Living Hope Fellowship

Everyone loves a perfect Christmas. But, the conditions of the arrival of Christ and his early years were anything but peaceful. It was chaotic, messy and extremely humble. In this first message of the "Not-So Perfect Christmas" series, Pastor Derek Holmes looks at the lineage of Jesus in Matthew 1. This is the bloodline of the King of Kings, but it is full of imperfection, dysfunction and brokenness; making it just the right backdrop for Christ's redemptive glory to shine through. And, in that truth, we find hope and peace that God is working in our brokenness toward redemption as well.

In this final message of the series through the book of Luke, pastor Chris Rieber looks at the hope the Ascension of Christ gives to humanity.

In this moving sermon drawn from Luke 24, Pastor Chris Rieber explores the profound encounter between the resurrected Jesus and two disheartened disciples on the road to Emmaus. Devastated and depressed after witnessing the crucifixion, these disciples were walking away from Jerusalem—and their hope. But Jesus meets them in their grief and, beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he shows them how the entirety of the Scriptures points to Him. Pastor Rieber highlights a transformative truth: Christ is the key that unlocks all of Scripture, and He alone is our inexhaustible source of hope. Discover how the proof of the resurrection transforms despair into unshakable confidence, and why a hope rooted in Jesus is a hope you simply cannot keep to yourself.

Dive into this inspiring sermon, "The Beginning of Transformation," from Pastor Chris Rieber. Based on the profound scriptural account of Jesus' burial and glorious resurrection in Luke 23:50-24:12, this message reveals how the cross and the empty tomb mark the true starting point of a changed life. What You Will Learn Pastor Chris takes a close look at the unexpected courage and hope demonstrated by those nearest to Jesus during His darkest hours and His greatest victory: Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus: Discover the bold and costly decision these secret disciples made when they publicly claimed Jesus' body for burial. Their act of loyalty was a powerful declaration of their faith. The Women at the Tomb: See the unwavering devotion of the women who came to anoint Jesus' body, only to become the first witnesses to the resurrection. Their loyalty was met with the ultimate good news! The Key Takeaway Each of these individuals, in their offering, loyalty, and decisive action, showed that they had made their final choice on where they stood regarding Jesus. Their stories are a testament to the courage and special hope found only by placing faith in the risen Savior. You are invited to draw encouragement from their examples and be challenged to give your absolute all to Him today. The moment you place your faith in the risen Lord is The Beginning of Transformation for you!

In this powerful message, "Love Not The World," Pastor Tim Walker dives deep into 1 John 2:15-17, where the apostle John issues a stern warning to believers. What does it truly mean to not love the world or the things in the world? Tim unpacks this key passage, focusing on the three primary roots of sin—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—and how they manifest in our daily lives. Discover the critical importance of being on guard against the constant temptations the enemy uses to draw us away from God. Learn practical ways to recognize these temptations and stand firm in your faith, ensuring your affections are set on the things of heaven, not the fleeting pleasures of this life. Don't miss this essential study on maintaining a pure heart and a focused walk with Christ.

The scene is the crucifixion of Jesus, one of history's most pivotal and painful moments, as told in Luke 23:26-49. We know the immense suffering Christ endured, but what did the people there—the soldiers, the mockers, the grievers—actually miss? In this powerful message, Pastor Derek Holmes takes us off the path and into the crowd, challenging us to look beyond the spectacle of pain to see the profound character of our Savior. While many were busy mocking or grieving, they failed to see the incredible display of compassion, meekness, redemption, and grace pouring out from the cross. What is the "view from the crowd" in your own life today? Are you so distracted by the noise and the suffering that you are missing the profound, life-altering grace of Jesus Christ right in front of you? Listen now to discover the hidden treasures of the cross that Pastor Holmes outlines, and learn how the compassion of Christ changes everything.

In this powerful sermon, Pastor Derek Holmes walks us through the shocking miscarriage of justice surrounding the trial and condemnation of Jesus Christ. From the moment of His arrest to the final verdict, Jesus faced an onslaught of unfair opposition, false accusations, and officials—from the religious leaders to Pilate and Herod—who utterly failed to uphold the law. It was a day when justice truly died. But it was this very miscarriage of justice that was necessary for the entire Gospel plan to be carried out! Pastor Holmes reveals how this series of unlawful events became the pivotal moment that secured salvation for all who would believe. Jesus, the only perfectly innocent person to ever walk the earth, willingly took the punishment for every unjust person (that's all of us!). This sermon is a profound look at the darkest day in history that became the brightest hope for humanity. Key Takeaways: The phases of Jesus' trial and the specific ways justice was subverted. How the betrayal of justice was essential to God's plan. The magnificent exchange: The innocent took the punishment for the guilty. Don't forget to Like, Share, and Subscribe for more messages that explore the depths of the Gospel!

In the quiet, devastating hours leading up to Jesus' crucifixion, two men closest to Him committed the ultimate betrayal and denial. Drawing from Luke 22:46-63, Pastor Derek Holmes examines the contrasting failures of Judas Iscariot and Simon Peter. Both men sinned profoundly against their Lord, raising the sobering truth that all of us are capable of failing Christ. The critical question is: What do we do when we fail? Pastor Derek unpacks the stark difference in how Judas and Peter responded to their monumental sin. Judas' path led to despair, while Peter's led to restoration. By looking closely at their reactions, Pastor Derek helps us understand the difference between simple remorse for our sin and genuine, heartfelt repentance. True repentance is the only path that leads to forgiveness, healing, and restoration with God. Discover the hope that your failure doesn't have to be final—it can be forgiven.

In this message, Pastor Chris picks up in Luke 22 as he focused on Jesus praying to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane the night before His crucifixion. Christ's incredible attitude of "Nevertheless, not my will, but yours," is a powerful example for all of us. As followers of the Lord, we are called to surrender our will to His and trust His heart to guide us to our God-given purpose in life.

In this episode, Pastor Chris looks to the book of Luke to look at Jesus' instruction and promise to the Disciples from chapter 22. While in closing out the events in the upper room, Jesus reminded us that the way of a disciple is radically different from the way of a non-believer. The Kingdom runs on much different principles than what we know in the flesh. While the world looks to be served, followers of Christ look to serve. We also look forward with great hope toward the promise that one day, Jesus will reward all his followers. The way of Christ is very different, but is so much better.

In this message, Pastor Derek Holmes looks into the book of Proverbs to see a Father's advice -- "Guard Your Heart." This advice then reveals the Father's desire for his children -- "Give Me Your Heart." This is the best thing we can do as followers of Christ and children of God.

What do bread, wine, and a simple meal have to do with the salvation of humanity? In this powerful message, pastor Chris Rieber unpacks the profound significance of Jesus' last Passover with his disciples. Looking at Luke 22, we see how Jesus transformed the traditional Passover meal into something entirely new—the Lord's Supper. As he broke the bread and poured the wine, Jesus wasn't just observing an ancient tradition; he was instituting a new one, a permanent remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice he was about to make. Join us as we explore how Jesus himself is the final Passover lamb, whose blood was shed to take away the sin of the world. Discover why he isn't just a part of the story, but the only hope for true redemption.

The world can feel chaotic, and the topic of the "end times" can be daunting. But what did Jesus really say about it? In this message, Pastor Chris Rieber explores the profound and practical wisdom of Luke 21:5-38. He shows us how Jesus' prophecy, while speaking of future trials, ultimately points to a present hope. This sermon isn't about predicting dates or instilling fear. It's a call to readiness and a reminder of a powerful truth: that even in the midst of uncertainty, we are never alone and the ultimate victory is already secured in Jesus.

We've all seen grand gestures, but what about the small ones that go unnoticed? In Luke 21, Jesus watches as the wealthy fill the temple treasury with their offerings. Then, a poor widow steps forward and gives two tiny coins. It’s a moment that could have been easily missed, but Jesus sees it all. This episode goes beyond the coins and into the heart of the woman herself. What compelled her to give everything she had? Join us as we uncover her deep trust in God's provision, her unwavering desire to be a part of His work, and the profound truth that genuine generosity is measured not by our abundance, but by the will to give from our very core.

This week on the podcast, we're diving into the powerful message from the sermon, "Who's In Charge?" Join us as we explore Luke 20, where Jesus' authority faces a direct challenge from the religious leaders in the Temple at Jerusalem. In this episode, we'll examine Christ's brilliant and insightful responses to their questioning. We'll discover how His authority is not something that can be refused, abused, debated, or ignored. Tune in to learn why Jesus' authority is ultimate and undeniable, and what that means for our lives today.

In this powerful message from Luke 19, we follow Jesus on His final journey to Jerusalem. The air is thick with anticipation, and every interaction carries profound weight. We witness the extraordinary encounter with Zacchaeus, a tax collector outcast who finds salvation, and hear the parable of the ten minas, a stark reminder to be faithful stewards of God's grace until He returns. But the climax of this passage is not a moment of triumph—it is a moment of heartbreak. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, the very city He has come to save, the people's praise is met with the bitter scorn of the religious leaders. And then, we see the Messiah, the King, weeping. He weeps not just for a city, but for a people who have tragically missed their moment, their opportunity to recognize and follow Him. This sermon is a pressing call to action, urging us to consider our own hearts. Are we prepared for the King's return? Are we actively living in His Kingdom? Don't miss this essential message on the urgency of entering and living in the Kingdom of God, a kingdom that is both eternal and available to us today.

In a world that often rewards the beautiful, the wealthy, and the strong, what does it truly mean to be favored by God? Join Pastor Derek Holmes as he takes us on a journey through Luke 18, examining five powerful encounters with Jesus. We'll meet a diverse group of people—each one seeking something from the Lord. But as we listen, a surprising and beautiful pattern emerges. The people who receive mercy, grace, and a place in God's Kingdom aren't the ones we'd typically expect. Instead, they are the desperate, the humble, the dependent, and the broken. This sermon is a profound reminder that the Kingdom of God isn't a club for the perfect; it's a refuge for the needy. It's for those who recognize their emptiness and their deep, unshakeable need for a Savior—a need that only Christ can satisfy. Key Themes: - Humility vs. Pride - The Power of Dependence on God - Finding Grace in Brokenness - The True Nature of God's Kingdom

Welcome back to the "Kingdom Matters" series! In this second installment, Pastor Derek Holmes continues his powerful message from Luke 17, diving deeper into what it means to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of God. In a world filled with temporary fixes, quick solutions, and fleeting promises, Jesus presents a radical alternative to His disciples. He is not offering a better version of this world's kingdoms, but a completely different way of living—one rooted in eternal values and a divine perspective. Join us as Pastor Derek unpacks Jesus's teachings, challenging us to re-evaluate our priorities and embrace a life aligned with the Kingdom. Discover how to navigate the challenges of today by focusing on the unshakable foundation that only God's Kingdom provides. Key Takeaways: Understanding the difference between the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Practical steps for living out Kingdom values in your daily life. How to find lasting peace and purpose in a world of temporary fixes.

Join Pastor Derek Holmes as he dives into Luke 17, where Jesus reveals profound truths about the Kingdom of God during His journey to Jerusalem. In this powerful sermon, "Kingdom Matters," you'll discover four essential values that form the bedrock of God's Kingdom: Forgiveness, Service, Gratitude, and an Eternal Perspective. Unlike the fleeting pursuits of money, power, fame, and pleasure that dominate the "shadow kingdoms" of this world, these divine principles offer a truly substantive and lasting way of life. Learn how embracing these core values can transform your perspective and align your life with God's eternal plan. Key Takeaways: Understanding the true nature of the Kingdom of God. Exploring the foundational values of Forgiveness, Service, Gratitude, and an Eternal Perspective. Contrasting eternal Kingdom values with the temporary values of the world. Practical insights for living out God's principles in your daily life.

Hell is a topic most would rather ignore—but Jesus didn’t. In this sobering message, Pastor Chris Rieber unpacks the powerful story of the Rich Man and Lazarus from Luke 16. Through this passage, we’re confronted with the uncomfortable yet undeniable reality of Hell—a place of eternal separation from God. Pastor Chris emphasizes the urgency of avoiding such a fate, not through fear, but through faith in Christ. He also challenges believers to carry the weighty but necessary responsibility of sharing the gospel with a world that desperately needs hope and truth. This episode is both a wake-up call and a call to action. Eternity is real—and what we do with the gospel matters more than ever.