Illuminate Community Church

1/19/25 - The Weight of Wealth: Trusting God and Living Generously - Proverbs 3:9–10 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Our text in Proverbs 3 invites us to consider the role of God’s wisdom in navigating the highs and lows of life. Whether in times of plenty or seasons of scarcity, we are called to trust God wholeheartedly, acknowledging Him as our ultimate provider. Solomon’s counsel to honor the Lord with our wealth and the firstfruits of our produce reminds us that money carries a significant weight in revealing our values and affections. The challenge lies in shifting the focus from glorifying ourselves to glorifying God with what we have, using our resources to highlight His greatness and meet the needs of others.

 

Generosity is at the heart of this passage. It’s not about the size of our bank accounts or gifts, but the posture of our hearts. Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins because her offering came from a place of deep sacrifice and trust. The same is true for us today. God doesn’t need our money—He desires our hearts. And when we choose generosity over greed, we reflect His selfless love to the world. By giving our first and best to Him, we declare that He holds the highest place in our lives and that we trust Him to meet all our needs.

 

As we honor God with our wealth, He promises to bless us—not for our own indulgence, but so we can bless others. God entrusts us with resources to invest in His kingdom, sowing seeds that will bear eternal fruit. This isn’t about hoarding for ourselves here and now; it’s about partnering with Him to make an impact that outlasts us. When we align our finances with His purposes, we bring glory to His name, inspire others to give thanks, and experience the joy of being part of His eternal work. May we live as stewards who honor God with all that He’s given us, trusting Him to provide as we generously give for His glory.

 

1/12/25 - The Path to Shalom: Trusting God's Wisdom - Proverbs 3:1–8 - Pastor Jason Fritz

In this week’s sermon, we draw a contrast between Proverbs chapters 2 and 3. While chapter 2 issues a warning to avoid the path of the wicked, chapter 3 takes a positive approach, teaching how to live a life of shalom—marked by peace, success, and refreshment. Solomon's fatherly counsel begins with the words "my son" and links wisdom with tangible blessings, urging us to guard our hearts against cultural ideologies, such as the popular mantra "live your truth," which opposes the biblical foundation of truth found in Jesus Christ. Solomon emphasizes the need to reject worldly loves and instead pursue the steadfast love and faithfulness of God. This provides lasting contentment within us and visible expressions of God’s character through us.

 

True Shalom arises from aligning one’s life with God’s wisdom rather than worldly voices or self-reliance. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds believers to trust fully in the Lord and avoid leaning on personal understanding. Trusting in God is described with imagery of throwing oneself entirely into His care. This is foundational to living a life that flourishes under His guidance. The wise man challenges his listeners to examine their worldview, urging them to live out biblical truths boldly and to take risks for God, demonstrating faith in action that defies worldly logic. Such trust, coupled with reverence and acknowledgment ofGod, leads to a life of spiritual freedom and fulfillment.

 

Finally, our text highlights the consequences of ignoring God’s wisdom. King David comes to mind. His sins caused physical and emotional torment until he confessed and received God’s forgiveness. Proverbs 3:7-8 and Psalm 32 illustrate the transformative power of humility and dependence on God, which bring healing and refreshment. We are left with a simple yet profound application: fear God, turn from evil and embrace His design for your life. This response to God’s wisdom leads to a life of eternal significance and the peace believers truly desire.

1/5/25 - Wisdom’s Warning - Proverbs 1:22-33 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Wisdom’s Warning

Proverbs 1:22-33

 

Last Sunday’s message from Proverbs reminded us of a fundamental truth: wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. This fear isn’t about dread but reverence, a profound awe for God’s greatness, power, and grace. Proverbs 1:7 underscores this: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” To be wise is to recognize God’s design for the world and to live in harmony with it. Like a toddler ignoring a warning about playing with an electrical outlet, those who disregard God’s wisdom face inevitable consequences. The call today is clear—acknowledge God as the ultimate source of wisdom and align your life with His order.

 

Our text this Sunday highlights further dangers of living apart from God’s guidance. When we prioritize self, applause, or worldly desires over God, we experience a breakdown—psychologically, relationally, and spiritually. Proverbs 14:12 warns that “there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Whether we are naive and willing to learn or arrogant and resistant, wisdom personified in Proverbs calls us to humility. Accepting discipline and reproof, though uncomfortable, leads to growth and blessing. Rejecting correction, however, leads to regret and missed opportunities for peace and security.

 

Yet, the message ends with hope. Wisdom continually invites us to turn to her. Proverbs 1:33 promises, “Whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.” Today, let’s choose reverence for the Lord, embrace correction from God’s Word, and respond to God’s wisdom before calamity overtakes us. When we do, we are met not with condemnation but with peace, stability, and the steadfast love of a God who desires the best for His children.

12/29/24 - Wisdom or Folly? - Proverbs 1 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Why study Proverbs? Because life is hard!

 

As we begin to open the book, we are reminded of the complexities of life—relationships, conflict, and unexpected difficulties. Proverbs offers us a timeless guide for navigating these challenges with wisdom. The book, written by Solomon, contrasts two paths: the way of the wise and the way of the fool. Its purpose is clear from the outset: to impart skills for living a meaningful and purposeful life by aligning with God’s design. Wisdom is not strictly intellectual; it is a response to how God has ordered the world. Proverbs invites us to recognize and respond to the Creator, whose design leads to the life we deeply desire.

 

The foundation of wisdom begins with “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7). This is a reverence and awe that acknowledges God’s greatness, holiness, and goodness. This fear is not about dread but about living in the wonder of God’s majesty while embracing His nearness and grace. Such recognition humbles us and opens our hearts to instruction, making us teachable and responsive to Godly counsel. Proverbs warn us of the consequences of foolishness which leads to broken relationships, missed opportunities, and ultimately disgrace. The fool lives out of alignment with God’s order, perpetuating chaos and harm, while the wise find life, honor, and peace by walking in God’s ways.

 

Solomon’s teaching is particularly directed toward the young and those lacking guidance from a Godly father. Proverbs personifies wisdom as a woman calling out, inviting all to embrace knowledge and reject folly. The lessons extend to practical living, from choosing wise companions to taming our words and emotions. These truths are timeless and applicable to all, shaping how we live, love, and lead. As we engage with Proverbs, may we hear the call to wisdom—learning from nature, reflecting on God’s Word, and aligning our lives with His perfect design. In doing so, we will discover the beauty, safety, and blessing of a life rooted in God’s wisdom.

12/22/24 - Advent Love - John 3:16 - Pastor Jason Fritz

This week’s Advent theme is love, beautifully captured in John 3:16.

 

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” 

 

The depth of God’s love is seen in His plan of redemption, which began in theGarden of Eden after the fall of humanity. When Adam and Eve sinned, their relationship with God was broken, and sin and death entered the world. But even then, God promised a Savior in Genesis 3:15, foretelling that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent’s head. This prophecy pointed to Jesus, who would bear the cost of sin through His death on the cross and triumph over Satan through His resurrection. This sacrificial love reflects God’s unyielding desire to restore His relationship with us.

 

Through the incarnation, God’s love became visible and relatable. Jesus, theWord made flesh, came to live among us so we could truly understand God’s heart. His birth, life, death, and resurrection reveal God's lengths to demonstrate His love and meet humanity’s deepest needs. Romans 8:32 assures us that if God did not spare His own Son but gave Him for us all, He will graciously provide everything we need. This Advent season, may we be filled with awe at the love of God and inspired to share that love with others.

12/15/24 - Advent Joy - Luke 2:8–15 - Pastor Jason Fritz

This Sunday’s Advent theme explores the concept of joy as presented in the great birth announcement given by angels. Joy, unlike happiness, is not based on favorable life events but rooted in a relationship with Jesus. Biblical joy persists through all circumstances, anchored in the character and promises ofGod. This is why the angels’ announcement of Jesus’ birth in Luke 2 was such a momentous declaration of "great joy" for all people—introducing a joy that comes through Christ’s presence and God’s redemptive plan rather than worldly pleasures or success.

 

The announcement reveals God’s profound presence through Jesus, as proclaimed to humble shepherds, demonstrating that this joy is accessible to all, not just the esteemed or powerful. This choice reflects God’s tendency to reach out to the overlooked and marginalized, who respond with attentiveness and faith. Jesus, described as Savior, Christ, and Lord, fulfills centuries-old promises of salvation, establishing Him as the foundation of a lasting joy that transcends temporary sorrows. This joy, embodied in Christ, transforms hardship into a pathway for spiritual growth, as seen in Romans 5:3-5, where suffering builds character and hope.

 

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

 

To experience this enduring joy, Jesus instructs His followers to obey His word and remain in His love (John 15:9-11). Obedience is not restrictive but brings believers closer to God, enabling them to experience His guiding presence. Remaining in His love, as Henri Nouwen suggests, means knowing oneself to be unconditionally loved by God. This realization brings a joy that surpasses life's challenges, offering Christians a steady assurance that their worth and ultimate fulfillment are found in God’s love and salvation.

12/8/24 - Advent Peace - Luke 2:14 - Pastor Jason Fritz

We may recognize peace symbols and awards like the Nobel Peace Prize, yet the world remains full of conflict, with major wars raging. The Bible's concept of peace, shalom, is deeper than just the absence of conflict; it’s the restoration of our relationship with God. C.S. Lewis argued that the true meaning of Christmas is often buried under sentimentality, but at its heart, Christmas is about reconciliation between humanity and God. As the angels proclaimed at Jesus’ birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.” This peace is available not through human efforts but through Christ's forgiveness, bridging the gap between us and God.

 

Jesus is our peace with God. Romans 5:1 reminds us that, “since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It is not a matter of being “good enough” but trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Our biggest problem—separation from God—has been solved through Christ’s death and resurrection. This peace then frees us to pursue harmony in our relationships with others. In the first century, Christianity united Jews and Gentiles, breaking down walls of hostility and forming a new community in Christ. Paul encouraged the early church to live at peace with one another, reminding them that all are welcome in God’s family.

 

Like others, soon you will gather with your family. It’s not always what you dream it would be. We need help! Knowing we are on good terms with God allows us to become like Jesus. We can model His attitude of humility that brought us peace with our Creator. Consider approaching your loved ones with kindness, patience, and a willingness to forgive. You can’t control others, but you can change the room temperature by setting aside differences, overlooking offenses, and showing compassion. 

 

"If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18 This is made possible when you approach people with the mindset of Jesus. 

 

We have peace with God and peace with others, and through Christ, we can also be at peace with ourselves. When Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you,” He offered us a lasting peace not dependent on external circumstances. This peace helps us face life’s challenges with the security of knowing we are loved by God. It’s not the absence of hardship, but the presence of God with us that enables us to experience peace amid life’s storms. By grounding our hope in Him, we gain a peace the world cannot give, a peace that endures all things.

12/1/24 - Advent Hope - Isaiah 9:1–7 - Pastor Jason Fritz

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” Isaiah 9:2

As Christmas nears, the Advent season begins, focusing on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love to prepare us for Jesus' birth. We start with the message of hope, a gift from God that comes alive in the prophetic words of Isaiah, written centuries before Jesus' arrival. Isaiah foretells a light emerging from the overlooked region of Galilee, home to Nazareth, where Jesus was raised. This surprising choice illustrates God's way of working through the unexpected to bring His hope to a dark world.

Isaiah's prophecy captures the contrast between Israel’s focus on Jerusalem and the Messiah’s emergence from humble Galilee, a place of little renown. Jesus’ birthplace and upbringing defy expectations, marking Him as a beacon of divine hope arising from humble beginnings rather than grandeur. His birth in a simple setting, with shepherds as witnesses, underscores that God’s work often goes unrecognized by those preoccupied with worldly appearances.

But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 1 Corinthians 1:27

Jesus embodies hope as both fully human and divine, described in Isaiah’s prophecy as a child born and a son given. His human experience connects Him to our struggles, as Hebrews reminds us, while His divinity fulfills God's redemptive plan. This dual nature means He is not merely an extraordinary man but our Savior, worthy of worship. The resurrection challenges any dismissal of Jesus as an ordinary figure, anchoring our belief in His lordship.

Isaiah names Jesus as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, each title revealing His unique role. Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, provides divine wisdom and comfort, guiding us beyond our limited understanding. As Mighty God, He wages a spiritual battle for our souls, not with force but through sacrificial love. His role as Everlasting Father assures eternal protection, provision, and guidance. He is the Prince who brings us peace with God. Through these gifts, God offers true, abiding hope that transcends earthly limitations, calling us to trust in His enduring character amidst life’s darkness.

11/24/24 - Dress for Spiritual Success - Ephesians 6:10–24 - Pastor Jason Fritz

Paul closes his letter to the Ephesians by emphasizing the practical application of our faith in a discussion about the "Armor of God." In chapter 4, Paul urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" they have received. In chapter 6 he reminds us that there is an enemy who wants to push us off the path. Paul’s message reminds believers that they are in a spiritual battle. In fact, the world’s turmoil is a direct result of being under Satan’s influence.

 

Paul addresses several key points about Satan: he is a real and dangerous enemy, adept at deception and causing doubt, yet ultimately, he is under God's control. Satan is constantly trying to undermine believers by making them question God’s word and goodness, but his power is limited, as shown in the story of Job. Jesus' power, in contrast, is ultimate, and he easily triumphs over Satan in both the Gospels and Revelation. Believers must rely on God’s strength, not their own, in spiritual warfare. Like children who depend on their parents' strength for protection, Christians access the power of God when they rely on Him, rather than their own ability.

 

Paul’s command to "put on the full armor of God" emphasizes that believers have access to divine protection, but they must actively use it. The armor, including the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit, represents both a defensive and offensive strategy against Satan's attacks. He underscores the need for believers to know, trust, and apply the truth of God’s word in their lives. Prayer, too, is essential for spiritual resilience. As Paul requests prayer for boldness in his mission, he encourages believers to also seek boldness in their own lives, knowing that they fight from a position of victory, with Christ as their ultimate source of power!

11/17/24 - Godly Households - Ephesians 6:1–9 - Pastor Jason Fritz

In our passage this Sunday, Paul emphasizes how the gospel transforms relationships in the home and workplace. Paul instructs children to obey their parents, noting that this is the natural order of things. He highlights that honoring parents is the first commandment with a promise, (“that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land”) indicating that proper family dynamics have long-term benefits for children. Paul also stresses the importance of parents—especially fathers—providing Godly instruction and discipline. They are encouraged to raise their children in a way that prepares them for a well-ordered life and, ultimately, for meeting Christ.

 

But how is this done?

 

Parents are warned not to discipline out of insecurity or anger, which can provoke children to frustration or rebellion. Instead, they are called to model their parenting on the deep love and wisdom of God, acting with intentionality and grace. Paul also reminds parents that their children’s greatest need is to grow in a relationship with the Lord. Withholding correction out of fear of the child’s rejection, or what others might think, does not serve our children’s well-being.

 

Insecure and anxious parents don’t make good parents - we’ve all been there!

 

Paul’s instructions extend beyond family, addressing the roles of bondservants. He encourages bondservants to serve with sincerity, as they ultimately serve Christ. The owners of the house are called to treat their servants with respect and care, recognizing that both they and their servants are under the authority of God, who shows no partiality. Through these teachings, Paul introduces a countercultural view that the gospel reshapes all relationships, aligning them with God’s standards of love, fairness, and responsibility.

 

As Christians we all have people who are entrusted to our care, it is our responsibility to lift them to the Lord. By lifting others up, we demonstrate what God did for us. We give witness to the power of the gospel and the love of Christ who lifted us up to salvation.