Father, 11 January 2026
11 01 26 Filed in: Sermons | The Nicene Creed
One God, the Father, the Almighty
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
The Creed
January 11, 2026
Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 42:5-7
Series Big Idea: The ancient Nicene Creed offers a valuable summary of our faith.
Big Idea: God the Father is good, faithful, and one Person of the Trinity.
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 42:5-7
What’s the greatest thing you’ve ever made? Perhaps it was a song, a painting, or a poem. Maybe it was cookies, a gourmet meal, a shed, or a pinewood derby car. When considering the question, I thought of our children, though technically I co-created them!
The first verse of the Bible states,
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
After an introduction last Sunday, today we dive into the text of the Nicene Creed, a summary of the Christian faith assembled 1701 years ago in a city in modern day Turkey designed to clarify the teachings of the Bible and unify Christians. Today, it is a statement affirmed by Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christians (with one small exception we’ll discuss later). The creed begins,
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible.
I realize some of you might not believe this—or any part of the Nicene Creed—and that’s fine. We’re glad you’re here and we invite you to explore what 2.3 billion people around the world believe. This is a safe place to bring doubts and questions.
The statement itself has several parts we will explore. First, we believe in one God. This may not sound radical, but throughout human history there have been atheists who do not believe in God, polytheists who believe in multiple Gods, and monotheists who believe in one God. The Greeks had many gods and temples that were the backdrop for much of the writing of the New Testament. Obviously, Christians are monotheists, though some have questioned whether we believe in three Gods. We do not.
For thousands of years, Jews have recited a prayer known as the Shema, a declaration of faith. It begins,
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5)
We believe in one God who exists in three Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There have been many metaphors to explain what we call the Trinity. We’re describing God, so we shouldn’t be surprised it’s mysterious or overwhelming. Someone said if we could fully understand God, we would be God!
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
When we look at this verse in the original Hebrew, the word for God is Elohim. It refers to one God but is grammatically plural. We don’t have time to explore the details, but this is one of about 2600 times elohim is used as a singular noun.
My favorite metaphor for the Trinity is my son, grandson, and myself. We are three different people, but we are all 100% Mr. Schneemann. If the three of us were together and someone said, “Mr. Schneemann!” we would all respond. I’m not more or less Mr. Schneemann than the others. We have distinct personhood, but we’re all one family. This is not a perfect metaphor, but it’s my favorite. To clarify, we are NOT God!
Our theme today focuses on God the Father.
We believe in one God, the Father…
We believe in one God, the Father. Tragically, the word Father has negative connotations for some based upon their biological dad. As a result, some have replaced the noun with mother, but the scriptures consistently use the male word.
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty. The Hebrew word for Almighty is Shaddai.
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless. (Genesis 17:1)
Almighty—Shaddai—is a title for God. He appeared to Abram to announce he would become a dad…at nearly one hundred years of age! Only God Almighty could accomplish this!
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible. I think that covers everything!
This is what God the LORD says—the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: (Isaiah 42:5)
Potters create with clay.
Baristas create with coffee.
Musicians create with instruments.
Legoists create with…Legos!
God creates with…His voice! From nothing!
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. (Genesis 1:3)
Some of the rabbis believe God sung creation into existence, which gives me the chills!
The rest of our text from the prophet Isaiah says,
“I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. (Isaiah 42:6-7)
Here’s where this gets exciting: Almighty God, Creator of the universe, uniquely created you and me for—wait for it—a relationship with Himself. I’ve heard this for more than five decades, but it never ceases to amaze me. The One who put the stars in the sky, created the giraffe, made the redwood trees, spoke into existence the sun, moon, and planets…He wants a relationship with you! And me!
If that’s not enough, Isaiah says He has work for us to do. We’re on a mission from God! I love how one writer describes this: invitation and challenge. God invites us into relationship—to sit on His lap, so to speak—and then gives us an assignment.
“…go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Don’t miss that last sentence. He is with us. Always. That’s relationship. He goes with you when you leave today. He’ll be at the office, rec center, or classroom tomorrow. He’s always available, always listening, always eager to hear your voice, always good, always faithful, always loving…and He’s all-powerful, ever-present, and all-knowing.
And He knows your name! He knows my name! Can I get a witness up in here?!
Last week I challenged you to seek to understand who God uniquely created you to be with the homework to describe yourself in ten words or less. We are exploring who is God? in this series, and if you can answer who are you, clarity will emerge about meaning, purpose, and joy.
To assist you, we are hosting a powerful four-week workshop entitled Refocus on Purpose. There’s info in your bulletin and in the lobby. This is a perfect next-step for you as you not only step into this new year but literally the rest of your life.
So What?
Whenever we talk about God, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. As I said on Christmas Eve, God is truly awesome, arguably the only One worthy of such a description. It’s incredible that the Creator of heaven and earth would tolerate us, much less embrace us. I can barely conceive of the reality that a holy God would want to have a relationship with a broken, sinful, ragamuffin like me. But the good news gets even greater!
Three of the four gospel writers—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—record a miraculous event that occurred the moment Jesus died. Matthew wrote,
And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. (Matthew 27:50-51a)
This curtain separated an area called the Holy of Holies from the people. Only the high priest could enter this space, and only once a year. This was the most special place on earth where God’s presence dwelt. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can go there, into the presence of Almighty God.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
We are invited in, to know the Creator of the universe, to do life with Him. That’s why we were created, to know God and glorify Him.
You were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
Followers of Jesus are related by blood—the blood of Jesus. We have a good, good Father who knows us by name, knows the number of hairs on our heads, knew us before the foundation of the world, and who will welcome us into His presence for eternity.
Do you know Him? If not, today can be the day you say “yes” to Jesus, the one whose death and resurrection reconcile us—reconnect us—to our Creator. No matter what words you use to describe yourself, your greatest identity will always be “child of the most high God, the Almighty, creator of the universe.”!
What’s the greatest thing God ever made? It’s you…and me. Unlike trees, angels, or dolphins, we were created in His image with dignity, value, and worth…and He invites us into His throne room, into a relationship with Him now and forever. He’s a good, good Father.
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
The Creed
January 11, 2026
Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 42:5-7
Series Big Idea: The ancient Nicene Creed offers a valuable summary of our faith.
Big Idea: God the Father is good, faithful, and one Person of the Trinity.
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Isaiah 42:5-7
What’s the greatest thing you’ve ever made? Perhaps it was a song, a painting, or a poem. Maybe it was cookies, a gourmet meal, a shed, or a pinewood derby car. When considering the question, I thought of our children, though technically I co-created them!
The first verse of the Bible states,
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
After an introduction last Sunday, today we dive into the text of the Nicene Creed, a summary of the Christian faith assembled 1701 years ago in a city in modern day Turkey designed to clarify the teachings of the Bible and unify Christians. Today, it is a statement affirmed by Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christians (with one small exception we’ll discuss later). The creed begins,
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible.
I realize some of you might not believe this—or any part of the Nicene Creed—and that’s fine. We’re glad you’re here and we invite you to explore what 2.3 billion people around the world believe. This is a safe place to bring doubts and questions.
The statement itself has several parts we will explore. First, we believe in one God. This may not sound radical, but throughout human history there have been atheists who do not believe in God, polytheists who believe in multiple Gods, and monotheists who believe in one God. The Greeks had many gods and temples that were the backdrop for much of the writing of the New Testament. Obviously, Christians are monotheists, though some have questioned whether we believe in three Gods. We do not.
For thousands of years, Jews have recited a prayer known as the Shema, a declaration of faith. It begins,
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5)
We believe in one God who exists in three Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There have been many metaphors to explain what we call the Trinity. We’re describing God, so we shouldn’t be surprised it’s mysterious or overwhelming. Someone said if we could fully understand God, we would be God!
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
When we look at this verse in the original Hebrew, the word for God is Elohim. It refers to one God but is grammatically plural. We don’t have time to explore the details, but this is one of about 2600 times elohim is used as a singular noun.
My favorite metaphor for the Trinity is my son, grandson, and myself. We are three different people, but we are all 100% Mr. Schneemann. If the three of us were together and someone said, “Mr. Schneemann!” we would all respond. I’m not more or less Mr. Schneemann than the others. We have distinct personhood, but we’re all one family. This is not a perfect metaphor, but it’s my favorite. To clarify, we are NOT God!
Our theme today focuses on God the Father.
We believe in one God, the Father…
We believe in one God, the Father. Tragically, the word Father has negative connotations for some based upon their biological dad. As a result, some have replaced the noun with mother, but the scriptures consistently use the male word.
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty. The Hebrew word for Almighty is Shaddai.
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless. (Genesis 17:1)
Almighty—Shaddai—is a title for God. He appeared to Abram to announce he would become a dad…at nearly one hundred years of age! Only God Almighty could accomplish this!
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible. I think that covers everything!
This is what God the LORD says—the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: (Isaiah 42:5)
Potters create with clay.
Baristas create with coffee.
Musicians create with instruments.
Legoists create with…Legos!
God creates with…His voice! From nothing!
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. (Genesis 1:3)
Some of the rabbis believe God sung creation into existence, which gives me the chills!
The rest of our text from the prophet Isaiah says,
“I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. (Isaiah 42:6-7)
Here’s where this gets exciting: Almighty God, Creator of the universe, uniquely created you and me for—wait for it—a relationship with Himself. I’ve heard this for more than five decades, but it never ceases to amaze me. The One who put the stars in the sky, created the giraffe, made the redwood trees, spoke into existence the sun, moon, and planets…He wants a relationship with you! And me!
If that’s not enough, Isaiah says He has work for us to do. We’re on a mission from God! I love how one writer describes this: invitation and challenge. God invites us into relationship—to sit on His lap, so to speak—and then gives us an assignment.
“…go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
Don’t miss that last sentence. He is with us. Always. That’s relationship. He goes with you when you leave today. He’ll be at the office, rec center, or classroom tomorrow. He’s always available, always listening, always eager to hear your voice, always good, always faithful, always loving…and He’s all-powerful, ever-present, and all-knowing.
And He knows your name! He knows my name! Can I get a witness up in here?!
Last week I challenged you to seek to understand who God uniquely created you to be with the homework to describe yourself in ten words or less. We are exploring who is God? in this series, and if you can answer who are you, clarity will emerge about meaning, purpose, and joy.
To assist you, we are hosting a powerful four-week workshop entitled Refocus on Purpose. There’s info in your bulletin and in the lobby. This is a perfect next-step for you as you not only step into this new year but literally the rest of your life.
So What?
Whenever we talk about God, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. As I said on Christmas Eve, God is truly awesome, arguably the only One worthy of such a description. It’s incredible that the Creator of heaven and earth would tolerate us, much less embrace us. I can barely conceive of the reality that a holy God would want to have a relationship with a broken, sinful, ragamuffin like me. But the good news gets even greater!
Three of the four gospel writers—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—record a miraculous event that occurred the moment Jesus died. Matthew wrote,
And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. (Matthew 27:50-51a)
This curtain separated an area called the Holy of Holies from the people. Only the high priest could enter this space, and only once a year. This was the most special place on earth where God’s presence dwelt. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can go there, into the presence of Almighty God.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
We are invited in, to know the Creator of the universe, to do life with Him. That’s why we were created, to know God and glorify Him.
You were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
Followers of Jesus are related by blood—the blood of Jesus. We have a good, good Father who knows us by name, knows the number of hairs on our heads, knew us before the foundation of the world, and who will welcome us into His presence for eternity.
Do you know Him? If not, today can be the day you say “yes” to Jesus, the one whose death and resurrection reconcile us—reconnect us—to our Creator. No matter what words you use to describe yourself, your greatest identity will always be “child of the most high God, the Almighty, creator of the universe.”!
What’s the greatest thing God ever made? It’s you…and me. Unlike trees, angels, or dolphins, we were created in His image with dignity, value, and worth…and He invites us into His throne room, into a relationship with Him now and forever. He’s a good, good Father.
We Believe in…4 January 2026
05 01 26 Filed in: Sermons | The Nicene Creed
We Believe in…
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
The Creed
January 4, 2026
Ephesians 2:8-10, 17-19
Series Big Idea: The ancient Nicene Creed offers a valuable summary of our faith.
Big Idea: We become what we behold…and believe.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:8-10, 17-19
Happy new year! There’s nothing like new beginnings, and today we begin a new day, a new week, a new year…and a new sermon series. As I prayed about how to start 2026, I learned about an ancient creed that celebrated 1700 years…last year. The Nicene Creed is 1701 years old and whether you have it memorized or have no idea what a creed is, I believe this exploration of the basics of our faith will ground us in the good, beautiful, and true and equip us for a great year ahead.
Who are you? Years ago, I tried to summarize myself in as few words as possible. I think I can adequately describe myself as a spiritual pilgrim, artist, and entrepreneur. Upon further reflection, one additional word is necessary to convey my identity: papa!
Take a few moments to describe yourself. PAUSE
Who is God? What do you believe?
Tragically, many don’t really know, which has led to cults and false teachers through the centuries. It’s not uncommon to hitch your wagon to your favorite author, theologian, preacher, or online influencer. There are many myths about Christianity and fictitious scripture verses such as, “God helps those who help themselves” which is not in the Bible!
Although some call it a book, the Bible is really a library, a collection of 66 books. Despite Jesus’ prayers for unity in John 17, there are now over 40,000 Christian denominations in our world, most of whom would say the Bible is their authority, yet the interpretation and application of its timeless truths have created tremendous divisions, not the least of which is the Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant camps.
A creed is “a summary statement of beliefs that unites Christians from all denominations and all generations.” It’s an overview of the Christian faith, coming from “credo” in Latin meaning “I believe.” Much like my summary of myself, a creed offers the highlights of the holy scriptures. Creeds connect us to the ancient roots of our faith. Some creeds are believed to date back to the apostles after Pentecost about two thousand years ago. Many of you know the Apostle’s Creed. Creeds that followed sought to clarify aspects of their predecessors. Describing God and summarizing thousands of pages is a daunting task, after all!
Last year, Pope Leo said,
In the unity of faith, proclaimed since the beginning of the Church, Christians have been called to walk in harmony, guarding and transmitting the gift they have received with love and joy. This is expressed in the words of the Creed, “I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God… for our salvation he came down from heaven,” that were formulated 1700 years ago by the Council of Nicaea, the first ecumenical gathering in the history of Christianity.
All Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christians believe the Nicene Creed…with one small exception, which we’ll address later in the series. So what does it say? What could all Christians possibly agree about?!
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father [and the Son], who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic [universal] and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Right about now you may be thinking, “Who cares about five paragraphs written 1701 years ago? How will that help me pay my Visa bill, get me a promotion at work, help me raise my kids, or ensure I don’t get the flu this winter?”
At our Christmas Eve services, I said we become what we behold. If we don’t know God, we can’t become like Him. If we don’t understand the basics of the faith, we don’t possess a reliable, useful, relevant faith.
One of the things that excites me about the Nicene Creed is how it clarifies closed-hand issues that are non-negotiable for anyone calling themselves a Christian. It illuminates what we have in common with followers of Jesus from other traditions. The family of God is quite diverse, not only in age and ethnicity but also in worship practices and what I like to call open-handed issues that are important but not essential to our faith. Some of those issues—the things which sadly divide Christians—include modes of baptism, the meaning of communion, and spiritual gifts.
For a bit of history, I want to take you back 1701 years to the town of Nicaea in modern-day Turkey. Between May and June 19, 325 AD, a council—a gathering of Christian leaders—was assembled Christians were wrestling with differences about the nature of Jesus, among other things, specifically the question was he created, a believe known as Arianism. That belief was condemned by the phrase
…true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father
There were other things clarified such as determining the date for Easter and various church laws called canons (not the war weapon!).
One of the influential members at the Council of Nicaea was an African from Alexandria, Egypt named Athanasius who was an outspoken critic of Arianism, that Jesus was created and, therefore, was not fully God. Based upon these scriptures (Isaiah 9:6, John 5-6, Philippians 2:5-13, Colossians 1:15-19 Hebrews 1:3), it was determined that
• Jesus Christ is “begotten, not made”
• He is “of the same essence” (homoousias) with the Father
• The Son is eternal, not created
As scholars and historians celebrated the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed last year, many lamented the fact that the town of Iznik, Turkey where the council occurred has no church today. Maybe it would be a good place to plant a new church!
About 2000 years ago, Paul wrote these words to a church in modern day Turkey:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
This is a portrait of every follower of Jesus, regardless of the church or denomination. We are all masterpieces, created in Jesus to do the good things God prepared for us to do before the foundation of the earth!
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. (Ephesians 1:4a)
A few verses later, Paul says of Jesus,
He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (Ephesians 2:17-18)
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, (Ephesians 2:17-18)
We are one in Christ Jesus, brothers and sisters in a global family of approximately 2.3 billion people on our planet of 8 billion souls.
So What?
As we begin the new year, I want to challenge you to reflect upon two questions:
Who are you? Who is God?
We will address the second question throughout this series, grounding you in the holy scriptures that have united Christians for two thousand years. We become what we behold…and believe.
Your task, then, is to determine who you are, who God has uniquely created you to be, and discover the good works He has created you to do. In a broad sense, this is clearly to love God and love others as yourself. But as we behold the LORD, we will gain clarity on how we are created in His image and the masterpiece we see in the mirror.
Theologian and author Leonard Sweet recently spoke of “a creed not just to recite, but to live. A confession not just of what we believe, but of who we are becoming.”
You were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
Amen.
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
The Creed
January 4, 2026
Ephesians 2:8-10, 17-19
Series Big Idea: The ancient Nicene Creed offers a valuable summary of our faith.
Big Idea: We become what we behold…and believe.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 2:8-10, 17-19
Happy new year! There’s nothing like new beginnings, and today we begin a new day, a new week, a new year…and a new sermon series. As I prayed about how to start 2026, I learned about an ancient creed that celebrated 1700 years…last year. The Nicene Creed is 1701 years old and whether you have it memorized or have no idea what a creed is, I believe this exploration of the basics of our faith will ground us in the good, beautiful, and true and equip us for a great year ahead.
Who are you? Years ago, I tried to summarize myself in as few words as possible. I think I can adequately describe myself as a spiritual pilgrim, artist, and entrepreneur. Upon further reflection, one additional word is necessary to convey my identity: papa!
Take a few moments to describe yourself. PAUSE
Who is God? What do you believe?
Tragically, many don’t really know, which has led to cults and false teachers through the centuries. It’s not uncommon to hitch your wagon to your favorite author, theologian, preacher, or online influencer. There are many myths about Christianity and fictitious scripture verses such as, “God helps those who help themselves” which is not in the Bible!
Although some call it a book, the Bible is really a library, a collection of 66 books. Despite Jesus’ prayers for unity in John 17, there are now over 40,000 Christian denominations in our world, most of whom would say the Bible is their authority, yet the interpretation and application of its timeless truths have created tremendous divisions, not the least of which is the Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant camps.
A creed is “a summary statement of beliefs that unites Christians from all denominations and all generations.” It’s an overview of the Christian faith, coming from “credo” in Latin meaning “I believe.” Much like my summary of myself, a creed offers the highlights of the holy scriptures. Creeds connect us to the ancient roots of our faith. Some creeds are believed to date back to the apostles after Pentecost about two thousand years ago. Many of you know the Apostle’s Creed. Creeds that followed sought to clarify aspects of their predecessors. Describing God and summarizing thousands of pages is a daunting task, after all!
Last year, Pope Leo said,
In the unity of faith, proclaimed since the beginning of the Church, Christians have been called to walk in harmony, guarding and transmitting the gift they have received with love and joy. This is expressed in the words of the Creed, “I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God… for our salvation he came down from heaven,” that were formulated 1700 years ago by the Council of Nicaea, the first ecumenical gathering in the history of Christianity.
All Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christians believe the Nicene Creed…with one small exception, which we’ll address later in the series. So what does it say? What could all Christians possibly agree about?!
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, visible and invisible.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father [and the Son], who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic [universal] and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Right about now you may be thinking, “Who cares about five paragraphs written 1701 years ago? How will that help me pay my Visa bill, get me a promotion at work, help me raise my kids, or ensure I don’t get the flu this winter?”
At our Christmas Eve services, I said we become what we behold. If we don’t know God, we can’t become like Him. If we don’t understand the basics of the faith, we don’t possess a reliable, useful, relevant faith.
One of the things that excites me about the Nicene Creed is how it clarifies closed-hand issues that are non-negotiable for anyone calling themselves a Christian. It illuminates what we have in common with followers of Jesus from other traditions. The family of God is quite diverse, not only in age and ethnicity but also in worship practices and what I like to call open-handed issues that are important but not essential to our faith. Some of those issues—the things which sadly divide Christians—include modes of baptism, the meaning of communion, and spiritual gifts.
For a bit of history, I want to take you back 1701 years to the town of Nicaea in modern-day Turkey. Between May and June 19, 325 AD, a council—a gathering of Christian leaders—was assembled Christians were wrestling with differences about the nature of Jesus, among other things, specifically the question was he created, a believe known as Arianism. That belief was condemned by the phrase
…true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father
There were other things clarified such as determining the date for Easter and various church laws called canons (not the war weapon!).
One of the influential members at the Council of Nicaea was an African from Alexandria, Egypt named Athanasius who was an outspoken critic of Arianism, that Jesus was created and, therefore, was not fully God. Based upon these scriptures (Isaiah 9:6, John 5-6, Philippians 2:5-13, Colossians 1:15-19 Hebrews 1:3), it was determined that
• Jesus Christ is “begotten, not made”
• He is “of the same essence” (homoousias) with the Father
• The Son is eternal, not created
As scholars and historians celebrated the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed last year, many lamented the fact that the town of Iznik, Turkey where the council occurred has no church today. Maybe it would be a good place to plant a new church!
About 2000 years ago, Paul wrote these words to a church in modern day Turkey:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
This is a portrait of every follower of Jesus, regardless of the church or denomination. We are all masterpieces, created in Jesus to do the good things God prepared for us to do before the foundation of the earth!
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. (Ephesians 1:4a)
A few verses later, Paul says of Jesus,
He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (Ephesians 2:17-18)
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, (Ephesians 2:17-18)
We are one in Christ Jesus, brothers and sisters in a global family of approximately 2.3 billion people on our planet of 8 billion souls.
So What?
As we begin the new year, I want to challenge you to reflect upon two questions:
Who are you? Who is God?
We will address the second question throughout this series, grounding you in the holy scriptures that have united Christians for two thousand years. We become what we behold…and believe.
Your task, then, is to determine who you are, who God has uniquely created you to be, and discover the good works He has created you to do. In a broad sense, this is clearly to love God and love others as yourself. But as we behold the LORD, we will gain clarity on how we are created in His image and the masterpiece we see in the mirror.
Theologian and author Leonard Sweet recently spoke of “a creed not just to recite, but to live. A confession not just of what we believe, but of who we are becoming.”
You were made by God, for God, and for God’s glory.
Amen.
Prince of Peace, 21 December 2025
21 12 25 Filed in: Sermons | Handel's Messiah
Prince of Peace
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 21, 2025
Isaiah 9:6
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is the Prince of Peace.
Advent Theme: peace
What do you want for Christmas?
Most of us no longer visit Santa to tell him about the toy or doll we want, but each of us has desires, whether it’s a more expensive toy like a car, a real-life doll like a spouse, or something far more grandiose like world peace.
Our text today is quite short, a prophet proclamation issued around 700 BC that describes the Messiah, the subject of Handel’s musical masterpiece and the reason we’re here thousands of years later.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Jesus the Messiah is the Prince of Peace. He’s the other things, too, but our theme today is peace. The original Hebrew word, shalom, is one I use frequently. It’s one of the most beautiful words in the world, not only speaking of the absence of conflict but also completeness, soundness, well-being, perfect, prosperity…things we all seek every day.
It's no secret that our world is torn apart by wars and rumors of wars, whether they are wager on battlefields or social media. If Jesus is the Prince of Peace, why is there so much evil and hatred in our world?
First, God is giving satan a season to lie, steal, kill, and destroy. Why? I don’t fully understand, but it has something to do with testing and character development. Jesus’ half-brother, James wrote,
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)
Second, I believe there is evil in the world now to cause us to draw close to God, to need God, to reach out, to pray. How desperate are you for God? If your Christmas shopping is done, the cookies have been baked, and you just learned about getting a raise in the new year, perhaps you are comfortable and even complacent. Contrast that with the unhoused, the lonely, the widow, the legal immigrant begging God for provision.
Let me offer a third reason God allows evil now in our world: for us to be peace makers. Jesus said,
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. (Matthew 5:9)
He didn’t say blessed are the peacekeepers, but blessed are those who make peace. Peace keeping sometimes involves avoiding conflict or experiencing false peace. Peace making is when we enter into spaces of conflict, get involved, take risks, and sometimes pay the price. When we ask God—or Santa—for peace on earth, could it be that we are the ones who need to take action?
Our example, of course, is Jesus. He entered difficult spaces (including a manger), had difficult conversations, and spoke the truth in love, even when it was unpopular, even when it got him killed!
Jesus wasn’t afraid to engage people and say hard things. He refused to follow the crowd, yet invited them into a new way of living. He demonstrated how to love one’s enemies, welcome the stranger, and engage the outcast. Jesus made peace because he is the Prince of Peace.
Peace on earth is something we all seek and it’s central to the Christmas message. On Wednesday, we’ll look at the angelic announcement to the shepherds:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
Remember that word shalom? It’s not just the absence of external conflict, but also internal wholeness and completeness. How is your soul? Are you experiencing internal peace?
After writing about the faith of Abraham, the writer of the book of Romans says,
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)
When we say “yes” to Jesus and begin to follow him, we have peace with God. We talked about Jesus being the good shepherd last Sunday. In one of his teachings, he said,
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” (John 10:27-30)
The peace—the right relationship—between us and God cannot be snatched away. He is for us. He loves us. Usually when we feel distant from God, it’s because we’ve moved, we’ve gotten busy, we’ve failed to invest in the relationship. There is something called the dark night of the soul when it feels like God is hiding. I believe the purpose is ultimately to get our attention and cause us to pursue Him more. But usually a lack of internal peace is the result of personal sin or neglect.
We can’t talk about relationships without mentioning those around us. Paul wrote to a church in modern day Turkey,
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2-3)
Notice he doesn’t say keep the unity but make every effort to do so through the bond of peace. It reminds me of another message from Romans,
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
Sometimes peace is not possible. Sin destroys, and that goes for relationships, too. You can’t control another person. If you’re like me, it’s more than enough to control yourself! We may need to make the first move in restoring broken relationships and then leave the results to God.
So What?
Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He said,
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)
Do you know him? If not, step one is saying, “Jesus, I give you my life.” That’s the best gift you can give him for his birthday this week! He does not promise to make you healthy and wealthy, but he is the source of true peace. Please let me or another staff member know if today is your day to say yes to Jesus so we can give you some free tools to help you begin your journey.
To those of you who know the Prince of Peace, are you following him? Are you seeking first his Kingdom over your own? Are you spending quality time with him or just talking about doing so? All of your time, talents, and treasures are gifts from Him.
Finally, I want to challenge each of us to follow the Prince of Peace into peace-making. Pay attention to those around you. Who is hurting? Who is lonely? Who is broken inside? Who needs a smile, a word of encouragement, an invitation to coffee…or even lunch today?
We can’t control what world leaders do in the midst of war. We can’t control the behavior of others, even friends and family. We can cultivate our own soul, listen to others, and look for ways to build bridges while others build walls. As the old song says,
Let There Be Peace On Earth/And Let It Begin With Me.
I can’t end any better than by quoting Paul’s words from our last sermon series:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Hallelujah!
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 21, 2025
Isaiah 9:6
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is the Prince of Peace.
Advent Theme: peace
What do you want for Christmas?
Most of us no longer visit Santa to tell him about the toy or doll we want, but each of us has desires, whether it’s a more expensive toy like a car, a real-life doll like a spouse, or something far more grandiose like world peace.
Our text today is quite short, a prophet proclamation issued around 700 BC that describes the Messiah, the subject of Handel’s musical masterpiece and the reason we’re here thousands of years later.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Jesus the Messiah is the Prince of Peace. He’s the other things, too, but our theme today is peace. The original Hebrew word, shalom, is one I use frequently. It’s one of the most beautiful words in the world, not only speaking of the absence of conflict but also completeness, soundness, well-being, perfect, prosperity…things we all seek every day.
It's no secret that our world is torn apart by wars and rumors of wars, whether they are wager on battlefields or social media. If Jesus is the Prince of Peace, why is there so much evil and hatred in our world?
First, God is giving satan a season to lie, steal, kill, and destroy. Why? I don’t fully understand, but it has something to do with testing and character development. Jesus’ half-brother, James wrote,
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)
Second, I believe there is evil in the world now to cause us to draw close to God, to need God, to reach out, to pray. How desperate are you for God? If your Christmas shopping is done, the cookies have been baked, and you just learned about getting a raise in the new year, perhaps you are comfortable and even complacent. Contrast that with the unhoused, the lonely, the widow, the legal immigrant begging God for provision.
Let me offer a third reason God allows evil now in our world: for us to be peace makers. Jesus said,
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. (Matthew 5:9)
He didn’t say blessed are the peacekeepers, but blessed are those who make peace. Peace keeping sometimes involves avoiding conflict or experiencing false peace. Peace making is when we enter into spaces of conflict, get involved, take risks, and sometimes pay the price. When we ask God—or Santa—for peace on earth, could it be that we are the ones who need to take action?
Our example, of course, is Jesus. He entered difficult spaces (including a manger), had difficult conversations, and spoke the truth in love, even when it was unpopular, even when it got him killed!
Jesus wasn’t afraid to engage people and say hard things. He refused to follow the crowd, yet invited them into a new way of living. He demonstrated how to love one’s enemies, welcome the stranger, and engage the outcast. Jesus made peace because he is the Prince of Peace.
Peace on earth is something we all seek and it’s central to the Christmas message. On Wednesday, we’ll look at the angelic announcement to the shepherds:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
Remember that word shalom? It’s not just the absence of external conflict, but also internal wholeness and completeness. How is your soul? Are you experiencing internal peace?
After writing about the faith of Abraham, the writer of the book of Romans says,
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)
When we say “yes” to Jesus and begin to follow him, we have peace with God. We talked about Jesus being the good shepherd last Sunday. In one of his teachings, he said,
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” (John 10:27-30)
The peace—the right relationship—between us and God cannot be snatched away. He is for us. He loves us. Usually when we feel distant from God, it’s because we’ve moved, we’ve gotten busy, we’ve failed to invest in the relationship. There is something called the dark night of the soul when it feels like God is hiding. I believe the purpose is ultimately to get our attention and cause us to pursue Him more. But usually a lack of internal peace is the result of personal sin or neglect.
We can’t talk about relationships without mentioning those around us. Paul wrote to a church in modern day Turkey,
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2-3)
Notice he doesn’t say keep the unity but make every effort to do so through the bond of peace. It reminds me of another message from Romans,
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
Sometimes peace is not possible. Sin destroys, and that goes for relationships, too. You can’t control another person. If you’re like me, it’s more than enough to control yourself! We may need to make the first move in restoring broken relationships and then leave the results to God.
So What?
Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He said,
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)
Do you know him? If not, step one is saying, “Jesus, I give you my life.” That’s the best gift you can give him for his birthday this week! He does not promise to make you healthy and wealthy, but he is the source of true peace. Please let me or another staff member know if today is your day to say yes to Jesus so we can give you some free tools to help you begin your journey.
To those of you who know the Prince of Peace, are you following him? Are you seeking first his Kingdom over your own? Are you spending quality time with him or just talking about doing so? All of your time, talents, and treasures are gifts from Him.
Finally, I want to challenge each of us to follow the Prince of Peace into peace-making. Pay attention to those around you. Who is hurting? Who is lonely? Who is broken inside? Who needs a smile, a word of encouragement, an invitation to coffee…or even lunch today?
We can’t control what world leaders do in the midst of war. We can’t control the behavior of others, even friends and family. We can cultivate our own soul, listen to others, and look for ways to build bridges while others build walls. As the old song says,
Let There Be Peace On Earth/And Let It Begin With Me.
I can’t end any better than by quoting Paul’s words from our last sermon series:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Hallelujah!
Shepherd, 14 December 2025
15 12 25 Filed in: Sermons | Handel's Messiah
Shepherd
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 14, 2025
Isaiah 40:9-11; 60:1; Matthew 11:28-29
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul.
Advent Theme: Joy
Song(s): O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion, He Shall Feed
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word…shepherd?
It’s hardly a common occupation in our country. One report I read said there are 125 shepherds in the United States…or less than three per state! There are, however, more than 62,000 people in the United States with the last name Shepherd! I’m not sure if I’ve ever met a shepherd…or even seen one in the wild! I’ve seen shepherds dressed in bathrobes in Christmas pageants, but that’s about it! Most of us understand the role of shepherds about as well as first-century citizens of Israel understood computer programmers!
Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul.
This Advent, we’re looking at the scriptures in Handel’s Messiah pertaining to the first arrival of Jesus. The prophet Isaiah spoke about the Messiah hundreds of years before his birth.
O Zion, You who bring good tidings, Get up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, You who bring good tidings, Lift up your voice with strength, Lift it up, be not afraid; Say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!” (Isaiah 40:9, NKJV)
VIDEO: AMERICAN BACH SOLOISTS
VIDEO: STEVIE WONDER, https://youtu.be/3UHW1mvlGxU
Several prophetic passages in Messiah speak of messengers, our subject last week. Last week it was from Malachi and today it’s Isaiah who highlights the delivery of good news…and doesn’t our world need more good news? The message here is simple: behold your God! Here is your God. He is here. Notice Him. Pay attention. Look upon Him. Turn to Him. Follow Him.
Behold, the Lord GOD shall come with a strong hand, And His arm shall rule for Him; Behold, His reward is with Him, And His work before Him. (Isaiah 40:10, NKJV)
This word “behold” is one I rarely noticed. Ironically, it means “pay attention!” God is strong. He will come…soon. Get ready! That was the message before Jesus’ first visit to our planet. Today we are awaiting his promised return, his arrival. Words cannot begin to describe how wonderful, amazing, and truly awesome is our God! The song we heard earlier includes this message from Isaiah chapter 60:
Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. (Isaiah 60:1, NKJV)
Our light has, indeed, come. About 2000 years ago, he was born in the town of Bethlehem. Jumping back to chapter 40, we encounter the Good Shepherd.
He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, And carry them in His bosom, And gently lead those who are with young. (Isaiah 40:11, NKJV)
VIDEO: AMERICAN BACH SOLOISTS
VIDEO: Steven Curtis Chapman & Sandi Patti, https://youtu.be/rXUIQAFa84w
The most famous chapter in the Bible beautifully describes Jesus the Good Shepherd, written by David who was, himself, a shepherd!
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. (Psalm 23:1)
We could stop here. What else do we need?
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake. (Psalm 23:2-3)
Could you use some quiet, some refreshment? Are you looking for guidance?
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)
The rod and staff serve as protection and discipline to ensure our safety and well-being.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. (Psalm 23:5a)
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows. (Psalm 23:5b)
These were powerful images in the culture of blessing and provision.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever. (Psalm 23:6)
If you don’t care about God’s presence, never mind! But if you want to be with God, dwell with God, spend eternity with God, the invitation is yours to accept. His arms are wide open, no matter what you’ve done in the past or who you are.
Jesus the Messiah—the Good Shepherd—said,
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29, NKJV)
VIDEO: Steven Curtis Chapman & Sandi Patti, https://youtu.be/rXUIQAFa84w
During this Christmas season when we put together wish lists and are bombarded by commercials, I want to remind you nothing satisfies like Jesus. There is no greater present than presence of God. I know many of you are heavy laden…you have heavy hearts. Take Jesus at his word. He is gentle and offers rest, not only physical rest but rest for your soul. We could all use more of that! A newer translation of this text says,
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29, NLT)
So What?
Jesus the Messiah is the good shepherd. He said so!
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. (John 10:11-13)
He says it again in the next verse!
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:14-15)
Do you know the good shepherd? Are you willing to follow the Good Shepherd? Sheep are vulnerable creatures, unable to protect themselves from wild animals. They cannot bite or kick or claw their enemies. If they fall, they are unable to get themselves back up. They need help finding food and water. Sheep need a shepherd…and must remain close to the shepherd to survive. So do we!
Jesus the Messiah came as a baby and laid down his life for us. What more could he give? His birth announcement was given to a group of shepherds, but that’s another story!
What Jesus asks is not just intellectual belief of historic events, but surrender and submission. He wants to be close to you to lead and guide, feed and provide for you. Have you said “yes” to Jesus? You can do so with a simple prayer: Jesus, I give you my life. If that’s you today, I want to celebrate with you. Please let me know via e-mail or in person. Perhaps you used to know Jesus and have wandered off. He told a beautiful parable in Luke 15 about the lost sheep and how the shepherd will leave the 99 to pursue the one missing lamb. If that’s you, it’s not too late to return to the flock. Perhaps that’s why you’re here today!
If you’ve been following the Good Shepherd, remember we make choices every day to wander or remain close to Christ. He loves you more than you can imagine and always has our best interest at heart. He will never lead us astray.
Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul. Hallelujah!
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 14, 2025
Isaiah 40:9-11; 60:1; Matthew 11:28-29
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul.
Advent Theme: Joy
Song(s): O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion, He Shall Feed
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word…shepherd?
It’s hardly a common occupation in our country. One report I read said there are 125 shepherds in the United States…or less than three per state! There are, however, more than 62,000 people in the United States with the last name Shepherd! I’m not sure if I’ve ever met a shepherd…or even seen one in the wild! I’ve seen shepherds dressed in bathrobes in Christmas pageants, but that’s about it! Most of us understand the role of shepherds about as well as first-century citizens of Israel understood computer programmers!
Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul.
This Advent, we’re looking at the scriptures in Handel’s Messiah pertaining to the first arrival of Jesus. The prophet Isaiah spoke about the Messiah hundreds of years before his birth.
O Zion, You who bring good tidings, Get up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, You who bring good tidings, Lift up your voice with strength, Lift it up, be not afraid; Say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!” (Isaiah 40:9, NKJV)
VIDEO: AMERICAN BACH SOLOISTS
VIDEO: STEVIE WONDER, https://youtu.be/3UHW1mvlGxU
Several prophetic passages in Messiah speak of messengers, our subject last week. Last week it was from Malachi and today it’s Isaiah who highlights the delivery of good news…and doesn’t our world need more good news? The message here is simple: behold your God! Here is your God. He is here. Notice Him. Pay attention. Look upon Him. Turn to Him. Follow Him.
Behold, the Lord GOD shall come with a strong hand, And His arm shall rule for Him; Behold, His reward is with Him, And His work before Him. (Isaiah 40:10, NKJV)
This word “behold” is one I rarely noticed. Ironically, it means “pay attention!” God is strong. He will come…soon. Get ready! That was the message before Jesus’ first visit to our planet. Today we are awaiting his promised return, his arrival. Words cannot begin to describe how wonderful, amazing, and truly awesome is our God! The song we heard earlier includes this message from Isaiah chapter 60:
Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. (Isaiah 60:1, NKJV)
Our light has, indeed, come. About 2000 years ago, he was born in the town of Bethlehem. Jumping back to chapter 40, we encounter the Good Shepherd.
He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, And carry them in His bosom, And gently lead those who are with young. (Isaiah 40:11, NKJV)
VIDEO: AMERICAN BACH SOLOISTS
VIDEO: Steven Curtis Chapman & Sandi Patti, https://youtu.be/rXUIQAFa84w
The most famous chapter in the Bible beautifully describes Jesus the Good Shepherd, written by David who was, himself, a shepherd!
The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. (Psalm 23:1)
We could stop here. What else do we need?
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake. (Psalm 23:2-3)
Could you use some quiet, some refreshment? Are you looking for guidance?
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)
The rod and staff serve as protection and discipline to ensure our safety and well-being.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. (Psalm 23:5a)
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows. (Psalm 23:5b)
These were powerful images in the culture of blessing and provision.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever. (Psalm 23:6)
If you don’t care about God’s presence, never mind! But if you want to be with God, dwell with God, spend eternity with God, the invitation is yours to accept. His arms are wide open, no matter what you’ve done in the past or who you are.
Jesus the Messiah—the Good Shepherd—said,
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29, NKJV)
VIDEO: Steven Curtis Chapman & Sandi Patti, https://youtu.be/rXUIQAFa84w
During this Christmas season when we put together wish lists and are bombarded by commercials, I want to remind you nothing satisfies like Jesus. There is no greater present than presence of God. I know many of you are heavy laden…you have heavy hearts. Take Jesus at his word. He is gentle and offers rest, not only physical rest but rest for your soul. We could all use more of that! A newer translation of this text says,
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29, NLT)
So What?
Jesus the Messiah is the good shepherd. He said so!
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. (John 10:11-13)
He says it again in the next verse!
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:14-15)
Do you know the good shepherd? Are you willing to follow the Good Shepherd? Sheep are vulnerable creatures, unable to protect themselves from wild animals. They cannot bite or kick or claw their enemies. If they fall, they are unable to get themselves back up. They need help finding food and water. Sheep need a shepherd…and must remain close to the shepherd to survive. So do we!
Jesus the Messiah came as a baby and laid down his life for us. What more could he give? His birth announcement was given to a group of shepherds, but that’s another story!
What Jesus asks is not just intellectual belief of historic events, but surrender and submission. He wants to be close to you to lead and guide, feed and provide for you. Have you said “yes” to Jesus? You can do so with a simple prayer: Jesus, I give you my life. If that’s you today, I want to celebrate with you. Please let me know via e-mail or in person. Perhaps you used to know Jesus and have wandered off. He told a beautiful parable in Luke 15 about the lost sheep and how the shepherd will leave the 99 to pursue the one missing lamb. If that’s you, it’s not too late to return to the flock. Perhaps that’s why you’re here today!
If you’ve been following the Good Shepherd, remember we make choices every day to wander or remain close to Christ. He loves you more than you can imagine and always has our best interest at heart. He will never lead us astray.
Jesus the Messiah is the Good Shepherd who offers rest for your soul. Hallelujah!
Messenger, 7 December 2025
Messenger
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 7, 2025
Malachi 3:1-5
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: The greatest way to love another is to introduce them to the Messiah.
Advent Theme: love
Song: But who may abide?
There’s a legend that in 490 BC Pheidippides, a Greek messenger, ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persians. The distance run was approximately 26.2 miles and defines the most famous race in the world, the marathon.
I’m training for a 10K which is not even a quarter of a marathon and I’m already exhausted! Imagine the passion required to run more than 26 miles not for a medal or any kind of prize, but to simply deliver a message. It better be good…and it was.
We have a message…the gospel which means “good news.” We have the greatest news in human history to share. The Messiah has come and he is returning soon!
Today we are continuing our Advent series following selections from what may be the greatest music ever written, Handel’s Messiah. The lyrics are supreme, taken directly from scripture. Our theme today is messenger, taken from the third chapter of the ancient writing by the prophet Malachi (or Malachi…the Italian prophet!). The name Malachi means messenger!
Prophets—then and now—are not about future-telling as much as forth-telling. They declare the truth. It’s not uncommon for prophets to make people uncomfortable, offering warnings rather than warm, fuzzy words of encouragement. Being a prophet is a difficult assignment, but God uses them to deliver important messages.
To understand today’s text, we need to backup one verse which, oddly, has been placed in the previous chapter by those who added chapter and verse markings generations after the writing of the scriptures.
You have wearied the LORD with your words.
“How have we wearied him?” you ask.
By saying, “All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and he is pleased with them” or “Where is the God of justice?” (Malachi 2:17)
The people have wandered away from God, a common practice then…and now. Their hypocrisy and sin have resulted in God issuing warnings to His people.
“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. (Malachi 3:1)
There are actually two messengers presented in this verse. The first is John the Baptist, mentioned last week (see Mark 1:2). He prepared the way for Jesus the Messiah. The second messenger, the messenger of the covenant, refers to Jesus the Messiah. Are they coming with good news? Are they announcing victory?
Malachi continues with sobering words that form the lyrics of today’s song(s).
But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? (Malachi 3:2a)
Judgment Day is coming…for all of us. Are you ready? Who may abide or endure?
For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. (Malachi 3:2b-3a)
God’s people are compared to impure metal and dirty laundry! For thousands of years, precious metals like gold and silver have been refined by intense heat to remove impurities. It’s a powerful image of God purifying us, often through trials and suffering, removing the idols and sins in our lives. Silversmiths must pay careful attention to the metal. If it doesn’t receive enough heat, the impurities will remain. If the metal remains in the fire too long, it will be destroyed. I’m told silver is fully refined when the silversmith can see their image in it. That means they cannot stand at a distance but patiently watch as the dross is removed.
We are more familiar with the role of bleach, removing stains from clothing. Sin stains our souls, separates us from God, and ultimately leads to death and destruction. The good news is refining and purification are possible, but not pleasant.
Malachi says the first to be purified will the Levites, the religious leaders.
Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years. (Malachi 3:3b-4)
Once refined, they can lead acceptable worship as was done before the people wandered away from God. Unfortunately, not everyone will repent, turn, and follow the LORD.
“So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the LORD Almighty. (Malachi 3:5)
These are terrifying words for those who do not fear, respect, and follow the LORD. Malachi records a list of some of their many sins, including oppressing widows, orphans, and foreigners (a rather timely topic!).
So What?
Imagine the thrill experienced by Pheidippides as in his exhaustion he was able to announce good news to the people of Athens. War is over! Victory is ours!
Malachi’s news was not so pleasant, though it was necessary to warn people about their sin and its consequences.
More than 2500 years later, followers of the Messiah have been commissioned as messengers, God’s ambassadors to go and make disciples of all nations. The news is, at first, terrible. God’s standard is perfection, He doesn’t grade on a curve, and we’re all going to be judged some day.
The good news—the gospel—is that Jesus is LORD. He lived a perfect life, died in our place, rose from the dead, and will return soon to take his followers to be with him for eternity. Followers of Jesus are called to be hope dealers in a culture of brokenness as messengers of the gospel. And there’s no running required!
There are, of course, many ways to deliver this news. I want to offer you several.
First, share your story. Share HiStory. My favorite thing at College First is baptisms. What could be greater than hearing one’s story of going from death to life, from darkness to light, from worshipping self to glorifying God? Jesus said
…there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:10)
We get to rejoice, too, when someone is born again, turns from their sin, and says yes to Jesus. Of course, baptism is not the only time to share your story. You can share it anytime, anywhere…in person or online.
One of my dreams is to create short “my story” videos to share on Sundays, on social media, and on a dedicated page on our website. In recent days we’ve heard stories of Ohio State football players, other athletes, and celebrities testifying to the power of God in their lives. It’s inspiring. It brings glory to God. It’s a way to be a messenger of good news.
Second, pray and invite. We gather each Sunday and at special events throughout the year to announce good news. We have new invite cards for both Sundays and Christmas Eve. Studies show 80% of people invited will respond positively to an invitation. I’m happy to be a messenger if you bring the people to hear the message!
Third, serve. Encounter on Wednesday nights is exploding with unchurched kids. We are making two trips in the new 12-passenger van to pick up children, and we may need to add a third! It may seem surprising, but many know nothing about Jesus, yet by teaching or even helping, you can serve as a messenger of the LORD. Whether it’s at College First or one of our partners like Christian Clearing House, the Women’s Resource Center, or Habitat for Humanity, you can engage in delivering God’s truth to others.
Finally, invest in future messengers. Someday we will be unable to share good news, which is why we’re intentionally discipling next gen leaders…our legacy. I’m grateful for the vision of our leaders who stated,
The vision of CF is to become a future-oriented church by 2028 that will see 33% of our congregation made up of kids, students, and young adults.
This is one of the things that made we want to come to College First last year. As many of you know, we have been consistently hitting that 33% number on Sunday mornings…three years early! Praise God! In addition, our ministry fellows, residents, and interns are being loved, equipped, and sent. We want that to continue!
With the new Reist Next Gen Leadership Development Quasi-endowment, we can all invest in our future leaders, pastors, elders, deacons, and trustees. Last week, one of our interns, Zack Britton, announced to our staff that after a long season of prayer and Our Christmas offering this year will help seed this endowment which will provide resources to love, equip, and send leaders in the name of Jesus for generations to come. The Reist family has made a generous gift to launch the fund, and the Elders have recommended moving some of our savings to the endowment. I’m praying the audacious prayer of raising $1 million. Will you join Heather and me in making a special gift to train messengers? This is not about what I want from you, but rather what I want for you…the privilege of investing in God’s Kingdom for generations to come!
We are all called to be messengers, and the news is even more important than the one delivered by Pheidippides in ancient Greece. We proclaim Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life. As we celebrate love on this Advent Sunday, the greatest way to love another is to introduce them to the Messiah. He’s the reason for the season…and he’s returning soon. Let’s get ready!
Handel’s Messiah
Kirk Schneemann
College First Church of God
December 7, 2025
Malachi 3:1-5
Series Big Idea: Handel’s Messiah may be the greatest work of music ever created, bringing praise and glory to the Creator.
Big Idea: The greatest way to love another is to introduce them to the Messiah.
Advent Theme: love
Song: But who may abide?
There’s a legend that in 490 BC Pheidippides, a Greek messenger, ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce victory over the Persians. The distance run was approximately 26.2 miles and defines the most famous race in the world, the marathon.
I’m training for a 10K which is not even a quarter of a marathon and I’m already exhausted! Imagine the passion required to run more than 26 miles not for a medal or any kind of prize, but to simply deliver a message. It better be good…and it was.
We have a message…the gospel which means “good news.” We have the greatest news in human history to share. The Messiah has come and he is returning soon!
Today we are continuing our Advent series following selections from what may be the greatest music ever written, Handel’s Messiah. The lyrics are supreme, taken directly from scripture. Our theme today is messenger, taken from the third chapter of the ancient writing by the prophet Malachi (or Malachi…the Italian prophet!). The name Malachi means messenger!
Prophets—then and now—are not about future-telling as much as forth-telling. They declare the truth. It’s not uncommon for prophets to make people uncomfortable, offering warnings rather than warm, fuzzy words of encouragement. Being a prophet is a difficult assignment, but God uses them to deliver important messages.
To understand today’s text, we need to backup one verse which, oddly, has been placed in the previous chapter by those who added chapter and verse markings generations after the writing of the scriptures.
You have wearied the LORD with your words.
“How have we wearied him?” you ask.
By saying, “All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and he is pleased with them” or “Where is the God of justice?” (Malachi 2:17)
The people have wandered away from God, a common practice then…and now. Their hypocrisy and sin have resulted in God issuing warnings to His people.
“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. (Malachi 3:1)
There are actually two messengers presented in this verse. The first is John the Baptist, mentioned last week (see Mark 1:2). He prepared the way for Jesus the Messiah. The second messenger, the messenger of the covenant, refers to Jesus the Messiah. Are they coming with good news? Are they announcing victory?
Malachi continues with sobering words that form the lyrics of today’s song(s).
But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? (Malachi 3:2a)
Judgment Day is coming…for all of us. Are you ready? Who may abide or endure?
For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. (Malachi 3:2b-3a)
God’s people are compared to impure metal and dirty laundry! For thousands of years, precious metals like gold and silver have been refined by intense heat to remove impurities. It’s a powerful image of God purifying us, often through trials and suffering, removing the idols and sins in our lives. Silversmiths must pay careful attention to the metal. If it doesn’t receive enough heat, the impurities will remain. If the metal remains in the fire too long, it will be destroyed. I’m told silver is fully refined when the silversmith can see their image in it. That means they cannot stand at a distance but patiently watch as the dross is removed.
We are more familiar with the role of bleach, removing stains from clothing. Sin stains our souls, separates us from God, and ultimately leads to death and destruction. The good news is refining and purification are possible, but not pleasant.
Malachi says the first to be purified will the Levites, the religious leaders.
Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years. (Malachi 3:3b-4)
Once refined, they can lead acceptable worship as was done before the people wandered away from God. Unfortunately, not everyone will repent, turn, and follow the LORD.
“So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the LORD Almighty. (Malachi 3:5)
These are terrifying words for those who do not fear, respect, and follow the LORD. Malachi records a list of some of their many sins, including oppressing widows, orphans, and foreigners (a rather timely topic!).
So What?
Imagine the thrill experienced by Pheidippides as in his exhaustion he was able to announce good news to the people of Athens. War is over! Victory is ours!
Malachi’s news was not so pleasant, though it was necessary to warn people about their sin and its consequences.
More than 2500 years later, followers of the Messiah have been commissioned as messengers, God’s ambassadors to go and make disciples of all nations. The news is, at first, terrible. God’s standard is perfection, He doesn’t grade on a curve, and we’re all going to be judged some day.
The good news—the gospel—is that Jesus is LORD. He lived a perfect life, died in our place, rose from the dead, and will return soon to take his followers to be with him for eternity. Followers of Jesus are called to be hope dealers in a culture of brokenness as messengers of the gospel. And there’s no running required!
There are, of course, many ways to deliver this news. I want to offer you several.
First, share your story. Share HiStory. My favorite thing at College First is baptisms. What could be greater than hearing one’s story of going from death to life, from darkness to light, from worshipping self to glorifying God? Jesus said
…there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:10)
We get to rejoice, too, when someone is born again, turns from their sin, and says yes to Jesus. Of course, baptism is not the only time to share your story. You can share it anytime, anywhere…in person or online.
One of my dreams is to create short “my story” videos to share on Sundays, on social media, and on a dedicated page on our website. In recent days we’ve heard stories of Ohio State football players, other athletes, and celebrities testifying to the power of God in their lives. It’s inspiring. It brings glory to God. It’s a way to be a messenger of good news.
Second, pray and invite. We gather each Sunday and at special events throughout the year to announce good news. We have new invite cards for both Sundays and Christmas Eve. Studies show 80% of people invited will respond positively to an invitation. I’m happy to be a messenger if you bring the people to hear the message!
Third, serve. Encounter on Wednesday nights is exploding with unchurched kids. We are making two trips in the new 12-passenger van to pick up children, and we may need to add a third! It may seem surprising, but many know nothing about Jesus, yet by teaching or even helping, you can serve as a messenger of the LORD. Whether it’s at College First or one of our partners like Christian Clearing House, the Women’s Resource Center, or Habitat for Humanity, you can engage in delivering God’s truth to others.
Finally, invest in future messengers. Someday we will be unable to share good news, which is why we’re intentionally discipling next gen leaders…our legacy. I’m grateful for the vision of our leaders who stated,
The vision of CF is to become a future-oriented church by 2028 that will see 33% of our congregation made up of kids, students, and young adults.
This is one of the things that made we want to come to College First last year. As many of you know, we have been consistently hitting that 33% number on Sunday mornings…three years early! Praise God! In addition, our ministry fellows, residents, and interns are being loved, equipped, and sent. We want that to continue!
With the new Reist Next Gen Leadership Development Quasi-endowment, we can all invest in our future leaders, pastors, elders, deacons, and trustees. Last week, one of our interns, Zack Britton, announced to our staff that after a long season of prayer and Our Christmas offering this year will help seed this endowment which will provide resources to love, equip, and send leaders in the name of Jesus for generations to come. The Reist family has made a generous gift to launch the fund, and the Elders have recommended moving some of our savings to the endowment. I’m praying the audacious prayer of raising $1 million. Will you join Heather and me in making a special gift to train messengers? This is not about what I want from you, but rather what I want for you…the privilege of investing in God’s Kingdom for generations to come!
We are all called to be messengers, and the news is even more important than the one delivered by Pheidippides in ancient Greece. We proclaim Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life. As we celebrate love on this Advent Sunday, the greatest way to love another is to introduce them to the Messiah. He’s the reason for the season…and he’s returning soon. Let’s get ready!