Note: Please forgive the auto-focus box moving on the screen around Pastor Stuart’s face. We hope it doesn’t detract from the message. Thank you.

On Sunday, July 28, 2024, VLC gathered in person and also broadcasted online via YouTube. Pastor Stuart Nice shared a message about when Jesus, after leaving a meal with the Pharisees, begins to be surrounded by thousands of followers. In that moment, Jesus teaches his disciples about hypocrisy and the perils of living a double life. From this story, Pastor Stuart encourages us to live our lives in the light, to make honoring God our focus, and to know our value in God’s eyes.

Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.
“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Luke 12:1-7 (NIV)