Why Are You So Afraid?

Message: "Why Are You So Afraid?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Martin Nieuwets speaking
Aug 22/23, 2009

In Mark 4:35-41, we find Jesus’ disciples over-whelmed with fear in the midst of a violent storm that threatened to capsize their boat. Some were seasoned fishermen who had weathered a storm or two in their time, and yet there was something different about this storm. How does Jesus respond to the disciples’ cries for help? He said, “Quiet! Be still!” and then all was miraculously calm. He then asks His disciples, "Why are you so afraid?". What are the ‘storms’ in your life? Do you respond to them with fear or do you fully recognize and rely on the One who promises to journey with you through the ‘storms’?

Who Do Men Say That I Am?

Message: "Who Do Men Say That I Am?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Aug 15/16, 2009

People today are as divided about the identity of Jesus as they were in the first century. Some say he was a good moral teacher, others claim that he is the Lord and Saviour of the world and bow their knees in worship, while many reject him altogether. Who do you say Jesus is? Your answer not only determines your future here on earth, but for all eternity. Let's take some time to investigate further.

Do You Want to Be Made Well?

Message: "Do You Want to Be Made Well?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Phil Kaethler speaking
Aug 8/9, 2009

The book of John records that Jesus was changing lives and starting to find opposition and persecution from the religious leaders who had resolved to kill him. The tension was growing day by day, yet Jesus continued to fulfill what his Father had called him to be for a hurting world. This calling is clearly seen in John 5:1-18 as Jesus interacts with the lame man at the pool of Bethesda. As physical health was restored, the passage showcases the focus/attitude of many who witnessed the healing. Perhaps it is good to think about what “cripples” us spiritually and inhibits our walk with God? Can you let it go to be made well?

Do You Want to Leave Me Too?

Message: "Do You Want to Leave Me Too?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Martin Nieuwets speaking
Aug 1/2, 2009

At the end of John 6, we read that many of Jesus’ followers were questioning his bold teachings and were disturbed and offended by their implications. As a result, many deserted him. At this time, Jesus asked his twelve disciples, “Do you want to leave me too?” (John 6:67, paraphrase). They had a choice to make—to follow Jesus or to follow the crowd. You also have a choice. Who will you follow?

What Do You See?

Message: "What Do You See?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Phil Kaethler speaking
Jul 25/26, 2009

As we unpack the story of the blind man gaining his sight, we look at the bigger picture that unfolds for the disciples and us. It’s intriguing to see how often Jesus would respond to a need with a question. In Mark 8, we read of how Jesus healed a blind man, but was the miracle for the blind man, for the disciples or for you and me? So what does it mean to be healed anyway? As you read Mark 8, reflect on not only the story itself, but also on your own story and its greater impact. Let’s come together with anticipation of our eyes being unveiled to something new.

"How Can David Call Him Lord?"

Message: "How Can David Call Him Lord?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Lois Dow speaking
Jul 18/19, 2009

We welcome guest speaker, Lois Dow (nee Fuller), to our services this weekend. Lois is the sister of Clare (Halima) Fuller (missionaries in Nigeria) and Mark (Sandy) Fuller (Bethany attenders), as well as the aunt of Sarah Fuller (Bethany attender). Lois was a missionary in Nigeria for 30 years, a ministry that was partly supported by Bethany. After retiring from Nigeria in 2004, she married Dr. Tom Dow in 2007 and completed a PhD at McMaster Divinity College (Hamilton, ON) in 2008. Tom & Lois now live in Kitchener, ON and Lois commutes to McMaster Divinity College to teach classes two days a week.

Where are the Other Nine?

Message: "Where are the Other Nine?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Pastor Bob Baddeley speaking
Jul 11/12, 2009

Being thankful...sounds easy, but how often do we find ourselves taking the good things we have been given for granted, complaining about all the bad things that have happened in our lives and joining the crowd around us in criticism? This weekend, we look at ten men who received a wonderful gift from God, after which only one man returned to show his appreciation in an exuberant display of thanksgiving and praise. The question remains, "Where are the other nine?" Take some time to look at yourself. Where are you? Are you willing to go where Jesus would take you? Are you living a life of thanksgiving and praise?

Could This Be the Christ?

Message: "Could This Be the Christ?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Rob Lockey speaking
Jul 4/5, 2009

Jesus, maybe more than any other person in history, has been subject to vigorous scrutiny. Is he what he claimed to be? Is he what the gospel writers described? Is he just a religious figure-head or God in human form? Is he merely a fashion accessory or the crucified and risen Lord? Is he the Buddy Jesus or Lord of hearts who radicalizes human identity and relationships? This weekend will challenge our perception and expectations of Jesus as we reflect on the question of the Samaritan woman at the well, whose story we read in John 4:1-43, “Could this be the Christ?”

Does No One Condemn You?

Message: "Does No One Condemn You?"
Series: Intriguing Questions...where will they take you?
Martin Nieuwets speaking
Jun 27/28, 2009

In the Bible, we read many questions that may cause us to wonder about their purpose—the power and underlying meanings behind them are intriguing. This weekend, we look at the story of an adulterous woman who was condemned to death for her sins (John 8:1-11). She was brought before Jesus, who, instead of condemning her, quieted her accusers and asked the question, “does no one condemn you?” In the end, she received forgiveness from the only one qualified to condemn her.

Message: Honouring the Past...Imagining the Future...God is Able!
110th Anniversary Weekend
Martin Nieuwets and Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Jun 6/7, 2009

We welcome you this weekend to celebrate Bethany’s 110th anniversary with us! Through inspiring worship music, stories, a special DVD presentation on our church history, the reception of new members and a two-part message, we will honour the past and imagine the future of Bethany Community Church. Let’s take this time to recognize and thank God for all He has provided (and continues to provide) to us as a community of believers.

Practicing Genuine Forgiveness

Message: Practicing Genuine Forgiveness
Series: Building Fireproof Relationships
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
May 30/31, 2009

Men and women who do not know forgiveness and the freedom it brings carry a void with them in to all their relationships. Their lack of forgiveness can result in separation, bitterness, indifference and brokenness. Forgiveness is an essential need in each of our lives—without it we can have no personal, relational or spiritual peace. This weekend, as we wrap up our series on relationships, we will look at the importance of forgiveness—what it is and what it is not.

Resolving Inevitable Conflict

Message: Resolving Inevitable Conflict
Series: Building Fireproof Relationships
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
May 23/24, 2009

If the truth be told, most marriages are marked by periodic disagreements and, at times, all out wars. In these battles, both partners can employ deadly tactics, such as, public criticism, threats, intimidation, cutting sarcasm, exaggeration, stoic silence, blaming, rejection or even physical abuse. Although such tactics are common, they are wrong. Besides being unfair, they lead to more pain and conflict, and, in the end, no one wins. This weekend, we will look at various Biblical principles that teach us how to resolve conflict so that we can experience lasting peace. The principles apply not only to marriage, but to any relationship where conflict is inevitable.

Developing Realistic Expectations

Message: Developing Realistic Expectations
Series: Building Fireproof Relationships
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
May 16/17, 2009

Many people have unrealistic expectations about marriage that can cause them to become discouraged and disillusioned in their marriages. The tendency to see those around us as having “the perfect marriage”, the idealistic romances that are perpetrated by Hollywood and novels, and the idea that marriage will be an escape that will meet all our needs and solve all our problems are just a few reasons why we may develop unrealistic expectations about marriage. This week, we want to look at how God sees marriage as a high and honourable calling and what it takes to make marriage work, God’s way.

Blessing Your Child

Message: Blessing Your Child
Series: Building Fireproof Relationships
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
May 9/10, 2009

No matter what our age it is very important for us to know that we are loved and accepted for who we are. The approval of our parents/caregivers affects how we view ourselves and our ability to pass this on to our children, spouse, friends and family. If not received as a child, many people spend a lifetime longing for this acceptance. When it comes to our children, acceptance, however, is much deeper than just instilling self-esteem—it is instilling what the Bible calls, “the blessing” into the lives of our children. 

Expressing Unconditional Love

Message: Expressing Unconditional Love
Series: Building Fireproof Relationships
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
May 2/3, 2009

When God created Eve, He brought her to Adam and established a relationship that would bring fulfillment and completeness to both of them. God ordained marriage to be a sacred covenant between a man and a woman that is protected, nourished and blessed as they continue to express unconditional love to each other. However, our world has cheapened and rejected what God has made beautiful. In this new series on relationships, we want to revisit the reasons why God established and ordained marriage and family relationships and why it is so important to honour Him in all that we are.

King of the Future

Message: King of the Future
Series: The Coronation of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Apr 25/26, 2009

If you were to ask people what happens to each of us after we die, you would likely end up with varied responses. Even in Christian churches there are several views about the end times and Christ’s return. But one thing we can be confident in is that God is in control of history—the past, present and future. When sin entered the world, it ruined God’s beautiful creation and we continue to live with the effects of this to this day. However, God promises to restore His creation to His original intent—a place without sin. He invites each one of us to be part of this and to reign with Him forever. Have you accepted this invitation?

His Exaltation as King of Kings

Message: His Exaltation as King of Kings
Series: The Coronation of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Apr 18/19, 2009

In Acts 1:3-11, we read about Jesus’ final days on earth, in which He appeared to His disciples and spoke about their life mission, God’s kingdom and the gift of the Holy Spirit. During His last time with the disciples, Jesus was taken up to heaven right before their eyes, and they were given the assurance that Jesus would return to earth. Even though Jesus is no longer physically here on earth, He is still very present in our lives. He sits at the right hand of God as our high priest, mediator and advocate. Through Jesus we have access to the very presence of God for mercy and grace.

Jesus: King of Hope

Message: Jesus: King of Hope
Series: The Coronation of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Apr 11/12, 2009

Easter is a time for us to again remember the incredible sacrifice Jesus made for us by dying on the cross to save us from our sins. But, thankfully, the story doesn’t, and can’t, end there. The purpose for Jesus’ death can only be fulfilled by His resurrection. Jesus IS alive and we can now know Him personally in this life and in eternity. We have hope in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Jesus Withstood Injustice

Message: Jesus Withstood Injustice
Series: The Last Week of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Apr 4/5, 2009

Injustice is an ugly part of life that can often cause a very rash and uncontrolled response in humans. In contrast, Jesus faced injustice with incredible calmness and control. He knew His mission required this of Him. Let us model this as we strive to honour Him in our life mission.

Dealing With Betrayal

Message: Dealing With Betrayal
Series: The Last Week of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Mar 28/29, 2009

How do you handle betrayal and desertion? These are two things humans do not usually deal with very well. Often they bring up feelings of anger, distrust, etc. Yet, Jesus’ example shows us to approach emotional pain with compassion, wisdom and authenticity.

Jesus Models Out Servanthood

Message: Jesus Models Out Servanthood
Series: The Last Week of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz speaking
Mar 21/22, 2009

Humility is a slippery thing. Some say that as soon as you start thinking about how humble you are, you’ve crossed the line into pride. During that last week of His life, Jesus taught His disciples a valuable lesson about what it means to be truly humble when He suddenly got up from the meal and began washing their feet—a task normally reserved for the servant of the household. The disciples, notably Simon Peter, were shocked at this display, yet their response to Jesus’ demonstration of love revealed a great deal about their own humility. What does Jesus’ lesson reveal to you?

Jesus Celebrates the Passover

Message: Jesus Celebrates the Passover
Series: The Last Week of Jesus
Martin Nieuwets speaking
Mar 14/15

During that last Passover meal Jesus spent with his disciples, Jesus revealed a shocking reality—one of them would betray Him. “Surely not I, Lord?” they said one after the other, including Judas, the one who would betray Him. While Jesus still had to die, what sadness He must have felt knowing His arrest would be initiated at the hands of one of His own. Jesus warned Judas of the dire consequences of his actions; however, this did not change the betrayer’s heart. Personal desires had trumped devotion to the Lord. May our desires be to see God’s kingdom come and His will be done.

Jesus Receives Extravagant Love

During Passover, Jesus was eating with friends in Bethany when a woman came and anointed Him with expensive perfume. Many who saw this act condemned it as a waste and harshly rebuked her, but Jesus silenced them and brought attention to the incredible love that was shown to Him. She was honouring her Lord. Are we doing the same?

Jesus Faces Controversy

Message: Jesus Faces Controversy
Series: The Last Week of Jesus
Pastor Larry Shantz
February 28/March 1, 2009

No one likes criticism, yet it is something that each and every one of us faces in our lives. In these times, we can turn to the One who understands it better than anyone. Jesus dealt with a tremendous amount of criticism and controversy during His short time on earth, and it continues to happen even today. May we observe and learn from how He responds.

Jesus Goes Public With His Mission

When you think about Jesus' time here on earth, do you ever take a closer look at how intentional He was in everything He did? His very presence on earth was all part of a predetermined plan to save humans from their sin. During Jesus' ministry on earth, He met many different people who responded to Him in very different ways. As He continues to walk with us, how are you receiving Him?

We Are the Continuing Story...Acts 29

Our NEW mission statement is, “To be a CARING community, GROWING in Christ, LOVING others, and SERVING a hurting world.” Jesus said to His disciples, “...you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) We, as believers, are also called to be “witnesses” in the world. How are we to live this out? This weekend we will continue our series: "CARING, GROWING, LOVING, SERVING" with todays message by Pastor Larry Shantz entitled "We Are the Continuing Story...Acts 29".

Serving a Hurting World

Our NEW mission statement is, “To be a CARING community, GROWING in Christ, LOVING others, and SERVING a hurting world.” We are blessed to be a blessing to others (Genesis 12:2-3), which means part of our praise and worship to God is to serve other people in the world. This is what Jesus meant when He said, “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13-16). What does this mean for you? This weekend we will continue our series: "CARING, GROWING, LOVING, SERVING" with todays message by Pastor Larry Shantz entitled "Serving a Hurting World".

Everyone Needs to Love

Our NEW mission statement is, “To be a CARING community, GROWING in Christ, LOVING others, and SERVING a hurting world.” As we continue to discover what this statement means for us as a church community, take some time to also reflect on what it means for you personally, especially as we discuss this weekend our need to love each other as God loves us. Are you growing in your love for God and other people? Are you living a life that others would want to live? “We love because he first loved us.” ~1 John 4:19. This weekend we will continue our series: "CARING, GROWING, LOVING, SERVING" with todays message by Martin Nieuwets entitled "Everyone Needs to Love".