What is speaking in tongues, and how does it function in the church? Is it meant only for the congregation, or does it have a personal function as well? What is the benefit of speaking in tongues, and how does it build up the body? This sermon addresses these questions and others as we explore the place of tongues and interpretation in the local church.

This week Ken Krause continues our sermon series "Opening your Gift" with a message on the gifts of faith and healing.

God has given us the gifts of the Spirit to build up the body of Christ. This includes the nine gifts found in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 known as the sign gifts. The sign gifts are a powerful way God works through us to show his power, knowledge, and love to the world. God has made these gifts available to the church today, and we can learn to recognize them and use them for His glory.

When Moses and his generation pass away, Joshua picks up where he left off. Sadly, after Joshua passes, the people adandon the Lord and turn to idolatry. What happened? Rescent research shows there are several practices among all youth who are "resilient disciples". These timeless practices were just as effective in Moses day as they are in ours. The scriptures indicate Moses succeeded in these where Joshua failed.

Service is not just something we do: it's who we are. Just as Jesus came to serve rather than be served, we are never more like him than when we take on the nature of a servant. The church thrives through every member knowing their gift, functioning in their role, and building one another up in love. The question that can help us start to step out in our role is "what is in my hands?"

Bethany Missionary, Pat Dugan, shares a message inspiring us to think about how to live a life not controlled by the systems of "this world" in the coming year.

This year it seems like there is an increased discussion in the media and among people about the anxiety and depression that surrounds the Christmas season for many who have experienced grief and other difficulties. In tonight's meditation we take a look and John chapter 1 and think about the incarnation of Christ and practices that help quell the anxieties we face.