The Nature of the Church

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts ends without a resolution. No final verdict for Paul, no tidy conclusion. That might feel unsatisfying until you realize the story was never meant to end. The book of Acts is the story of the church, and the church is still here. We are not spectators reading ancient history. We are the next chapter, built on the foundation the apostles laid, with Christ as the cornerstone.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 15 represents one of Christianity's most pivotal moments—a debate that could have split the church forever. When some demanded that Gentiles become Jewish to be saved, the apostles faced a choice: compromise the gospel or risk division. Their response reveals the DNA of every powerful church: anchored in grace, united by truth, and sent in freedom. The result? A revival that continues to this day.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 10 teaches that God builds His church by challenging our prejudices and expanding our vision of who belongs in His family, as Peter learned that God shows no partiality. Cornelius's devotion and prayer didn't save him—he still needed the gospel—but God honored his seeking heart by sending Peter with the message of salvation. The Jewish believers' astonishment at Gentiles receiving the Spirit reveals how God's building plan often surprises even mature believers who think they understand His ways.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 9:32-43 demonstrates that the gospel works through us when we prioritize being present with people in their suffering, as Peter traveled strengthening believers before any miracles occurred. The transformation of Lydda and Sharon after Aeneas's healing, and Joppa after Dorcas's resurrection, shows that God uses individual encounters to spark community-wide movements. Peter staying with Simon the tanner—considered unclean by Jews—reveals another evidence: the gospel breaks down barriers we've built between ourselves and those God wants to reach.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 8:1-25 shows godly movements grow through faithful people willing to bloom where persecution plants them, as Philip transformed from serving tables to performing miracles in Samaria. Philip's encounter with Simon the magician shows that true spiritual power cannot be purchased or manipulated—it flows from hearts surrendered to Christ. When persecution intended to destroy the church instead multiplied it, God proved He uses opposition as fertilizer for growth.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 6 reveals that staying spiritually healthy during growth and challenges requires protecting priorities, empowering others, and maintaining unity in diversity. When the early church faced division over neglected widows, the apostles refused to abandon prayer and preaching to serve tables, instead appointing Spirit-filled leaders to address practical needs. This wisdom teaches that good things can become distractions from God things, and healthy churches multiply servants rather than consolidating power.

From the series: Acts: The Church on the Move

Acts 5:1–11 reveals that the greatest threat to the church isn’t external persecution but internal deception. Ananias and Sapphira’s choice to appear generous while secretly withholding exposed a deeper issue—valuing reputation over reverence. Their sudden deaths weren’t about the severity of their sin but the sacredness of the moment, as God established the holiness of His church. This passage reminds us that God is sovereign and good, and that true faith isn’t about looking holy—it’s about walking humbly. When believers compromise integrity, they diminish God’s glory in their hearts and distort their identity in Christ. But when the church lives with deep reverence and authentic surrender, it becomes a powerful witness to a watching world.

From the series: Unshaken

1 Thessalonians 1 calls the church to become an inspiring, unshakable community through deep reverence for God’s Word, joyful reliance on the Holy Spirit, and intentional mentoring. Grounded in faith, love, and hope, the Thessalonian church models how adversity refines authentic faith that impacts lives and multiplies God’s kingdom.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

Revelation 3 highlights the way spiritual complacency and reliance on worldly comforts hinder true faith. We should be seeking humility, renewed passion for Christ, and reliance on His transformative power to align with God’s greater kingdom, beyond earthly distractions.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

The Church of Philadelphia serves as a model of steadfast faith and obedience, encouraging believers to persevere and trust in Christ’s promises.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

The church in Sardis was a wealthy and well protected ancient city that had many resources and creature comforts available to them. Because of this, the church there was lulled into complacency and simply followed God because it was convenient for them. They were living a facade that was more interested in comforts than being willing to serve and sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

The church in Thyatira was struggling with embracing the culture around them, especially in regards to sexuality, instead of living in a manner that was set apart. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us — are there areas in our lives that we need to surrender to God in order to grow in our relationship with Him?

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

In Revelation 2, we examine John's messages to the churches in Pergamum and Smyrna. These churches were doing some things well but also had areas of concern that needed to be addressed. They were encouraged to remain faithful and not fear the adversity around them.

From the series: Unveiled: A Study in Revelation

In the first chapters of Revelation, John writes to the seven churches in Asia. He recognizes the areas where they are healthy and points out areas where they are unhealthy. In this message, we examine the church in Ephesus.

From the series: Romans: More than Conquerors

The body of Christ spans many different cultures, people groups, languages, and worship styles. Yet, through all of this diversity, we find great unity in Christ.

From the series: Standalone Messages

We are joined by a special guest, Pastor Peter Sewakiryanga of Rock Hill Church and Kyampisi Childcare Ministries in Kyampisi, Uganda to talk about the work he is doing to rescue children from child sacrifice in Uganda. The items discussed are of a graphic nature and may be disturbing to some listeners.

From the series: Light the Dark

Highlights the foundation of the Gospel of John, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. It traces the beginnings of the Christian movement, starting with the first disciples' encounters with Jesus. Underscores the importance of personal relationship and family influence in spreading the gospel, urging believers to passionately live out their faith and share Jesus' light in a dark world.

From the series: All In

This week Peter wants us to understand the power of Christ’s kingdom and the important identity he gives to those that belong to his kingdom. God reminds we can live out our new identity we find in him no matter the circumstance we face.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Discover why Alpine Bible Church exists and the foundation our church is built upon.

From the series: Planted

Focuses on the themes of living a God-centered life and being a fruitful Christian. It discusses the importance of avoiding petty disputes and controversies that distract from God's mission. Emphasizes the significance of focusing on meaningful actions and relationships, fostering spiritual growth, and making a positive impact in the community.

From the series: Planted

Focuses on the importance of living a Christ-centered life within the community. Discusses how to establish a healthy church, the role of leadership in serving others, and how individual actions can impact the wider community. Emphasizes the themes of servant leadership, the influence of faith in personal and communal lives, and the significance of embodying Christ's teachings in everyday actions and attitudes.

From the series: Planted

Delves into the guidance for building a healthy, thriving church. It discusses the roles of different members in the church, emphasizing servant leadership and the importance of godly living. Draws from Paul's teachings, stressing the need for believers to influence their community positively. It explores the impact of individual actions and lifestyles on the church's health and outreach, encouraging listeners to live out their faith in practical, everyday contexts.

From the series: Planted

Discusses the importance of church health and leadership. It emphasizes the role of individual members in contributing to a thriving church community. Draws from Paul's letter to Titus, focusing on how believers should view themselves, their relationship with God, and their approach to ministry. It encourages a servant-like attitude in church leadership and life, drawing parallels to Paul's teachings on being a bond servant to God.

From the series: The Core

Discusses the foundational aspects of Christian life and the church's role. It emphasizes the importance of worship, discipleship, relationships, and mission, exploring how these elements interconnect and influence a believer's journey. Encourages self-reflection on personal faith and commitment, urging believers to consider what truly lies at their core in terms of their devotion to God and how it shapes their actions and interactions with others. The core message is about living a life that reflects one's faith authentically.

From the series: The Genius of Jesus

Delves into Mark 13, discussing apocalyptic literature and end times. It emphasizes the hope and victory in Jesus despite eschatological uncertainties. Avoids taking a definitive stance on the timing of Jesus' return, focusing instead on the importance of understanding Scripture's original context and meaning. It encourages believers to find hope and assurance in Jesus' victory over all things, despite the challenges and tribulations of life.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Explores the concept of Christians as the physical representation of Christ on Earth. It emphasizes the importance of each individual's role in the church, akin to different body parts, and the necessity of working collectively for the unity and function of the church. Highlights the significance of living out Christian values and being an example of Christ's teachings in daily life.

From the series: Believe

Examines the foundations of Christianity based on Genesis. It emphasizes the intentional design of creation by God, the special attention given to mankind, and the relationship God intended with humanity. Explores the consequences of sin from Genesis 3 and God's pursuit of humanity for reconciliation.

From the series: Family

Emphasizes the importance of family according to God's design. It explores the symbolic relationship between biological and spiritual families, highlighting unity and the roles within the family as reflective of God's spiritual family.

From the series: Follow Me

Emphasizes the importance of following Jesus by actively living and sharing His teachings. It underscores the necessity of self-denial and commitment to Christ's mission, highlighting that discipleship is not merely about personal improvement but about surrendering one's life to Jesus and reflecting His love and teachings in all aspects of life.

From the series: Follow Me

Emphasizes the holistic commitment required in following Jesus. It explores the cultural context of discipleship in Jesus' time, highlighting the significance of a rabbi's invitation to follow him and how this mirrors Jesus' call to his followers. Encourages us to dedicate every aspect of our lives to learning from Jesus.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Emphasizes the importance of relationships with God and others, grounded in Mark 12's greatest commandments. It advocates for engaging the world as Christ's disciples, emphasizing practical ministry over mere task completion. The church seeks to minister hearts through quality interactions, prioritizing a life-transforming relationship with Christ within the community.

From the series: Standalone Messages

Highlights the church's foundational beliefs and its journey. It emphasizes commitment to spiritual growth and community impact, reflecting on their beginnings and the biblical basis for our values and mission.

From the series: Rethink Church

Emphasizes the importance of understanding the church's role and mission. It highlights that the church is built on the promise of Christ, where His power is made known, and is called to impact the world as Jesus did. Explores how the church, as a community of believers, should reflect Jesus' teachings and engage with the world, driven by the transformative power of Christ working within them. The church is not just a building but a living, active body representing Jesus' love and message to the world.

From the series: Living Hope

Emphasizes believers as living stones, built into a spiritual house with Christ as the cornerstone. It highlights the importance of continually coming to Jesus, setting aside sin, and growing through God's Word. Believers are called to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices and proclaiming God's excellencies. The passage urges Christians to maintain excellent behavior among non-believers, reflecting the transformative power of their faith and bringing glory to God through their actions.

From the series: The Right & Wrong Way

Exploring the seven churches in Revelation, focuses on the church of Laodicea, known for being lukewarm in its faith. Discusses how the Laodiceans became complacent due to their reliance on material wealth, mistaking it for spiritual health.

From the series: The Right & Wrong Way

Focuses on the seven churches in Revelation, with particular attention to the churches of Smyrna and Philadelphia, which are praised for their faithfulness despite their small size and limited resources. Unlike other churches, they remain true to God's word and resist false teachings. Smyrna is encouraged to remain faithful during impending persecution, while Philadelphia is spared from tribulation due to its perseverance.

From the series: The Right & Wrong Way

Focuses on the dangers of compromise within the church, particularly with regard to doctrine and moral standards. Examines two churches from Revelation, Pergamum and Thyatira, which allowed false teachings to infiltrate and lead them astray.

From the series: Believe

Explores the theme of mission, emphasizing that Jesus came to save sinners and that His followers are sent on a mission to spread His love. The message highlights the importance of the church as the body of believers, each gifted by the Holy Spirit to serve others and carry out God's mission.

From the series: Be Complete

Introduces a new series on Colossians titled "Be Complete." It focuses on the transformative power of the gospel and challenges believers to live mature and complete lives in Christ. Paul, writing to the Colossian church, emphasizes the importance of truth and spiritual growth, urging believers to stand firm in their faith despite false teachings. Encourages understanding Jesus' supremacy, applying God's truth, and living out one's faith boldly while being deeply rooted in the gospel.

From the series: Building One Brick at a Time

Explores the theme of preparing for God's work in our lives, using the story of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls as an example. It emphasizes the importance of consecration, community, and humility.

From the series: Building One Brick at a Time

Introduces the book of Nehemiah and focuses on the need for transformation, both in the city of Jerusalem and in the hearts of God's people. Highlights how Nehemiah, a regular man with a deep burden for God's people, was moved to rebuild a broken city by first caring deeply for its condition.

From the series: Focused

Emphasizes the importance of loving God and loving others as the central purpose of the church. Using the metaphor of a baseball diamond, it illustrates how believers must start with a relationship with God ("first base") and progress to loving others within the church and the world ("second and third base").

From the series: Focused

Examining the purpose of the church and how believers should engage in God’s mission. Using the metaphor of a baseball diamond, it emphasizes that the "win" for Christians is making disciples, which starts with a relationship with God.