Hope Church Johnson City

About Hope Church Johnson City

Messages from Hope Church Johnson City. Join us on Sunday mornings at 7:30am, 9:00am, 11:00am and 12:45pm.

Publisher

Hope Church Johnson City

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Feb 2019

Latest episode

13 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

623 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Sept 2026

   A Tale of Family Dysfunction

   What happens when the worst day of a family's life gets recorded in scripture and read for four thousand years? That's exactly what we find in Genesis 27, a chapter Pastor Rick Keller calls an ugly, honest window into complete family breakdown. Isaac plays favorites with Esau, Rebekah manipulates on behalf of Jacob, Jacob deceives his blind father to steal the blessing meant for his brother, and Esau descends from bitterness into murderous hatred — yet through it all, God's covenant promise marches forward exactly as He said it would back in Genesis 25, that "the older shall serve the younger." We watched Isaac try to short-circuit God's plan with a secret blessing ceremony, Rebekah coach Jacob through an elaborate goat-skin disguise, and poor Isaac's failing senses — sight, taste, smell, touch — all deceived while only his hearing caught the truth he chose to ignore. We traced how Esau's bitterness, born from trading his birthright for a bowl of beans, hardened into a hatred he could never undo, even with tears, because he never truly repented. And we saw the redemption thread running underneath it all: Isaac eventually blesses Jacob rightly, Esau lets go of his grudge decades later, and Jacob himself is transformed from "schemer" into "child of God" after wrestling with the Lord. The abiding question this story leaves us with is simple but piercing: when we're faced with the choice between the good and the greater good, are we listening to the voice of faith, or are we letting our other senses — our feelings, our fears, our impatience — drown out what God has already promised? ## Sermon Notes ### 1. Setting the Stage: A Family Already Fractured (Genesis 25:23; Genesis 26:34-35) - Chapter 26 ends: Esau's Hittite wives "made life bitter" for Isaac and Rebekah — one letter changes everything - Total communication breakdown: nobody talking to each other, nobody inquiring of the Lord - Background prophecy: God tells Rebekah while pregnant, "the older shall serve the younger" (Gen 25:23) - Esau ("hairy") and Jacob ("heel grabber"/schemer) named prophetically at birth - Birthright = firstborn's inheritance and headship; sold by Esau for a bowl of beans (Gen 25) - Favoritism named directly: Isaac loved Esau (a man's man, hunter, good cook); Rebekah loved Jacob (a homebody) - **We don't have to manipulate what God has already promised — it will happen whether we like it or not** - Cross-reference: Joseph's story — prophesied to rule over his brothers, tried to force it, God had to "burn the pride out" first - Personal illustration: called to pastoring at 12 years old, tried to make it happen, didn't become a pastor until 45 — "when God decides to promote, nobody can stop Him" - 1 Corinthians 3 — "neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything... only God who gives the growth" ### 2. The Deception Unfolds (Genesis 27:1-29) - Isaac, thinking he's dying at 135 (lives 40 more years), tries to bless Esau privately instead of publicly as required by custom - Blessing was legally binding — once spoken, could not be rescinded - Rebekah overhears, coaches Jacob: goat meat disguise, Esau's clothes, goat skins on hands and neck - Jacob's concern isn't morality but getting caught — "is there a better plan?" - Rebekah: "let your curse be upon me, my son" - Isaac's senses all deceived except hearing: "the voice is Jacob's, but the hands are Esau's" — he ignores what he hears - **Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God — yet we prioritize feelings over what the Word says** - Blessing pronounced over Jacob: dew of heaven, fatness of earth, lordship over brothers ### 3. The Aftermath: Bitterness Takes Root (Genesis 27:30-41) - Esau returns moments after Jacob leaves — dramatic, almost theatrical timing - Isaac "trembled very violently" — same Hebrew word used of Israel trembling at Mount Sinai — realizing God's plan prevailed through his own scheming - Romans 8:28 — even our failures work together for God's good and glory - Esau's "exceedingly great and bitter cry" — begs for a blessing but the legal blessing is already given - **Generations can pass on blessing, but they can also pass on bitterness** - Hebrews 12:15 — "no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble" — illustration: bitterness is like a dandelion, impossible to remove without pulling up the root - Progression: favoritism → bitterness → hatred → plot to murder (Gen 27:41, first mention of "hate" in the Bible) - Cross-reference: Matthew 6:24 — same Greek concept, "no one can serve two masters... he will hate the one" ### 4. Why Esau, Not Jacob? The Good vs. the Greater Good (Hebrews 12:16-17; Romans 9:10-13) - Hebrews 12:16-17 — Esau "found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears" - On the surface, Esau looks innocent — he only did what his father asked - Romans 9:10-13 — "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated" — spoken before either was born or had done anything - Illustration: dove (eternal/God's plan) vs. bowl of beans (temporal) — Esau held God's redemptive plan in his hand and traded it for a meal - **The question isn't good vs. bad — it's good vs. greater good** (examples given: food is good, but fasting for a greater purpose; sex in marriage is good, but perverted outside it becomes destructive) - Esau's heart had "no room for repentance" — sorry he got caught, not sorry for what he did ### 5. Rebekah's Final Scheme and the Long Road to Redemption (Genesis 27:42–28:4) - Rebekah sends Jacob away under pretense of protecting him from Esau's fury — but her true stated motive is disgust over Hittite wives, not remorse over her own deception ("I loathe my life... because of the Hittite women") - She never sees Jacob again — he is gone 20 years - Isaac finally blesses Jacob properly and willingly in Genesis 28:3-4, aligning with God's plan instead of fighting it - Hebrews 11:20 — "by faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau... concerning things to come" ### 6. Reunion and Transformation (Genesis 32-33, referenced) - Twenty years later, Jacob still scheming — sends flocks, servants, wives ahead of him, hoping to exhaust Esau's "bloodlust" before reaching him - Esau instead has let go of the grudge: "I let all that go a long time ago... that yoke I grew restless and took it off" - Jacob wrestles with the Angel of the Lord (theophany), refuses to let go until blessed, is renamed from "schemer" to "child of God" — walks with a limp the rest of his life - **Even our sin and scheming can't stop God's redemptive plan — but repentance is what changes us** ### Practical Applications 1. **Examine areas of favoritism** — Reflect this week on whether you show favoritism in your own family and ask God to reveal any blind spots, as Isaac and Rebekah did with their sons. 2. **Pull bitterness up by the root** — Identify one specific grudge or hurt you've been nursing and take a concrete step this week (a conversation, a written prayer of release) to deal with it at the root, not just the surface. 3. **Choose the greater good over the good** — Name one "bowl of beans" decision in your life right now — a shortcut, a comfort, a compromise — and bring it to God this week, asking Him to help you release it for something eternal. 5. **Practice true repentance, not just regret** — This week, instead of just feeling sorry when you fail, specifically name the sin to God and ask Him to change your direction, following Jacob's example after wrestling with God rather than Esau's tearless remorse. 5. **Let go of a long-held grudge** — Like Esau did after 20 years, choose this week to release resentment toward someone specific rather than waiting for them to make it right first. 6. **Trust God's timing over manipulation** — If you're anxious about a promise, calling, or promotion you believe God has spoken over your life, resist the urge to force or manipulate it this week; instead pray and wait as an act of faith. ### Discussion Questions 1. In the sermon, Pastor Rick pointed out that "nobody inquires of the Lord" throughout this entire chapter. Where in your own life do you tend to scheme or take matters into your own hands instead of asking God first? 2. Rick described Isaac's senses being deceived one by one — sight, taste, smell, touch — while only his hearing told him the truth, which he ignored. Where do you find yourself trusting your feelings over what you know God's Word says? 3. The sermon contrasted "the good" (the bowl of beans) with "the greater good" (the eternal blessing). What is a "bowl of beans" in your life right now — something good that you're prioritizing over something greater God is offering? 4. Esau wept bitterly but, according to Hebrews 12:17, found no place for repentance. What's the difference between being sorry you got caught and truly repenting, and how have you experienced that difference? 5. Rick said bitterness, like a dandelion, has to be pulled out by the root or it comes right back. Is there a root of bitterness in your life or family history that keeps resurfacing, and what would it look like to actually deal with it? 6. Jacob was transformed from "schemer" to "child of God" only after wrestling with the Lord and coming away changed, even wounded. What might it look like for our group to support each other through a similar season of wrestling with God this year?

2. 

   30 Aug 2026

   From Generation to Generation

   What a beautiful story of faith and legacy unfolds in Genesis 25, a passage that resonates deeply with our current journey as a church. As we reflect on Abraham’s life, which spanned 175 years, we see a man who, despite his age, continued to have a profound impact on his family and future generations. Abraham’s death, as described in verses 7-10, marks the passing of a patriarch who lived a long and full life, and who was laid to rest with dignity and honor. The reunion of Isaac and Ishmael to bury their father together, as mentioned in verse 9, is a poignant moment that underscores the power of reconciliation and the importance of family unity. The narrative then shifts to Isaac and Rebecca, who, after 20 years of waiting, finally conceive twins, Esau and Jacob. This moment is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the importance of prayer, as Isaac and Rebecca’s persistence in seeking God’s will led to the fulfillment of His promise. The story of Esau selling his birthright for a bowl of stew in desperation highlights the dangers of trading long-term blessings for immediate gratification. This serves as a powerful reminder for us to prioritize our spiritual and eternal well-being over fleeting desires. Transparency from one generation to the next is a crucial theme in this passage. Abraham’s experiences, including the near-sacrifice of Isaac, likely shaped his teachings and the way he passed down his faith to his children and grandchildren. This transparency allowed Isaac and Rebecca to learn from Abraham’s journey and to trust in God’s provision even in times of uncertainty. As we conclude, let us reflect on the three key takeaways from this chapter: the importance of transparency in sharing our faith journeys with the next generation, the need to seek God’s guidance in times of confusion, and the danger of trading eternal blessings for temporary satisfaction. May we be transparent with our loved ones about our struggles and triumphs, trusting in God’s faithfulness and seeking His wisdom in every decision. May we also resist the temptation to prioritize immediate desires over eternal blessings, remembering that God’s promises remain steadfast and true. As our church embarks on this new journey, let us remember that this is not just for us, but for generations to come, and may we build with the same faith and vision that guided Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. ## Sermon Notes — Genesis 25 **Big Idea:** Transparency and faithfulness are essential for passing down God's promises from one generation to the next. ### 1. Transparency from One Generation to the Next (Genesis 25:1-18) - Abraham and Isaac's experiences and failures passed down to the next generation. - Abraham's interaction with Isaac and Esau teaches the importance of transparency. - **Key principle:** Be transparent with the next generation about both successes and failures. ### 2. Ask the Lord When You Don't Understand (Genesis 25:19-23) - Isaac and Rebecca's barrenness and the promise of children. - Rebecca's struggle and seeking God's guidance. - **Key principle:** When facing uncertainty, seek God's guidance and surround yourself with biblical counsel. ### 3. Don't Trade Eternal Things for Immediate Satisfaction (Genesis 25:29-34) - Esau's trade of birthright for a bowl of stew. - The importance of not trading eternal promises for temporary satisfaction. - **Key principle:** Do not prioritize immediate desires over eternal promises and God's faithfulness. ### Practical Applications 1. **Be transparent with your children** — share both your successes and failures with them this week. 2. **Seek God's guidance when you're uncertain** — pray about a specific issue and ask for biblical counsel. 3. **Evaluate your priorities** — identify one area where you might be trading eternal things for immediate satisfaction and pray about it. 4. **Pray for God's provision** — pray for the needs of the church and community, trusting in God's faithfulness. ### Discussion Questions 1. How do you handle transparency with your children or mentees? What are some struggles you've had in being open with them? 2. Can you recall a time when you sought God's guidance in a moment of uncertainty? What was the outcome? 3. What are some areas in your life where you might be tempted to trade eternal promises for immediate satisfaction? 4. How can we as a church ensure that we are passing down God's promises faithfully to future generations? 5. What role does transparency play in building trust within a community or family? *"We all have something that looks good right now before us. We all have something that promises satisfaction right now, something that says, 'I don't have to worry about tomorrow. Don't worry about what God said. Don't worry about what this might cost you. You want this now.'"*

3. 

   23 Aug 2026

   Isaac and Rebekah

   Genesis 24 is one of the most richly layered stories in all of Scripture, and once we see the deeper picture it paints, it becomes impossible to read it the same way again. On the surface, it is the story of a faithful servant sent on a long journey to find a bride for his master's son. But beneath that, it is nothing less than a portrait of redemption itself. The unnamed servant mirrors the role of the Holy Spirit, who never draws attention to himself but points always toward the Son. The father who sends him reflects God the Father. And Isaac, waiting at home, represents Christ. Every detail, from the servant's humble prayer at the well to the extravagant gifts he carries, speaks to the lengths God goes to in pursuit of his bride. That bride, it turns out, is us. We are Rebekah in this story. And understanding that changes everything about how we see our worth, our calling, and the love God has lavished on us. ## Sermon Notes: Genesis 24 — “I Will Go” ### Main Text: Genesis 24 Genesis 24 tells the story of Abraham sending his servant to find a bride for Isaac. Pastor Rick presented this as a picture of God’s redemptive plan. ### 1. The Redemptive Picture in Genesis 22–24 - **Genesis 22:** Abraham offers Isaac on Mount Moriah, pointing to the Father giving His Son, Jesus, at Calvary. - **Genesis 23:** Sarah dies, picturing Israel as the bride connected to the Father. - **Genesis 24:** The unnamed servant is sent to find a bride for the son, picturing the Holy Spirit calling the Church, the Bride of Christ. ### 2. Abraham’s Servant: Faithful and Humble - The servant is likely Eliezer, Abraham’s longtime servant. - Though Isaac’s birth cost him the inheritance, he remained faithful. - He does not seek attention for himself; he seeks success for his master. - This reflects the Holy Spirit, who testifies of Christ and glorifies the Son. ### 3. Isaac Must Not Go Back - Abraham commands the servant not to take Isaac back to Abraham’s former land. - God had promised the land to Abraham’s offspring. - The bride must choose to come, but the son will not return to the old land. - This mirrors the call of Christ: “Forsake all and follow Me.” ### 4. Rebekah’s Choice - The servant prays for a clear sign: a woman who offers him water and waters his camels. - Before he finishes praying, Rebekah appears. - She is generous, diligent, and willing to serve. - Watering ten camels could have required 200–300 gallons of water. - The servant recognizes God’s guidance and worships. ### 5. “Do Not Delay Me” - Rebekah’s family wants her to stay ten more days. - The servant insists that if God has prospered the way, they should not delay. - Rebekah is asked directly, and she responds: **“I will go.”** - This is the heart of the sermon: when God calls, our answer should be immediate obedience. ### 6. We Are Rebekah - Rebekah represents the Bride of Christ. - The Holy Spirit calls us and gives us gifts as a preview of what is to come. - God sees His people as beautiful, loved, and chosen. - The story points forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb. ## Practical Applications - Do not delay obedience when the Holy Spirit calls. - Stop looking back after putting your hand to the plow. - Serve faithfully even when there is no personal reward. - Trust God’s guidance, even when the journey is long. - Remember: in Christ, God sees you as His beloved bride, not as your failures. ## Discussion Questions 1. What stood out to you most from the picture of Abraham, Isaac, the servant, and Rebekah? 2. Why is delayed obedience so tempting? 3. What does Rebekah’s “I will go” teach us about faith? 4. In what area might God be asking you to stop delaying? 5. How does seeing yourself as the Bride of Christ change the way you view God’s love?

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