas Eyes In today's message, Pastor Mark Shetler leads us into our new series, Christmas Eyes, as we take a look at Christmas through the eyes of the famous characters of the Christmas story. 00:33:36 mark shetler, christmas, shepherds, advent http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-11-20.mp3 In today's message, Pastor Jesse leads us in remembering all God has done for us as we prepare for Thanksgiving. Christianity Sun, 20 Nov 2011 14:47:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Thanksgiving at First Cov In today's message, Pastor Jesse leads us in remembering all God has done for us as we prepare for Thanksgiving. 00:21:11 jesse smith, remember, thanksgiving http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-11-13.mp3 Hebrews 12:18-25 » As we conclude the series, we've learned that Jesus creates, sustains, governs, redeems, and covers sin. We've learned that he is the one and only perfect Savior and by his divine attributes Jesus is omniscient, omnipotent, unchanging, and eternal. We learned that he’s simply better than any Old Testament person or angelic being, he’s superior to any institution, ritual, or sacrifice. He is perfect, he is God, Jesus Christ is Savior. All these truths bring us to this passage which really is the final challenge of the entire book. Choose to accept Jesus...or not. Christianity Sun, 13 Nov 2011 13:18:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 12:18-25 » As we conclude the series, we've learned that Jesus creates, sustains, governs, redeems, and covers sin. We've learned that he is the one and only perfect Savior and by his divine attributes Jesus is omniscient, omnipotent, unchanging, and eternal. We learned that he’s simply better than any Old Testament person or angelic being, he’s superior to any institution, ritual, or sacrifice. He is perfect, he is God, Jesus Christ is Savior. All these truths bring us to this passage which really is the final challenge of the entire book. Choose to accept Jesus...or not. 00:33:52 jesse smith, jesus http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-11-06.mp3 Hebrews 12:5-11 » The discipline of God is so often misunderstood. This message explores what it really is and how we as his followers so greatly benefit from it. Christianity Sun, 06 Nov 2011 14:14:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 12:5-11 » The discipline of God is so often misunderstood. This message explores what it really is and how we as his followers so greatly benefit from it. 00:31:40 jesse smith, jesus, discipline http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-10-30.mp3 Hebrews 12:1-3 » Jesus didn’t die and send us the Holy Spirit to live within us just so we could start the race but so that we could finish the race victoriously. In this passage we are given some principles that we can apply to our lives that will help us run well. Christianity Sun, 30 Oct 2011 13:23:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 12:1-3 » Jesus didn’t die and send us the Holy Spirit to live within us just so we could start the race but so that we could finish the race victoriously. In this passage we are given some principles that we can apply to our lives that will help us run well. 00:31:46 jesse smith, jesus, holy spirit, race http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-10-23.mp3 In today's message, we take a break from our RESPOND message series as Pastor Ted walks us through the foundations of First Covenant Church. Christianity Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:48:19 -0800 Ted Smith clean RESPOND In today's message, we take a break from our RESPOND message series as Pastor Ted walks us through the foundations of First Covenant Church. 00:37:11 ted smith, believe, doctrine, Bible, authority http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-10-16.mp3 Hebrews 11:30-40 » We don't have great faith because we have great courage, we have great courage because we have complete and total belief in the Word of God. Christianity Sun, 16 Oct 2011 15:33:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:30-40 » We don't have great faith because we have great courage, we have great courage because we have complete and total belief in the Word of God. 00:33:08 jesus, courage, belief, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-10-09.mp3 In today's message, we take a break from the RESPOND message series to preview and prepare for Christmas at First Cov. Christianity Sun, 09 Oct 2011 14:29:19 -0800 Jesse Smith and Mark Shetler clean Christmas at First Cov In today's message, we take a break from the RESPOND message series to preview and prepare for Christmas at First Cov. 00:32:42 christmas, mark shetler, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-10-02.mp3 Hebrews 11:23-29 » Life is can be summed up by the decisions that we make. To live as Christ called us to involves making right decisions. Honestly you can see the spiritual maturity of a believer by the decisions they make. So how do we make right decisions? Right choices are made on the basis of right faith and right faith and right belief come from right biblical doctrine. In this passage we are able to witness by faith three things Moses decides to accept and three things that he decides to reject. Christianity Sun, 02 Oct 2011 17:33:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:23-29 » Life is can be summed up by the decisions that we make. To live as Christ called us to involves making right decisions. Honestly you can see the spiritual maturity of a believer by the decisions they make. So how do we make right decisions? Right choices are made on the basis of right faith and right faith and right belief come from right biblical doctrine. In this passage we are able to witness by faith three things Moses decides to accept and three things that he decides to reject. 00:32:08 jesus, decide, decision, maturity, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-09-25.mp3 Hebrews 11:20-22 » In today's message, Pastor Jesse Smith continues to lead us through our RESPOND series, challenging us with how we should respond, in faith, to Jesus Christ. Christianity Sun, 25 Sep 2011 16:45:19 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:20-22 » In today's message, Pastor Jesse Smith continues to lead us through our RESPOND series, challenging us with how we should respond, in faith, to Jesus Christ. 00:33:15 jesus, death, faith, jacob, legacy, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-09-18.mp3 Hebrews 11:8-19 » Abraham was the father of the Jewish people and he is therefore presented to the Jews as the most strategic example of faith. They needed to realize that Abraham was more than the father of their race; John the Baptist and Jesus challenged the idea that Jews believed they were saved simply because they were descendants of Abraham. It doesn’t work like that for them or for us. His true legacy was that he is the father of the faithful, the father of everyone who lives by faith in God. He is the prime example of what it takes to spend eternity with God ... It’s faith! Christianity Sun, 18 Sep 2011 16:23:21 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:8-19 » Abraham was the father of the Jewish people and he is therefore presented to the Jews as the most strategic example of faith. They needed to realize that Abraham was more than the father of their race; John the Baptist and Jesus challenged the idea that Jews believed they were saved simply because they were descendants of Abraham. It doesn’t work like that for them or for us. His true legacy was that he is the father of the faithful, the father of everyone who lives by faith in God. He is the prime example of what it takes to spend eternity with God ... It’s faith! 00:32:44 jesus, journey, faith, abraham, legacy, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-09-11.mp3 Hebrews 11:7 and Genesis 6:5-9,22 » In today's message, Pastor Mark Shetler uses Noah as an example of how we, as God's people, should respond in obedience. Christianity Sun, 11 Sep 2011 15:05:02 -0800 Mark Shetler clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:7 » In today's message, Pastor Mark Shetler uses Noah as an example of how we, as God's people, should respond in obedience. 00:37:43 jesus, obey, follow, mark shetler http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-09-04.mp3 Hebrews 11:5-6 » The author of Hebrews calls us to live by faith in Jesus Christ. We see a great example of how to do that tangibly when we look at Enoch. Enoch walked with God. Scripture has a lot to say about what it means to walk with God and we address that in our time together. Christianity Sun, 04 Sep 2011 18:28:46 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:5-6; Genesis 5:21-24; Jude 14-15 » The author of Hebrews calls us to live by faith in Jesus Christ. We see a great example of how to do that tangibly when we look at Enoch. Enoch walked with God. Scripture has a lot to say about what it means to walk with God and we address that in our time together. 00:28:33 jesus, faith, walk, enoch, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-08-28.mp3 Genesis 4:2-5 » The example of true worship told by the story of Cain and Abel. Christianity Sun, 28 Aug 2011 13:53:29 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Genesis 4:2-5 » The example of true worship told by the story of Cain and Abel. 00:33:15 jesus, faith, worship, cain and abel, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-08-21.mp3 Hebrews 11:1-3 » We spent all summer learning who Jesus is and what he has done for us. Now we must respond. At the end of Hebrews 10, the author challenges us with the proper response ... to live by faith in Jesus Christ. As we move into chapter 11, we are going to see some great examples of faith in people living out the proper response. Christianity Sun, 21 Aug 2011 18:19:12 -0800 Jesse Smith clean RESPOND Hebrews 11:1-3 » We spent all summer learning who Jesus is and what he has done for us. Now we must respond. At the end of Hebrews 10, the author challenges us with the proper response ... to live by faith in Jesus Christ. As we move into chapter 11, we are going to see some great examples of faith in people living out the proper response. 00:32:22 jesus, believe, faith, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-08-14.mp3 Hebrews 10:19-25 » In light of all the information we’ve learned this summer about who Jesus is and what he has done for us give your life to Jesus Christ. He’s deserving, he’s the only one worthy of your life. In the passage he quickly shows us what we need to do to come to Jesus, what happens when we do and how to maintain growth. Christianity Sun, 14 Aug 2011 14:52:45 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 10:19-25 » In light of all the information we’ve learned this summer about who Jesus is and what he has done for us give your life to Jesus Christ. He’s deserving, he’s the only one worthy of your life. In the passage he quickly shows us what we need to do to come to Jesus, what happens when we do and how to maintain growth. 00:37:50 jesus, perfect, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-08-07.mp3 Hebrews 10:1-18 » Associate Pastor Dan Palmer continues leading us through this powerful summer series: All About Jesus. Christianity Sun, 07 Aug 2011 14:52:45 -0800 Dan Palmer clean All About Jesus Hebrews 10:1-18 » Associate Pastor Dan Palmer continues leading us through this powerful summer series: All About Jesus. 00:42:36 jesus, perfect, dan palmer http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-07-31.mp3 Hebrews 7:20-28 » Associate Pastor Dan Palmer continues leading us through this powerful summer series: All About Jesus. Christianity Sun, 31 Jul 2011 13:27:53 -0800 Dan Palmer clean All About Jesus Hebrews 7:20-28 » Associate Pastor Dan Palmer continues leading us through this powerful summer series: All About Jesus. 00:34:32 jesus, perfect, dan palmer http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-07-24.mp3 Hebrews 7:11-19 » As humans we like to create lists of dos and don’ts that will make us better Christians, that may make us more holy. But, in the end, it’s only Jesus that makes us holy and because of that have access to a holy God. We must still strive for holiness and adopt spiritual disciplines in our lives that allow the Spirit to do a great work in us but we must let go of the guilt and burden that legalism produces. Christianity Sun, 24 Jul 2011 13:27:53 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 7:11-19 » As humans we like to create lists of dos and don’ts that will make us better Christians, that may make us more holy. But, in the end, it’s only Jesus that makes us holy and because of that have access to a holy God. We must still strive for holiness and adopt spiritual disciplines in our lives that allow the Spirit to do a great work in us but we must let go of the guilt and burden that legalism produces. 00:34:11 jesus, perfect, priest, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-07-17.mp3 Hebrews 7:1-10 » Jesus is from a better priesthood. Christianity Sun, 17 Jul 2011 19:23:47 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 7:1-10 » Jesus is from a better priesthood. 00:31:12 jesus, perfect, priest, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-07-10.mp3 Hebrews 5:1-10 » The author of Hebrews makes a bold proclamation that Jesus is the everlasting high priest. The Jewish audience he’s writing to would have had a problem with that statement. So, in this passage, he reminds them of the qualifications of the high priest and then shows how Jesus perfectly meets those qualifications. Christianity Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:38:54 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 5:1-10 » The author of Hebrews makes a bold proclamation that Jesus is the everlasting high priest. The Jewish audience he’s writing to would have had a problem with that statement. So, in this passage, he reminds them of the qualifications of the high priest and then shows how Jesus perfectly meets those qualifications. 00:32:27 jesus, perfect, priest, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-07-03.mp3 Hebrews 4:14-16 » Jesus is superior. Christianity Sun, 03 Jul 2011 17:14:31 -0800 Dan Palmer clean All About Jesus Hebrews 4:14-16 » Jesus is superior. 00:37:40 jesus, authority, power, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-06-26.mp3 Hebrews 2:9-18 » Jesus is many things but one of the most wonderful truths about Jesus is that he is the perfect savior. In him are some intrinsic characteristics that not only lead to the cross but provide a way for lost sinners to be saved. Christianity Sun, 26 Jun 2011 13:41:13 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 2:9-18 » Jesus is many things but one of the most wonderful truths about Jesus is that he is the perfect savior. In him are some intrinsic characteristics that not only lead to the cross but provide a way for lost sinners to be saved. 00:32:20 jesus, perfect, savior, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-06-19.mp3 Hebrews 2:5-9 » We were not made to live in the state we live in today. We face death, disease, depression and heartache but God created us to live as kings. We lost that that destiny because of sin. But the story doesn’t end there, Jesus died on the cross and rose again and in doing so recovered our lost destiny to rule this earth. One day he will make all things new and we will no longer face death, disease, depression and heartache. Christianity Sun, 19 Jun 2011 14:55:23 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 2:5-9 » We were not made to live in the state we live in today. We face death, disease, depression and heartache but God created us to live as kings. We lost that that destiny because of sin. But the story doesn’t end there, Jesus died on the cross and rose again and in doing so recovered our lost destiny to rule this earth. One day he will make all things new and we will no longer face death, disease, depression and heartache. 00:31:34 jesus, destiny, depression, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-06-12.mp3 Hebrews 1:4-14 » In today's passage, Pastor Jesse helps us understand that Jesus is greater than the angels. But the beauty of this passage is that it teaches us some incredible truths about Christ. He has an incredible title, he has an incredible nature, his existence is supreme, and his destiny is one of excellence. These discoveries demand a response. How do we respond? We give our lives to Christ and then worship him. We worship with him with how we live, how we love, how we serve, how we evangelize...we respond by living a life of worship. Christianity Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:27:46 -0800 Jesse Smith clean All About Jesus Hebrews 1:4-14 » In today's passage, Pastor Jesse helps us understand that Jesus is greater than the angels. But the beauty of this passage is that it teaches us some incredible truths about Christ. He has an incredible title, he has an incredible nature, his existence is supreme, and his destiny is one of excellence. These discoveries demand a response. How do we respond? We give our lives to Christ and then worship him. We worship with him with how we live, how we love, how we serve, how we evangelize...we respond by living a life of worship. 00:29:29 jesus, angels, worship, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-06-05.mp3 Hebrews 1:1-3 » In today's message, Pastor Jesse kicks off our new summer series, "All About Jesus." Christianity Sun, 05 Jun 2011 13:41:13 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Sacrifice, Supremacy, Savior Hebrews 1:1-3 » In today's message, Pastor Jesse kicks off our new summer series, "All About Jesus." 00:35:05 jesus, sacrifice, creator, jesse smith http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-05-29.mp3 James 5:7-20 » James has from the very beginning really challenged us in our walk with God. He has challenged us with a very high standard, holiness, that if we truly have a relationship with God we will live a certain way, that we are to look a certain way, yet at the same time we are human and we fall short. It's here that James reminds us that this thing called faith is a process. In the passage, he shares some things that we can practically do when we fall short. Christianity Sun, 29 May 2011 16:34:28 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Dealing with the James' challenges James 5:7-20 » James has from the very beginning really challenged us in our walk with God. He has challenged us with a very high standard, holiness, that if we truly have a relationship with God we will live a certain way, that we are to look a certain way, yet at the same time we are human and we fall short. It's here that James reminds us that this thing called faith is a process. In the passage, he shares some things that we can practically do when we fall short. 00:38:24 challenges, james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-05-22.mp3 James 5:1-6 » James wants us to experience God's great grace but he does lay out for us a stipulation to receiving his grace…humility. James wants us to grow in humility and knows that the greatest enemy to humility is pride. So he gives an area in our lives that we can objectively check to see if pride is evident. Pride will show itself in how we handle our money. Christianity Sun, 22 May 2011 12:17:49 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Pride will show itself in our lives by how we handle our money. James 5:1-6 » James wants us to experience God's great grace but he does lay out for us a stipulation to receiving his grace…humility. James wants us to grow in humility and knows that the greatest enemy to humility is pride. So he gives an area in our lives that we can objectively check to see if pride is evident. Pride will show itself in how we handle our money. 00:33:10 money,sin,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-05-15.mp3 James 4:11-17 » James wants us to experience God's great grace but he does lay out for us a stipulation to receiving his grace...humility. James wants us to grow in humility and knows that the greatest enemy to humility is pride. So he gives us two areas in our lives that we can objectively check to see if pride is evident. Pride will show itself in the words that we speak and how we plan our futures. Christianity Sun, 15 May 2011 12:17:49 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Pride shows itself in our words and the way we plan our futures. James 4:11-17 » James wants us to experience God's great grace but he does lay out for us a stipulation to receiving his grace...humility. James wants us to grow in humility and knows that the greatest enemy to humility is pride. So he gives us two areas in our lives that we can objectively check to see if pride is evident. Pride will show itself in the words that we speak and how we plan our futures. 00:28:24 grace,humility,humble,pride,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-05-08.mp3 James 4:6-10 » God's grace and the salvation he offers us is a gift. But for us to receive that gift, we must humble ourselves and admit our need for that grace. Christianity Sun, 08 May 2011 20:47:18 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Humility is the Way to Grace James 4:6-10 » God's grace and the salvation he offers us is a gift. But for us to receive that gift, we must humble ourselves and admit our need for that grace. 00:37:46 grace,salvation,gift,james,humble http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-05-01.mp3 On his first Sunday as senior pastor, Pastor Jesse talks about the purpose and direction of First Covenant Church. Christianity Sun, 01 May 2011 15:38:31 -0800 Jesse Smith clean The Purpose of First Covenant Church On his first Sunday as senior pastor, Pastor Jesse talks about the purpose and direction of First Covenant Church. 00:41:35 pastor,installation,purpose http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-04-24.mp3 On Easter Sunday, we celebrate with great joy because Jesus rose from the grave. But we can only experience that joy of the resurrection if we truly understand what happened on of the cross. The light of Easter only shines because of the darkness that covered the earth three days before. Christianity Sun, 24 Apr 2011 16:34:10 -0800 Ted Smith clean Marvelous Light On Easter Sunday, we celebrate with great joy because Jesus rose from the grave. But we can only experience that joy of the resurrection if we truly understand what happened on of the cross. The light of Easter only shines because of the darkness that covered the earth three days before. 00:10:18 cross,easter,jesus,resurrection,light http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-04-17.mp3 James 4:1-6 » The wisdom of the world says, "Do it your way!" The wisdom of God says, "Do it my way!" The world says, "Fight to win, come out on top, do your thing." God says, "Be willing to yield to others, give up the right to win, you don't have to fight your battles, I'll take care of you in my own way and my own time." Conflict takes place when people take things into their own hands and fight to get their way rather than trust God's care. That's why one mark of a true believer is to be a peacemaker, not a fighter. Jesus said it best, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." Christianity Sun, 17 Apr 2011 18:40:13 -0800 Ted Smith clean Answering Jesus' prayer for unity with one another James 4:1-6 » The wisdom of the world says, "Do it your way!" The wisdom of God says, "Do it my way!" The world says, "Fight to win, come out on top, do your thing." God says, "Be willing to yield to others, give up the right to win, you don't have to fight your battles, I'll take care of you in my own way and my own time." Conflict takes place when people take things into their own hands and fight to get their way rather than trust God's care. That's why one mark of a true believer is to be a peacemaker, not a fighter. Jesus said it best, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." 00:39:40 peace,fight,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-04-10.mp3 James 3:3-18 » The Bible places a huge premium on pursuing and having wisdom, but it also warns that there is more than one kind of wisdom. One that is true and one that false. One that is sound and one that is paper thin. One that leads to life and one that is incredibly destructive. In today's message, Pastor Jesse provides a comparison of biblical wisdom and the world's wisdom. Christianity Sun, 10 Apr 2011 18:40:13 -0800 Jesse Smith clean A Comparison of Wisdom James 3:3-18 » The Bible places a huge premium on pursuing and having wisdom, but it also warns that there is more than one kind of wisdom. One that is true and one that false. One that is sound and one that is paper thin. One that leads to life and one that is incredibly destructive. In today's message, Pastor Jesse provides a comparison of biblical wisdom and the world's wisdom. 00:31:05 wisdom,biblical,world,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-04-03.mp3 In today's services, we take a break from the book of James to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter at First Cov. Christianity Sun, 03 Apr 2011 16:24:17 -0800 Jesse Smith clean A Preview of Easter at First Cov In today's services, we take a break from the book of James to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter at First Cov. 00:26:54 easter,cross,communion http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-03-27.mp3 James 3:1-12 » Your tongue is a tattletale that reveals what's in your heart, good or bad. It reveals who you are inside. It is such a small part of the body, but it is so powerful. It has the power to influence others, the power to build up or destroy, and it reveals our hearts. It can be used to praise God and hurt those created in His image within a couple of minutes. If faith really changes us, then that change must begin with how we speak. Christianity Sun, 27 Mar 2011 15:34:27 -0800 Ted Smith clean Your Words are a Mirror of Your Heart James 3:1-12 » Your tongue is a tattletale that reveals what's in your heart, good or bad. It reveals who you are inside. It is such a small part of the body, but it is so powerful. It has the power to influence others, the power to build up or destroy, and it reveals our hearts. It can be used to praise God and hurt those created in His image within a couple of minutes. If faith really changes us, then that change must begin with how we speak. 00:32:48 words,hurtful,mouth,tongue,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-03-20.mp3 James 2:20-26 » In this week's passage, we take a look at the central verse of the entire book of James: "You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone." (verse 24) When we trust God with our very lives through obedience and good works, we are justified or proven saved by those actions. Christianity Sun, 20 Mar 2011 17:53:44 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Trusting God is Evidence of Salvation James 2:20-26 » In this week's passage, we take a look at the central verse of the entire book of James: "You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone." (verse 24) When we trust God with our very lives through obedience and good works, we are justified or proven saved by those actions. 00:34:53 salvation,works,obedience,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-03-13.mp3 James 2:14-19 » Everyone wants "the real thing." It's what sells best. People want real leather, real silk, real coffee, and real marble. Having real faith is the most important of all, because it determines where we will spend eternity. We need to be possessors of Christianity who live differently, not just professors who talk about it. Christianity Sun, 13 Mar 2011 15:59:33 -0800 Ted Smith clean Real Saving Faith Will Change You James 2:14-19 » Everyone wants "the real thing." It's what sells best. People want real leather, real silk, real coffee, and real marble. Having real faith is the most important of all, because it determines where we will spend eternity. We need to be possessors of Christianity who live differently, not just professors who talk about it. 00:35:24 faith,real,authentic,eternity,james http://firstcov.org/Weekend-Messages/weekend-messages.html http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-03-06.mp3 This weekend at First Cov, we take a break from the book of James to celebrate the sacraments of baptism and communion with our church family. Christianity Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:06:14 -0800 Ted Smith clean Baptism and Communion This weekend at First Cov, we take a break from the book of James to celebrate the sacraments of baptism and communion with our church family. 00:10:24 baptism,communion,sacrament http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-27.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-27.mp3 James 2:5-13 » We are all familiar with the verse that tells us to "love your neighbor as yourself." In today's message, Pastor Jesse Smith helps us understand Jesus really meant when he said the words in this famous portion of Scripture. Christianity Sun, 27 Feb 2011 14:46:23 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Loving Your Neighbor As Yourself James 2:5-13 » We are all familiar with the verse that tells us to "love your neighbor as yourself." In today's message, Pastor Jesse Smith helps us understand Jesus really meant when he said the words in this famous portion of Scripture. 00:34:10 prejudice,neighbor,love,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-20.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-20.mp3 James 2:1-4 » In the Old Testament, God was described as "no respecter of persons." In the New Testament, Jesus was described as "showing no partiality toward people." In this message, Pastor Ted Smith shares how true disciples of Jesus Christ should reflect the nature of God and Jesus in their daily lives by dealing with the sins of prejudice and partiality that we all face. Christianity Sun, 20 Feb 2011 16:18:12 -0800 Ted Smith clean Overcoming the Prejudice in All of Us James 2:1-4 » In the Old Testament, God was described as "no respecter of persons." In the New Testament, Jesus was described as "showing no partiality toward people." In this message, Pastor Ted Smith shares how true disciples of Jesus Christ should reflect the nature of God and Jesus in their daily lives by dealing with the sins of prejudice and partiality that we all face. 00:42:10 prejudice,respect,love,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-13.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-13.mp3 James 1:22-27 » Pastor Jesse Smith leads us through practical steps for truly applying the Word in our lives. Christianity Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:27:43 -0800 Jesse Smith clean God's Word in Our Lives James 1:22-27 » Pastor Jesse Smith leads us through practical steps for truly applying the Word in our lives. 00:35:53 application,bible,scripture,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-06.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-02-06.mp3 James 1:19-21 » Pastor Ted Smith shows us how to open our hearts and prepare for hearing God speak from His Word. Christianity Sun, 06 Feb 2011 14:19:32 -0800 Ted Smith clean Preparing for Worship James 1:19-21 » Pastor Ted Smith shows us how to open our hearts and prepare for hearing God speak from His Word. 00:37:07 worship,preparation,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-30.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-30.mp3 James 1:13-18 » Pastor Jesse Smith teaches us to identify tempation and provides practical steps for overcoming it. Christianity Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:19:32 -0800 Jesse Smith clean Overcoming Temptation James 1:13-18 » Pastor Jesse Smith teaches us to identify tempation and provides practical steps for overcoming it. 00:38:24 temptation,sin,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-23.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-23.mp3 James 1:13-18 » Pastor Ted Smith helps us find the keys to finding true joy during life's struggles. Christianity Sun, 23 Jan 2011 14:11:23 -0800 Ted Smith clean Discover Joy When Life Gets Tough James 1:13-18 » Pastor Ted Smith helps us find the keys to finding true joy during life's struggles. 00:35:00 struggles,hardship,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-16.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-16.mp3 James 1:2-3 » Pastor Jesse Smith helps us discover God's purposes for the suffering we experience. Christianity Sun, 16 Jan 2011 12:47:08 -0800 Jesse Smith clean God's Purpose in Our Suffering James 1:2-3 » Pastor Jesse Smith helps us discover God's purposes for the suffering we experience. 00:39:40 suffering,pain,james http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-09.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-09.mp3 James 1:1 » Pastor Ted Smith kicks off our new message series through the book of James. Christianity Sun, 09 Jan 2011 12:09:13 -0800 Ted Smith clean Faith that Saves You Changes You James 1:1 » Pastor Ted Smith kicks off our new message series through the book of James. 00:27:23 james,faith,jesus,christ http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-02.mp3 http://www.firstcov.org/podcast/audio/FirstCovPodcast2011-01-02.mp3 Pastor Mark Shetler helps us kick off 2011. Christianity Sun, 02 Jan 2011 11:59:13 -0800 Mark Shetler clean Rethinking New Year's Resolutions 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 » Pastor Mark Shetler helps us kick off 2011. 00:30:56 new year, resolution, body