The Love of Advent

What is love, really? Pastor Steve takes a fresh look at the true meaning of love, and how it's found not in ourselves, but in the gift of Jesus. Discover how God's love can transform your life and relationships this Christmas. Join Pastor Steve as he unpacks the biblical perspective on love, and challenges you to experience it in a deeper way. Whether you're seeking encouragement or simply reflecting on the holidays, this message is for you.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, December 22, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

The Joy of Advent

Are you feeling joyful this Christmas season? Or is it a struggle to find joy right now? In this message, Pastor Steven Van Denend shares an important truth - real joy is not dependent on your circumstances. He explains how the joy found in Jesus is deeper and more lasting than temporary happiness. Discover how you can experience this joy, no matter what you're going through. If you need encouragement to keep your focus on what matters most this Christmas, give this a listen.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, December 15, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

The Peace of Advent

Are you feeling restless and in need of true peace this holiday season? In this Advent message, Pastor Neil Schori explores the deeper meaning of peace and how you can find it, even in difficult times. He shares practical ways you can bring hope to your community and experience the transformative power of the Prince of Peace. Discover how to walk in God's peace and guide others towards it. Don't miss this insightful look at the peace we all long for.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, December 8, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

The Hope of Advent

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the busyness of the holiday season? In this Advent message, Pastor Neil Schori invites you to find hope in the true meaning of Christmas. He shares personal reflections and biblical insights to help you navigate the challenges of this time of year and rediscover the joy of celebrating Jesus. Whether you're feeling stressed or simply seeking a fresh perspective, this down-to-earth talk offers encouragement to keep your focus on what matters most. Take a break from the chaos and let this message restore your sense of hope.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, December 1, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

Living in the Light of Christ's Coming | 2 Peter 3

Are you wondering what the future holds? In this message from The Edge Church, Pastor Steven Van Denend explores the biblical perspective on Jesus' second coming and what it means for your life today. He unpacks the importance of standing firm in your faith, growing in Christ-like character, and being vigilant against false teachings. If you're looking for hope and guidance as you navigate an uncertain world, this relatable message is worth your time. Discover how you can live with purpose and expectation, even as you wait for Christ's return.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, November 17, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

Truth or Lies | 2 Peter 2:1-22

Are you concerned about the rise of misinformation and false teachings, especially in these divisive times? In this thought-provoking sermon, Neil Schori unpacks the strategies and common false teachings that can lead believers astray. Schori provides clear guidance on how to recognize good, biblical teachers who center on God's word, not personal agendas or political ideologies. If you want to protect yourself and your community from deception, this is a must-watch. Learn to discern truth from lies and stand firm in your faith during these challenging times.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, November 3, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

God's Word Lives & Lasts | 2 Peter 1:12-21

Have you ever wondered about the reliability and authority of the Bible? In this sermon, Pastor Steven Van Denend unpacks why you can trust God's Word. He explains how the Bible is living, lasting, and divinely inspired - not just a collection of human-made stories. Discover how building your life on the solid foundation of Scripture can help you stand firm in your faith, no matter the storms you face. If you're looking to strengthen your understanding of the Bible, this message is for you.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

The Power To Grow | 2 Peter 1:1-11

Are you looking to strengthen your faith in a shifting world? In his impactful sermon, Pastor Neil Schori dives into the book of 2 Peter, revealing how we can find stability and spiritual growth, even when the world around us seems to be falling apart. Discover the keys to living a godly life and avoiding deception, as Neil shares practical wisdom and encouragement from the Apostle Peter's final words. Whether you're a new believer or a seasoned Christian, this message will inspire you to deepen your roots in Christ and bear abundant fruit. Don't miss this timely and transformative teaching!

This message was broadcast on Sunday, October 6, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com.

The Power To Grow | Discussion Questions:

Before you begin – take a moment to pray and ask the Lord to speak to you through His Word, to give you wisdom and understanding of His Word, and to transform you according to His Word.

Read 2 Peter 1:1-11. As you read, consider these questions:

1. What is this text teaching me about God?
-How would you describe God (His character/nature) after reading this passage?

2. What is this text teaching me about me?
-How would you describe how God sees you after reading this passage? o What have you learned about the life you have been called to live?

3. How do I apply this text to my life?

-Is there a command to obey? Is there an example to follow? Is there a promise to claim? Is there a sin to avoid or confess? Is there a principle to apply?

Additional Questions: Feel free to pick any of the following questions to work through individually and with your house church. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together.
-Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our pursuit and discussions lead us to Jesus, His Word, personal honesty, and actual action in the ways we live & lead others.

What does it mean that God has given us “everything we need for a godly life?” How can we practically live that out more fully?

Peter tells us to “make every effort” to add to your faith. What are ways you might be more intentional in growing in the virtues mentioned in verses 5-7?

Share a time in your life when you diligently cultivated one of the attributes mentioned. How did that change your experience of your life?

What dangers have you encountered when your faith has become more complacent?

Peter assures us that when we grow in faith, we will not stumble and will have the assurance of being welcomed into God’s eternal kingdom. How does this motivate you toward growth?

Pslam 121

Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges in your life? Pastor Steve has the perfect psalm to encourage you. In this promising sermonette, he unpacks the wisdom of Psalm 121, revealing how it can provide peace, hope, and a renewed sense of trust in God, no matter what hills you're climbing. Dive in and discover the source of your help - you won't want to miss this uplifting message.

This message was broadcast on Sunday, September 22, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com.

Psalm 121 Study:

Read Psalm 121 together as a group

PERSONAL REFLECTION:

o What is this teaching me about God (who He is, His character works)?

o What is this teaching me about me (my identity, purpose and calling)?

o How do I apply this (is there a command to obey, example to follow, promise to claim, sin to avoid/confess or principle to apply)?

QUESTIONS FOR THE GROUP:

What are the “hills” (challenges, trials, fears, etc) you are facing? Where do you typically go to for help when facing difficulties?

What is the significance of the confession in verse 2? How does the Lord being “the maker of heaven of earth” encourage you in your struggles? What causes you to doubt

God in the challenges you face?

What do verses 3-8 teach you about the identity and character of God?

What does this truth, that God is a “keeper” (in some translations) or the one who “watches over you” (in other translations), stir up in your heart & mind? How does this truth help you to face your fears/challenges?

How do you understand verse 7 in light of your own life and experiences? Read Romans 8:28; 35-39 as a help. In the words of Eugene Peterson, he says “the promise of the psalm is not that we shall never stub our toes, but that no injury, no illness, no accident or distress, will have evil power over us, that is, will be able to separate us from God’s purposes in us.”

How can you better apply and live out the truth of this Psalm in your every day life starting today?

How can you encourage others with this Psalm?

Pray together and for one another, letting this Psalm be a guide.

GOAL FOR THIS WEEK: Read Psalm 121 each day & seek to memorize it. Use the passage as a basis for prayer each day, bringing to the Lord your questions, challenges and burdens. Ask Him to help you be aware of His presence, goodness and work in your life and then respond to that with action. Take time to give Him thanks and praise!

Pslam 23

Are you feeling lost, confused, or overwhelmed by the challenges of life? Discover the timeless wisdom of Psalm 23 and how it can provide comfort, guidance, and hope even in our darkest moments. Join Pastor Steve as he shares a personal testimony of how this beloved psalm ministered to him during a difficult trial. Whether you're a lifelong believer or just exploring faith, this insightful sermonette will inspire you to see God's goodness and find refuge in His loving presence. Don't miss this chance to nourish your soul - click play now!

This message was broadcast on Sunday, September 8, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

Psalm 23 Study: 

Read Psalm 23 together as a group

Take a moment to just listen to “Psalm 23” by Phil Wickham together (maybe have people close their eyes & just receive from the Lord). 

PERSONAL REFLECTION: 

• Take 10ish minutes & have each person read Psalm 23 on their own, reading one verse at a time & pausing to reflect and note anything that stands out. 

• Tell them to consider as they read: 

• What is this teaching me about God (Who He is, His character & works)?

• What is this teaching me about me (My identity, purpose and calling)?

• How do I apply this (is there a command to obey, example to follow, promise to claim, sin to avoid/confess or principle to apply)? 

QUESTIONS FOR THE GROUP: 

What does it mean to say that the Lord is my shepherd? How does the Lord as your shepherd encourage/challenge you? Can you honestly say today that the Lord is my shepherd or is there another you’ve been following? 

What does the text teach us about how the shepherd cares for us? How are you experiencing God’s care in your life? Are there places you are doubting/questioning His care for you? 

How do you understand verses 2-3 and how can we apply them? How does the Lord lead us to rest and restoration? What does resting in God look like? Are there things we can do to join God in His work of restoring our souls (see Matthew 11:28; Ps 19:7; James 5:16)?

What does verse 3 imply by stating the Lord guides us versus carries us? Why does it say that He leads us in this path & what does it mean? 

Verse 4 reminds us that following the Lord doesn’t mean a life free of dark valleys. Are you in one right now?  What does the Psalmist say is his reason for hope in the hardship? How have you experienced God’s presence in a valley? 

Additionally, the shepherds rod was a club used for protection and correction, while his staff was used for guiding the sheep. How have you seen these tools of God used in your life? 

Verses 5-6 gives us a picture of a banquet where our cups are overflowing  and God’s goodness & mercy are pursuing us for all of eternity. What does it mean to have your head anointed with oil and your cup overflowing (see 2 Corinthians 1:21-22)? How do these verses give you hope & strength in your journey today? 

GOAL FOR THIS WEEK: Read Psalm 23 each day & seek to memorize it. Use the passage as a basis for prayer each day, bringing to the Lord your questions, challenges and burdens. Ask Him to help you be aware of His presence, goodness and work in your life and then respond to that with action. Take time to give Him thanks and praise for His faithfulness, promises, protection, provision, guidance, rest, blessing and presence.

Enduring Together When Life is H.A.R.D. (1 Peter 5:6-14)

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life? In this powerful message from The Edge Church, Pastor Steve shares wisdom from the book of 1 Peter on how to endure and thrive when life gets H.A.R.D. Discover the keys to humbling yourself, casting your anxieties on God, resisting the devil, and trusting in God's eternal dominion. Whether you're facing personal struggles or seeking encouragement for your faith journey, this message offers practical, biblical insights to help you overcome life's hardships. Don't miss this uplifting and transformative talk!

This message was broadcast on Sunday, August 18, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.

Shepherds aren't just for sheep (1 Peter 5:1-5)

What has been your experience with church leaders? Maybe you've had amazing leaders, but all too often we hear about leaders who put their needs ahead of those they serve. Wondering what it looks like for church leaders to truly serve their congregation? In this sermon, Pastor Neil Schori of The Edge Church shares a compelling vision of biblical eldership. Discover how elders are called to be humble, self-sacrificing shepherds who care for God's people, not use their authority for personal gain. If you're seeking an inspiring model of church leadership that honors Christ, you won't want to miss this thought-provoking message. Grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be challenged and encouraged!

This message was broadcast on Sunday, August 4, 2024. The Edge Church is located in Aurora, Illinois. For more information about our community, please visit http://www.edgeaurora.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional content and connections.