Brandon Martel

At All Nations, we believe that the heart of any community lies in the dedication of its volunteers. These are the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting the church’s mission and fostering a sense of belonging among our congregation. Today, we’d like to introduce you to one such remarkable volunteer – Christine. Christine’s journey with All Nations began in 2017 when she started listening to our services on the radio and watching them online. Her connection with our church deepened, and by 2019, she had transitioned to attending our services in person. Little did she know that this initial curiosity would lead to a fulfilling volunteering journey. Over the past three years, Christine has selflessly dedicated her time and energy to the betterment of our community. Christine’s volunteer journey started at the giving desk. However, her passion and dedication soon led her to become the coordinator of the coffee ministry – a role she still thrives in today. When asked about her motivation to start serving, Christine humbly states, “I was asked to fill a need, and I wanted to help.” It’s that simple, but the impact of her contribution is immeasurable. One of the reasons Christine has found All Nations to be a home for her is the people and relationships she has cultivated. She emphasizes that “everyone is friendly and truly cares,” a testament to the warmth and inclusiveness of our church community. In her role as the coordinator of the coffee ministry, Christine has found immense joy. She delights in meeting different people and spreading happiness through the power of a well-brewed cup of coffee or tea. She notes, “People love their coffee and tea, and I like making people happy.” To anyone unsure about serving, Christine offers some advice: “It is a great opportunity to connect with people as well as helping out the church. It is very satisfying and makes you feel good.” Her words resonate with the profound sense of fulfillment that volunteering brings. Christine’s journey at All Nations is a testament to the power of community and the difference one person’s dedication can make. We appreciate her unwavering commitment and the positivity she brings to our church family. Her story is a reminder that when we come together with a shared purpose, we can make the world a better place, one cup of coffee and one act of service at a time. We are truly grateful for her presence in our community, and we look forward to many more years of serving and growing together. Thank you, Christine, for your outstanding service and heartwarming dedication to All Nations.

Holy Week is coming quickly upon us! It is a time of reflection, and celebration for what Christ has done for us. This sacred time leading up to Easter Sunday offers many ways for individuals to connect with their faith, reflect on the significance of the season, and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

1. Commit yourself to prayer
Consider dedicating extra time each morning to prayer and meditation. Whether you prefer to do this in the comfort of your home or within a church environment, it’s important to find a peaceful space where you can reflect on your relationship with God. During Holy Week, seize the opportunity to walk alongside Jesus during his Passion and accept his invitation to “Stay here and keep vigil with me.”

2. Read an Easter Bible plan
Delving into the scriptures during this sacred time can deepen your understanding of the significance of Easter and its profound impact on our lives. Through these readings, you can walk alongside Jesus in his journey to the cross, experience the power of his resurrection, and reflect on the immense love and grace he extends to all. By dedicating time each day to study the scriptures, you’ll not only enrich your spiritual journey but also cultivate a deeper connection with God. So, seize this opportunity to open your heart to the transformative message of Easter and allow it to inspire and guide you on your path of faith. Some potential ideas including this one from Hillsong: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/44969-holy-week-a-journey-with-matthew or this one from Dwell: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/43807-dwell-holy-week-and-easter.

3. Reflect and Repent
Do I want to give up a particular sin, do I want to develop a particular virtue or do I want to understand a particular quality of God in more depth? At the core of the week lies a profound call to repentance, with a primary goal to rekindle connection with God in gratitude for His sacrifice. Reflecting on the story in God’s Word, where the Creator stoops to human form and endures suffering for redemption, compels us to wrestle with the enormity of these events and demands a sincere response.

4. Attend our Easter Services
All Nations Church is hosting two services – one on Good Friday and the other on Easter Sunday, both at 10am. Our Good Friday service will be a contemporary funeral service for Jesus, celebrating His life and wrestling with the sadness and hope we feel. Our Easter Sunday service will be a time of celebrating the resurrection and our salvation through Christ! Children’s ministry will be available at both services.

As we continue our apologetics blog series, we decided in the spirit of Easter to look at the reliability the claim of Jesus’ death and resurrection. To do this, we look at the story of Lee Strobel. Lee Strobel had always been a self-proclaimed atheist. “The mere concept of an all-knowing, all-powerful, all-loving creator was absurd on the surface of it,” Lee said. At one point, a neighbor named Linda kept inviting Lee’s wife Leslie to go to her church with her. In order to get the neighbor off her back, Leslie agreed to go. After attending Willow Creek Church, Leslie felt the experience had left an impression on her and she wanted to go back.

Lee was having a hard time understanding his wife’s new interest. “I didn’t want to be married to a Christian,” he said. “I didn’t sign up for this.” He knew what he had to do. He’d go to church with her and make her see the reality of the “cult” that was sucking her in. Lee tagged along with his wife one Sunday morning. Following the sermon on “Basic Christianity,” Lee felt inspired to use his journalistic skills to disprove it. That journey would take a year and nine months, with Lee eventually writing down the pros and cons of Christianity on a yellow legal pad. First, he looked at whether or not Jesus really died and was resurrected. That’s really the most important aspect of Christianity. And he summarized this with the 4 E’s

The first E stands for execution, was Jesus dead after being crucified? And the answer is absolutely yes, there is no record anywhere of anybody ever surviving a full Roman crucifixion. Even the secular Journal of the American Medical Association, carried an investigation into the medical and historical evidence for the death of Jesus and said clearly that Jesus was dead. We also see five ancient sources outside the Bible, confirming and corroborating that he died. , Josephus, first century Jewish historian who worked for the Romans, Tacitus, another early historian.

Second E is early. We have early accounts or early reports that Jesus rose from the dead. In other words, reports that go right back to the beginning. Why is that important? As Lee Strobel put it “Because I used to think, like a lot of skeptics, that the resurrection was a legend. And I knew it took time for legend to develop in the ancient world. So I figured, you know, 100, 150 years after the death of Jesus, legends developed, mythologies were spun, stories were invented, and that’s where the idea of the resurrection came from.” But the truth is that the earliest Christians right there in the first century would rally around based on facts that they knew to be true. They said that Jesus appeared to over 500 people, and saying that those people were still around so you can go question them.

Third E is for empty tomb. There’s lots of reasons why we believe the tomb is empty, but I think the most convincing is that even the opponents of Jesus admitted that it was empty. How do we know? Well, because when the disciples began proclaiming that Jesus had risen, what the opponents of Jesus said, the disciples stole the body. Think about that. That’s a cover story. They’re admitting the tomb is empty. They’re trying to explain how it got empty. So everybody’s admitting the tomb is empty. That’s not the issue. The issue is, how did it get empty?

Then the fourth E stands for eyewitnesses. Not only was Jesus tomb discovered empty, but over a period of time, he appears alive in a dozen different instances to more than 515 people to skeptics and doubters, to men, to women, to groups, to individuals, indoors, outdoors, daytime, nighttime, the disciples talked to him, they ate with them, they touched him. But here’s what’s interesting about the eyewitnesses in ancient history, we’re lucky if we have one or two sources to confirm a fact. Well for the conviction of the disciples that they encountered the resurrected Jesus, we have no fewer than nine ancient sources, inside and outside the New Testament, confirming and corroborating the conviction of the disciples that they encountered the resurrected Jesus. That is an avalanche of historical data.

We can have faith this Easter that Jesus really died and was resurrected! Not just that but He died for your sins so that you could be forgiven!

In a world marked by constant change, the scriptures in Acts 20:7, Colossians 3:16, and Hebrews 10:24-25 provide a compelling framework for understanding the importance of regular church attendance. These verses emphasize the significance of gathering with fellow believers, sharing in the message of Christ, and encouraging one another on the journey of faith. Let’s explore how these biblical passages shed light on the transformative power of attending church regularly.

Acts 20:7 – The Lord’s Supper and Continuous Teaching
The practice of meeting on the first day of the week, as mentioned in Acts 20:7, echoes the importance of regular gatherings for believers. Just as the early Christians gathered to share in the Lord’s Supper and to listen to Paul’s preaching, modern-day church attendance provides an opportunity for communal worship, spiritual reflection, and the breaking of bread together. The prolonged teaching session until midnight suggests the depth of engagement and commitment to learning from the Word of God.

Colossians 3:16 – Letting Christ’s Message Fill Our Lives
Colossians 3:16 emphasizes the richness of Christ’s message and encourages believers to let it permeate every aspect of their lives. Regular church attendance becomes a vital avenue for immersing ourselves in the teachings of Christ. By gathering together, we can collectively allow the message to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. This verse underscores the importance of mutual teaching and counselling, accompanied by expressions of gratitude through psalms, hymns, and songs.

Hebrews 10:24-25 – Spurring One Another Toward Love and Good Deeds
Hebrews 10:24-25 reinforces the notion of regular assembly with a specific purpose — to spur one another toward love and good deeds. The verse acknowledges the challenges some may face in maintaining this practice but emphasizes the importance of encouragement. As believers, meeting together is not just a habit but a deliberate choice to support, uplift, and inspire one another. This becomes increasingly crucial as we anticipate the approaching Day, reminding us of the urgency to remain connected and steadfast in our faith.

In light of Acts 20:7, Colossians 3:16, and Hebrews 10:24-25, the call to attend church regularly goes beyond a mere tradition. It reflects a biblical principle rooted in the early Christian community’s practices and the apostles’ teachings. Regular church attendance is a powerful means of sharing in the Lord’s Supper, allowing Christ’s message to enrich our lives, and collectively spurring one another toward love and good deeds. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, these verses remind us of the importance of gathering with fellow believers for spiritual nourishment, mutual support, and the continual pursuit of Christ-likeness.

For the past ten years, All Nations Church (ANC) has held a special place in Danny Neelands’ heart. From attending Sunday services to actively serving within its vibrant community, Danny’s journey has been one of growth, learning, and fulfillment. In this blog post, we delve into Danny Neelands’ personal experience as a dedicated servant within ANC, shedding light on the motivations behind his service, the joys he has found along the way, and the profound impact it has had on both his life and the lives of others.
A decade ago, Danny Neelands walked through the doors of All Nations Church, seeking spiritual guidance and a sense of belonging. Over the years, ANC has evolved from a place of worship into a cherished home, brimming with a warm and welcoming community that has played a pivotal role in shaping Danny’s identity.
Around six years into his journey with ANC, Danny Neelands experienced a calling to give back to the community that had nurtured his spiritual growth. This calling led him to embark on a remarkable journey of service. Week after week, Danny commits his time and energy to various church activities, contributing significantly to the congregation’s growth and well-being.
Currently, Danny holds the position of Youth Leader for Core Youth Ministries, a role he values deeply. As a youth leader, he relishes the opportunity to guide and support young individuals as they navigate life’s challenges, providing them with a secure space to discuss their thoughts, beliefs, and struggles.
Danny’s decision to start serving was deeply rooted in his own formative experiences as a youth. He vividly recalls the profound impact a compassionate and strong youth group had on him during his own journey. Empowered by this memory, Danny was motivated to pay forward the guidance and support he received to the next generation.
Within the embrace of ANC, Danny finds the true essence of community. Whether it’s the heartwarming Sunday morning conversations, the thought-provoking discussions during Sunday night Young Adults gatherings, or the simple yet profound joy of spending time with friends outside the formal church setting, ANC has provided Danny with a platform for forging meaningful connections.
However, the most gratifying aspect of Danny’s service role is witnessing the growth of the youth under his guidance. Observing them cultivate stronger relationships with God, develop steadfast morals, and ignite a genuine passion for their faith fills Danny with a deep sense of pride and joy.
To those who may harbour reservations about embarking on a service journey, Danny Neelands offers a resonant insight from Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” While the path of service may demand time and effort, the rewards it brings far surpass the sacrifices made. The impact of one’s dedication, no matter how seemingly small, possesses the potential to reverberate through generations, inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of community that transcends time.
Danny Neelands’ voyage at All Nations Church has been a narrative of evolution, connection, and profound purpose. The decade of attendance and 4 years of dedicated service has transformed him into a more empathetic, understanding, and fulfilled individual. Through his role as a Youth Leader, Danny has been given the privilege of guiding youth on their own spiritual journeys, and the experience has proven to be nothing short of transformative. To anyone contemplating the path of service, Danny offers a resounding encouragement to take that step. By doing so, you will not only please God but also embark on a life-altering adventure, capable of catalyzing positive change and leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

As we enter black history month, we have an opportunity to celebrate those black voices that have pointed us to God. Here are just a few recommendations of individuals that are great to read or listen to this month and year.

Jo Saxton
“Over the course of her career, she has led in ministry and non-profit settings as well as pastoring and church-planting. She has also written several books to help women be intentional with their influence – Ready to Rise, More than Enchanting, The Dream of You, and High Heels and Holiness.  Currently, she co-hosts a podcast with good friend Pastor Stephanie O’Brien called Lead Stories, where they share stories and encouragement to equip leaders who listen in.” As well, Saxton was the author and speaker in the amazing Philippians bible study on Right Now Media that one of our women’s Life Groups did and loved.

Dr. Derwin Gray
Dr. Gray is the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church, a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped community located in South Carolina. He has written a number of books including: Hero: Unleashing God’s Power in a Man’s Heart (2010), God, Do You Hear Me? (2021), and How to Heal the Racial Divide (2022). A devotional from him, Ephesians: Life in God’s Diverse Family, found on YouVersion, is great place to start.

Michael Todd
An incredibly well known preacher, and lead pastor of another Transformation Chruch in Oklahoma, Todd has received a lot of attention for his sermon series, Relationship Goals. As well, his new book, Crazy Faith, guides us on a faith journey as he helps you gain a new perspective on God’s plans for you: a future you’ve barely dared to imagine.

Priscilla Shirer
Shirer is singularly focused on preaching the uncompromising truths in God’s Word. She is a speaker, filmmaker, and New York Times bestselling author. Through her ministry, Going Beyond Ministries, she works to equip people through books, Bible study resources, conferences, and through films like War Room, I Can Only Imagine, and Overcomer. One of my favourite devotionals from her Discerning the Voice of God, explores the root to clear and daily communication with God—humble obedience.

Esau McCaulley
Esau is a public theologian, author and assistant professor of New Testament. His book Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope won numerous awards, including Christianity Today’s book of the year. His latest project is a memoir entitled: How far to the Promise Land: One Family’s Story of Hope and Survival in the American South.

These voices are not the voices we would ordinarily hear but provide us different perspectives to learn more about God.

When we talk about donating the church and Christian finance, tithing remains a fundamental and often debated topic. Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one’s income to the church or ministry, has been an ancient tradition rooted in the Bible. Some argue that Jesus abolished the concept of tithing, but a closer examination of Scripture reveals a different perspective. In this blog post, we will explore the biblical passages that support the act of tithing and address common arguments against the idea that Jesus got rid of this sacred practice.

Tithing finds its origins in the Old Testament, where it was a central aspect of the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 27:30, we read, “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.” The Israelites were instructed to bring a tenth of their crops, flocks, and herds to the tabernacle or temple as an offering to God. This act of giving was meant to acknowledge God’s ownership and provision over their lives.

Some critics argue that Jesus abolished tithing during His ministry. While Jesus did challenge certain religious practices that had lost their true meaning, He also upheld the principle of giving generously. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus admonishes the Pharisees, saying, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”
Here, Jesus is not condemning tithing itself but rather the Pharisees’ hypocrisy in giving a tenth while neglecting other vital aspects of their faith. By affirming the continuation of tithing, Jesus implies that it remains a relevant practice for believers who genuinely seek to honor God with their finances.

Some argue that since tithing is predominantly discussed in the Old Testament, it does not apply to Christians today. However, the concept of tithing is not entirely absent from the New Testament. In Hebrews 7:8, it refers to the practice of tithing by Abraham to Melchizedek, a priest-king, long before the Mosaic Law was established. This implies that tithing predates the law and continues to hold significance beyond it.

Throughout the Bible, tithing is associated with blessings from God. In Malachi 3:10, God urges the Israelites to “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”

While tithing is not a means of earning God’s favor or manipulating Him, it demonstrates our trust in Him as our provider. It fosters an attitude of gratitude and humility, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from God.
Critics may point to Matthew 5:17, where Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” They argue that Jesus’ fulfillment of the law means that tithing is no longer necessary. However, Jesus’ fulfillment of the law does not negate its principles; instead, it brings them to completion and highlights their true intent.

So how do we tithe in today’s culture? For many of us, 10% of our income is a lot, and it can seem impossible to do it effectively.

Here are just a few practical ways that you can begin tithing.
1. Create a budget: Before you start tithing, it’s essential to understand your finances. Create a budget to track your income, expenses, and savings. This will help you determine how much you can afford to tithe without compromising your financial stability.

2. Start with a smaller percentage: If tithing 10% seems overwhelming at first, consider starting with a smaller percentage and gradually increasing it as you become more comfortable. The important thing is to make it a consistent habit.
3. Automate your giving: Automating your tithing can help you stay committed to your giving goals and ensure consistency.
4. Practice gratitude: Tithing is not just about financial contributions; it’s also an expression of gratitude for what you have. Take time to appreciate the blessings in your life and the opportunity to give back.

Tithing is a biblical practice rooted in God’s Word, and its significance stretches from the Old Testament to the New Testament. By giving a tenth of our income to God’s work, we demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider and contribute to the ministry and outreach of the Church. While some may argue that Jesus got rid of tithing, a careful examination of Scripture reveals that He upheld the principle of giving generously and faithfully. As Christians, embracing the tradition of tithing can lead us to experience the blessings of obedience and the joy of partnering with God in His redemptive work.