Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the story of Jacob wrestling with God, using it as a metaphor for the Christian journey of faith. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance in spiritual struggles, the transformative power of encountering God, and the necessity of surrendering one's old identity to embrace a new one in Christ. It's time we as…

It's time to rethink our understanding of gratitude. Utilizing Colossians 3, where we're called to 'let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts' and to 'be thankful', Paul gives us a great launching pad for gratitude. This isn't just about having an 'attitude of gratitude,' but rather about allowing thankfulness to become a core part of who we are. …

Are we truly living out our faith with confidence? This message challenges us to reconsider how we approach God and His commands. Drawing from 1 John 5, we're reminded that obeying God's commands isn't a burden, but a pathway to overcoming the world. The key lies in accepting God's testimony about His Son, Jesus Christ, as greater than any human te…

In Matthew 25, Jesus challenged His followers to rethink their perception of God and His kingdom. Through the famous parable of the talents, we're reminded that God entrusts each of us with 'kingdom property' - not just material possessions, but spiritual gifts and opportunities. The key lesson is that God isn't a harsh taskmaster, but a joyful, ge…

The Book of Proverbs reminds us that wisdom isn't just handed to us - it must be actively pursued. We're challenged to seek wisdom with the same fervor we'd search for silver. But here's the catch: once we seek it earnestly, God promises to give it freely. This paradox invites us to cultivate a lifelong hunger for godly wisdom, recognizing it as fa…

What does it mean to be 'hallowed' or set apart as Christians - especially during times when our culture embraces darkness? In 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, where Paul urges believers not to be 'yoked together with unbelievers.' This isn't about isolation, but about maintaining our distinct identity as children of God. We're reminded that as temples of th…

Drawing from Jeremiah 17, guest minister James Koppang challenges us to plant ourselves like a tree by deep water. To trust in the Lord, no matter what things look like. When we're planted with deep roots, then even when the heat comes or when there's drought, we cannot be shaken. Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naper…

In 1 Timothy 3, we're challenged to pursue a 'noble task' - not just chasing titles or positions, but embodying the characteristics of true spiritual leaders. This scripture provides a detailed list of qualities for overseers and deacons, emphasizing integrity, self-control, and respectability. This isn't just for those in formal leadership roles; …

The parable of the wise and foolish builders from Luke 6:46-49 serves as a stark reminder that merely calling Jesus 'Lord' isn't enough - we must put His words into practice. Just as a house needs a deep, solid foundation to withstand floods, our faith requires deep roots in Christ to weather life's storms. This parable isn't just a children's stor…

Most everyone has heard the story of the Prodigal Son, even if they've never read it. In this message, we're challenged to see beyond the familiar narrative and confront our own spiritual blind spots. The story actually isn't just about one wayward son, but two - and the second son's struggle might hit closer to home than we'd like to admit. As we …

In this poignant message, we're reminded of the immeasurable power and love of God that is available to us as believers. Focusing on Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:14-21, we're challenged to grasp the magnitude of God's love and power in our lives. The key lesson is that we have access to divine enablement - not just knowledge, but supernatural power…

Matthew 4:1-11 contains the famous Temptation of Jesus. Today, let's delve into what happened to Jesus in the wilderness and uncover profound spiritual truths. The central message revolves around standing firm in our identity as God's beloved children when faced with temptation. We learn that Jesus, immediately after his baptism and divine affirmat…

The title may be a little tongue in cheek, but the principles gained from Daniel chapter 6 are very real. Today, we're invited to delve deeper into the story of Daniel in the lions' den. This isn't just a children's tale, but a profound narrative about integrity, faith, and the power of prayer. We see Daniel, a man in his 70s or 80s, choosing to st…

In this week's message, we're challenged to live by God's design rather than defaulting to our sinful nature. The sermon draws from 1 Peter 1, emphasizing the call to holiness and transformation. We're reminded that as believers, we're invited to set our minds for action, be self-controlled, and set our hope fully on God's grace. The analogy of adj…

In this powerful message, we're challenged to examine our spiritual cravings. The apostle Peter's words in 1 Peter 2:1-3 serve as a mirror, reflecting our inner spiritual state. We're urged to rid ourselves of malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander - not just surface-level actions, but the deep-rooted attitudes that hinder our spiritual growt…

The story of Hagar is a messy one. Juxtaposed between two pivotal covenant moments with God and Abram we find Hagar, a poor slave girl in Genesis 16. Through no fault of her own, she's caught up in the sin of Abram and Sarai, uncovering profound truths about God's character and our own faith journeys. We see how God intervenes in the messy situatio…

Explore James 2:14-26, where Jesus' brother discusses the relationship between faith and works. We're challenged to examine whether our faith is truly alive, or if it's merely mental assent. The core lesson is that genuine faith always produces corresponding action. Just as Abraham's faith was made evident by his willingness to sacrifice Isaac, our…

Summary: In this message, we're reminded of the importance of humility and kindness in our Christian walk. The speaker explores Titus 3, emphasizing Paul's instructions to be subject to rulers and authorities, and to show true humility toward all. We're challenged to reflect on our own past, recognizing that we too were once foolish and disobedient…

This message invites us to explore the profound connection between gratitude and long-term perspective in our spiritual lives. By examining the story of King Saul's death and the people of Jabesh-Gilead from 1 Samuel 31 and 2 Samuel 2, we're challenged to shift our focus from short-term concerns to an eternal mindset. The narrative highlights how t…

The miraculous story of Peter's escape from prison, as recounted in Acts 12 is actually pretty humorous. We're reminded of God's incredible power to intervene in seemingly impossible situations. The entertaining details of Peter's rescue, from the angel striking him on the side to wake him up, to the servant girl Rhoda's excited reaction, highlight…

Sermon Summary: This sermon continues exploring Jesus' "I am" statements in the Gospel of John, emphasizing His divine nature and the importance of remaining connected to Him as the true vine. Boldly discussing the exclusivity of Jesus' claims and how they relate to our daily lives, and challenging listeners to stay connected to Christ through regu…

Sermon Summary: This sermon explores Jesus' "I Am" statements in the Gospel of John and shows the connection to God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus. These statements reveal Jesus' divine nature and his role in salvation, while also emphasizing his humility and desire to elevate the lowly. The sermon encourages believers to trust in Jesus as th…

Colossians chapter 1 does a beautiful job describing the supremacy of Christ over all creation and His redemptive work that frees believers from accusation and guilt. There's nothing we have to "do" except make sure we're standing firm in faith, understanding our reconciliation with God through Christ's sacrifice, and resisting the voice of the acc…

The transformative power of understanding our identity as sons and daughters of God is key to our growth as Believers. Drawing from Galatians 4, we learn that Jesus came to redeem us from the burden of trying to earn salvation through our own efforts. By accepting Christ's finished work on the cross, we are freed from a slavery mindset and can embr…

The kindness of God that leads us to repentance, not His anger or judgment. This weeks sermon explores Romans 1-2 to understand God's perspective on sin, focusing on how all people, not just specific groups, fall short of His glory. The key lesson is that as Christians, our role is not to condemn others self-righteously, but to humbly share God's l…

This message delves into the heart of true worship, using the story of King David dancing before the Lord with reckless abandon as he brought the ark into Jerusalem. We learn that worship is not about maintaining our dignity or worrying about others' perceptions, but rather pursuing a deep connection with God. It's time for us to embrace the freedo…

This message focuses on the story of Peter and John healing the lame man at the temple gate in Acts 3-4. The key lesson is that it's not by our own power or holiness that God works miracles, but through faith in the name of Jesus. We can't earn salvation or healing through our good deeds. Rather, spending time in relationship with Jesus is what tra…

Sermon Summary: This week we explored the story of Peter's denial of Jesus and his subsequent restoration, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with Christ after moments of failure or betrayal. Beginning with highlighting how Jesus prayed ahead of time for Peter, knowing he would face trials and temptations. Despite Peter's denial, Jesus late…

On this Mother’s Day, we get to enjoy some of Whitney's tales from the frontline of healthcare, peppered with both the bizarre and the miraculous. Journey with us through the corridors of chaos and into the sanctuaries of healing, where personal battles and professional triumphs intertwine. Whitney recounts the pressures of life-saving procedures p…

Sermon Summary: The sermon delves into the miracles of Jesus as depicted in Mark chapter 6, specifically the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water. These narratives are linked to reveal Jesus' divine nature and his identity as greater than Moses. Key Points: Jesus' miracles are not just demonstrations of power but carry deep symbolic mean…

Sermon Summary: This week we delve into the concept of biblical covenants, exploring their enduring influence on the history and destiny of believers. The focus is on the seven major covenants within Scripture, with a particular emphasis on the covenant between God and Abraham. Through this examination, the sermon sheds light on the ancient practic…

Sermon Summary: Listen in as we tackle a controversial topic stirring within the Christian community this week: the misapplication of the term "Jezebel spirit" and its non-biblical roots. This discussion brings to light the pitfalls of Christian leaders capitalizing on such concepts for personal gain, whether to sell books or build their social med…

Sermon Summary: The sermon delves into the transformative power of faith-based fellowship, the balance between tradition and new beliefs in Christianity, and the vital role of communal worship. Drawing on Hebrews 10:25, it discusses the unknown authorship of the Book of Hebrews and considers the historical context of Jewish Christians facing persec…

A brief message about how Jesus prayed and how we can be less religious when we pray. Mostly about how we can thank God in advance for what we're expecting Him to do, just like Jesus did when He fed the 5,000 people with just 5 loaves and two fishes. Matthew 14:19-20 Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 6056…

Have you ever found yourself entranced by a tradition, only to wonder where it truly stems from or what it signifies? Today we discussed the surprising origins of some of the rituals we hold dear and examine how they align with the God's intentions set forth for us. Tradition or true faith – where do you stand? We peel back the layers of religious …

The sermon challenges the sensationalism around end times predictions, particularly those linked to solar eclipses, such as the one everyone is buzzing about for tomorrow, April 8th. Let's take a balanced perspective grounded in scripture, emphasizing Jesus's return as a core Christian belief while cautioning against unfounded predictions and consp…

Happy Easter from Revive Chicago! As Christians we set the foundations of our faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus. While you're going to be familiar with the events from John 19 & 20, take a moment to listen with new ears and a renewed heart and let the Holy Spirit speak to you through this sermon. Join us for service live every Sunday at …

Are you expecting Jesus to be Messiah for your life and your circumstances, expecting Him to conquer your Rome? Stop trying to put Jesus into your box and PURSUE Him. On this Palm Sunday we look at the story of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem from John's Gospel. Pastor Aaron explores the idea that many Christians today have copied the Pharisee's belief…

You may have heard a sermon or two on the double portion Elisha asked Elijah for in 2 Kings 2. In this week's sermon Pastor Aaron, corrects of a common mis-teaching around this topic. Will you stay focused in the midst of distraction? Will you choose to embrace the concepts of the position of the first born or will you choose to watch the chariots …

Join us as we explore the spiritual thirst articulated in Psalm 42 and how the sons of Korah capture this longing for the divine. Let's reflect on the nuances of this Psalm, then shift into the deep waters of our soul's intense yearning for God's presence. The conversation unpacks the role of the sons of Korah as temple caretakers and how their uni…

How great would it have been to experience the early church like Demas? Shoulder to shoulder with Paul and the apostles, at the center of it all. The thing we learn most from his story is proximity does not equal commitment. Despite his proximity, at some point Demas said "no" when he was called to say "yes". Listen to this week's sermon from Pasto…

Listen to this communion message from Revive Chicago Join us for service live every Sunday at 10am at 1852 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564 (The education-wing entrance of Wheatland Salem Church) Connect with us at our website www.revivechicago.churchPastor Aaron Lage

Many people today struggle with their purpose because they feel they have to define it themselves. But we don't! God already did. All the way back in the garden God defined humanity's purpose and role. In this sermon from Genesis 1:26-31 and 2:15-20 you'll get reminded of your God-designed purpose on earth. You'll learn about the authority bestowed…

One of the common obstacles that we face as Christians is false perceptions of the gospel based on past experiences that may have mis-represented Christ. This week Pastor Aaron preaches from 1 Peter 3 with references to Psalm 34 on how we respond to challenges and adversity in our Christian walk. Prepare your heart for one of the most significant c…

In Biblical times the first commandment carried a different connotation than it does today. In their time most religions were multi-theistic in nature, where today almost all the world prescribes to a monotheistic belief. But we face the same root problems today that they did then. In 2 Kings 17 we dive into warnings against false Gods and Idols, t…

When is the last time you thought about Heaven and how good it will be? In this sermon from 2 Peter 3, Pastor Aaron talks about the significance of what ended up being Peter's final message to the church. Get a gentle reminder that Grace is an empowerment to do what you dont deserve, that it was Jesus' gift for you to work from salvation instead of…

One of the hallmarks of the hallmarks of the Revival that King Hezekiah led was rejoicing, what if what revives your soul is a little bit of laughter? Listen to this week's sermon from 2 Chronicles 29, 30, and 31 as Pastor Aaron dives into what set up King Hezekiah to be a king like none before him and learn more about what Revival actually is! Joi…

What do you do in the face of a challenge or adversity? Listen to this teaching from 2 Kings chapter 18 and 19 about King Hezekiah and his faithful reaction to his adversity. Put whatever report, whatever adversity, whatever scares you before The Lord and renew your faith in Him. Let this sermon from Pastor Aaron lift you up and strengthen your fai…

The end of the calendar year is here, do we reflect on the past or look to the future? What is our resolve, and where does it come from? In this final sermon of 2023, Pastor Aaron speaks to the same hearts that Paul spoke to in 1 Corinthians 2. Hearts resolute for growth but unaware of where to turn to for it. Listen to this sermon and lean into th…

Oh Come All Ye Faithful! Listen with expectation! Sing all ye citizens for Jesus is King! In this special Christmas sermon, Pastor Aaron takes us through the Christmas story in Luke 2 and may even add in some historical context that you weren't aware of. It's our prayer that you find revelation in this message and from our hearts to yours: Merry Ch…